Fucking Harry Potter

Bloody, fucking HARRY POTTER! I just have to vent here... but I will start at the beginning.

Back in London, and I am in love with the city all over again. I'm having a marvelous time with my friends here, even though Chelsea won the soccer match ;) We were all cheering for Germany :(

Yesterday we went out for dinner and discussed their sexy neighbour. He knew I was coming back, so I just had to work up the courage and knock on his damn door. At about 6pm, I did just that, thinking he had to be gone somewhere for the big soccer game. Even my polish hosts said, he's not home. Just to prove I could knock, I gave the door three HARD bangs, and of course, sexy neighbour was home. SO he came over for a beer, but already had plans for the game. Instead, he suggested all four of us go out for dinner tomorrow (so today, sunday) at about 4pm and then have some drinks somewhere. GREAT! Finally I can spend some time with this guy, what a way to end my trip....but NO! Fucking Harry Potter got in the way.

Now, I love Harry Potter, so the fact I am cursing his name is quite shocking, but I booked the studio tour, which is an hour outside of London, for 530pm. it takes THREE HOURS!! I don't know what I was thinking....probably that we would be so hungover from saturday night, that later on sunday would be best. I called the studio to see if I could start the tour earlier, but they are sold out. So, in short, I hate you Harry Potter!

But as my wise friend here in London told me, everything happens for a reason... Let's just hope sexy neighbour wants to come over for a late drink ;)

p.s: I know I have been a lazy blogger, but I go home Monday, so I will have time to blog again. I just needed to get this Harry Potter hatred off my chest...I love you again HP

Dalmatians

Croatia; honestly one of the most magically diverse countries I have ever visited! there must be something I did right in the last couple of days, because karma is being so good to me! On my way from Budapest to Zagreb, I met an amazing local, Mariana. She helped m find my way and told me so much about he country. When I arrived in Zadar, I was roomed with two Canadians (very few couchsurfers in Croatia :( ) but everything happens for a reason, and I will be friends with these two girls for life! We rented a car and drove to Plitvice national park, the most spectacular waterfalls I have ever seen. So many waterfalls, big and small. We took so many photos, and spent 6 hours exploring the park, and we only skimmed the surface. I had to do all the driving because I can drive stick, but the views were amazing and it was liberating to be behind the wheel again.

Plitvice National Park - The most beautiful place in the world! 

Amazing waterfalls

Caves in Plitvice

In Zadar, we soaked up the sun, ate lots of gelato and cevapi. I swear the weight I lost in northern Europe is coming back in full force now that food is cheaper! We also decided to get a permanent bond together. See the last photo to find out what ;)

Back in Zadar, the three of us went out to try the local brew. One of the girls doesnt drink, so we got her a virgin cocktail, but the bartender charged us full pice. This drew us in from the patio to the bar to ask why, and before we knew it we were rubbing elbows with the locals and doing some local shots. the area is called Dalmacija (Damlacia), so the one guy I was talking to kept calling himself a Dalmatian. he asked if I had ever tried a dalmatian man before, which of course, I have not! I decided to avoid him, after a promise to a very good friend in Canada that there would be no more boys interfering this trip! Instead, I spoke with a very nice english teacher. The bar started to close and we moved outside. My new friends had been chatting up some other tall handsome croatians all night, but my dalmatian came back to me, grabbed my ass and said 'So, we have sex now?' He was extremely good looking, but I wanted nothing to do with anyone who doesn't have the decency to at least wine and dine me. I grabbed one of my new friends and told him we had to wake up very early. He once again persisted...'So, no sex?' with a confused look on his face. This guy didn't even buy me a drink! I will admit he was straightforward, but WAY off base. From now on, I will only try dalmacija food.

Zadar at the Sea Organ

Old town Zadar

Can you see the mountains? 

On the way to Split, and there was SNOW!

SNOW IN CROATIA!

The most beautiful shore

Postcards

Split

Split - the sea!

Split

This is not my first tattoo. I have been getting inked since I was 16... but I must say, this one is the most beautiful. I was nervous because I chose it 48 hours before getting it, but the image is so representative of how far I have come in my life. the tattoo artist actually listened to every word I said and got each detail exactly right. I will never be caged :)

And last but not least, the newest addition to my body!! it is on my rib cage.

AND just to be clear, each of us Canadians got different tattoos! but because we used the same artist on the same day, we have a bond that can never be broken!

Back on track

Vienna, such a beautiful city! I finally feel centered again. I'm with a great couchsurfer. He literally showed me all of Vienna in a very efficient 5 hour walking tour. He was born and raised here, so walking around with him taught me so much about Viennese. He took me to a hole in the wall bar called 'bricks' and it was so fun! Last night I went bowling with a bunch of Germans, and I got my first Turkey (three strikes in a row). My favorite part of Vienna was the view from the imperial summer palace. I could see the whole city! And thanks to my guide, I actually knew what I was looking at.
My toe is much better :) but it will take months for the nail to grow back :(
I just found out there is a really cheap ferry to Slovakia, so I might take that tomorrow! Today, I hit up the Mozart museum and the Natural History Museum. I found a rubber duck who looks like Mozart! So of course I had to buy it!! Other than the rain today, the solo part of my trip is shaping up to be pretty chilled out. Finally some time to just think and enjoy my surroundings. I just changed my phone number, so no more texts from Mr.O. From here on out, no more men!!

