Russia – nothing for boobies!

The 10d trip to Russia in November 07 is doubtless the most exhausting and at the same time the most entertaining journey I’ve ever made. It began with the trip on the ferry to Finland, which is very fun, comparable with the ESN Sea battle. The first day in Helsinki was good to set up a good trip-mood and to get to know some people. I can recommend RAX Pizza (Eat all you can) for dinner, and in the evening the Helsinki-State Operah (We’ve seen Carmen, really nice).

Take enough breakfast, because the trip to St. Petersburg takes a couple of hours. Be prepared to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The Hermitage museum contains a nearly endless stock of paintings and classical arts (most of them Russian, German, Austrian). Go for lunch into small restaurants, there is one 100m straight ahead of the Hermitage, they have really good Russian food (e.g. Borsh, Shashlik, Blini). If you see an old woman selling some cakes or sweets on the street, take one! It’s really tasty, cost efficient and her most important income to survive. Disco is not the word for disco in Russia; a disco is something for pupils. Ask in the hotel for a nightclub, discover the Russian nightlife – you will be surprized!

The most important thing, for students in Sweden, is the cheap alcohol. Try not the cheapest vodka, you can get really good one. I can recommend the “Russian Parliament”, it’s cleaned with milk and doubtless the best one I’ve ever had. Take some chocolate and Russian champagne with you, it’s really cheap and tasty.

Try to see a lot, try to minimize sleep on 2 hours, try to get in touch with young (!) people and feel the Russian spirit. Take the chance to get an unbelievable experience!

Gerhard, 23 years, Austria