#best time for moscow sightseeing | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

discocandles · 2 years ago

Text

more customer service voice Damian hcs, bc it's been a bit.

After learning the "regular citizen" voice, Damian decides he has to master more accents and dialects, in case he's on a mission away from Gotham and needs to blend in. (This is the son of Batman we're talking about, of course he plans for these things). Over the summer Damian travels to large cities around the world, and familiarizes himself with their way of speaking.

Cass found out very early on and decided she's going with Damian, bc I think Cass would enjoy sightseeing. But after they were caught leaving for Moscow(and after Damian explained that he was doing this for research at least 7 times) it was decided someone should supervise them. Dick patrols Bludhaven, so that was a no. Jason and Tim were automatically out. Steph went to supervise them, but was exempt after they were arrested in Seoul. So Duke ended up being supervision, unless Dick was available to go with them.

This doesn't mean they didn't get into chaos bc of Duke. No, it's bc with Duke, they can be invisible and not be caught doing the chaos. Duke does enjoys the trips with them tho, mostly for the sightseeing and food.

One time, Cass convinced Bruce to join them(how, no one really knows. Cass is just magic like that). And they had a good time in Rio de Janeiro, tho Bruce was almost recognized a few times, and he would sometimes try to sneak off and work. Unfortunately, Cass's attempts to invite Babs weren't as fruitful, mostly bc she didn't understand why Damian wanted to actually go to those places instead of learning it through the chatter radios of those areas instead. Damian's only response was that it wasn't the same and being there changes everything about it.(he was actually doing both methods).

Damian, Cass, and Duke do run into Talia at one point. She was intrigued as to what her son was doing in Melbourne with Cassandra, and the newest child Bruce had taken in, but is by no means unhappy to see him. Duke on the other hand, is scared to meet Damian's mom, given her reputation. Damian and cass being so nonchalant about meeting up with her probs didn't help.

There was a small "hi, what are you doing here? Huh, what a coincidence." Type of conversation. And then Duke sticks out his hand and says a (very awkward) "it's nice to meet you, Ms. Al Ghul." Which Talia shakes and says (also very awkwardly) "Uh, Talia is fine. And nice to meet you as well, Duke." Then leaves. Damian was surprised, he's never seen his mother so blatantly awkward before. He's seen her at a loss for words, but she remained elegant as she pondered what to say next. But in that moment, she was shy and dare he say nervous. "Thomas, what did you do to my mother?" "What? I dunno man. I was more worried about her glaring a hole in my skull."

The only trip that Damian went on with someone besides Cass was his trip to England, bc he wanted to go with Alfred. While he knows Cass would do fine, Damian wants to learn as much as he can, and learning from someone who grew up there and is close to him is his best bet. This of course took a lot of work, bc as everyone knows, Alfred Pennyworth is the backbone of the Batfamily, so convincing both him and the rest of the family would take some time and effort. But after a promise from Bruce to not be up to his ears in work while they were gone, Babs noting she will enforce that promise, plus Jason and Duke vowing to protect Alfred's kitchen at all costs, Alfred went with Damian for a week to visit the UK(by far the longest trip Damian went on).

And while the trip wasn't perfect(Damian almost beat a man bloody for insulting Alfred, and lots of bad weather), it was by no means a bad time. Damian picked up the accent and slang almost automatically, Alfred met some of his old friends. By consequence, Damian learned a lot about what his grandfather did before meeting the Wayne family, which he will not retell in a promise to Alfred(but he will say he knows just to mess with the rest of the family)

Did Wayne manor crumble in Alfred's absence? Surprisingly no. For the first couple days, Bruce made good on his promise to take care of himself, but by day 4, Babs had to entirely disconnect the computer when it was time for Bruce to sleep. And if Cass didn't guilt-trip the hell out of him and Steph didn't bully him, he probably wouldn't have fully left the bat-cave. Duke and Jason were able to protect the kitchen for the most part. Jason often made the dinner, and Duke catered to the random cravings of the rest of the family. They did have to call Kate for backup twice, but the smoke alarms never went off.

Overall having to fill Alfred's shoes was a good bonding experience for the family, though not one they would ever try to replicate willingly.

So I think that's all for Damian Wayne's summer world tour.

#the chronicles of damian's customer service voice #note: if it was just Damian there would be less of a problem but since it's both dami *and* cassie patrol it requires more thought #especially when their motivations weren't totally clear #Steph is very disappointed she didn't get to go on any trips but knows she can live vicariously through duke & cass's stories #damian's too if she's lucky #do we ever see Cassie and Talia interact in the comics?#idk but I think they'd at least know each other enough to be able to not think to much of it if they bumped into each other #Duke and Talia tho. they would have no clue what to do or think as they only know each other from Damian and Bruce #bruce gets very sunburned in Rio de Janeiro even bough he put on the most sunscreen and he's very bitter about it #Steph should bully people into self care more often #does Damian ever get to use these voices the way he planned? probably a little #damian wayne #cassandra cain #duke thomas #bruce wayne #alfred pennyworth #talia al ghul #stephanie brown #batfamily #batfam

