Voronezh, Russia May 9th-19th

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Voronezh pics

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Voronezh

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Voronezh Pics

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Voronezh Pics

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Voronezh Pics

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Day 3, May 12, Voronezh Russia, Pleasant Surprises, big $$, and questions about being scammed! Part 2

    It was here at this small Italian place I was treated to a bout of education RW style. We had finished eating and even though I make a habit of this my RW beat me to the punch. I had just payed the bill and left a tip when I hear a sweet voice say, “Eeereeick, you must come vit me to vater closet we must vash hands..You coming, ok?” Who was I to say no! We enter this small room with a sink outside 2 separate door enclosed toilets. When my RW says, “Eeereeik, I vill do the vashing now.” Next thing I know I have this beautiful RW grabbing me by the wrists and sticking my hands under mildly HOT water. ( Hey, why do they have HOT water here all the time?!?!?! This place is like ½ a click from my Hotel!! *&^%#$’s, oh well..Eta Rooyssia, DA?!?!) She then proceeded to do a human brillo pad act and then I was instructed on how to properly ‘dry my hands’. First it’s wal;king 101, now it’s hand washing, sheesh, I’m glad she cares ;-) ;-) :^) After some new experiences, lots of laughs and good times we left the restraunt.


      That morning we had decided that  we would see both a movie and a ‘Drama’ (A play as we would know it). WE, err…I mean she was sufficiently persuasive to get me to choose the movie Montour. One interesting thing I found was that the cinema which we went to to buy out tix, had like 10 BIG Plasma screens on which they were advertising various shows, showing trailers, etc.. Also, when you ‘reserved seats’ and bought tickets at the ticket counter they had a medium sized LCD screen with a seating map on it and it showed what seats were available, etc… It was kept up to date in ‘real time’ which was cool. Also, the place was clean, had AC, and very modern. After some of the other things I had seen in the city, I was surprised. After concluding the ticket purchasing. We then moved on to get our tickets at the ‘Drama Theatre’. 

    Now outside of ‘the Drama theatre’ is a small park some fountains, and a few statues and monuments to various Russian poets and famous writers. All in all it would have been a beautiful place; IF, they kept it clean, the fountain worked, the RM and teens actually picked up their Piva, and Vodka bottles, etc… We go inside and my RW purchases 2 tickets for 250R for the next night after the movie. Nice deal, certainly a lot cheaper than here. More on that later on in the story. At this point I needed to get some more cash and exchange some money. Here is where I got introduced to legal robbery in Russia via a bank. I was going to exchange $1,000. I had crisp clean hundreds without marks, and they had been folded in half once. So we get to the bank, wait in line and then our turn comes. The teller takes the cash, My RW hands over her passport, and I’m thinking sweet, this will be quick. NOT!! The teller than proceeds to say the money is no good it’s damaged. I asked where she got that from? The teller replies “There are microscopic holes in the bills. I can only exchange them for a 20% loss and at 20R:1USD”. At this point I tried to explain to her that they were fine and ‘fix’ the situation. To no avail. So after visiting 10 banks later and getting the same thing every time I was forced to accept a loss of 15% and an exchange rate of 23:1. I was not very happy, but I needed cash so I was forced to live with it, another reason I ‘accepted’ this was both my RW and my interpreter said it was the best I would get and I should take the loss. GUYS BEWARE OF THIS IT’S A SCAM AS I WAS TO LATER FIND OUT FROM THE AGENCY OWNER!! He told me that “oh, you should have just called me and I would have taken care of it. Day late and a $$ short. All told I lost about $70+. ONE LESSON LEARNED THE HARD WAY!!
     After purchasing our tickets we went on to one of our first ‘Romantic Dinners’. We went to a café-restraunt; which if memory serves me correctly is called “Stonygorod”. There is a picture above this post. This restraunt turned out to be among the pricier of the ones in Voronezh, and other than a few small issues the food and service was excellent. We had reservations for 1930, and arrived promptly at 1920. The Maitre’de had warned us earlier, that if we were late by more than 15 mins. they would give away our table. We chose to be seated up on the second floor in the middle table by the edge of the ‘Balcony’. The reason we chose this is because it was situated directly across from a live band that was scheduled to begin playing at 2000. After being seated we were served ‘a basket of actual rolls’ this time which were cold. We ordered our drinks and they had a menu in English so my RW asked me to choose the food so that she may ‘have the full experience’. The fare at the restraunt was a combo of European and Italian Continental. We each ordered ‘still water’, and I asked what they had for decent Champagnes. My RW had mentioned that she’d like to try’Pink Champagne’ so I ordered that for the 2 of us. This was where the small issues began. I got a blank stare from the waiter, and asked the interpreter to repeat what we wanted. She did, this time showing him where it was located on the menu, and he then replied…What? We only have ‘Dark Krasnaya Georgian champagne’. Then the waiter decided that he would get the ‘Sommelier’ to help him. The ‘Sommelier’ arrived and we got the same response from him coupled with an “ahhh..I don’t know..”  So I then asked him if he could recommend a good white wine to complement our entrees. This was followed by a blank look and a question, “What do you mean?”. I then asked what they had for good French, Italian, Australian, S.African, Georgian, or Napa whites. He then said “Ohhh…ahh we have a nice Chablis from France.” I took that and we each ordered a glass for our main course. Despite this small misunderstanding the wine was both excellent and overpriced.

     As far as food, here’s what we ordered: Appetizer was a seafood sampler which was ‘billed’ as an appetizer for 2 and contained ‘black cuddle fish’, sea scallops, shrimp, mussels, and calamari. For the main course I had a veal with ‘white sauce’ and mushrooms, My RW had a swordfish steak, our terp, had a veal dish with a  ‘marinara sauce’ and a salad for an app. Finally just as the band was starting to play. They were a 3 member band with a ‘pianist, a violinist and a trumpet’ who played a mix of Frank Sinatra, early 80’s easy listening, and jazz. As an aside, they were excellent, and the violinist, wandered through the restraunt doing small serenades for the patrons!! We got our appetizer about this time and it was COLD!! Now, normally I don’t mind if it’s a little cool, but this was seafood, albeit fully cooked, but served COLD!! The dish was meant to be served hot (Though a + to their credit, the béchamel sauce and marinara was both real and delicious!!). So we sent it back (politely and I asked for it to be served ‘hot’) which pissed the waiter off to no tomorrow, but no way was I paying top dollar to eat cold, rubbery seafood.. It came back somewhat cold and the seafood had turned to rubber. So now getting a little upset I called the waiter back again and asked him to fix it to which he replied, “ That’s HOT, you don’t know what your talking about.” So I told him, “Really, that’s hot, then go ahead and touch it and then tell me whether its hot or not.” He reaches out and touches a scallop and then without saying a word, turns around with the dish and walks off. He returns about 15 mins later with a new plate, HOT this time, and what I presume is a new ‘dish’ as the seafood was less rubbery and appropriately warm. Now that we had it served correctly it was excellent. Shortly after we each got our main courses and they were great. Everything was cooked correctly, they had used quality ingredients and it showed. Desert was a carbon copy of the main course. So after about 2 hrs in the restraunt, talking, laughing, drinking, and having fun we decided to call it a night. Approximate cost: 2750R.

     After leaving the restraunt we decided that we wouldn’t require the services of our translator for the next day and that we wanted to spend time ‘together’. We said goodnight to our translator and went back to my hotel. Again upon entering the hotel I noticed that the security people had stopped and exchanged words with my RW. The security person seemed real aggressive. I asked what was up and got the reply, “It’s ok, no problem, nothing to worry about.” We then went to my room and talked about lots of things, and solidified our plans for tomorrow. She later left for home in a taxi again 500R.  So off I went to clean up again, and go to sleep, which would prove to be elusive yet again.