European Nomance

Well, I can say I have my Russian belt. Otherwise, I have learned it is much more important to find someone whom you are mentally compatible with, not just physically. After Mr.O ordered soup for me, after I specifically said I don't want soup, I knew I should run for the hills!! Then he continued to belly ache and complain about everything. When I suggested doing something different, he punched the wall. I felt like I was in a terrible dramatic movie; circa Tina and Ike. So I asked him to leave a day early so I could spend it with my friend who came all the way from Canada to run the half marathon with me (which we finished in 2:21!). Now, her and I are in krakow Poland, and I still haven't told him I am not going to meet him in Berlin. I have a great medical ailment to blame: my toe nail had to be ripped off by a doctor... I have toe fungus!!! YUCK!!! If I had the ability to post photos right now, I would. It is the most terrible sight. I'm in a cream and antibiotics.... But the more I think about it, with the help of my good friend, I should tell him the truth! I do not like who he is, so why would I meet up with him again. It is painful to go out in public and be embarrassed at every turn. One friend back home told me about her fatherinlaw, who has the same characteristics, and is European. So maybe my dream of finding a sexy man with an accent will finally be put to rest.
On a good note! I have had two massages and lots of relaxing time with my running mate! Other than the toe fiasco, we are having a jolly good time, except the day we went to Auschwitz, that was a very sombre and sad day.
I hope to get some pics and better details up here soon, so stay tuned ;)

Heartbreak hotel; open for business

Prague; potentially a very romantic city.
When I arrived at my hotel, I was told they were sold out, and I needed to be moved... Great. I work at a hotel, so I understand. But Mr.O, started pestering the poor front desk agent. In the end, we were taken to a top floor apartment, which was very nice! But just for one night. There was a rooftop balcony, a kitchen and lots of room. The only downside was the 7 flights of stairs we had to climb!!! The second we were alone, I got railed in the shower. Later that night, I was fucked on the balcony. After cooking dinner for us, I had two orgasms.... TWO! Within 5 minutes of eachother. In the bedroom, Mr.O can't be beat... But outside the bedroom is a whole other story.
Most women complain that men are too stubborn to ask for directions... Well I can firmly say these women should be grateful their men are quiet. Mr.O asks for directions from everyone! Even when where we are going is right in front of us! Not only does he obsessively ask questions from strangers, but he complains about everything. The room isn't hot enough, the restaurant isn't authentic enough, or the room is too noisy. I thought a sex-god of a Russian would be more down to earth, but I am almost embarrassed to go places with him. After I ran my half marathon yesterday: 2.21 hours on rock hard pavement and stone, I was tired and sore. He went on to say he was sore and tired too.... He went to a museum!!! I wanted to strangle him right then, but the sex is so amazing! So, now I am stuck. On the plus side, I no longer have any doubt in my mind, this guy isn't right for me. On the downside, I need to break it to him that I don't want to travel with such a negative person. I hate negativity, and I have worked so hard to get rid of my own negative attitudes. But the fact I had to sneak out and have the hotel breakfast by myself for fear he would pester the staff means I need to get out of this fast...
Wish me luck! But I'm gonna get one more lay in before I break the news to him. I mean, this is my vacation, right?

Changes

Hello from Alkmaar Holland! Here, there are Windmills outside my bedroom window. I am staying with a great couchsurfer who has been cooking great meals and taken me to her father's garden to plant strawberries. I am now traveling solo; just incompatible travel mates. So now I am going full tilt with the soul searching until the big race day!!

There is some big upcoming news that I will share... My parents are BOTH coming in May for two weeks! I am beyond excited. I have wanted them to come show me where I grew up since I started planning this trip. I feel like I will find what I am looking for now that I have them coming. Also, I see one of my best friends FRIDAY! She is flying in for the race, and we will go to Krakow for a whole week together. I am so excited to have some girl time ;) And last but not least, Mr.O, my russian lover, is going to hitchhike to come visit me :) I am so nervous and excited. Since I left Russia, I had this big question mark looming over my head, and a bunch of what ifs. Now, everything happens for a reason, and he and I will be able to get to know eachother better, and explore our feelings. So, as you might guess, there will be some interesting blogposts to come ;)

I am about to catch a train to stay on a houseboat! So I better run, but next time I will add more details ;) And they will be juicy ;)
Now, to add a little fuel to my soul searching fire, I just received a very strange email from my only ex-boyfriend. He said he had just randomly found my email...which I only created last january with my job...and he asked how I am doing.
WHY!?? I don't know, we havent spoken in over a year and a half...since September 2010 when I found out he was dealing drugs. I of course wrote him back, I mean, How sweet is it that I am traveling through Europe, and he is at home being boring. When I get a response, I will let you know!
Just my luck though, I go 2 years straight without any men in my life, and now I feel a bit overwhelmed!
 

Part of that World

Denmark has been wonderful so far. As I may not have mentioned, I have a travel mate now. Our couchsurfing hosts in Copenhagen are amazing. We've had home made pasta, bread and pitas so far... From scratch! And not made in a breadmaker either. Just a pan in the oven. I am so impressed, I may even try my hand in the kitchen when I get home!! I chose this couple because the man is from Iceland (where I am going in July). I showed him my itinerary and he is quite happy with all the great sights I will see.
Today, we biked with our couchsurfers bikes. Honestly, bike rental alone is over 15$, so we are saving so much, yet we gain even more through conversation and story telling with our hosts.
The national museum is free, and after 3.5 hours I still hadn't taken the proper time to see everything I wanted to see. I must admit, the hermitage in Russia was MUCH bigger, but this museum had everything in Danish and English, so I was grateful to be able to read the descriptions.
Yesterday, we walked to the little mermaid statue in honor of Hans Christian Anderson. Along the river, I noticed the very modern Opera house. Instantly I thought "mr.O will love this." so of course I took some photos to show him. Then I realized... I am taking pictures for him, a guy I met for one afternoon and one night. Somehow he has become a part of my thought process. No one has ever had this effect on me before. Especially not someone who is slightly shorter than me with an odd British accent... We can blame the BBC for that! So now I lie awake, and can't help but think what would have happened if I had one more week, or even one more day, in Russia.