79 notes · View notes

charlestonbusinessdirectory · 8 months ago

Text

From Happy Hour to Last Call: A Night Owl's Guide to Charleston's Best Bars Shop Local Charleston, SC Businesses [ad_1] Exploring Charleston's Vibrant Nightlife Scene Charleston, South Carolina is known for its rich history, charming architecture, and delicious Southern cuisine. But did you know that the city also has a thriving nightlife scene? From upscale cocktail lounges to lively dive bars, Charleston offers a diverse array of drinking establishments that cater to the night owls among us. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated craft cocktail or a laid-back beer with friends, there's a bar in Charleston that's perfect for you. Happy Hour Hotspots For those looking to kick off their evening with some budget-friendly drinks, Charleston's happy hour scene is not to be missed. Head to The Darling Oyster Bar for half-priced oysters and drink specials on their delicious cocktails. If you're more of a beer enthusiast, make your way to The Rarebit for $5 Moscow Mules and $3 cans of local craft beer. Want a taste of the Caribbean? Visit The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits for discounted rum cocktails and stunning views of Charleston Harbor. Craft Cocktails and Speakeasies For a more upscale drinking experience, Charleston boasts an impressive array of craft cocktail bars and hidden speakeasies. The Gin Joint is a popular choice for handcrafted cocktails made with local ingredients and house-made syrups. Or step back in time at Prohibition, a speakeasy-style bar known for its creative cocktails and live jazz music. Looking for something truly unique? Check out The Griffon, a cozy dive bar known for its extensive beer selection and laid-back atmosphere. Dive Bars and Late-Night Hangouts For those who prefer a more casual vibe, Charleston has plenty of dive bars and late-night hangouts to choose from. The Recovery Room is a local favorite for its cheap drinks, pool tables, and lively crowd. The Tattooed Moose is another popular spot known for its craft beer selection, quirky decor, and famous duck fat fries. And if you're in the mood for some late-night grub, head to Fuel for delicious Caribbean-inspired cuisine and late-night specials. Conclusion Charleston's nightlife scene offers something for everyone, from happy hour enthusiasts to craft cocktail connoisseurs to dive bar aficionados. So whether you're a seasoned night owl or just looking to let loose after a long day of sightseeing, be sure to check out some of Charleston's best bars. With its diverse array of drinking establishments and lively atmosphere, Charleston is the perfect destination for a night out on the town. [ad_2] EXPLORE MORE: Nightlife in Charleston SC Best: Places to eat in Charleston SC FIND: Things to do in Charleston SC CHARLESTON BUSINESS OWNERS: Get a Free Business Profile FIND BUSINESSES: Charleston Business Directory BE SEEN: Advertise Your Business Here #NIGHTLIFE

0 notes

chsthrive · 8 months ago

Text

0 notes

baltictraveluk · 1 year ago

Text

Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Breaks

The Baltics, Scandinavia and Northern Europe are ideal destinations for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve break.

Be dazzled by the beautiful natural phenomenon that’s the Northern Lights, ride dog sleds across the Arctic Tundra, or countdown to the New Year in spectacular cities such as St Petersburg, Riga or Reykjavik.

Sure, it might be ice cold with temperatures dropping well below zero across the region, but the cold weather brings out the best in the locals. You and your family will be well taken care of while experiencing one of the most unique New Year’s Eve holidays anywhere in the world.

Russian New Year Celebrations

Celebrating Christmas and the New Year in Russia is a great way to give the kids two Christmases, because the country is still preparing for its Orthodox celebrations at the start of January.

There are Christmas markets everywhere and Christmas cheer is well and truly in the air. You’ll get to see in the New Year in the grand surroundings of St Petersburg, one of Russia’s most iconic cities.

After celebrating New Year in Russia’s second city, you can take a comfortable high-speed train over to Moscow, the Russian capital. Here you’ll find even more Christmas markets to explore with the family, as well as traditional sights like the Kremlin and Red Square.

Finnish Lapland

Finland makes for a fantastic family-friendly New Year’s Eve break, because Finnish Lapland is the year-round home of Santa Claus.

For young kids, this is a great way to spend the New Year, especially if one Christmas Day wasn’t quite enough for them! Meet Santa Claus in his Lapland village, ride Rudolph’s sleigh through the snow, and enjoy both New Year and Christmas at the same time.

Finnish Lapland is beautiful and you and your family can stay for the duration of your holiday in Finland in a wilderness lodge, experiencing the Northern Lights at night and beautiful, snowy scenery throughout the day.

Swedish Lapland

Lapland is enormous though. If you’re looking for a quieter family getaway over New Year, then look no further than the remote wilderness of Swedish Lapland.

Here, in the icy northern climes of Sweden, the whole family will be amazed by the raw beauty of this untouched part of the world.

But just because it’s remote, doesn’t mean there isn’t comfort or luxury. You can spend New Year relaxing in the unique interior of an ice hotel, enjoying a family meal in a gourmet, wilderness restaurant, or adventuring into the tundra in search of the Northern Lights.

Polar Express Train Journey

If you’re looking for a sightseeing odyssey, then a great family-friendly adventure to enjoy over New Year is a ride on the Polar Express Train.

This excellent train route will take you and your family across Swedish Lapland and into the Norwegian Arctic, giving you the chance to experience the best of these two northerly regions in Europe.

The journey begins in Kiruna in Sweden and ends in Narvik, Norway. Along the way, the family can make the most of dog sledding and snowshoeing activities, enjoy the Northern Lights, and watch endless snowy landscapes glide past from the comfort of the Polar Express.

There are wonderful mixtures of activities to experience and sights to see on the Polar Express train journey, making this a great adventure that all the family can get on board with over the New Year period.

New Year in Riga

However, your family might not be looking for a journey into the wilderness for New Year’s Eve. In which case, there are plenty of city break options awaiting you in the Baltics.

One of the best family-friendly New Year’s Eve breaks can be found in Riga, the understated capital of Latvia. The quiet streets of Riga are a pleasant place to take the family. As well as enjoying all the museums and the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Old Town, there will be some great firework displays and cultural events to see.

There are ice-skating rinks in the capital, markets selling hot food and drinks to beat the chill of New Year and, best of all, it’s not only a family-friendly city but a budget-friendly city too.

New Year in Tallinn

Travel north of Riga, and you can find the equally historic and family-friendly city of the capital of Estonia.

Tallinn is best known for its beautifully preserved Old Town. Over the New Year holidays, the historic centre of this medieval city is transformed into a lively marketplace where you can find delicious food and drinks, and an exciting calendar of cultural events.

Reykjavik

Spending New Year’s Eve in the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik, is sure to be a hit with all the family. This is the Land of Ice and Fire, and for New Year’s Eve the country lights up the cold darkness with spectacular events and festivities.