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Day 4, May 13, Voronezh Russia, Movies, Plays and Connections

     After a few hours of fitful sleep, unsuccessful enjoyment of the Russian equivalent of late night TV and staring at the ceiling for a few hours I decided to get up, shower and see about a cup of coffee. By the time I was done with this it was about 0730. Just as I finished getting ready and put my hand on the door to go to the second floor restraunt. My room phone rings! There were only really 2 maybe 3 people who had the number so I went and answered it. To my great and happy surprise I hear, “Allo,…Eeerick, It’s me your RW. I am at Hotl in lobby. SURPRISE YOU!!! You maybe come down and see me?!?!?” Heck ya..( Even though we hadn’t planned to meet until 930am, I was glad she came) So I went down to the lobby and we went to get breakfast at the 2nd floor restraunt. Where by this time I guess I was considered a regular as food started appearing without being ordered!

     I can’t disclose the details of most of the day but I will say we talked a lot, learned a lot about each other and connected on many levels; all in all had a great time until about mid-afternoon. We went to lunch at the pizza place I described on Day1 and ordered the same meal. It was delicious. We finished just in time to maker our afternoon movie. The movie theatre was great, had AC, was clean and generally how I described it before. The only 2 additions I will make to that is this. When you walk down the hall the theatre it’s self you are met outside each room by an usher who checks your ticket. Then you step inside through a door into a smaller enclosure covered by a ‘blackout’ curtain. Through that and you are in the ‘room’ proper. The movie was mediocre at best and despite the fact that it was dubbed all in Russian. I was able to follow the story just fine. At the end, she liked it, I thought it sucked, but I enjoyed just spending time with her. After the movie we went directly to the ‘Drama’ theatre for the play.

     The Drama theatre’s exterior left a lot to be desired. But as we entered there were a fair amount of people waiting to be seated. Inside was spotlessly clean, elegantly appointed, and very nice. There were teams of ushers and ticket checkers who checked everyone’s tickets and directed you to the proper entrance.  Once inside the theatre your ticket was again checked by 2 ladies who looked to be in their mid-40’s, and built like NFL line-backers. Each could give the ugly stick a run for its money. I also noticed that by each of the 2 exit doors were chairs and there was a big long thin stick standing against the wall. It didn’t take too much imagination for me to guess what they were for. We were seated and the show began on time. The play I was told by my RW was about a corrupt university president who went on to become a corrupt politico before the 1st revolution. Even though I didn’t understand the Russian all that well I was able to follow along ok, and really enjoyed myself. The acting and the entire show was top notch. The audience was lively and fun, there was lots of laughing and I guess we were a ‘mild’ mannered crowd as the 2 ‘theatre ladies’ only had to exercise their ‘Thrashing technique 2x on teenagers who thought it may be a good time to make out. I’m glad I didn’t get any lessons that way. I’ll tell ya; even with the lights down low, her follow through was impressive, and the ‘whack’ could be easily heard. She could give some nuns I know a run for their money!!! The only issue I had with the ‘Drama theatre’ experience was the chairs were made for midgets. Man I’m like 6’1, and by intermission I was having some serious comfort and cramping problems, half my body was ‘asleep’. Although, I sucked up, and suffered through and other than that I had a lot of fun. The play finished about 2130 and we went off to my hotel to call my RW a cab.

     Earlier in the day we had made plans and I had been invited to meet her Mama, and sister the next day, after a short introduction at her flat we would all go out to eat at the restraunt I mentioned above on Day3.

    Back at the hotel the security guard again started to make ‘comments’ to my RW. I stepped in and explained she was my guest, here’s my key, any questions or problems he needed to address them to me. It was a short conversation and we went to my room. My RW called for a cab and I got to spend a few more precious minutes with her before she left. Cab fare is again the usual 500R. One thing I did notice though when I got back to my room is they hadn’t changed the bed, cleaned or left TP. So as my RW left she made sure to ask the ‘floor lady’ to have it cleaned ASAP. We had been out most of the day so we had no idea why they didn’t clean it. The ‘cleaning lady’ and her compatriot came to the room and did a stellar job of tidying up in record time. I gave them each a 20R tip. I had seen them around and knew they worked hard for very little…For the record, never once was there a chocolate left on my pillow for the duration of my stay..

To be Continued>>>>>

   

 

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Day 5, May 14, Voronezh Russia, Nearly going to jail, Meeting the Family, Dinner, and Good Times

     Finally on the 4th night I was able to manage about 6hrs of solid sleep. Whether it is from exhaustion, or actually starting to get used to the ‘new sleep schedule’ I got some much needed R&R. Although for whatever reason I woke up at 6am again. Followed the same routine and I was again greeted with a phone call promptly at 7. Any guesses who that might be? ……………………..Well, you got it, my RW was back to ‘surprise me’ again. Good thing I wasn’t out chasing skirts on the side or else I woulda been screwed ;-) ;-) :^) LOL..!!

    Off I go to the lobby to meet my beautiful RW. Happy that she took the extra time and effort to come and meet me early. Just after I gave her a big hug, and a rose which I greeted her with every morning, since we met. We turned and made our way towards my room so we could talk and make a plan for the day. Just as we were about to pass the same security guard we passed every morning. I heard him say something in Russian. My RW promptly responded, and seemed quite upset. There was a significant amount of back and forth and I could tell she was starting to get agitated. I stepped in and asked what the problem was and placed myself between her and him. He backed down and off we went to the elevator. In the elevator I started to ask my RW “what happened, what did he say to you, are you Ok?” She still seemed quite upset, and said she would tell me in my room. As we got off at my floor and pass ‘the floor lady’ I notice another ‘security guard’ standing talking to her. As we passed he began to loudly call out to my RW in Russian. She turned and I could tell she was pissed….. FIRE BREATHING DRAGON MAD!!   Her face got red, she was gesticulating a mile a minute, and it was obvious something was up. Russian went back and forth again, this time more staccato, like small arms fire and louder. The ‘security guard’ then began to take steps toward us and take what I would describe ‘an attempt to be physically intimidating”. You know when someone wants to start a fight or attempt violence the bring their hands in front of them or at least to hip height, they change their stance and posture, etc.. This F*&^%$ did all of the above and took a couple of steps towards my RW. I was having none of that!! Again I stepped in and asked ‘the rent a cop’ who looked to be about early 30’s and in need of an attitude adjustment what his malfunction was. I went straight up to him and asked him if he had a problem and would he like to address it with me! I couldn’t understand everything but I understood enough to know I didn’t like what he was calling my RW and without provocation!! After some back and forth he backed down with a lot of “ya nepinemayo”(? Spelling); “I don’t know”,  and after receiving a fair barrage of less than polite Russian from me. I guess working with RM’s in the USA sometimes has it’s benefits. Needless to say he left and walked away. We went to my room. There I got the full story form my RW about what had been happening since Day 1.

     It seems that the “security guards” had been insulting her and calling her various not so polite names and epithets. She had been keeping it to herself not wanting me to get involved or the chance for me to get angry. She said, “Eeerrreek, this is my country, they bad men. I deal with bad men all the time. It is nothing, but today they really do bad thing and say bad things. I got really mad, I just don’t want you to get in trouble because police like to pick on foreigners.” As time goes on it comes out that over the last 2 days they had decided to try to extort money from her saying that either she or I had to pay them money because she was staying at the hotel as a guest and I was only paying for one person!! (This wasn’t true, she came to visit, but never stayed the night, and I had paid in full already) Also today they called her a thief, a whore, and a few other not very nice things which I won’t repeat.