Hej from Sweden!

I roll over slowly. I know what to expect, I remember parts of last night....some parts. He is sleeping, soft skinned Swedish boy, he looks so young. I already broke my rule and fucked a younger guy. My mouth is dry as hell and all I want to do is go home. I know when I do the walk of shame all my friends in Karlstad will tease me endlessly. TWO GUYS IN ONE WEEK! Jesus. I thought this one was promising... he plays guitar and is in a band. But I can tell you now, not all musicians can play an instrument, if you know what I mean. I've had bad drunk sex, but I think this one takes the cake. Wait, that asian guy was terrible, so Alexander Babyface comes in second for worst lay that I can remember. Now, you may think: 'Wow, at least she remembers his name!' But no, you give me too much credit. Alexander is what my friend in Karlstad decided to call him. To top off a sloppy night, I look like I was strangled. I mean who gives hickies anymore??? And it's not just one nice bruise. I look like I have lepracy all over my neck. Welcome to Sweden! 

European belt count:

Russian Belt, or as my friend put it, I got a Red Star ;)

Swedish Belt, tall skinny blonde

I miss Mr.O. We write to eachother every day. I am worried I will never feel that with anyone again. My standards and expectations are pretty high after him. So now bad sex is even worse because I know just how bad it really is. 

Rooftop Romance

I have been a terrible lazy blogger lately, so my apologies to my loyal readers, but I can promise this one was worth the wait ;)

Since being back from Moscow, I realized my time in Russia was running out faster than I expected. In a rush to see everything on my must-see list, I took a local vanbus to Peterhof. What a lovely city, and the palace is to die for! In the summer, the fountains run and are a sight to be seen! It was in this moment that I decided I must come back in the summer at some point in my life. There is so much beauty hidden under the snow and ice. 

On friday, I met with a couchsurfer who had been my saviour at the beginning of my trip. We had tea and icecream and laughed all afternoon. She also invited me to a free concert at the British Library. He was a New Zealand expat who has been living in Russia for two decades and his music was quite comical and whimsical. After the concert, I was invited to play the game Mafia. The premise is a murder mystery, where we all close our eyes and the mafia memebers in the circle kill someone. When our eyes are open, we have to question and theorize who did the terrible crime. First timers luck, I was handed a card that said Mafia. The host of the game was very nice and explained all the rules to me. After I was found out (within the first round of questioning) I met a Russian who had lived in Calgary for 5 years. He drove a Brewster Bus tour through the rockies. It was interesting and nice to speak about home for a while. On my way out the door, coat on and everything, I heard someone in the next room playing piano. I snuck up to the doorway and stood listening. The musician happened to be the Host of the mafia game from earlier. Something inside me was drawing me to go and speak to him. I decided just go, so I went up and said, 'sorry to interupt, but I just wanted to say thank you for introducing me to Mafia and you play beautiful music.' We spoke briefly and he asked me for a hug, which of course I did. I then walked to the metro and went home.

Saturday morning I checked my email, and was surprised to find a message from the piano player. We will call him Mr.O. Mr.O asked if he could show me around the city, and of course I knew I only had one day left to do so - Sunday. I messaged him back and we agreed to meet while my pupil was at choir sunday afternoon. 

Saturday was a busy day with my host mother. She took me to a super shopping centre called Mega, where we looked around and went to IKEA. Saturday night I worked nonstop with my pupil to get part of her big project done. Of course she waits until I only have a day left to get most of her work done. Sunday morning, I got all my souvenir shopping done. I managed to spend nearly every last ruble on the typical tourist junk. Without having packed a single thing yet, I went to meet Mr.O. He took me to a beautiful park, which happened to be quite icy. He offered me his hand to hold, and for the rest of the afternoon,  we walked hand in hand. He showed me his favorite neighbourhoods away from the centre of the city where I had kept to for the whole month. He also helped me buy a couple of Russia story books to take home. At a cafe, he told me how beautiful my eyes were and gave me a kiss on the cheek. We then found out that he lives literally 5 minutes away from where I have been living. SERIOUSLY! GOD! I have been sitting in solitude for the whole month of february and mr.perfect is just down the street????  We took the metro together back to Sennaya Square. The train stopped suddenly and I fell into him. Before I knew it we were wrapped in eachothers arms, kissing passionately. On the TRAIN! I had become one of those public lovers I HATE! But I wasn't even thinking anything at the time, I just let myself go in the moment. He walked me to the door of my host family and we kissed goodbye. I was so mad at the situation; how could life be so cruel to send me Mr.O on my last day in Russia? Mr.O asked to see me that night, and I told him I would try to sneak away from my family for an hour so he could take me to the roof of his building and show me the city from a bird's eye view. My pupil was a bit unpset that I was going to leave for an hour, since we needed all the time we could get to finish her school project. At 1030, I slipped out to meet Mr.O. He walked me to his flat, and on the roof I realized how dangerous it was. The steep slope, combined with snow and ice and just a tiny fence along the edge of the 6 story building sent my heart into my throat. Mr.O held my hand and told me to trust him. We climbed on top of the chimney stack and stood wrapped in eachothers arms. It started to snow lightly and we could see the stars. We kissed and he pointed out all the building along the skyline. We also walked across to another roof! I was hopping roof tops in Saint Petersburg in the middle of the night! We spent nearly an hour just watching the sky holding eachother. When we finally made it back to the safety of the building, he asked me to have tea with him. I knew my time was running out, but how could I say no to this handsome man. We stopped at a small shop and got some cookies and Baklava and went to his flat where he had lived his entire life. He told me of how much he hates Russia and wants to leave, but the opportunites for work abroad are so scarce for Russians. I sent a text to my pupil telling her I was still on the roof and I would be home soon. Now, I promised my readers I would be explicit with details, but I just want to give anyone a chance to stop reading what comes next....so any of my 17 year old cousins out there, maybe consider this point the end of this blog post ;)