Reykjavik goes all out at New Year. After spending the day exploring its great museums or relaxing in style at the world-famous Blue Lagoon, you can enjoy fine dining or a gala dinner and concert in the capital.

But there’s more to a family-friendly getaway in Reykjavik than New Year celebrations. Even with just a few days in Iceland, you’ll be able to see the Northern Lights, travel to the steaming geysers and dramatic waterfalls of the Golden Circle, or explore frozen glaciers and icy volcanoes.

To find out more about our range of unforgettable New Year’s Eve breaks, contact Baltic Travel Company today, to plan your ideal family-friendly New Year’s Eve adventure.

Resource url: - https://baltictraveluk.blogspot.com/2023/09/family-friendly-new-years-eve-breaks.html

#travel #tourist #tourism #tour #holiday

1 note · View note

green-ann · 4 years ago

Text

From Margarita Legasova’s book “Academician Valery Alekseevich Legasov”

Steep passes

  Being a passionate car enthusiast, Valery Alekseevich has traveled many parts of the country over the last ten years of his life. The geography of these journeys can be traced by my "navigator" notes, which I permanently made on the road.

Three years in a row, in 1980, 1981 and 1982, the two of us went on vacation to Truskavets by car via Bryansk, Kiev, Zhytomyr, Lviv, Drohobych. We returned from Truskavets to Moscow in different ways.

One option – Drohobych, Kovel, Brest-above-Bug, Minsk, Smolensk (with quick sightseeing). Another time we went through Drohobych, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kishinev, Odessa (quick stop by the sea, a visit to the Institute of Physical Chemistry, purely professional meetings with academician of the Academy of Sciences of the Ukrainian SSR A.V. Bogatsky, a visit to the Institute of Viticulture and Winemaking, a meeting with its Director B. A. Filippov, excursion to the city of Ilyichevsk, to the monastery – the summer residence of Patriarch Pimen), Kiev (meeting with academician, Vice-President of the Academy of Sciences of the Ukrainian SSR V. I. Trefilov).

The third option: the cities of Stryi, Lviv, Novograd-Volynsky, Zhytomyr, Kiev (inspection of monuments, museums), Bryansk, Moscow. This was our last trip to Ukraine together.

July 1983 - a trip to Estonia via Novgorod (close inspection of Detinets). We visited Leningrad, Kingisepp, Narva, Ust-Narva. Sea, rest in the rest house "Mereranna". We’ve been reading a lot, among other things - the story of I. Grekova "The Widow Steamer", the study by K. Dolgov "The Renaissance and the Political Philosophy of Machiavelli." Valery Alekseevich runs in the morning, does gymnastics, tries not to smoke. Any rest ends, we’re on the way back: Narva, the ancient Ivan-gorod, Kingisepp (formerly Yamburg), Tolmachevo, Luga, Novgorod, Valdai, Vyshny Volochek, Kalinin (now Tver), Klin, Moscow.

We again toured many interesting places by car with children and a dog: Arkhangelskoe, Suzdal, Leningrad and memorable places in its suburb. All together went to a rest house in Estonia, from where we made short trips to Peterhof and Tallinn.

Children had grown up, there were grandchildren, and since 1984, every summer we traveled by car with them. It was this year when our team has been expanded, our three-year-old grandson Misha has joined us. Our route: Novgorod, Sabsk, Kingisepp, Narva (Mereranna rest house).

We read Japanese and Russian fairy tales together, go to flower exhibitions, walk a lot in the neighborhood, collect mushrooms, and cook them. We swim, even though the water is cool, we run (everyone’s trying to do their best), ride on a carousel. With Misha, we collect big rose hips.

Nights are so bright - fabulous white nights!

We buy children's toys and decals, diligently transfer stickers –bothering together. We sit in the dunes by the sea.

Here Valery Alekseevich came up with a rhyme for Misha: The sun is shining, there is no wind

Misha’s grandfather jumped into the sea ...

(Sorry, I couldn’t translate it to proper rhyme, here’s the original:

Солнце светит, ветра нет

В море прыгнул Мишин дед...)

A year later, on July 28, we left Moscow for Narva with our youngest grandson Valerik, who was born on January 1, 1983. Route: Valdai, Leningrad (on the Bolshaya Neva between the Palace and Kirov bridges, we watched warships and fireworks), Narva.

Two Valery are buiding sand castles. Swimming, running, drawing, reading. The weather is almost always good, but sometimes there are thunderstorms. On the way back, we stopped in Novgorod. Once again, we are walking in the Kremlin Park, admiring the monument Millennium of Russia, and little Valerik really liked the Museum tank.

We returned to Moscow and immediately went to the new circus – our grandchildren, son, Valery and I –the car is full.

Our grandpa sometimes improvised rhymes and charades for his grandchildren. One of them sounded like this:

It bothers you to live in peace,

It breaks down all of your sweet dreams

It makes you deal with

Other people's needs

And yet,

You still live with it,

And caress it with your fingers

You talk to it, and listen to it,

Tell me, what kind of miracle is it?

What's the name?"

We should have guessed that it was a telephone. Everything happened as in a charade. The phone call ended the everyday life of our family on Saturday April 26th ... spring of 1986 - Chernobyl. Grief. Fear.

There was no summer vacation.

@elenatria @litttlesilkworm @alyeen1 @owlboxes @borislegasov @the-jewish-marxist

#valery legasov #margarita legasova #chernobyl npp #chernobyl disaster #chernobyl #ussr history #ussr life #something to cry about #Валерий Легасов #чернобыльская катастрофа #чернобыль #Маргарита легасова

35 notes · View notes

massagemoscow · 3 years ago

Text

What to Do in Moscow, Russia

When people think of Russia, they often think of the country of St. Petersburg, or of Moscow, where the Red Army was formed. However, another city that is located in the heart of Russia is none other than массаж москва. This former capital of the Russian Empire is now known as a spa resort and is popular not only with tourists from Europe and the United States, but also with people who are spending time in Russia and who are taking advantage of the affordable prices that can be found all over the country. The following is an overview of some of the best spots to go to in this region of the world.