     Needless to say I was FUMING…Angry…and a whole lot of other not so descriptive words. Since I knew if I left the room I would be enjoying a stint in the Siberian gulag courtesy of the Russian Government, and since the agency owner had told me to call if I had any problems. I picked up the phone, and called him. I actually got his wife, who speaks excellent English and she told me that her husband would be unreachable for about 30mins. She also asked what the problem was and if she could help. I gave her the PG version and made clear my displeasure as well as desire to face murder charges, get a refund and find a new hotel. She said her husband would be by ASAP. 15 mins later I got a knock at my door.


TO BE CONTINUED….>>>>>>

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You love to leave your audience hanging don't you. . .

She totally came early to make sure you didn't have another girl with you.  IMHO.

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Day 5, May 14, Voronezh Russia, Nearly going to jail, Meeting the Family, Dinner, and Good Times  Part 2
   I don’t like to be angry. I usually try to be laid back and understanding about most things. I also try to make a habit of being a non-violent guy. Having said that there a few lines you just don’t cross and these guys had just done so. Who was ‘knocking at my door’ you ask?? I was hoping it was ‘security’ as I had the window in my room open and just as I was thinking how much fun it would be to see them attempt a stint as a bird and trying to fly the 7 or so stories to the ground. I got an answer in English….; it was the agency owner. I guess that trip to the gulag was still a few minutes away. I let him in and then explained the situation and what had happened. He then talked to my RW in Russian and got the same story. Now it was his turn to get upset. He said I did the right thing calling him and that he happened to ‘know THE guy’ in charge of the hotel and he was also ‘highly placed in government and other things’ and was a good friend of his. He said he would take care of it and get back to me ASAP with a solution but please just let him make some calls and talk to some people. I decided to let him see what kind of results he could get, and on the + side it would give us both some time to calm down some and not be so emotional.

   So about 45 minutes passes and my RW and I had calmed down some and were talking about a lot of things. She thanked me for standing up for her, etc.. Now by this time we were getting hungry, and just about to leave to go to the restraunt on the 2nd floor, and eat. Again with amazing timing, just as we got up to leave, there came a knock at the door. I have to say, I was really starting to hate people knocking on my door. After asking who it was, I was to be somewhat surprised. It was the agency owner and the ‘TOP DOG’ of the hotel who came personally to talk to us. Frankly, from where I sat it was the least he could do.

    So I invited them in and we all sat. Introductions were made and then we re-hashed the events of my stay and what had happened. I addressed the problems with security as well as with getting my room cleaned, etc… The man’s name was Victor Ivanovich (?Spelling), he was well dressed in a ‘western style suit, spoke accent less English and you could tell instantly that he was well educated. He was very personable and as advertised later proved to be a man of his word. After talking with the agency owner and I in English; he began to talk with my RW in Russian. She recounted the events and told him everything that happened. He asked that she put everything in writing and said he would investigate this issue. He also made the mistake of suggesting that perhaps in the future we should have complained sooner.. I explained the situation and how I was unaware of what the full scope of the ‘security guard’ issue was until this AM, and I had been daily ‘complaining-requesting” my room to be cleaned. He said he would take care of everything and be back in touch soon. Then he asked “Eric, is this your first trip to Russia?” I replied in the affirmative. He then stated; “ I’m sorry that you’ve had such bad experiences here and with these employees. Really Russia is a beautiful and wonderful place where the people can be very kind and outgoing once you know them. I feel ashamed that these ‘bad apples’ may have tainted your experience here. I hope that you will come back again soon and give Russia the opportunity to show you that it can be a wonderful place. If you need any assistance at any time, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.” He also gave us his card with all of his contact info should we require any more assistance.


      We decided that we were hungry and we would write this up after ‘Breakfast’. By this time it was almost 11am The agency owner joined us and we all talked about a lot of things. I also requested the interpreter meet us at the hotel by 1400 (1/2 hr earlier than we needed as she was chronically late) so she could translate for me and for my RW’s family as they didn’t speak any English. After multiple conversations and dropping off the ‘written complaint’ to ‘Victor’ we finally got the issues ironed out. The security people were now unemployed, replaced with new people; and the rest of the resolution to the problems and ‘apology’ were accepted, and amends were made. Incidentally, these security people were not part of the hotel staff and were a ‘sub-contracted’ out from the hotel. ‘Victor’ said that this was not the first series of incidents with them, but that we were the first to follow through with our complaints. He said that it was his goal to ‘replace’ the security company with one provided by the hotel so that they would be ‘answerable’ to the hotel management and officials. Another thing I learned is that this particular hotel is ‘actually’ run, owned, and operated by the city government. I will also say this, I found Victor to be very polite, and helpful and he turned out to be a man of his word. If any of you stay here, and have issues I would recommend going directly to him. His office at the hotel is RM#220 and he’s there from 0900-1800 most days.

     After breakfast, and writing up the ‘complaint’ I finally got to spend some alone time with my RW. We talked about everything and what had happened, and learned a lot about one another. Then we discussed our visit with her family. She gave me ‘wardrobe counseling’, and I showed her my gifts for them. Since we had a late breakfast we didn’t get lunch and just spent the time enjoying each other’s company.



   All to quickly our time together flew by and we had to meet our terp Elena in the lobby for our trip to meet the family at their flat. I had been cautioned and warned and apologized to, and told “Eeereck, please don’t be offended by our flat. We are remodeling and it is a mess…OK?!?!” I told my RW not to worry that I understood and we then called for a cab to take us to the ‘ominous Left bank’. Off we went to meet the family.  

TO BE CONTINUED….>>>>>>

Day 5, May 14, Voronezh Russia,  Meeting the Family, Dinner, and Good Times  Part 3[/b][/u]
  Now just before the terp showed up we made a quick trip around the block to the central market to get some flowers for momma, and my RW’s sister. We also acquired some nice chocolates as well. Then we quickly returned to the hotel to wait in the lobby for a few minutes for our terp. She arrives only 5 min late this time and we then waited for the cab. After getting the mandatory lecture from my RW about how I should “no speak a zee pa angleski, Eeerrek in zee taxi or we pay double!! You promise to do thiz for me, da?” After a smile and a quiet yes we all piled into the miniature taxi. You know no offense or anything but this having to nearly fold in half like a pocket knife but just to fit into a taxi because it was made for midgets was getting old quick! So after getting situated with my knees located somewhere about my throat and with windows that didn’t go down even though the temp was about 75F. Of course no AC was working in the taxi that day either we made our way to my RW’s flat. Admittedly I was a little nervous and expecting the grilling of a lifetime, which would make the Salem Witch, trials interrogations pale in comparison.