The sexual tension in the air could be cut with a knife. I could feel my body craving his touch, but I had told myself I wouldn't go for any one night stands. I wanted this trip to help me grow, and for some reason random sex really takes away from this mission. Mr.O grabbed my hand and gently pulled me to his bed. He slowly started to kiss my neck and chest. He is is so self-assured. He hands were strong and confident. He lifted me with such ease and I noticed how ripped he was! This guy works out! Arms of a real man, something I don't often get the pleasure of having wrapped around me. I lost myself in his eyes and let myself go. I don't want to turn into an erotic writer, but I will say that I have never experienced anything like that before. He is older than me, and I can tell he had done this many times before. There is just something about a man who knows what he is doing that is so sexy. I was utterly ravaged by a russian, to the point where I have a bruise on my leg from the piano...yup I got fucked against a piano! OKAY! The other dirty details are for me to remember with pleasure later ;)

I found my Russian.

I got back to my host family at 2am, and I don't regret a minute of it! I ended up packing at about 6am after finishing helping my pupil with her project. I didn't get a second of sleep. Mr.O sent me a couple of irresistibly romantic text messages. Musicians really are poetic in everything they do. What a charmer! I must say I was swept off my feet. From a great afternoon walking around the city to holding eachother under the stars! I can proudly say I got my Russian Belt!

Now I am in Sweden with some great couchsurfing hosts! Mr.O is still messaging me, one of which says, 'Thank you for lighting up my life.' Cheesy yes, but I have always been a sucker for cheese! I truly believe everything happens for a reason, but I must admit, I would have had a fucking awesome time in Russia if I had met him weeks ago! But I will take what I can get ;)

Moscow Madness...not really

Moscow; I expected so much from you!! To start off, I checked the weather forecast, and was promised sun at minus 4. What I got...snow, snow and more snow! I also wanted to see everything, and be a cheapo by walking everywhere. What I got...a foot injury so I am taking the metro and walking slowly. I wanted to finally let loose and go a little crazy with the guidance of my couchsurfing host. What I actually got...a cat and a dog. My host had to go to St.petersburg, and left me alone in his house. On the plus side, I have PRIVACY and wouldn't you know it, I took a couple of wonderful dumps in my solitude. On the downside, I have no tour guide :( and I have shakira and margot (cat and dog) to care for. I don't mind the animals, it's actually nice to have a little company.

So here is my last couple of days. Friday morning I arrived early in moscow and got lost. Thanks to my basic Russian, I was able to find my way. I went to the Kremlin and the Red Square, which were covered in snow. While in the Kremlin, I accidently walked out of bounds and the policeman on gueard threatened to beat me with his batton. I was shocked, and couldn't move. Thankfully, he spoke english and explained to me that I was walking where only employees are allowed. Now, I will let you in on a trend I have noticed in both main cities of Russia: PDA. Public Display of Affection. You wouldn't believe the number of people I see full-on making-out in public. What makes me sick is where they do it! Right beside Lenin's mausoleum, there is a couple railing against the wall making-out with full force.

I can't usually snap a discreet photo thanks to my large camera, but I was lucky enough to capture this to prove my point!

Another trend I have noticed is men carrying their girlfriends purses! I can't believe a man could stoop to this level of submission. Have some gusto boys! Take a little pride in your manhood! I hope to capture this moment at some point before I leave this fascinating country.

 The mother of my host family in Saint petersburg used to live in moscow, and put me in touch with her former english teacher. He picked me up at a train station friday night and drove me around. What I didn't expect was how young he would be. Misha is 27 and looks VERY Russian; tall, wide shoulders and very dark hair. He took me to what he called the "romantic" places in the city. I was starting to feel like this was a set-up on the part of my host mother. Misha offered his arm while we were walking, and asked me many personal questions about my religious beliefs and my out-look on marriage. I felt like I was being interviewed for the position of his future wife! Thankfully I blamed my dismal outlook on marriage on my parents' divorce, and told him i plan on never tieing the knot. He was such a gentleman; opening the car door for me. He was very polite and spoke great english, but for some reason I just can't get comfortable around guys unless I am drunk as a skunk - so sorry, no good love story out of Moscow!

I walked down the tourist street "Arbat" and spent way too much money in one of the overpriced shops. I saw the sign "50% off" and got sucked in!! I kept thinking, WOW this is only 3 dollars instead of 6! Before I knew it, I had spent 40$ on magnets. I don't usually like to post my own photos here, but I took some random ones on the street which can't be tied to my identity. You are my closest friends who are reading this, so you deserve a little photographic treat!

The Metro is so ornate

For my equine loving friends back home!

Grave of the unknown soldier

Saint Basils!