To start off, there is nothing more appropriate for a vacation in Eastern Europe than a trip to the Novoshipka. This is located near the village of Krasnitsky and is a delightful spot to experience the sights and sounds of a small town. Here you can marvel at the Cathedral and the Town Hall, while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature - including birdsong, snowfalls and even the sounds of a dog barking in the distance. The architecture of the building itself is nothing to scoff at. However, if you do decide to book your trip here, be sure to make it a point to stop at the Museum of Ural Mountains. This is a wonderful way to enjoy the wonders of the tectonic shifts that have taken place in the Earth's crust since the last Ice Age.

For those interested in experiencing the natural beauty that goes along with a massage, there is no better destination than the Severina Valley. The Severina River is just a short drive away and you can reach it by hiking on foot. Once you are there, you will want to take some time out to experience the many bathing and sauna facilities that are available. While you are there, you may also want to go visit the village of Pavlova and take a stroll along the river itself. If you do want to tour the area, make sure to visit the Historical Centre before you leave. It is filled with information about the area as well as the experiences that can be had by those willing to put in the time to get there.

The town of Pavlova is home to numerous historic buildings and artworks that date back to the 17th century. If you are interested in seeing some of this history up close and personal, head over to the Historical Museum. This is the perfect place for someone who is interested in learning more about the town's past and its people.

If you are interested in sampling the very best that Western Europe has to offer when it comes to massages, then you should definitely pay a visit to the Pushkar Fair. This fair is held annually and attracts many of the world's top massage therapists. These professionals bring their skills to the stage for the guests to enjoy. During the fair, there is no shortage of tables or chairs for you to relax in and take in the fair's beauty and tranquility.

There is so much to do and see in and around the town of Moscow. There is plenty of shopping to do in the nearby towns as well as sightseeing. Of course, you can't forget to enjoy yourself and relax with a massage. So when you are planning your next vacation to Russia, consider booking a massage in Moscow and show up at the perfect place to kick back and relax.

#массаж москва

1 note · View note

lordbhreanna · 4 years ago

Note

Glad to see you come back to Valenvaef after a long hiatus! I have a few questions for you.

Do you think Nikolai will ever take Jill to Moscow and bring her to his mother's grave or at least take her sightseeing around the city? Will he ever tell her about his old life in Russia or even tell her what happened to his mother?

Now I have a headcanon for you. After Jill's mission in Russia and the fall of Umbrella but before the formation of BSAA, Nikolai takes her to Hawaii for a one-month long vacation to help her relief from all the stress from work. He rents a beach house there and they don't leave the house much during the first week, too busy making love around the house and enjoying each other's body. After that, they spend the rest of the vacation relaxing on the beach, going swimming, mountain climbing or diving and hanging out in restaurants. Or just doing things indoor like movie nights, reading together or just chatting like a normal couple. Jill takes her leave with the excuse of "family matters" but when she comes back she looks so refreshing that her coworkers wonder why.

I'm so glad to be back in full force too! I have never abandoned the ship, of course, but the writing block really stressed me out, and there was some other IRL stuff thrown in the middle - but yeah, I'm trying to be more active again and, most of all, I am writing the fic once more 😆 And after all the revisions I've made, I think this break has been for the best. Thanks for the welcome ❤️️❤️️❤️️

I love the idea of Nicholai taking her around Moscow and showing her the city. In general, if I think about them in a more stable situation, I believe travelling would be something they do often? Like they are busy people, especially Jill, but from time to time they simply vanish and go somewhere just the two of them. And yes, he'd have to eventually open up about all that to her - once things start to resolve between them. Jill would be the only person he has ever spoken about it - not because they're a big secret or anything world shattering, but simply because that's something that makes him look vulnerable and "weak," something he'd bury it away and dismiss (doesn't go with the money-hungry bastard attitude), so telling Jill would be a big huge step for him and it'd show how much she means to him.

Speaking of travelling, that relates to your headcanon 👀 I love your idea! If I were more of a smut writer, that'd definitely lend itself for the biggest smut ficathon, too 😆 Love the details you added and how her coworkers might notice she looks better and different after her escapade. I do have something somewhat similar in mind for the future, though the timeline is a bit different for LO&W spoiler reasons, and I was thinking they'd go visit Italy? For no other reason than Spain is linked to Ada/Leon (my other big RE OTP), so why not have a different Mediterranean country for Jill/Nicholai? Also because if I do ever get to write that, at least I have visited Italy a couple of times, so I'd be slightly more familiar XD Though Hawaii sounds great!

#resident evil #valenvaef #like oil and water #asks

1 note · View note

skyler-bane · 4 years ago

Text

Festival

@oc-growth-and-development ’s prompt, day 8: festival

She knew that she shouldn't feel this way this early but Nadia hated doing things alone. Being alone. Yes, the fact that at least she had her beloved dog to talk to meant absolutely everything to her. The biggest problem, though, was that she needed other people to talk to and that her ability to stay quiet for longer periods was, well, nonexistent. This itchy patch annoyed her terribly; Nadia loved interacting with other people and realized that much sooner than she'd expected, when she was watching tv (more like staring at the screen and doing her best to focus on the movie instead of her thoughts) in her bed with Goldie, trying to survive this evening. It was her favorite cousin's birthday and if she still was in Moscow, they would be celebrating with their friends, so this didn't help much either. No blockbuster would distract her now.

She'd already done some sightseeing by herself, drank a few cups of delicious cappuccino in a small coffee shop across the street, and gone for a few long walks with Goldie. However, the only times she didn't feel lonely were times when she called a friend of hers and they had enough free time to talk. Getting a roommate sounded like the only good solution to her problem but it also seemed the source of possible new ones; what type of person should she be looking for? Should she trust complete strangers? Back in Moscow, Nadejda lived in a huge house with her cousin, who lived in a separate apartment located on the second floor. It gave them that perfect time spent alone/time spent with others ratio. Unfortunately, you can't always get what you want and Nadia had to get used to her new reality, no matter how sociable she was.