   We finally after a about a 30min drive of playing pot-hole slalom we finally arrived. The taxi cost 150R, for the three of us!! What’s that you ask? Yes, that’s right I said the cost was 150R! Wait, I hear something…what is it..? Alarm bells…no…it’s a ringing sound. OH, I know what that is. It’s my CLUE PHONE!! Someone’s calling to tell me something just ain’t right with this!! NOW hold on…WAIT JUST A COTTON PICKING MINUTE….Hold on…CUT…STOP the BUS…insert your favorite idiom or series of expletives here……………………


    What’s that you say? It’s just a 150R, what’s the issue man? What, are you all thinking I’m going to skeeze out because I’m cheap..? NO, the price of the fare wasn’t the issue…RIGHT NOW.. Let’s rewind a bit in our minds. Shall we. Lets see If I recall this all correctly. My RW had told me for the last 4-5 days we’d been together that she needed 500R for the cab fare home. Right! OK, she had also said that in the morning she took the bus to the hotel, approximate cost 15-20R roundtrip. Hmmm..So what happened to all the change she had, and had never mentioned again nor tried to give back?!!! Who does this woman think she is? Did she think she’s Ginger from Casino? Was this RW ‘on the take’? Was she a scammer? Greedy? Was this a RED FLAG; the likes of  which I had heard so much about before my trip on these forums???!! So, with all of this in mind and not wanting to make an issue right this second I kept my mouth shut, made a GIANT ***NOTE TO SELF***, smiled, paid the man and we went on about our business. As I mentioned in the beginning, I was doing my best to use my limited powers of observation to see how my RW would handle certain situations, and I allowed certain things to happen or continue.. Smart move, who knows what’ll happen! Now we’ll get back to the story!!

     In my head I noticed that the ‘neighborhood’ appeared a bit dilapidated. Much like one would see in any low income area of the US or perhaps worse. I try not to rush to judgment about things too quickly so I kept my thoughts to my self. Besides I had been in worse places here. The building its self was classic all the time basic ‘Soviet Concrete Block’ construction in the original shape of a rectangle. Off we go inside. The entryway to the building didn’t have a working light. It was dark, as we approached the elevator and hit the button a nice ‘cozy’ elevator appeared; which maybe on a good day, which could fit 2 people in it. I offered to let the 2 ladies go first but the declined and the terp insisted that my RW and me go first. The elevator stopped at the appointed floor after a lot of grinding and some smoke. Step off the elevator and I was greeted by a huge 3 inch thick steel door with 2 locks on it. I had heard that these places were pretty secure so no big deal. My RW opens that door which opens into what can be best described as a Foyer. Inside this were 2 more doors separated by a long wall. Each contained a separate apartment. My RW went to one of the doors and again opened a steel door that was about 2 inches thick and had 2 more locks on it. This opened to reveal another wooden door with 2 more locks on it. Man I’ll tell ya, I bet home invasion is not a big biz in Russia. You could spend half the day just picking locks to get in the place! Not to mention the elevator probably doesn’t work that day, there are dogs everywhere and people coming and going…I’m going to take a wild guess that this isn’t one of the problems that’s common here, though I may be wrong. Just an observation.

    Finally the terp Elena met us at the last door, and we all went on inside. I was met by a welcoming committee of My RW’s Mom, and her sister. They both had huge smiles and I got a big hello and a kiss on the cheek from both of them. Our shoes came off immediately and we each got a pair of house shoes.

        I’m just going to make a quick observation here. I hadn’t been warned by anyone that my RW’s sister was the epitome of  A SMOKINHOTKOVA…. A fair warning that hey, be aware, your RW’s sister is beautiful would have been mucho appreciated.. Man was I glad that I was able to keep the drooling to a minimum, and my thoughts tuned into the ‘inside voice’. Had I been prepared things may have been easier, and much smoother. This girl is like 21, 6’1”, 120lbs, voluptuous, statuesque, blond, with vivid blue eyes. I’ll tell you, if I didn’t have feelings, or wasn’t serious about my RW or have any respect for her; this girl would be in trouble! She was gorgeous!! But, I digress…The point, when you visit be prepared for the fact that you may also be meeting family and friends that fall into the aforementioned category. A little obvious, yes, but not something I had given much thought or consideration to prep wise. Back to the story… :^)

     So I was given the grand tour and even though they were completely renovating this place, top to bottom. It was immaculate! I had no idea what they were talking about. I have been to places under renovation before back home and even helped do it myself. But not one of those was even as remotely as clean as this place!!! After the tour, Momma directed everyone to wash their hands and directed my RW to make sure she ‘supervise me’ so that I did it correctly as well. We then went into the kitchen where I was surprised with a cake, fruit and some champagne. During this time we all talked and laughed and got to know one another. But as each minute ticked by I got more and more nervous. Why, you ask; because the inquisition never came. Momma and I got along famously trading jokes and laughing while talking about everything. Momma was great she had a ready smile and bright blue eyes which sparkled. She talked a lot about her husband who she’d been married to for almost 30yrs and you could tell that they were very much in love for the duration of their marriage. After we all had our cake and fruit we moved into the living room where Momma broke out all of my RWs pictures, accomplishments, etc… and began to show them to me. After about an hour of this it got close to the time to leave so that we could make our ‘reservation’ at the restraunt. I mentioned that it was ok if we called a taxi or 2 and I guess this was unacceptable as despite my re-assurances that this was ok, Momma insisted that we all take a bus together, rather than split up into 2 groups and take taxi’s. No amount of explaining or cajoling changed things, so off to the bus stop the 5 of us went arm and arm.

  The bus cost about 50R for the 5 of us, and off we went. We took up our own little section in the back of the bus and we all talked and laughed for the entire ride.  

   We got off the bus about half a block from the restraunt and got there just in time. The Maitre’ De seated us promptly and with a smile. After some negotiating between the 4 RW present, it was ‘Decided’ that I should order for the group except for Elena. I was then informed of what dishes ‘I’ should order for each. I thought this was amusing but kept it to myself and went on ordering. We all had drinks, water, and various soft drinks all around. My RW had baked sea scallops for her appetizer (requested to be brought HOT to the table) her entrée was the same veal dish I had had on our last trip there. My RW’s Mom had a Greek salad, and for an entrée salmon filet. Here sister had another type of salad I don’t’ remember what it was, and for an entrée, she had a Swordfish steak over a cedar plank. I don’t’ remember what the terp ordered for an entrée but she had Greek salad as well for an appetizer. For desert, Momma, and my RW’s Sister had Viennese Apple tort, the terp had chocolates and espresso, my RW and I each got Tiramisu. I ordered no appetizer, Pork tenderloin with apple compote, and as mentioned previously dessert.

    So, everyone but me had an appetizer, which apparently was confusing to the wait staff as they brought out my entrée. Which incidentally was COLD. So I politely requested that the waiter take it back and serve it with the rest of the entrees, and that ALL of the ENTREES be served HOT. I guess this was a mistake. Everyone enjoyed their appetizers which were great, and then the main course comes. Everyone else’s is fine but MINE…SURPISE….SURPRISE.. Like I didn’t expect that. SO I calmly asked that my now ICE COLD PORK be warmed up. 10 mins later the waiter returns with a warm plate and ICE COLD ENTRÉE!! What Like I’m a moron and I won’t be able to figure out that trick. SO I ask him for a new entrée entirely as this one was now completely ruined. He looks me straight in the eye and says to me. (Via the translator) “You don’t know what your talking about, that’s definitely HOT, I took it out of the oven myself it was there in 500 Degree heat for 10 mins.” (Yeah and I bet you even spit on it too..)  So I went ahead and touched the meat again, ICE cold, by then the terp and everyone was watching me, so I asked the interpreter to touch my meal and feel whether it was hot or cold, she did and of course stated it ws “COLD”. So then I had her say the following to the waiter who was smiling insolently. “Go ahead now, you touch, and if you tell me it’s ‘HOT’; when its actually cold and continue to call me a liar to my face your taking a nose dive over the balcony railing.” The waiter touches it and without a word turns and walks off with the dish. He returns about 10 mins later with a new dish properly prepared and HOT!! Thanks very much ‘Ivan’!! (He Probably spit in that one too..but whatever) So after explaining what was going on and why I had an issue with the meal to Momma and everyone else she says. “I thank you for making sure we have the best meal possible and that it is correct. In Russia we only get to go to nice restraunts like this maybe once or twice a year. So when we get food like this we assume that it’s how it’s supposed to be. We don’t know any better but once we do we make sure it is right for the future. Imagine what would happen if businesses appreciated the customer. There would be new Russia, a better place to live. Instead they act like they do us a favor by allowing us to pay them. This is not right. I thank you for the care you are showing us. My husband was the same. He wouldn’t take crap either. Make them do it right, it’s ok, don’t worry.” So we ate and had a wonderful meal (otherwise) and got to know each other well. During dessert, my RW’s sister asked if I had plans for the next day. I said I hadn’t and then she invited me to watch her class perform a ‘circumcision’ on a horse. (She’s a veterinarian student in her 3rd year). For the life of me I couldn’t figure out why you’d want to circumcise a horse so I asked the terp if she was sure that the sister said, “CIRCUMCISION”. The terp said yes. I thought, why not. So I said I’d love to, and thought it would be a different type of experience. Momma, having heard this said, “Great, you got to the class with my daughters in the day, then you come to our flat for dinner that night.” I said thank you, and I would be there.  After dinner, momma and my RW’s sister went home the terp, made plans to meet us tomorrow in the AM at 0830. Approximate cost for dinner 3,400R