Church of Christ the Savior

At the Pushkin museum of fine arts

Street performer with accordian

Lomonosov University

One of the romantic spots I was taken to on my "date"

Yeah, let's hold hands and skate....

Now this is familiar territory!

Only moscow has starbucks in all of Russia

Dunkin Donuts

Macdonalds

So now, once again, I will spend the day alone, wandering museums and coming home at a decent hour to let the dog outside. Welcome to my exciting life!

Insulation

Okay, I know there is no legitimate excuse for not shaving my legs for three weeks... But I am going to give it a whirl anyways. In London, I was far to busy, and frankly it wasn't so bad; I had just left Canada with a fresh pair of legs. In Russia, I can honestly say I kept it au-naturelle because of the cold! You'd be amazed how an extra layer of hair can actually help keep you warm. Boys, back me up here!! Even after my encounter with Oliver I had no drive to pretty myself up. Now with the weather improving (it's about minus 5, bur cloudy and snowy), I took the time to be a lady once more.

I don't like to use my own photos...anonymity is precious! But here they are...it may not look that bad, but it really is - I have fair hair

Yesterday I went to Saint Peter and Paul Fortress... Talk about a strange place. Inside the cathedral is the Imperial necropolis. I saw Peter the Great's burial place, a hall full of tombs. There is a room dedicated to the last Romanov family, tsar Nicolas and his family. As a kid, I was fascinated with stories about Princess Anastasia. Yesterday, I saw her burial place. What a sad way to die; by a gun squad just because the people revolted against imperialism.... Little did they know, communism wouldn't treat the country much better. Russia has a fascinating history, and everyday as I walk the streets, my mind comes alive with thoughts of who else stepped on these stones. Leon Trotsky perhaps? Or Dostoevsky?? You don't get those feelings in Calgary, that's for sure.

Today, I did my first longish run in preparation for the Hervis Half Marathon in Prague. I have been slacking lately. For some reason I can't seem to shake this constant cough. I'm almost finished my supply of neocitron; liquid gold! 13km in 82 minutes... Still no where near the 21.5 I need for march 31st... But I'm getting there! Thursday night I head to Moscow, so I hope my adventures get more interesting for your sake ;)

Oliver Twist

Privet from good ol' Saint Petersburg!! Another couch surfing meeting last night went extremely well! I met a gorgeous French man named Oliver! What blue yes he had. I even put up with the smoking table so I could sit beside him and share stories. He is so brave, he doesn't speak a word of Russian and he will be going on the TranSiberian railway all the way to China. This is one of my dreams, which will have to wait until my bank account makes a full recovery ;) We even spoke in french together - how romantic. Our legs touched under the table, and he didn't pull away! Great sign...but just my luck, he was leaving that night at midnight to Moscow :( What a shame! The few hours I spent enraptured in conversation with him put me in such a great mood! That was until I had to leave and I smelled my hair...I can't believe smoking is still allowed indoors. What a filthy habit! Remind me never to date a smoker...

Another success on the couchsurfing front: I met Alina today and we spoke at great length about all aspects of life. She brought me to her friend's flat, which is called communal living. The flat has 5 rooms, plus a communal kitchen and bathroom. Here lives Aljona and her roommate in one room, a mother with one child in another, a mother with TWo screaming children in another, a young couple in the next, and a single woman in the last. All of these people share a kitchen and the most private world of any house...the bathroom! Yikes! Fortunately, each room has a fridge, and Aljona even had a microwave. I was treated to some estonia candies and marzipan, yummm. Of course, we drank tea all afternoon, as is the russian tradition. I can swear they drink more tea than the Queen herself!

One of many beautiful ceilings in the Hermitage

Wednesday, I finally hit the Hermitage. What an incredible musem! It puts the Glenbow to shame 100x's over. I don't expect Calgary to have a 300 year old palace, but come on! Some original architecture wouldn't kill you. The art itself was nice, but the actually palace was in itself a museum. Walking the corridors that Queen Elizabeth petrovna and Catherine the Great once walked was such a surreal experience. I found myself looking at the ceiling in every room. What beauty in the details. I was lucky enough to get in for free (I am really milking the student discounts) but to take photos cost money. Of course, I cheaped out and didnt pay for the pass. Instead, I spent 3$ on postcards! I have maybe spent 20$ on food in two weeks, and my biggest expensive so far has been my tickets to moscow and my cellphone. Otherwise, I haven't really been spending anything. However, my handy snacks from Canada are running out :( I am wishing I would have brought my roommates nutri-gran bars she tried to pon off on me...oh well! Tonight, I am going to my pupil's choir concert, but she didn't tell me where it is! So wish me luck!

The Devil wears diapers

Today I managed to spend a whole 6 hours outside of the house. I met with an amazing couchsurfer who tried her darndest to teach me some more Russian, but alas I think I am a lost cause. She did, however, help me get a cellphone! So I will never be in danger without a friendly voice just a dial tone away ;)
I realize I haven't divulged much about my host family, so today I dedicate this post to baby V. She is not a baby anymore... At 2 1/2, V can run, scream, cry and shout. She is queen of the house, and isn't afraid of being scolded. Probably because all mom or gramps ever does is use a stern voice. If my kid was such a brat, you better believe she'd be in the corner or sent to her room. This kid could get away with murder. She will take her older sister's iPad and drop it! Then drop it again! She can't sit still, and is continually plopped in front of the computer to watch cartoons, and only the cartoon SHE chooses. The platter of fruit is splattered with apples with only one bite in them: her trademark! She also opens any sweets within reach only to take one bite and leave it on the table. She also has a habit of coming into my room unannounced. At first I thought, okay time to be the perfect guest and play with V... But I soon regretted this decision. I am now the dyevoshka (girl) who will play with V. This evening at dinner, she refused to sit down (like usual) and fell over her highchair. If her mother hadn't caught her leg, I am certain my problem would be solved... Morbid yes, but I do not normally have a vendetta against children. In fact, I even babysit two of the best behaved kids you will ever meet! I think a child is the outcome of its parenting. So moms and pops out there: DON'T let your little angel get away with murder, or one day their babysitter will write a blog about the little devil you raised.
Manners! I mean, isn't that common sense? But then again, is there anything common about common sense? My experiences prove NOT!!!
Stay classy San Diego!