A sudden noise in her neighbor's apartment brought Nadia back down to Earth. She blinked quickly a few times as if the commotion woke her up and she hit the Mute button on the remote as she sat on her bed. She sat there and listened until it turned out that there was nothing to worry about, only that there would be a little party going on in there - the whole universe was laughing at Nadia's fate. She threw both hands into the air, closed her eyes, and pressed her lips into a thin line - no matter how overdramatic her reaction was, she hadn't felt that jealous in a long long time. Deep breath in-

"Why!"

-and deep breath out. She could pour herself a glass of wine and just enjoy spending time with her super interesting self but was lying to yourself a good therapy? Not in Nadia's case, for sure. Unless... unless she decided to gatecrash the party without shame and either regret it later (and also accept all the awkwardness this failure would probably bring) or be thankful that she had that first someone to talk to.

"V kontse kontsov, eto moi sosedi. Oni ne rasserdyatsya, yesli ya pridu pozdorovatsya; hi! I'm Nadia and I just moved in, so I thought I'd come and say hi."

Nadia rolled her eyes and sighed loudly. Somehow, it all sounded desperate...

#sp:nadejda #sp:festival #nadsgreatescape #oc-tober #oc tober #oc-growth-and-development #somebody skips 6 days in a row #which means nadia also skipped those 6 days #maybe we'll catch up who knows #oc tober 2020

2 notes · View notes

besttimetogo2 · 5 months ago

Text

The Optimal Time to Go to Moscow: A Seasonal Overview

Moscow, the grand capital of Russia, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. When is the best time to go Moscow? The answer depends on what you want to experience and your tolerance for different weather conditions. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide when is the best time to go Moscowand make the most of your trip.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Moscow is a refreshing season to visit. As winter's chill fades, temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F). By April, the city starts to shake off its frosty cover, and parks like Gorky Park come alive with blossoming flowers and outdoor activities. This season is perfect if you want to experience Moscow’s transformation from winter’s grip to a more temperate climate. When is the best time to go moscow if you’re keen to witness this seasonal change? Spring is a fantastic choice. It’s also a time when the city’s cultural calendar is bustling, with various events and festivals celebrating the arrival of warmer weather.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Moscow is a time of energy and vibrancy. The long daylight hours and warm evenings make it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like the Kremlin, Red Square, and the picturesque Moscow River. When is the best time to go Moscow for those who enjoy lively street life and cultural activities? Summer is the answer. The season also brings numerous festivals, concerts, and open-air events, making it a lively time to visit.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Moscow is a season of striking contrasts. The weather is crisp and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The city’s parks and streets are painted with vibrant fall colors, creating a picturesque setting. When is the best time to go Moscow for a blend of pleasant weather and fewer tourists? Autumn offers a great balance. It’s an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying Moscow’s rich array of museums, theaters, and historic sites. Autumn also marks the start of the cultural season, with many performances and exhibitions opening their doors.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Moscow is cold, but it’s also magical. While the cold may deter some, it also means fewer tourists and a unique, serene beauty to the city. When is the best time to go Moscow to experience its festive charm? Winter is the answer. Moscow’s winter charm is embodied in its festive holiday decorations and markets, like the famous Christmas markets in Red Square. If you don’t mind the cold and want to experience Moscow's cozy indoor attractions, winter can be a wonderful time to visit. Just be sure to bundle up and be prepared for snowy conditions.

Key Considerations

Events and Festivals: Moscow has a packed calendar of events. For example, the Victory Day Parade in May and the Moscow International Film Festival in June are highlights. Check local event calendars to align your visit with any festivals or cultural events you’re interested in.

Weather Preferences: Your comfort with cold or warmth will influence your choice. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, summer provides warmth and energy, and winter presents a unique, snowy landscape.

Crowds and Prices: Peak tourist seasons like summer and the holiday season can mean higher prices and more crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience and better deals, spring and autumn are ideal.

In essence, when is the best time to go moscow depends on your weather preferences and what you wish to experience. Each season brings its own flavor to the city, ensuring that no matter when you choose to go, Moscow will have something unique to offer.

#Best time to visit Moscow #Moscow travel guide #Moscow weather by month #Moscow tourism seasons #Moscow travel tips #Moscow climate and best travel times #Moscow peak tourist season #Moscow seasonal events and festivals #when is the best time to go moscow

0 notes

damaless · 5 years ago

Text

To All The Skaters I’ve Loved Before

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Super Secret Off-Ice Agility Training

The banks of the Moskva River are lined with lamps, patterning its surface in light and darkness as far as the eye can see. Fresh snowfall from overnight coats the trees in a blanket of white. It's beautiful. It would have been an unforgettable experience to stand here and take in the view with Victor. Yuuri sighs and rests his forearms on the railing. Will they have another chance, at some point?

“There you are! You made me look for you!”

What—

He turns to see Yuri Plisetsky scowling at him from a few feet away.

“Oh! Hi, Yuri. You were looking for me?” Yuuri tries to smile pleasantly, but his confusion must register on his face, because Yuri looks away awkwardly.

“Victor told me you’d be somewhere around here. He wants me to play tour guide.” His gaze shoots back to Yuuri, focused and intense. “But first, eat this.”

Yuuri barely manages to catch the bag suddenly tossed his way.

“Pirozhki?” Had Victor told him to bring dinner, as well?

“Yeah, my Grandpa made them. Come on, try one!” Earnest enthusiasm peeks out from behind Yuri’s usually cloudy expression. Huh.

He takes a bite. Rice, pork, egg… his eyes widen.

“It’s a katsudon pirozhki!” Yuuri exclaims, and glances to Yuri. The genuine, beaming smile on his face makes him look like an altogether different kid.

