We usually cut through Tsvetnoy Boulevard when we went to the bars and clubs. This particular day was Russia Day. Came across a crowd who were watching these young gymnasts performing.
Q:Do you like your job?
So far I’m loving it. Haven’t been bored with it. Everyday brings a new set of challenges. And the perks that come with the job are icing on the cake. I love to travel to new places, eat the local food, and meet people from other cultures. This job offers the opportunity to do so.
The only other jobs I see myself doing are graphic design and running my own brewery.
So my plans for driving home for Thanksgiving are ruined. Will be my first Thanksgiving away from the family and I heard relatives from out of state will be there.
Oh well, queue Plan B. Celebrate Thanksgiving with my Mexican coworker’s family. Brought out the guns and whipped up some of my sister’s cranberry oatmeal cookies. Also will be dragging the new Russian coworker from Tomsk to the dinner. Cultural awkwardness? I think so.
Well… I needed a new computer to play Starcraft 2 and Civilization V… <_<
Oink.
My new ride. Vrooom.
Tyumen’s Lovers Bridge. The bridge’s rails used to be heavily covered in locks, but for some reason were cut down by the government. I believe the story behind the lock goes if a couple profess their love on the bridge and place a lock on the rails, they will be together forever. It worked for this lovely couple.
Say whatever you want about Lenin, but the guy has some pretty bad ass statues. This one is located in the Central Square of Tyumen. Kind of reminds me of the Lenin statue back home.
Salty… Tangy taste melts in your mouth and… Mmmhhmm…
Ahh… Capitalism won.
Siberian sunset… at 12:30 am. Sun rises at around 4 am. The day is still young.
America vs. Romania. Democracy vs. Communism (okay, they aren’t communists anymore). Ping Pong Diplomacy. Venue: Siberia. Fight.
Such intricate details. Contrasts brightly to the grandeur, pretentious Catholic churches I am used to attending. Going inside, one can see the walls cover in icons, each telling a story. The men of the party entered without any problems, however my female companion was required to wear a hijab before entering. Barely any seating, it was understood this is a stand only building. Packed, but silent.
Sunset viewed at one of the highest points in Da Lat.
Look Ma, I’m one of those War Elephant units in Age of Empires. Sorry, having flashbacks of AoE gaming sessions with friends back in college.
Out in Da Lat, we took a boat ride to a secluded island that specializes in food and relaxation. On the menu? Forest critters.
I love food, so I believe in trying everything at least once. Let’s just say on that day I’ve eaten things whose names I don’t want to mention here. Anthony Bourdain shares a similar experience (start at the four minute mark).
