Thursday, November 09, 2006

Lost and Found Shots Because of a Broken Camera

Just this morning, I tried to relocate all the videos I have taken to my laptop, because the camera memory is already full. However, for some reason, the charger cable abruptly stopped performing and the lights suddenly turned off.

I wasted all day wondering and trying to realize what went wrong. I certainly hope my cameras not damaged beyond repair, because I just acquired it a few months ago. At that time, it was the latest collection, and I spent quite a lot of cash for it. It may not be the newest item anymore, but I definitely hope I can make it work again. Maybe there's a repair place in Russia, where I can bring the camera for inspection, so the specialist could tell me what exactly is destroyed.

I had already transffered the camera into a soft carrier, and was ready to look for a service place. But then, I thought about operating the cable accessory once more. For some bizarre reason, the camera activated until I finally saw the lights turned on, as if nothing really happened. Hence, to congratulate my subconscious mind and thank destiny for coordinating with my own crack of genius, I called for a room service to order blueberry jam and buttered toast.

Wednesday, November 08, 2006

Remarks About Russian Trend

What I notice in Russia is that on common places, females never wear running shoes. Females always go out complete with their hair and make-up accessories. Because they believe that it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed, even heels and skirts are considered uniforms by the most modish icons. All ladies usually wear high heels, faded jeans, and the sexiest tops they can ever find. Most of them wear striking colors, skin-tight tops, pointed heels, shiny jewelries, embellished denims, and attractive hair clips with rhinestones. These are the favorite items you’ll probably find in most bazaars.

Like many developing capitals, the rise in income rates has provided a lot of women the means to acquire the extra things in life. This intensified purchasing power has also affected the demand for fashion wardrobes, which may eventually nourish the skills and talents, even of young designers.

However, there are still various citizens who struggle to make ends meet. Hence, it is assumed that people have common clothing, so it’s not odd to see someone wear the same style two days in a row. The poor are residents who are deprived of the fine things in life, so they prefer dressing up simply -- that is, with lesser frills and repeated use.

Inside the Impressive Russian Abodes

I woke up so late, only to recall that I had to meet my buddies at the Youssoupof Palace. So, I walked along the beautiful roads past the canals. We met outside the gates, and proceeded as a group to enjoy this tourist attraction.

The palace has very exquisite interiors, similar to other magnificent places I've seen. In particular, the palace bedrooms really please the guests; the rooms do not include yet the equally impressive library, oriental-themed living room, and mellow crystal chandeliers that hang just about everywhere. In terms of sheer glamor, this elite palace seems to be the most opulent.

I wonder how royalties actually live here, what they're like, what they adore doing, where they go for vacations, and what their occupations must be -- that is, if they even have to work at all! The term house does not fit the ambiance and aura of this place, which also makes it kinda hard to imagine that real people settle in here.

This place is more incredible than those I see in Hollywood productions. Maybe, that's why commoners were hardly ever allowed inside these majestic places, while royalties even employ guards to look after their premises all day and night. In fact, I believe there will be street riots if citizens would really see how comfortable these royal people are in this society. Unlike the wealthy, others suffer from poor situation in the countryside.

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

The Elegant Guest House in St Petersburg

Today, I moved to another hotel, which seems a lot more accommodating. The charges are the same with my former lodge. But this one offers more luxurious rooms, so I picked it! The size and the facade of the hotel even reminded me of a homey Spanish house.

After a snack, I lugged in my large bags, checked the condition of my room, and dumped all my accessories on the bed. I needed to call home, so I tried to find a spare change for the payphone. But when I found none, I decided to choose a phone card instead in a local dealer located just beside the hotels washroom. It was then that I finally noticed the wide washrooms, so large that it can even accomodate 15 more customers. I was very impressed and amused with the spaciousness of the rooms. So after a quick phone call, I decided to go inside and check out the facilities. The first thing I've noticed, aside from the royal designs, are the toilet papers with Finding Nemo images all over it. I wonder how a pop culture character, like the bright orange Nemo, had swum its way into this foreign part of the world; imagine, Disney even sent Nemo across the globe just to invade the Russian toilet paper?! Truly, Disney, the international network chain, is more compelling than I have imagined.

I had no time to waste, so I strolled around some more to muse over the amazing sceneries in the hotel. Now that I'm very satisfied with my choice, the idea of a doze off soon became very tempting.

The Striking White Night that One Should Observe in Saint Petersburg

A civilian enlightened me about an incredible phenomenon also known as the White Night, which usually happens from the end of May to the middle of July. This is the time when the flicker of the evening somehow blends with the morning light. As a result, all streets, embankments, houses, and gardens are bathed with a sensitive light.

Too bad, I won't observe the phenomenon until after a year. I would love to buy a return trip ticket to this country to experience the so-called White Night. Unfortunately, more excited foreigners will understandably plague the city during these days. Neva will again be deluged with foreigners who marvel at the citys surreal beauty. There will be too many travelers, so it will still be impossible to get on a marvelous boat trip around the canals even if the river defrosts.