He hadn’t made the podium, but maybe qualifying for the final is justification enough to indulge. The twist of his favorite food made in the form of a Russian favorite is legitimately delightful. Yuri must have gone home from Japan and raved about katsudon to his Grandpa to inspire this experiment. Maybe this smiling Yuri is a glimpse at what Yuri is like without the stress of intense competition.

“This is incredible! I can't believe you're not hoarding them all for yourself.” He grins back at Yuri.

They divide the remaining pirozhki between the two of them, and silence falls. It’s a comfortable one, though, the kind that inevitably comes from people being too busy enjoying their food to waste time speaking. It reminds Yuuri of home.

Hopefully his family will take good care of Victor until he gets back. Given the length of the flight, the time difference, having to take the train from Fukuoka… Victor had said ‘see you tomorrow’, but realistically they won't be reunited until the early hours of the day after tomorrow, at best. Seeing for himself that Makka’s alright would be nice, too, but he has a while to wait, it seems.

“What's wrong?” Yuuri startles as Yuri Plisetsky’s voice cuts through his ruminations. “You were frowning all of a sudden.”

“Oh, sorry.” He flashes a smile.

“No, ugh,” Yuri says, rolling his eyes. “Who apologizes for frowning? Come on. Just tell me!”

Yuri probably doesn't want to hear about him missing Victor. Makka, though… “Just thinking that even though my flight is really early tomorrow morning, I won't actually get home until the day after, technically. I know Makka is okay, but I'll feel much better once I see her in person. It's hard not to feel like the same thing is happening as with my dog last year.”

“Ah… right, Victor said your dog died during the Final. I'm…” Yuri stares down at his feet, nudging some snow into a pile with his toe. “I'm sorry for yelling at you for crying in the bathroom, okay?”

“You didn't know,” Yuuri replies, quietly.

“Hey! I'm apologizing, here! Don't make excuses for me, just accept my apology or don't!” Yuri yells, looking back up at him.

Yuuri blinks at him. “Okay, then.” He clears his throat. “I accept your apology. Thank you.”

“What was it that Victor was so worried about leaving you for, again? He said something about you having an episode? What's that?” Yuri looks away and shoves his hands in his pockets, cheeks pink.

Yuuri stares. Yuri had never seemed the type to pry about this sort of thing. He's tempted to brush him off, tell him it's nothing, or that he had misheard. But… there's something in his hunched shoulders and averted gaze that suggests this might not just be nosiness.

“I sometimes get anxiety attacks during competitions,” he says, watching Yuri’s reaction closely. “It can feel like my heart is beating so fast I might die, or I shake uncontrollably, or—”

Yuri’s eyes widen and he turns to Yuuri. “Or people are talking to you and it's like you can't really hear them?” he asks. “Or like your vision gets really narrow? And telling yourself to calm down doesn't do anything?”

“Yeah, sometimes,” Yuuri says, carefully. He doesn't actually tend to experience auditory processing issues, personally, but it is a symptom, generally speaking. “Yuri, if you think you might be experiencing something similar, you don't need to keep it to yourself. You should tell Yakov, and he can look into what might be helpful for you.”

Yuri is silent. Maybe he regrets bringing it up. Well, it's fine if he wants to pretend he hadn't said anything, as long as he takes the advice to heart.

“Or maybe you're not talking about yourself at all. We don't have to say anything else about it.” Yuuri shrugs. He doesn't know Yuri that well, but he gets the sense that if he keeps pushing, it will backfire. Better to take the pressure off and let him process it at his own pace. “How about we go do something fun? Your choice.”

Yuri’s face brightens, and he smirks. “Do you want to see where I do my super secret off-ice agility training?”

Yuuri has had to adapt his image of how he would spend his time in Moscow several times over the past few weeks. From the crushing loneliness he'd imagined when he'd first seen the Grand Prix assignments and had been convinced Victor would get back together with Chris in Beijing, to the anticipation of spending a romantic evening with Victor, and then resigning himself to a night of half-hearted sightseeing by himself.

He never could have anticipated having to brush off his very rusty Dance Dance Revolution skills to go up against a shockingly skilled Yuri Plisetsky — or how much fun it would be.

Read more on Ao3

#to all the skaters i've loved before #to all the boys i've loved before #yuri on ice #tatbilb au #yoi au #yoi fic #victuuri fic #victor nikirofov #yuuri katsuki #yuri plisetsky #mari katsuki #minako okukawa #my stuff #my writing #my fics #long post

16 notes · View notes

pinkyheaven · 6 years ago

Text

Ruki: Timetable for Rock in Japan has been announced 🔥 the GazettE will perform on SOUND OF FOREST stage at 14:40!! 🤘🔥🔥 It’s the hottest time of the day, but let’s go wild to make it the hottest live 👼🔥

(June 19, 2019)

the GazettE_STAFF: [Live performance information] Performance in "ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2019" was decided! the GazettE will appear at 14:40 on Saturday, August 10 at the SOUND OF FOREST! Please check the official performance site for tickets and more information.

Reita: It’s during the hottest time of the day once again, but I’ll do my best 🤘🏻

(June 19, 2019)

the GazettE_STAFF: [Ticket information] Official early sale for "The GazettE LIVE TOUR 18-19 THE NINTH TOUR FINAL" “9th" starts today from 12:00, Friday, June 21!

Reita: Don’t forget about this one 🤘🏻 Today we’ll also raise the heat in Moscow 👍🏻

(June 21, 2019)

Aoi: Thank you so much to everyone who came to Moskva 🇷🇺 The air was quite cool during the time of rehearsal, so I thought it was going to be a comfortable night, but after all, it was hot enough to die and it was an awesome evening 😘 On the way back, for some reason I was the one driving in Moskva, but it was a very beautiful and wonderful city full of people. I wish I had done some sightseeing. Well then, I’ll see you again! Thank you 🇷🇺

(June 21, 2019)

#ruki #reita #aoi #the gazette

48 notes · View notes

thornescratch · 6 years ago

Link

Michal Kempný's story without platitudes. The hockey player who was drenched in beer and spat on by disgruntled fans, who was rebuked for taking too many risks on the ice, won the Stanley Cup.

