Postcards From Russia
Let’s be honest: Russia doesn’t have the best reputation in my home country. And I know that (subconsciously, at least) this influenced the fact that it was never very high up on my travel bucket list.
But if travel has taught me anything, it’s that stereotypes (and especially stereotypes perpetuated by the news media) don’t usually reflect the reality of any place. And so I decided to go to Russia and see it for myself.
Needless to say, Russia was entirely different than I was expecting it to be. I spent two weeks traveling between Moscow and St. Petersburg via various waterways, getting a taste for both its iconic cities and some of its smaller towns.
Before I went, Russia was just a vast, gray place in my mind. I didn’t know much of its history beyond the Cold War, and could only picture the drab apartment blocks that I’ve seen in other former-Soviet countries.
To be fair, the skies were gray during my entire trip. But I found so much more than just gray. I was blown away by intricate churches, opulent palaces, and Russia’s rich history. I found life in Moscow’s bustling Metro stations and along St. Petersburg’s canals. And I learned that many of the things I thought I knew about present-day Russia were just wrong.
These 20 postcards show a glimpse of what Russia is really like between Moscow and St. Petersburg.
So what did I think of Russia overall? Well, I only saw a very small part of the country in two weeks. But what I did see really impressed me. I never got tired of those golden onion domes or the interiors of all the Russian Orthodox churches. I loved learning more about its history beyond the Cold War years. And I came to the conclusion that – despite the hefty visa fee – Russia is a country I would totally go back to.
Amanda’s posts on her Russia cruise have me seriously reconsidering the order of places on my bucket list. That architecture is just insane!
Leigh | Campfires & Concierges recently posted..Kayak Camping in Baja Mexico
Insane is definitely the word for it! Glad to hear I’m making some people reconsider Russia! 🙂
Amanda’s photos are simply stunning. They have definitely put Russia on my priority list now, too.
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Thank you! 🙂
WOW-Catherine’s Palace has some beautiful colors. I have been wanting to go to Russia for a while but I am definitely getting impatient. I am a sucker for colorful architecture 🙂
Contrary to popular belief, Russia actually does have a lot of colorful architecture, especially in all the churches and palaces.
Sounds like a great way to see Russia, pictures are beautiful.
Wanda Gallimore recently posted..Tea and hats in a 1930’s setting
Your pictures are marvelous, you captured the essence of Russia, Amanda! Great post, keep up the good work.
So lovely! Amanda’s photos are always on point.
Kristin @ Camels & Chocolate recently posted..Peace and Quiet in the North Cascade Mountains
I think Russia would be a lot of fun to visit. So much in the way of history.What were the people like? I find no matter where I go, but especially away from the big cities, people are usually great to talk to and willing to give lots of tips on what to see and where to go.
I have done the same trip to Russia and have many of the same photos. They have brought back memories of warm hearted people and amazing places.