Yaroslav was once the capital of Russia until 1613 and it then became one of the countries cultural centers. The first national theater and newspaper were established here. It is a very large city and we wandered in the city market which was their version of Walmart. The city square was decorated with unusual objects such as the love mobile, the butterfly tire display and the Christmas worm, our favorite ( though Ngaire insists it is a reindeer).

The tours really have been excellent. Today, we were treated to a bell ringing demonstration and a classical music demonstration with dancing. On the ship, we had a vodka and blini demonstration and tasting. Some of the vodka was vile ( especially the chili) and onevwas rather good (the cranberry).

The Mosquitos from the river are biting some of us up rather badly but the ship is supplying insecticide for the rooms.

The Russian women are really lovely looking, with their alabaster skin, heart shaped faces, lithe tall bodies and blue eyes...

Yesterday, we even found Arlene Levin's lost sister! I leaned over to Ngaire and said "who does she look like?" and she said: "Arlene".

Well, tonight is Russian dinner night...we have no idea what is in store for us!!!