Walking around Vladivostok it is fascinating to remember that just 16 years ago no foreigner was allowed to set foot in this city. Wrapped in a shroud of mystery, Vladivostok was entirely closed to all, (other Russians as well). It remained this way from 1958 to when communism collapsed in 1991. Being the home of the Pacific Fleet it is considered a strategic port. Thank goodness for perestroika and glasnost as Vladivostok is now open to all, (permitted you have a written invitation and visa), and its' beauty can be finally appreciated.
2 comments:
Hey Nic
Yes... It's Mitch :)
The BBQ in the car park sounds like a blast of fun!! Have to remember to try that when you guys get back!!
Are you teaching yet? What news on the work front?
Interesting to hear that Vlad wasn't accessible until the fall of the Communist regime. We hear talk in Australia that there are political moves afoot in Russia to try and reinstate the good old days. What's your take?
Love
Mitch, Karen and Kimmi
Hey Mitch, Karen and Kimmi,
Not teaching yet, as it is still Summer holidays. Do have some offers I will take up soon. One teaching English to some IT geeks should be fun. My knowledge of computer systems being so extensive.
People here seem to be happy with Putin. They are very proud that Russia stands alone, (without the American crutch) and voices its' opinion against American and English foreign policy.The intrigues and manoeuvers on the political ladder, the average Russian could not care less about. They expect curruption and potitics to go hand in hand. They know we in the west are naive then it comes to discerning what our politicians are up to.(invading other countries, detaining people for years without charge, ect..)
As this is a long and topical subject, I will post a blog regarding it.
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