Russian Friends

It's about time I start meeting people, so tonight I ventured out of the safety of my host home, and walked 40 minutes to a pub. There, I met with couch surfers from around the city! I was fortunate enough to speak with Anna, who will meet with me next week for language exchange and to help me buy a mobile phone. I guess it is bad to travel this country without one! I met two Sergei's as well! Typical Russian name. It was wonderful to speak english and share stories about Canada. Sergei #1 had so many questions, I felt like an ambassador! Let's hope I do our country proud. I even took the Metro home! What a maze, and the escalator to get down to the station was so long. My pupil tells me these are the deepest metro stations in all of Russia. Even in the cover of darkness, i found my way home - which happens to be in the same yard as a local police outlet. So you can be assured I am safe ;)

Now, to tell you about where I am staying. First of all, I am living in the living room. Thankfully open-concept living hasn't hit Russia yet, so I have a door. However, the door only does so much good because it has frosted glass. Even the BATHROOM door has frosted glass...so imagine seeing a shadow figure in the bathroom...naked, on the toilet, not exactly private! 

Another surprise in the bathroom is a toilet seat slip-cover. I have never experienced anything like it in all the bathrooms I have ever visited! The two-year old daughter is cute, but extremely annoying. I can't teach the mother until after she goes to bed - so there goes any chance of nightlife in Saint Petersburg! I wanted to stay longer with my fellow couch surfers, but alas, I have responsibilities here.

Warm touchie ;)

I am trying to plan the rest of my time here in Russia most effectively. Today, I booked a weekend in Moscow. I mean, who goes to Russia and doesn't see the Red Square??? I have put out a few couch surfing requests, with hopes that someone will adopt me for the weekend and perhaps give me a few russian lessons. Another destination which is calling my name is Rostov. My tutor of three months lives there...but it is a 300$ flight to and from, for only a weekend :( add the taxi fare and food, and the costs just keep on growing. Anyone who knows me well, knows I was secretly in love with Vova. I would count down the minutes to when I would hear his voice again. We would spend hours speaking via skype (only audio chat) and I would fall ever more in love with him with each passing word. We both do Yoga, and we both like the same movies, and his kindness was the most attractive quality of all....did I forget to mention he is EIGHTEEN YEARS OLDER THAN ME!??? When he was 18 in the Russian Military, I was a mere 1-year-old baby in Germany. My 23 year-old dad was on the other side of the iron curtain trying to protect the world from my Vova's army (which he was forced to do.) I have been so torn about visiting him, not with some unrealistic love fantasy in mind, but just to meet a dear friend whom I've spent countless hours speaking with. Alas, the weekend before my epic journey began, I got two traffic tickets worth 477$. This came to me as a sign from above that I can't afford the journey so far south to my Vova. I spoke with him last night on the internet, and the smile on my face was beaming. Maybe if I leave him a mystery for my next visit, it will give me more reason to return to my fatherland? As of right now, I am wondering why the hell I came to Russia in February, or at all! No one smiles, not a soul. I am so terrified of getting my camea stolen that I have yet to take it out of the house! Time to change my mindset and start enjoying this adventure, or I will only have a chubby butt to show for sitting around all day!

Saint Peter

I hit the streets of Saint Petersburg for the first time today, solo! First mistake, forgetting my map on the table. Imagine, a tall woman walking around in a powder room yellow jacket with a running room headband in a sea of black and fur. I had to venture to my language school to register my visa. I left the house with only the name of the street in my head. No surprise, I was instantly lost. Most countries I have visited have signs in English as well as the native language. Here is 100% Russian. I wandered the slippery paths along the grafitti ridden buildings. I imagined Saint Petersburg as a historic gem; the history is there, but so poorly maintained. The plaster was falling off nearly every corner, and the streets were dirty and in a constant state of disrepair. I felt so uncomfortable, mostly because of the language barrier. The only person I have met so far who was nice to me, outside the house of women I am living with, was Peter. When I arrived late on Sunday, the language school picked me up, as well as Peter. What a gentleman. He is from Slovakia and will be in the city for three months, taking Russian lessons everyday. I quickly scribbled my email in hopes that this tall dark Slavic sexy man would maybe get in touch with me. Bu alas, that only happens in the movies. Today, my fate changed. Once I miraculously found my way to the school's office, I was met by a smile from the lips of my angel; Saint Peter! It must have been fate that I got lost for so long before reaching the door right as Peter and his classmates were leaving. In a moment, the loneliness I was feeling melted away. He invited me for lunch, and I met a few more students all learning Russian. Each had been studying this complex language for over two years, so I was a joke compared to them. But Peter was so kind and helped me order in Russian. When we parted ways, he assured we would meet again, and I received a kiss on each cheek. Now this is a bit closer to what I imagined my trip would be!
Now, you are propably all wondering what my host family is like. As I am writing on my iPod, I will have To wait until my thumbs have a chance to stretch. Dasvedanya!!

