Trip 5: Finland and Russia

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12/00-1/01

A three week getaway was in the cards for Christmas break in 2000. I decided to go back to Finland yet again and explore more of Russia. I had a great time catching up with my host-families and friends in Finland before I was off to Russia. I was able to see St. Petersburg in a more authentic way this trip because I was by myself this time as opposed to the exchange student field trip from my last Russian trip. January in Russia turned out to be a great time as there were fewer tourists meaning more intimate experiences with places like the Hermitage museum and the cathedrals. The snow also adds frosting to St. Petersburg's wedding cake-like architecture making for some wonderous walks along the canals.

I finally made it to Moscow on this trip and I was very impressed. Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil's cathedral were all everything I imangined and more. The nightlife there was also incredible, although before this trip, I was a solid vodka drinker. After this trip, I never touched the stuff again. You can fill in blanks.

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