We can’t believe it’s that time again! Christmas is almost upon us and while we are enjoying the festivities here in the UK our thoughts also turn to Russia. Christmas is actually celebrated there on January 7th, at the end…
Are you brave enough to experience a Siberian winter?
Visiting the coldest reaches of Siberia in the depths of winter takes some preparation and I don’t just mean packing a thick coat. Temperatures in this part of Russia can fall so low that if you usually wear metal spectacles…
Time for a summer picnic – it’s summer in Russia
In the UK, we may associate Russia with cold, snowy weather, but the summers are hot and sunny – and that means there’s nothing better than a picnic or an al fresco lunch in one of the many pavement cafes. …
Russian hospitality and superstitions
As in the UK, there are many traditions and superstitions that are part and parcel of everyday life in Russia. But they’re not all the same: there’s no stigma concerning the number thirteen, it’s not considered unlucky to walk under…
A tribute to Boris Pasternak – “I am tied to Russia by birth, by life and work”
Best known for the novel Doctor Zhivago, Boris Pasternak’s work is both popular and influential in his native Russia. Ironically, the book that led to worldwide fame was banned in his homeland for its commentary on the Communist state and…