My RW walked me back to my hotel. Once we got there we went to my room and she called for a taxi home since it was past 2200 at this time and she thought she might not be able to make the last bus. Taxi Cost 500R. I walked my RW out to the taxi, and went back to my room collapsing on the bed and falling into a deep sleep.

TO BE CONTINUED………………>>>>>>
  **FOR THE MODS, OWNER, ADMIN, Forum members, WHOEVER maybe INTERESTED::**
I have some pics of what the Russians did to the horse, but they are a bit explicit and gruesome. Are they OK to post or are you interested in seeing them here??? Please either PM me or post here and let me know what you guys want. It will certainly inflame any PETA reps we may have floating around though. Thanks, Eric

[ecr844]

Day 6, May 15, Voronezh Russia,  Errr Horse Circumcisions or maybe not, Time spent together Shopping, Russian food with the RW’s Family[/u]

      After a full nights sleep I got up at the appointed 6am time slot. Took a quick ‘Shower’ and got ready. I knew my RW would be coming by about 7-730, and after the great time I had I wanted to surprise her with some flowers like I did everyday. One thing I did for my entire trip is each morning, despite her pleas and protests of “Eeerek, you must not leave hotel. This city is very dangerous place for you, for foreigner. They kill foreigners here, not good place sometimes. You must not leave room without me, OK?!! You undetandt me? You listen me?!? You must not go outside hotel, it break my heart if somzeeng happen to you.” Still each day since I was less than a block from the central market and less than 100 yards from the hotel were numerous flower vendors, I would go and buy anywhere from 1-13 flowers of varying types. One day maybe a rose, the next some tulips, whatever.. So what I did was on different days at different times I would give her the ‘flowers’ and she never knew when or if she would be getting one that day. It worked out very well. Especially since this trip had changed form a W2V2 with back-ups to a WOVO, I was able to keep an ‘eye’ on her responses.

    So I had found an honest babushka on the second floor of the central market; this woman who a just few days earlier had given me a ‘good deal’ on 3 roses, and some other purchases. She out priced her competition (selling for 80-100R a piece + 10-20R to wrap them) at 50R apiece and no charge for wrapping. Since she was kind enough to give me a good deal, every time she beat her competition, I gave her a tip. She got an unexpected surprise, repeat business, and some extra $$’s. Although, this seriously pissed her ‘competitors’ and other flower ladies off. Yet none of them got the clue that if they would give me a deal they would be getting a lot of business and some tips. So I went back this morning and was able to buy 7 beautiful red tulips from her for 100R, + a 60R tip. After that I got some chocolates from one of the vendors on the first floor and went back to the hotel. 
   
    What’s that you say? Eric, hears some incensed forum poster in the back Yelling…”YOU FOOL… She’s a SCAMMER and your spending more $$’s on her and giving her flowers?!?!? What about that cab fare?? Tell her to HIT THE ROAD JACK!! NEXT HER!! A woman like that you shouldn’t even consider as candidate for a wife. Bring on the back-ups!! You soft or what?!?!?”  (Guy shakes his head and gets up to leave…) “Hey, you in the back, simmer down over there! Pull up a chair and Chill. It’s all good. I know, all that was only Yesterday!! Right, when we found out-thought we knew for sure she was on the take, yeah..ok then??!! Stick around and lets see what happens……OK. It goes well..errr…I HOPE. Thanks, Moving on…..


    Now where were we? Oh right.. I’m in the motel and I finish getting ready and lo and behold my phone is ringing. I answer and it is my RW. I go to the lobby to meet her and I am greeted with a big smile, a HUGE Hug and a kiss. Also, she has some gifts with her. She asks if we could go to my room to talk for a bit. Now, judging by the gifts and balloons she’s got I’m guessing Momma didn’t put any Kybosh out on me and had a good time at dinner! The whole time she was watching me like a hawk, so I knew she was sharp and just waiting to see what I would do. But I digress. We pass the ‘security guards’ who obviously got briefed in ‘DON’T MESS WITH THE CRAZY AMERICAN, JUST SMILE AND WAVE OR IT’S NO MORE VODKA RUBLEE FOR YOU!!’ They just wave us past. We finally after an eternity get to my room. When we get there I get another big Hug and she says to me, “Eeereeck, please sit down, I hav suzeeng fur you. I have zee surprise. You Must close your eyes, no peekzing, ok?!?!” So I do and I am more than surprised. I got 4 gifts from her all of which looked A.) Expensive B.) Overwhelmed me with her Generosity. Each gift had been thought out and each had some sort of meaning or were related to a conversation or something I had mentioned in passing as important.

 (Eric hears that guy in the back yell out again.. ”That’s what she did with your money you BOOB!! She’s playin’ wit your head man, BOTH of them…You Better RECOGNIZE!! RUN, don’t walk, GET AWAY NOW!!”  “Yeah, just relax over there, let’s see what happens, ok?!? Or else I’m gonna have to throw those frozen Turkeys, tomatoes, and Beer bottles back at ya!!” )

     So, caught up in the moment such as I was, and being a big teddy bear sometimes. I caved. I had planed on giving  her the flowers and chocolates later, but spur of the moment she got them now. I guess that went over well, because it showed…err..she showed me..errr..wait, that’s dangerous territory. Ummm..I saw a big smile, YEAH.. that’s it.. ;^) ;^) J!! So we talked and smiled and laughed and went to the 2nd floor for coffee. Was I swayed, YES, impartial…not really. Did I forget about the $$’s and suspicions…NO. After about 40 mins we decided to get some coffee (I needed it badly) and a quick bite to eat. After we ate, it was time to meet the terp in the lobby so we went downstairs. Elena was on time and waiting for us. We all said our Dobre’ OTRA’s and headed for the bus. Now I had no idea where the ‘Veterinary Institute’ was located but my RW did. It turns out that it was on the other side of the city about 30 mins away. There was a beautiful park nearby. After getting off the bus at the nearest stop we walked about 10 mins to this ‘run down’ looking concrete stucco building with a rock that had a plaque out front, and a caduceus. My RW called her sis on her mobile to say ‘We’re here’ and she met us around back. Apparently, this particular session of ‘lab’ you are allowed to bring guests. After saying ‘Privyet,’ and being introduced to all the Russka’s in the area the chattering started between them. Mostly I just stood by smiled and looked ‘Studly’ (read: To the Russians I look like the stupid, smiling American) ;^) LOL!!!

