WOW, what an informative post! Just to hear about where you were in that lovely outpost in Russia, great story, humanity has a link that transcends nationality is how I see it. What a great story of sharing from those people in a far-off town from Moscow. That was an amazing experience, I am sure. Ngaire always manages to get out of the loop of the "safety net" of cruise excursions (nothing wrong with safety) and finds greater adventure in doing it on her own! Of course, sometimes to get back to the ship when they don't speak English, this involves going to the top of a building and pointing out where she wants to be! (always allow time to do this)I have ventured out with her before on these adventures, and we have always caught the ship on time! Great story, Ngaire!