Goodbye London, Hello Russia

Stonehenge was not even close to what I had expected. As I walked around the ancient prehistoric structure, I kept waiting to feel a magical/spiritual sensation ... Instead, I felt like everyone was overwhelmed by asian tourists with peace signs flashing! I offered to take photos of at least 4 groups of people, and still no return offers. I finally got an offer in response. "Can we have a picture?" And before I knew it, they were shooting me! Maybe this is a turning point in my trip? Where every photo has been of the landscape and architecture, but now I am part of each memory? In 2009 in Thailand, I travlled with one of the most compact, gorgeous blonde women I have ever encountered, she was a great side kick. While at Angkor Wat, she managed to attract a range of Asian toursits all queing to take a picture with her. All of them were stupified by her blonde hair and blue eyes.  I always wondered if I could have such a skill, but thought my plain features would never garner any interest. Friday I was proven wrong. Not only did these lovely korean ladies offfer to blind me all day with the flash of my camera, but they insisted that I be part of their photographic memory of the events of the day. From Stonehenge to Salisbury to Bath, I was forced to put my two index fingers in the most stereotypical positions known to man .... a sign of peace. I became part of the stereotype, not even trying! Salisbury, the church was the most amazing monement. I have read all the novels of Ken Follet, and Pillars of the Earth struck a special chord with me today while gasping at the medieval flying buttresses of the cathedral.
After the big tour, my polish hosts offered to take me to a traditional english pub. Being Friday night, everyone on our street was jammed pack. So instead, we hit the grocery store and bought a bottle of Whiskey. To my grand surprise, we bumped into their polish neighbour. Might I add, SEXY polish neighbour!! So Lucas was invited to our tiny flat to drink whiskey. My male host mixed the drinks, and I could barely take a sip without burning my throat with the sharp taste of whiskey. these polish people had more whiskey than pop! So, as you can guess, we all got drunk fairly quickly. I taught them how to Line Dance, and I even showed them my old reporter demo! How embarrased I was! But they were absolutely intrigued by my life, and I am not going to lie - I loved the attention. Now, you must all be wondering if I made a move on the sexy neighbour...alas, I did not. I will be returning in may, and I didn't want to spoil my reputation so early on ;)
My very last day in London was Saturday. We all slept in until 11am, and then I went for a run. I decided, YEAH I'm going to run to Abbey Road - made famous by the Beetles. So i ran to abbey road, found it, and crossed at the Iconic Zebra stripes. it wasnt until i got back to the flat that I realized I went to the wrong part of Abbey road! What a terrible beetles fan I am. Thank goodness I am going back in May to redeem myself! Saturday night, I finallly had my first English  pub experience, and yes, Lucas joined us! What a catch! he has a great job, a great flat and loves to travel. We spoke at length about south east asia and Canada. My heart skipped a few beats. Unfortunately, my flight was leaving early sunday, so nothing ignited from the sparks flying from my heart. We were all worried my flight would be grounded. For the first time this year, a huge snofall hit London. The poor airport couldn't handle the load of white stuff, so over 30% of flights were cancelled. I secretly wanted to stay in London ;) Unfortunately...or fortunately...my flight was only delayed by 3 hours. 
Now I am sitting in the kitchen of a lovely flat in Saint Petersburg. The first thing I learned here...I suck at speaking Russian. The second thing...I stick out like a sore thumb in my ski jacket without any fur! I am a walking, talking tourist, no ifs ands or buts! 
Paka my friends! I will be back with more details on the historic city.

The da Vinci Disappointment

Day 3 in London has yielded a few stories worth sharing. First business however, is the fish and chips! What I was expecting was the typical cod lathered and battered in fat and boiled in hot oil. What I got from my lovely polish hosts was fresh fish - head, fins, scales and all - baked to perfection. The chips were, of course, right on the mark! Tonight, I decided to return the favour and cook dinner. I was racking my brain trying to decide on a canadian dish that was easy, healthy, yet filling and delicious. What I came up with? Butter Chicken. Yes, I cooked an Indian meal, with samosas, naan and rice to boot. The Canadian twist...it all came out of a prepackaged box or can. I realized we north americans are LAZY! While my european counterparts cooked three courses all from scratch, I pulled together a great meal by following directions on the back of the bottle. Welcome to Canada!

As a guest, especially in a tiny london flat, it can be hard to get 100% comfortable. My hosts have made me feel 99% at home...the last percent is actually virtually impossible to ever become comfortable with, and that is bowel movements/farting. We're all human, and we all have to take a shit. But when you are spending most of your time surrounded by others who are within smelling and hearing distance, it can be quite unnerving. You'd think I would be smart and take a poo in a public washroom, but for some reason, the urge only comes at night after dinner. I managed to restrain myself until the man of the house was at work, because between girls it is much less embarassing. I utilized one of the best tricks in the book - take a poo then have your daily shower right after. This gives you the best opportunity to avoid the embarassing odour and awkward silence after a couple of echoing plops into the bowl. As I mentioned, I chose a spicy butter chicken as my feast of choice. Had I known the reprecussions, I would have chosen otherwise. The gas buildup right after supper was nearly unbearable. I kept trying to think of a smooth way to excuse myself, but I knew I would find no solace in the anything BUT soundproof bathroom. I picked up my ipod, and to my great relief, I saw a friend online! Yes, here comes my great excuse..."Sorry folks, I have to quickly call my friend, she had a job interview and wants to tell me about it. I will go out on the balcony and be back soon." THANK THE LORD!! After 4 toxic releases and a great conversation about my adventures in London and my friend's adventures on my couch in Canada, I was able to return and enjoy the rest of the night.