    At about this point I noticed my terp having an animated discussion with my RW’s sister. After about 5 mins Elena comes to me and says, “You know Eric, I’m surprised you come here. You really are different. Most men who I see come to Russia would never do something like this. You are really getting an original experience. I applaud you for coming. Now I have a confession to make.” “Go ahead.” “ Eric, I think I made a mistake.” “Mistake, what do you mean?” She says, “ I told you this was a circumcision, right?!?” “Yes, and I've been meaning to ask Why the HELL you would cicumcise a HORSE?” “Well, (she starts blushing something fierce) maybe I made a mistake in the translation.. This is to be ahh..how do you say…ahhh..CASTRATION.” (Double the blushing)  “What?! CASTRATION! Sweetheart, I gotta tell ya there’s a world of difference between the two.” Now I knew a little about what’s involved here and there is supposedly a reason to do it. But I’m used to it being done PROPERLY!!!! Yes, I said PROPERLY..Like with sedation, and pain meds, and nerve blocks and anesthesia!!!

**** WARNING THIS IS WHERE IT STARTS TO GET GROSS AND CRUEL. IF THIS BOTHERS YOU MOVE ON!! ***

     Apparently, after some Q&A discussion with my RW’s sister and friends via the translator it comes out that the Horse receive LOCAL ANESTHETIC ONLY..THAT’S RIGHT..NOTHING ELSE!!! Because as she put it, “In the eyes of the school; It’s ONLY A HORSE!” Now most days I like animals better than people.  Already I can feel the sympathetic pain starting!!! But, I keep my mouth firmly closed, and get the following explanation. She says, “ I don’t like this it is barbaric, but I am just a student. The pain medicine is very expensive. Sometimes not even people get these medicines in hospital. So we do the best we can. You’ll see.” She also says that this horse was ‘part of the elite police mounted unit’ and that it’s worth a lot of money as it is a ‘Rare’ horse.     

  Now Boys and Girls, this is where it gets tough…..
Apparently, the practice is to selectively limb by limb hobble the horse with ropes. After 3 of the limbs are secured they have a bunch of men literally push the horse over. Then like 10 of them sit on the thing and holds it’s head down to convince it that it can’t get up. Next they tie thick straps to its limbs and retract and tie them together and one of the hind legs is lifted out of the way. They prep the site and do some further anesthetic, then begin the procedure. Now apparently that wasn’t enough. Because as soon as the scalpel came out and started cutting, that horse started making serious WHYNNING, that was the hardest part to deal with. I DON’T CARE WHO YOU ARE..THAT HURTS..YOU HAVE TO KNOW PAIN LIKE THAT DOESN’T GO AWAY EVEN WITH A LITTLE ANESTHETIC!! I felt very bad for that horse. If there hadn’t been 3 cops with automatic weapons and 20 guys hanging out, I may have considered intervention. This continued for the entire 40 minute procedure. I won’t say more except that horse’s wailing got louder and louder. If I post the pics, they are self explanatory. The blood and other stuff didn’t bother me as much as the pain this poor helpless horse was in. Still I was glad to go and have a different experience. After it was done I thanked her sister for allowing me to come and watch. We parted ways and she went back to class. Now in the meantime, I didn’t know it, but my RW was had told Elena, that we wouldn’t need her services further until the evening for dinner at the flat. Next thing I knew I turned around and she was gone. I asked my RW where Elena went and she said, “I told her we not need her for today. Today, just you and me. Then later we have her come to hotel. Meet us to have dinner at the flat and talk to Momma and sister. We don’t need her.”   

**** END OF GUTS, GORE, AND ANIMAL CRUELTY******[/b][/u]


     TO BE CONTINUED!!!>>>>>>>>>>>>

[Jumper]

Eric , nice T/R! well written for sure, thanks!
about the taxi fare money,
 yeah i'm speculating, LOL
but my bets are on her  using it as a means to buy you some things
 (she was out of work afterall?)

I had similar situation, and knew thats what she was up too.
I would have never offended her buy letting her know that though!
and just let her keep her secrets..

 some guys might get bent over it or think it underhanded..
or a sign of someone you shouldnt trust..?
i guess in a way it is??
To me it was a new gray area for sure,
 as she wanted so badly to be proper, show care and consideration,  and give gifts,which is big in thier culture , but had no income to do so..
and too proud to admit that.
so "adding" small amounts to the actiual cost of the bus /taxi..
(and yes she spent more on me than what she "gleaned")
i bizaree stituation though.

I also had RW that wouldnt except any taxi money despite how much you insisted..


Sorry for the interuption..
i'll wait and see how it panned out for you..
 

[ecr844]

Eric , nice T/R! well written for sure, thanks!
about the taxi fare money,
 yeah i'm speculating, LOL
but my bets are on her  using it as a means to buy you some things
 (she was out of work afterall?)

I had similar situation, and knew thats what she was up too.
I would have never offended her buy letting her know that though!
and just let her keep her secrets..

 some guys might get bent over it or think it underhanded..
or a sign of someone you shouldnt trust..?
i guess in a way it is??
To me it was a new gray area for sure,
 as she wanted so badly to be proper, show care and consideration,  and give gifts,which is big in thier culture , but had no income to do so..
and too proud to admit that.
so "adding" small amounts to the actiual cost of the bus /taxi..
(and yes she spent more on me than what she "gleaned")
i bizaree stituation though.

I also had RW that wouldnt except any taxi money despite how much you insisted..


Sorry for the interuption..
i'll wait and see how it panned out for you..

AJ,

  No interruption at all. You make some valid points. Sometimes not everythign is black or white, or as you note 'How it seems.' I went into this situation with a trust but verify type attitude. I don't want to give too much away at this juncture and the answer will be coming out soon. Its good to get soem different perspectives on things I think. Keep the comments coming guys.
Eric

[jb]

It's been a great T/R so far, Eric

However, I'll never be able to see Vaughn's avitar again without thinking about a Russian vet's castration gone wrong.

[ecr844]

Hello Everyone,


I'm going to post the pics of what they did to that poor horse. If for nothing more than to give you a sense of 'What happened,' and 'ETA Roosyia'. If the mods and other are to offended than please fell free to 'delete' the post. If you have trouble with the harsh realities of the world and how animals are treated else where. Please don't even look any farther than these words. Yet, feel free to read my next installment!! ;^) :^)

Eric

[ecr844]

Here's the rest of them gang. These pics were taken by my RW's sister with a 35mm camera somewhat 'up close and personal'. I have no I idea what they did with the tissue garnered from the procedure.
Eric

[ecr844]

Day 6, May 15, Voronezh Russia,  Part 2, Lions, and Tigers, and RW Scammers, OH MY!!!
     Now that the blood, and gore as well as abject cruelty was over, we took some more pictures at the ‘school’ and went for a walk through the park. Things were going well. As we walked, and enjoyed the scenery we were greeted with a sight that had become very familiar during my stay. Sex in Public, in parks, wherever the mood struck. Since day one I had been seeing all over the city young couples from teenagers to mid-late 20’s making out, and even having flagrant full on sex in the middle of parks, and various other public places!!!

