NEWS
EVENTS
It's Not All Snow in Siberia
Other | Wednesday 20th March 2013 | Osh
When considering a holiday in Russia, most people won't glance at the travel pages dedicated to the country's eastern territories. However one trip beyond the Urals - the geographical division between Europe and Asia - will reveal an authentic Russia far from the heavily trodden trails in Moscow and St Petersburg. Despite the stereotype of polar bears walking on the streets and constant sub-arctic temperatures, Siberia stretches just above Mongolia and China, offering temperatures rivalling that of Britain during the summer.
Just a three hour flight from Moscow can take you to the cities of Novosibirsk, Omsk and Krasnoyarsk, all with populations of over a million. They may not bost the classical architecture of St Petersburg due to their historical background as industrial cities of the Second World War, however when it comes to modern culture, their nightlife easily surpasses that of any average student hang-out in the UK. Russian stereotypes when it comes to alcohol are therefore maintained. Their liberal drinking culture in fact reveals a healthy attitude to partying; you won't see any binge-drinking girls or hear the chat up lines curtesy of liquid courage here. Do however expect to see fruit platters served alongside a bottle of whiskey, and barmaids doubling as table-top exotic dancers.
Russia's obsession with the West is evident in its music charts. A glance at their top ten singles will appear strikingly similar to that of the UK, just add Dima Bilan, subtract Cheryl Cole, and rewind half a year. Therefore any club music will be comfortingly familiar to any homesick traveller. MacDonald's and other fast food brands are rife in the world's largest country, perhaps an advantage if beetroot soup, potato pancakes and a generous sprinkling of dill don't cater to your toothbuds. All major clothing outlets are also seen in Russian Asia, however at much higher prices so don't expect a shopping spree beyond matrioshka dolls and babushka scarves.
If you plan on going to Siberia, don't forget to brush up on your Russian phrases, and make sure you socialise with the locals: a night out with them they will reveal far more of Russia beyond the museums and national parks. A late night can end very similarly to the UK, with a Turkish kebab and a taxi ride home, but with many surprises before then.
By Rachel Powell