@eden-squad-member very kindly did a translation of a long Czech article about Michal Kempny, which is written in the Player Tribune style about his career and how he ended up on the Capitals, and it’s well worth reading, especially since it’s like... Kempny is a DRAMA LLAMA, but in the best way. The majority of it is behind the cut. Check it out, and be sure to thank her for the translation of the original article!

Draisaitl 29.

The name and number on a Team Europe jersey, that’s what I focused on. Still, they were getting further away from me with every step. I tried to jump in the pass to Leon Draisaitl on a breakaway, but the puck flew over my reaching stick. I managed to get on my feet, take one stride, two, and… nothing. Nothing more happened in that game.

There’s probably no worse feeling for a hockey defenseman than when you’re chasing an opposing forward making a break for your goal. The powerlessness when you know you can’t catch him anymore. You just hope he’ll miss. That he won’t make the shot. That maybe you’ll manage to distract him somehow in the last second.

Draisaitl left us no chance. His slapshot was unforgiving and we just lost our second game of the 2016 World Cup in overtime. We lost it after my mistake.

For the first time in my life, I was playing 3-on-3 in overtime, which at that time was a novelty that didn’t arrive here yet from Canada. I made a nonsensical move that you mustn’t do with this few players. Instead of keeping the puck and playing it, I tried a shot from the blue line. The goalie blocked it and the rebound went directly to one of his teammates, who found a speeding Draisaitl and I couldn’t catch up to him.

You know the rest.

It wasn’t the first time I screwed something up on ice like this. Not the first and not the last. But from that moment on, I was completely broken.

And it all started so well. Right before the start of this tournament full of the best hockey players in the world, I felt like I was in a dream. The last two years of my career had been awesome. I left Kometa Brno feeling like I worked up to being one of their key players, I got a ton of self-confidence in Omsk, and I was feeling good about myself at my first world championship in Moscow 2016. We were led by Mr. Vůjtek, a coach it’s a pleasure to play for. It’s still eating me whenever I remember the quarterfinals, when we lost the chance to go forward because of an offside goal and then in the shootout. That group of guys deserved more, not the least because of the hockey we played. For me personally, this championship proved that I was moving in the right direction. After that, I had my choice of NHL offers and I was a no-doubt, first nomination pick for the World Cup in September. I was supposed to be the key defenseman for playmaking. I accepted the pressure of it. I accepted it gladly; this was exactly what I wanted, this was the role I saw myself in.

Yet, I might have let it get to me too much, felt the responsibility too strongly.

It showed in my summer training. I didn’t want to underestimate anything and I didn’t allow myself any rest. Get on ice in the morning, then to the gym, and again in the afternoon. In Kometa’s locker room, Martin Erat once told me not to overdo it, that I’m working myself too hard. Way too hard.

No, I have to. So I can be ready for the World Cup, I told him.

It’s been two years and I feel like I was a completely different person back then. I didn’t listen to my body and even when I was tired, I was pushing to the limit. You must! You must!

It only did harm.

I played well for the first two exhibition games with Russia, I wasn’t very good in Pittsburgh against the youngsters on Team North America, and once the tournament started, I suddenly felt strange.

Anyone can tell you. Your mental state plays a big role.

When I went in for my first shift in the first game against Canada, I got the puck on the blue line. All startled, I wanted to shoot it right at goal from first, and because I shot it flat, a D-man blocked the shot and immediately passed to Crosby. Who, instead of staying with me, was already two steps ahead. He got away from me.

Hello Michal, welcome to America. This is the world class.

At least he didn’t score right away. But he gave me another welcome at the end of the first period. I was going from behind the goal to start a play, thinking. Making up plays, like so many times before. I could have passed to center where my teammate was free, but it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t want to try something extra. But Crosby, who was chasing me, knows all too well where to stand to put his opponent in the worst possible position. He robbed me. One pass, another, and before I got up from the ice, a horn signaled that they scored a third goal, most likely the break point of the game.

The next game ended with that overtime and Draisaitl’s breakaway.

I made a lot of mistakes during my career. Mistakes like these two. Obvious, indisputable. But never on such a stage like at the World Cup, in games watched by the whole hockey world.

Never with the knowledge that I put too much of the responsibility for the national team’s play on myself.

Never on a team full of NHL guys whom I didn’t even really know.

To think that I introduced myself to so many of them with these whiffs…

These two blows at my self-confidence destroyed me. I ended up as 7D in the last game against USA and I didn’t even mind much that I was mostly sitting on the bench. I was falling apart so hard that I felt like I forgot how to play hockey anyway. It got to the point where I wouldn’t even leave my room when I didn’t have to. We all had our families in Toronto, the guys went to sightsee and spent their afternoons on trips and I’d rather sleep for four hours after practice than meet up with my folks, my sis and my brother-in-law. We all had single rooms, a veritable therapist office for my mind.

Just me, my regrets, and four walls.

I took my mistakes so, so hard. Even though it was completely pointless, I was still going over the things I should have done differently and tormented myself thinking about the way I screwed up the team’s chance to win and go on. I took it all personally. Even though my teammates were wonderful to me. Rather than getting angry vibes from anyone, they told me I should let it go. That it happens.

Yeah, fine, thanks guys, but still… I know I fucked up.

Besides, even if you don’t want to, you browse internet articles and discussions and you know exactly what you’re going to find. That you’re a klutz, that you’re not cut out for it. That doesn’t help.