   NO ONE seemed to care and everyone just kept on keeping on, almost like it wasn’t happening at all. After our walk we made our way to the nearest ‘avtobus’ stop. Got on, and I paid the fare about 15R. We had decided to head back to the hotel to use the bathroom and then go shopping in the central market for ‘gifts’ for Momma and Sis.
     It was at this point that I decided to put my plan in to action that I had been scheming for the last 24hrs. You see I genuinely liked this girl, for lots of reasons. Other than a few small things everything had been AMAZING the ‘Connection, Chemistry, emotionally, personality’ wise. So I needed a way to ascertain what was up with all of this ‘EXTRA’ change, and to see how she would handle certain situations.

   It had been made very clear that I was on an extremely tight budget for my trip. To this point it had been exceeded a bit. No problem really, as I had taken precautions. Remember the secret stash of cash??!! Since this was partially my fault I wanted to see how she’d handle some things. I had about 2,000R on me. I stashed 1,000R aside, this is not including what other $$’s I had.

     After we had cleaned up at the hotel and taken care of the things we needed to do. She mentioned that she’d like to have lunch at a nearby café. This is where the plan went into action. I told her to sit down and I said, “That’s fine, but we have a small problem.” “What’s that?” “I said, well we’ve been spending a lot of money and I only have 1,000R for the rest of my trip. I’m sorry but now there may only be a small gift for Momma and your sister for tonight. Also, I’m not sure what we’ll be able to do for the last 2 days with very little money.” I could see here mind whirring, her eyes sparkle. 

    She smiles ( sits next to me and throws her arm around me) and softly says with that sexy voice of hers; “Eerrrreeeekkkk, DON”T Vorry! I have zee change!” “WHAT Change,” I asked? She said, “You give me too much mahney fo zee taxzee. I have zis Mahney. No worries, we be eckinomical next 2 days. I don’t need expeenseev things, I need only you. I save because ve go many expeenseev places and Elena take us to zee the best, most expeenseev cafes. So I sav zee mahnee fah latar! In case you run out!! Also, you give me many flowerz and things so I know you spend bolshoy rubles on me without makin zee big deal. You trahst me for cab Mahnee, to be sure I get home safe at night. You vorry about me, show me great care, you trahst me I know!! I know zees thingz. We OK, don’t wahrry. We have enouf mahnee. OK?!?! We team together!! You understandt”

    UNDERSTAND, F&^% Yeah, I UNDERSTAND, message received. You don’t have to run me over with a truck to get that one loud and clear! Well that’s a HUGE weight off my mind, and shoulders. It just goes to show you how things can often be interpreted 2 ways. Sometimes there is a reason why people do certain things. It was hard to sit back and ‘pretend’ to have been unknowingly taken advantage of. But, the flip side to that was I was able to learn a lot about her character and how she thought.

     In addition, after talking this over with her I have learned that she had every intention of giving me back every kopek just before I left on the train if we hadn’t needed it. It should also be noted that I didn’t ask her that, she volunteered it to me after she said the aforementioned things!!

   Now I knew what type of woman she really was and it cleared up any small remaining clouds of doubt I had about her. To this point in my trip I had some bad experiences. One of the things I kept thinking in my mind was the reason I was there. THAT WAS HER. Even with all of the crap, I still had some great times and many experiences which I never would have had if I hadn’t been open to them.

    Yes, I could have whined and complained…Poor me, the hotel security is picking on me!! Waaaa…the food is cold all the time, this sucks. I wanna go home! Pity me, instead I tried to be as reasonable as I could; take things in stride and learn my lessons once.  That way when I made my next trip I would be all that much wiser and not repeat them.

         After sorting this all out and talking for a while we decided to go to the market and pick up some ‘supplies’ for lunch. We discussed what we wanted to get and with her help as ‘chief negotiator’ we were able to score about a lb of thick sliced country style ham, ½ a pound of cheese, 4 lg cucumbers, 5 bananas, some chocolate bars, and 2 .75L Sprites for 120R. Then we went upstairs to my now favorite ‘flower lady’ and we begun picking out flowers for her momma and sister. We got 2 small bouquets for about 80R, and the lady gave my RW a big beautiful red rose ‘on the arm’. With a big smile, and a wink at me!!!  Her neighbor ‘the other flower lady’ walked away ‘muttering’ something shaking her head..!! I guess she was less than thrilled that ‘her neighbor’ was getting so much repeat business.

   Now that we had our lunch and gifts we went back to the hotel and my RW made me lunch. We sat and laughed and generally enjoyed each others company. I put on a DVD and we watched a movie together. Truly I had a great time, one of the best of my trip, perhaps because by this point I had few worries about her integrity or character.

   It was getting later in the afternoon and we were supposed to be at my RW’s flat by 1730. I had decided that I would bring a  cake and that we would try to get some ‘pink’ champagne as well. So at about 1600 we met our translator and began to make our way to a ‘special’ liquor store. I was passionately dissuaded and distracted until I had no choice but to give up my quest to bring a large cake to dinner with us. “Eeerrreeek, you mahst not bring zee cake, You vill ruin zee surpize!!” “What surprise?” “Eeerrrek, you must listen me. You cannot bring zee cake ok?!?! I tell you, there iz zee surprise foh you. Mame and mah sister have zee surprise!! We must not bring zee cake!”

    I knew what was up, and so I would kid with her a bit through out the day and shed smile and laugh and say “You a fahnee man, I laugh you!” Of course my ego would swell with pride and we’d joke more. Yet, I never seemed to get near a bakery that day. Damn, foiled again!

    It turns out that this ‘special’ liquor store was located at the rear of the Voronezh Vodka factory. Inside this place was very clean and of course, well stocked!! We made our way to the champagne section and found out that there was no ‘rose’ champagne to be had, so my RW asked one of the ‘cashiers’ and they said that none carried it either there or in the area. Although, they did have ‘krasnaya Champagne, from Georgia’. Now looking around I noticed a few other things.

   The prices were essentially the same or in some cases more expensive than I would pay here! Even for Vodka! I had come under the impression that ‘alcohol’ would be very cheap here. There was some cheap things but they were obviously of poor quality. So after perusing the selection I decided on buying 2 bottles of 750ml ‘Martini and Rossi- Asti’ total about 900R.

     After getting the champagne, my RW, terp and their American pack mule, made our way to the bus stop. It was getting late and I could tell my RW was getting nervous. So I suggested we take a taxi, after some short ‘discussion’ ‘we’ decided that was best. Total cab fare 80R    

   DINNER WITH MAMA & THE INQUSITION, WAIT, THEY STILL DO THAT!!>>>>>>………….

[Bruce]

I assume it was no anesthesia for the horse that was castrated.  Poor horse.  Maybe they shipped the testicles to France for soup flavoring. 

[DKMM]

Call me a hick (well don't actually) but that's really not too different than the way its done here. . .

So eric, this sister of hers couldn't have snapped one picture of herself next to that horse or something?   

[ecr844]

Call me a hick (well don't actually) but that's really not too different than the way its done here. . .

So eric, this sister of hers couldn't have snapped one picture of herself next to that horse or something?   