On the tourist front, I followed every step in the Cheesy Tourist Guide possible. I got a two day pass on the doubledecker bus, fully equipped with an audio tour and a hop on hop off service. I took the ferry down the Thames, and went to the National Art Gallery. All the museums in London are FREE! Yes, imagine one of the most expensive cities in the world not charging to view some of the most famous art works in history. I was over the moon when I found out there was a special da Vinci exhibit on display for only a few more days. I mean, what are the chances! One of the most famous works of art in the world, the last supper, in all it's glory was just meters away. I waltzed in tot he warmth of the museum (a nice welcome from the freezing wind) and was utterly crushed. In order to get a pass to the special exhibit, you had to wait in line starting at 5am. The line takes an average of 5 hours! I couldn't believe it. In an effort to overcome my disappointment, I roamed the free galleries in hopes of finding a work to lift my spirits. I was in the presence of some rare unfinished Michaelangelos, Van Gogh's reverred 'Sunflowers.' and my absolute favorite Monet's 'Water-Lily Pond.' There were also many prints from other great impressionist artists like Georges Seurat and Paul Sezanne. I can safely say the combination of these great paintings help warm me up after my broken heart.

I also walked around and took loads of photos, all without me in them. It is hard being a tourist alone, you almost need a professional photographer to truly capture the moments and stories to share them later. As a very oberservant picture, I noticed other travelers in my situation. In each occasion, I went straight up to them and asked if they wanted me to take their picture. Each offer was met with great gratitude, but was not once reciprocated. I couldn't believe it. They could see me struggling to extend my arm out far enough to frame most of my face with the tower bridge in the background. I know I could and should have asked for them to do the same for me, but for some reason I couldn't bring myself to pop the question. I figured the act of offering my services would eventually pay off, yet I was proven wrong over and over again. My host took me to a few sights today and snapped some pictures, which I will be eternally grateful for. I believe, unless you are in the photo, how can you really say you were there? I could have googled a shot of Big Ben, but being in FRONT of Big Ben, well that is original ;) If you have never heard of Harrod's, you really should google it. I have never been to a department store like it in my life. The grocery section was an actual garden of eden. Every item of produce was pure perfection. There were plants growing, and the staff were wearing outfits circa Marry Poppins era. Considering this is where the Queen shops, the sky-high quality standards are quite understandable!

As you may have noticed, I haven't spoken about being inside any of the big tourist attractions, except the free museums. Key word - FREE. I have walked around Westminster Abbey, I have riden around London Tower on the doubledecker, and I have looked at the London Eye from almost every angle, but I have yet to spend a single pound on going inside any of these tourist hot spots. I figure, being there is just as good ;) My mission is to blend in a bit with the locals, and my hosts (who have lived in London for 6 years) haven't been to any of these places either! Instead, I am going grocery shopping at Sainsbury, watching foot ball matches, and drinking 5$ bottles of wine from the Tesco on the corner in the comfort of a 250 square foot flat. I've heard numerous times about how much visitors hate London "It's too crowded, the people are jerks...the weather is terrible!| For me, I have had nothing but clear blue skies (but freezing cold wind) and have only met the nicest people (except for self-absorbed travelers). And there lies the problem, it's the tourists with the bad attitude. Anytime I am in a big tourist spot, these are the times when I get bad vibes about the city. Yet, when I am wandering around with my very own londoner, I feel at home and comfortable! (aside from the gas buildup of course). So next time you visit a city, try asking the local waitress at the tourist restaurant recommended online where SHE eats. Then , and only then, can you come close to getting to know that city.

Babies on a Plane

Nine and a half hours on a British Airways flight direct to London was an interesting start to my grand trip. While I can safely say there was no need for Samuel L. to open a can of whoop ass on a bevy of rogue snakes; I do wish he could have been there to rock TWO babies to sleep. Who brings a baby on a plane? I realize you can't stop your life when you have a family - but wait until they can LISTEN to you when you say shut up. Make your family come to you for a visit, not the other way around. While the babies may sound like the most distrubing aspect of the flight, my seat mate was in fact the strangest sight for me. The blunt german girl was very negative and bitter about leaving her boyfriend in Canada. But that's normal! What spun me for a loop: She ordered white wine and sprite....AND MIXED THEM TOGETHER!! Now, I am no stranger to trying to mix wine with pop. But in my own defense, I was in Australia drinking Goon; the worst possible white wine known to man. Mixing sprite with it made it more bearable. On British Airways, the white wine is phenomenal. It is sacreligious, and frankly very disturbing. I almost welcome babies on a plane over ruining a good bottle of wine.

In London, the transportation is a cinch. However, at every stop a very proper english woman would announce "This is a piccadilly line service, last stop is cockfoster." yes, cockfoster....over and over again! In terms of the british accent, I am NOT a fan. I prefer eastern european accents to the pompous british drawl. In fact, I am staying with a polish couple who are absolutely lovely. They are perfect hosts, and are giving me great directions and advice to see London most efficiently. They live in a 250 square foot bachelor suite, or in England -a studio flat. It is very cozy, and authenticly British. I was treated to a full english breakfast; including beans and tomato. Tonight, My gracious hosts are putting together a fish and chips feast! i am very fortunate to be spoiled with great polish hospitality. Today, I am hitting the double decker bus with my camera; yes typical tourist!