I was in St. Petersburg for 4 days on a short vacation, so I haven't been able to reply to any messages during that time, I'm sorry! I couldn't get the wifi at the hotel to work >8(

I'm at my dad's now, and I will go back home tomorrow, and then I can edit the photos I took and continue drawing before I go back to work on thursday whew

Before the trip I had certain prejudices towards Russia... and I have to admit those prejudices were only confirmed. I don't know if the people just don't like Finns or if I saw the worst side of the citizens of St. Petersburg, but everyone was being very rude, even on the Finnish scale lmao. Nearly nobody spoke a word of English though so it was difficult to hold a good conversation with anyone.

Also in Russia the huge difference between the rich and the poor is painfully obvious. The officials are corrupt and it seems you can't really rely on them on legal matters at all. Money is what matters. It's a land of extremes.

While I'm unimpressed by the country, the society and the people, the eastern cultural heritage is SO VERY INTERESTING TO ME... this was the first time I ever visited an eastern orthodox cathedral, and it was amazing. The art and architecture are inspiring and an interesting mix of east and west - very different from what I've used to.

Overall, an amazing trip. I would definitely do it again and go to the places I missed this time, but maybe not in the near future.

I'm sorry if I have offended anyone with this. these are my opinions on things I noticed during those 4 days.