But even though I might not be able to witness the said phenomenon because of the crowd, I'm not worried at all, because I can still imagine the attraction of the city that renders great awe in all of us. Since I won't be able to watch the White Night, I should be satisfied with the white morning or snow-covered streets, which are less captivating but safer for the emotionally deranged, like myself.

Monday, November 06, 2006

The Mystery Behind the Popular Russian Place

The full name of the city, St. Petersburg, is apparently deduced from three European languages: Catholic Latin, Orthodox Greek, and Reformist German. In light of this amazing trivia, I decided to further inform myself about the citys unparalleled history.

I followed an itinerary proposed by the city governments tourist office that includes the citys proud equestrian monuments. These monuments are vital parts of the citys allure, as they also embody much of the place's historical power. The historical horses on the statues look obviously fierce, like they can only be tamed by their instense masters. Meanwhile, although they are more subtle, the expressions on the riders faces are a bit hard to describe. Nonetheless, the exact details and impressive craftsmanship let the tourists know for sure that these monuments represent successful leaders.

Prominent people seem obsessed with their legacy and commission drawings, sculptures, and busts to capture their finest hour. These displays of mens vanity dont really surprise me at all, as the whole city stood witness to the inspiring proof of what these leaders can create during their lifetimes. I suppose even ordinary folks will feel the same, once they bid their final adieu. After all, every one of us hopes to leave a memorable and inspiring legacy to our kids, relatives, and everyone else who really knew us.

Successful Russian Contributes To His Local Institution

It seems that in Russian industry, business and philanthropy still operate together in harmony. No doubt, this is a product of historical socialist creed.

Baron Stieglitz, who is also an industrialist, epitomizes the harmony of business and philanthropy when he founded a famed center for the field of decorative arts in 1876. He crafted an exceptional collection to guide the professional success of his students. His school also offers amazing, well-appointed museum, which is open to people. The galleries and buildings boast of well-crafted Italian décor, including the works of famed artists from St. Petersburg. Some art professionals even graduated from this school, and their masterpieces are available from a neat museum shop.

As opposed to ordinary practices in a developed world, the aforementioned school or institution was founded and maintained by affluence of a private individual. It is a unique example of what high-income members of a society can contribute to the well-being of their fellow residents.

Because Russia is a progressive country, there continues to be hopes for every citizen. However, there are still less privileged people in society who bank a lot on the government or private groups in order to survive. Equitable enhancement is another debate. But at least, in the scenario of Stieglitz, rich people are proven to no longer wait for the clamor of the government, just so they could act and do something for their country.

The Growth of Russia and Its Existing Challenges

It appears to be like things are quite improving for Russia and its future. It is seen that the rich will truly be a lot richer in a newfound place of possibility in St. Petersburg. The district is geared towards exporting products to Europe, which may lead to a flourishing economy. The economy may attain excellent growth, twice more than the national average.

The great privilege of having a progressive economy may be reflected in the way citizens dress and the way they eat. Currently, majority of the locals are involved in producing ships, arms, heavy machinery, and electric equipment, while the government is actively motivating the development of the service sectors.

One-third of the population is established as middle-wage earners, while the other one-third, usually lives in communal apartments with usual amenities and stays below the poverty line. This is not a pleasant scenario, but still, this is not as horrible as other living conditions. You also have to consider the late entry of the place into global free trade and the late adoption of market-driven mandates to address the appalling statistics.

Given Russia's history, whatever conditions the country experiences now can be overcome later. Remember, when the country was industrialized in the late twentieth century, it also became a real source of pollution for the Baltic Sea. However, lucrative investments have also been made on construction of sewer treatment plants and water purification structures. Now, more private enterprises have answered the appeal for more serious pollution monitoring, and have also increased the number employees working in the relevant disciplines. Hopefully, these practices will continue to result in a cleaner environment and more effective means for the treatment of waste.

Sunday, November 05, 2006

Praying for Special Requests at a Russian House of Worship

Moving a little bit away from the beaten path, the rose Tchesme house of worship is an amazing structure frequented by locals. This house of worship was formed back in 1780.

This house of worship also witnessed the miraculous appearance of an elder sister, who, by herself, had weathered the toughest trials of an poor family. Travelers often do not know much about her, since she is located quite far from the center of the region. However, she still welcomes quite a lot of devoted locals. Her enthusiasts come visit and light a candle to pray for their special requests.

The other day, I was able to spot a kind old lady who got a candle from an effusive assistant behind the receded alcove. I followed her with my head bowed, as I traced her steps and mimic her gestures to pray for my solemn requests, too. I was not exactly sure, but I firmly believe that the higher power is always listening, no matter which house of worship the prayer came from.

After the prayer, I went out to look for a nice diner. Then, I found Rousski Kitch, which opened its doors only two years ago to offer sumptuous dishes for the elite tastes of their greatest patrons. I stay not to nibble, but only to have some tea, enjoy the baroque style of their large dining halls, and wonder whether my prayers have indeed been heard.