  Whose to say she didn't? Perhaps at her request I'm not posting that photo? OOOOhhhh, the mystery thickens. Could it be? She's the genuine article folks, truely georgeous and a wonderful person. One whom happens to not be ready to either settle down, or be looking for a western man. Unfortunately for everyone, I will not be posting any pics of my RW, or her family. MY Rw requested that I respect their wish for privacy and I will honor that request. Sorry to disappoint ya'll, but I guess you'll have to practice using your imagination for awhile..
Eric

[tim 360]

Eric, an excellent 5 star trip report. On a public forum you are correct in only posting photos which you and your friends feel Ok about. Which gets me to the horse. Just where did the penis and testicles run off to??? They are eaten in some EE countries and there is the French,  but in China and other Asian countries they are considered an extreme delicacy and sell for extreme prices. Big $. Hope the school shipped them off to Beijing for some large money.  Cheerio, Tim360

[ecr844]

Eric, an excellent 5 star trip report. On a public forum you are correct in only posting photos which you and your friends feel Ok about. Which gets me to the horse. Just where did the penis and testicles run off to??? They are eaten in some EE countries and there is the French,  but in China and other Asian countries they are considered an extreme delicacy and sell for extreme prices. Big $. Hope the school shipped them off to Beijing for some large money.  Cheerio, Tim360

Tim360,

    I have no idea what happened to the 'bits' after the procedure. Purely speculating they probably either went home to the professors wife, or in the garbage...But I will try to find out the answer to that for the group and get back to ya.

Eric

[2tallbill]

Great trip report!
I lived on my Grandparents ranch in Oregon for a couple of years. They don't cut off the penis of a horse or cattle. WARNING GRAPHIC EXPLAINATION FOLLOWS. They slice open the sack then pull the testicles out. On a ranch I have never seen any pain killer used. Maybe some horses get something else if they are race horses. But I seriously doubt that a bull has ever been made a steer or branded for that matter with any pain medication.

again great report
Bill

[ecr844]

Great trip report!
I lived on my Grandparents ranch in Oregon for a couple of years. They don't cut off the penis of a horse or cattle. WARNING GRAPHIC EXPLAINATION FOLLOWS. They slice open the sack then pull the testicles out. On a ranch I have never seen any pain killer used. Maybe some horses get something else if they are race horses. But I seriously doubt that a bull has ever been made a steer or branded for that matter with any pain medication.

again great report
Bill

Bill,

  Thanks for all the info. I was aware of what it all incuded before going. The big question I had in the beginning was 'WHY WOULD YOU CIRCUMCIZE A HORSE?'.
I know that the castrations here as well don't use anesthesia, but they also don't go on for 40 minutes either. I'm also hopeful that if that happened someone would consider some pain meds for the animal. I hope you like the next installments.
Eric 

[ecr844]

Day 6, May 15, Voronezh Russia,  Part 3, DINNER WITH MAMA & THE INQUSITION, WAIT, THEY STILL DO THAT!!


     After we got dropped off at my RW’s Dom, I remembered that because she’s the crafty lady she is; she’d been successful at ‘helping’ me forget about the cake. Luckily, there was a ‘store’ about 100yards away and they sold ‘boxes of chocolates’ there. We made a quick detour and procured 2 medium ‘boxes’ of assorted fine quality Russian chocolates.

     Finished we made our trek back into the building and waited for the elevator which I was sure was just ‘waiting’ for me to get in it so the cable could snap and I could have an ‘express ride to the ‘bottom’ Russian style!! LOL… After some grinding, smoke, and a lot of prayer we made it to our floor. I must admit though, like last time I was a bit apprehensive. I was just convinced that this was it. I had met Momma and all was well, or more likely; the Rack awaited me..!

   After going through the 3 ‘Blast doors’, we were met by Momma and her sister at the door like last time. Immediately it was off with the shoes, and I was herded to the bathroom where it seems I had graduated to being able to wash my own hands…YYYYIIIIPPPPEEEE!!!

    From there we all went into the living room where I was directed to sit on the couch…ALONE. Wait, I know this one, this is where the tribunal happens, right?!?!? I hope we get to the part where you tell me what I’m being charged with quickly! Immediately Momma began talking and it seems I didn’t get to see all of the families pictures or my RW’s works the last time I was there. So the pile grew and we laughed and joked while momma excused herself to finish making dinner. Meanwhile, the rest of us laughed, joked, and generally had a great time.

   Then the announcement came.. “Dinner is served”. We all piled into the tiny kitchen and I was amazed at all of the food. Then I was told that because I was ‘the man of the house’ I was obligated to ‘open’ the champagne, and serve everyone.  I went to open the ‘cork’ when just as I was twisting it slowly…BANG…. Off it flies somewhere into the ceiling.

    Whhhhhooooppppssss, talk about embarrassed, yeah that’s me. I could only imagine what would come from this humiliation. Except, I was greet with grunts, gnauffs, and all out laughter, they laughed until the tears came. Here I was sitting there relieved that I there would be no ‘Smoting of the Americianits’ today, yet not laughing just the same.

   I felt like the coyote from the ‘Looney Tunes’ cartoon. So I started to apologize, which just made them laugh harder. Then I gave up and started pouring drinks, Momma first of course. For this I got a smile and a ‘Thank You,’ then my RW’s sister, My RW next, then the terp Elena. Whose face was just starting to return to normal form bright red.

     After some joking it was explained to me that we would be starting with ‘COLD soup.’ The like of which I could only conjure up in my imagination. Turns out that it was a salad which contained cucumbers, scallions, pickles, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream. There were chunks of ‘boiled’ potato (peeled) in a bowl. It was then submerged to your liking in Kvass (spelling?). You take a steaming hot potato, salt, pepper it, whatever, and dip it into the soup and then take a bite. I wasn’t sure if I’d like it but it was very good.

     Next course comes out as ‘roasted & marinated’ chicken with liver and onions..YUMMY.. I guess Momma and I were the only ones who got the liver as all the other women present said ‘Nyet, spasiba’ and quickly looked away. Also, there was long grain rice, and the left over potato, as well as various types of ‘bread’.
      Lastly we are left with the remainder of the 2 bottles of champagne, bread, cheese, sausage, various fruits, chocolates, and my first introduction to ciroc. I’m told it means little cheese. I at first thought it was a small chocolate bar, until I took a bite. Essentially the best way I can describe it is that it’s a small bit of ‘softened cream cheese’ with caramel in the middle and dipped in chocolate. I liked it a lot and was told that they eat it for breakfast every morning.

   So after the food became a non-stop marathon, I was forced to request a stay in my ‘we’re going to feed you until you die’ sentence.
Yet, still no inquisition. After dinner we went back into the living room and talked and told stories and jokes until 2200. At about 2030, our terp Elena, had to go home, so we were left to ourselves with my RW translating and the rest of us laughing.

     At about 2230, ‘we’ decided it was getting late and time to go back to my hotel. So next thing I know, everyone disappears, they all come back dressed to the nines to ‘escort’ me to the bus. As we leave the flat I can’t help but think how my trip has progressed form uncertainty and bad luck to happiness. Besides, I had to qualify for the ‘Man Town Hall of fame,’ I had 3 attractive RW’s on my arm!! Well… for 5 minutes at least.

   The bus came quickly and I was expecting to get myself back to the hotel, when Momma and my RW’s sister said Dobre Veecher, and off they went. My RW and I boarded the bus to the hotel. Total fare: 12R


   At the hotel, we breezed through the lobby without even so much as an acknowledgement to security except for showing my room ‘card. Into the elevator and I got ton spend an additional 45 minutes with my RW before she had to go back home so Momma wouldn’t be too worried about her. She called a cab fare and we enjoyed each others company and talked about dinner, as well as made plans for the next day. All too quickly the taxi arrived, and she was off. I walked her out to the cab, and said ‘good night’. Taxi fare 80R!….

  I Quickly went to sleep relieved that the anticipated 'Inquisition' was a mere anxiety and never came to fruition....Or will it?!?!?

TO BE CONTINUED>>>!!!!