Ondra Palát stopped by and gave me some advice on how to get over it. That there’s no time for worrying in the NHL. There’s no point in dissecting one’s mistakes when there’s another game the next day. I’m aware of that; I know it’s best to have the move-on-quickly mindset when you play hockey, but I’m not like that. In this aspect, I wasn’t even ready for the environment I suddenly found myself in. Physically I crammed the strength into myself, but to be able to settle my mind? That’s something I was only just figuring out, partly thanks to lessons like this.

Meanwhile, those few days in Toronto brought me to my knees. I was flying straight to Chicago, where I was supposed to get my first taste of the NHL, and I was asking myself what I would even be doing there.

* * *

They called us Pat and Mat.

The defensive duo Kempný – Bičánek from Kometa’s first years in the extraleague was a popular target for criticism. We were nicknamed after the klutzy duo from a children’s cartoon by a local news reporter and to the fans, disgruntled by the ragtag team’s results, we were the ones whose mistakes were easy to recognize. I did something wrong in almost every game. I held the puck too long, I wanted to come up with some great pass, and people rarely noticed that I often managed to do it. The moment I messed up, they were at my throat.

I messed up hard in this one game; I was -3 and because of that, we lost. While I was on my way to the tunnel and the locker room, people yelled obscenities at me. Nasty ones. I heard that I could never play hockey and whatnot. Some spat at me, a beer cup flew at me and people poured more at me from above.

Radim Bičánek was right behind me and he whacked one of those loudmouths with his stick.

I get why I was pissing those fans off back then. I was never the type who tried to make his job easier first and foremost. On top of that, there were many things I didn’t know back at junior age and I heaped up blunder after blunder on ice. I wanted to come out of every situation with the puck on my stick, to make a beautiful pass. I kinda had this feeling that the usual short pass or clearing the puck off the boards is also a mistake of sorts and I could do a lot more. I took risks all the time.

And, well, sometimes it didn’t work out.

It pissed off many of my teammates and coaches. I was told off because almost every move on my part was on the line between ‘neat’ and ‘trouble’. And once it fell in that second category, I was bummed about it myself. Even that evening when I was on the receiving end of a stream of curses, spit, and beer, what made me angry the most was the stuff I did. That I even gave people a reason to act like that.

That’s the way I was raised. To always start with myself.

I wasn’t a guy who would make a reputation as a rascal growing up. I was taught good manners at home and I had to think of school besides hockey. I managed to graduate too, even though it wasn’t easy. At the Civil Engineering School at home in Hodonín, I was the first person ever to have an individual study plan and I commuted from Brno, but I pulled it off thanks to tutoring during weekends. Even though many teachers found my schedule hard to stomach, of course, and made sure I knew I’d never make a living off hockey anyway.

I, on the other hand, know that I learned the most about construction at our house thanks to my dad.

I started going to a school in Hodonín because of my junior years in Skalica, Slovakia. It was over the hill, closer than Brno. That way I didn’t have to stay in a dorms; I commuted from home every day.

By the way, that’s why I was offered to represent Slovakia. A part of my mom’s family is from there, and because nobody knew about me in the Czech Republic until U20, they offered to arrange Slovak citizenship for me.

I refused. I’m Czech.

However, Skalica helped me for sure. Ten years ago, it was one of the best teams of the Slovak extraleague, which wasn’t yet in the shape it is nowadays. I had to make my way through five lines of fairly skilled guys in juniors. When I was seventeen, I even played one game on the senior team with Žiggy Pálffy.

It was only then that Kometa signed me. They played the first league [T/N: the second highest Czech league after the extraleague] at the time and signed me with the understanding that I’d start straight on the A-team. That’s how I got to play the first season in a defensive pair with Pavel Zubíček and I would probably get more games, if I hadn’t snapped back once at coach Kýhos. The next day I was wearing the black jersey for a guy out of the lineup in practice and reported to the junior team.

Since then I know that you don’t talk back to coaches, even if you’re a hundred times sure you’re right.

When Brno bought the extraleague [license], I was the only young guy who was supposed to play on the A-team. That’s when I started playing with Radim Bičánek. That’s when Pat and Mat were born.

The more people were angry about how the first seasons went, the more criticism I got personally. As if I was one of the lightning rods of their frustration. Rumors went around the city that it was nepotism and who knew why I was playing. They said that my dad must have paid the club money.

My dad has nothing to do with hockey.

He did all he could for me, drove me to practice until I had my own driver’s license, but as far as I know, he never tried to ease my way in. When someone tells me off for screwing up a pass, fine, I can take that. People are paying to see a good performance. But talk about how my spot on the roster was paid for hurt me. Especially knowing what I had to go through to even play in the extraleague at such a young age. My career has been built on giving hockey all I’ve got from the start. Even the many, many reprimands and digs about my game show that I never got anything for free.

I worked hard for it all.

During that period, it was too much sometimes. I was moving back and forth between Brno and the first league; I didn’t really belong anywhere. Even in Třebíč they yelled at me that that’s no way to play hockey; I did okay in Havlíčkův Brod, but it wasn’t something that fulfilled me. I was always thinking about getting in the top league and what direction I should even take. I had a long talk with my agent, Aleš Volek, that helped. The most important thing I took from it was that I started training a lot more. I’d sleep in the afternoon and in the evenings put in extra weight room, stairs… anything that could push me forward. In spite of that, I didn’t get a spot in Kometa for various reasons even after four years; I was only set free thanks to a loan to Slavia.

Over there I finally moved to the level I was aiming for. I got priceless experience. From Vláďa Růžička and initially from the conditioning coach Lukáš Stránský as well. During summer camp, I had lunch after his training and my hands would shake so much that I wasn’t even able to eat my soup with a spoon. I don’t know what it was like for the other guys, but to me it was a whole new level physically; we got smoked. On top of that, I was learning on ice next to the veteran Pavel Kolařík and the season turned out to be successful.

If I leave out all the crap I got from Růža.

“Don’t act like you’re Kadlec! There’s only one Kadlec!” He repeated that to me all the time. Káca was untouchable to him, he did whatever he wanted during games – something he could afford thanks to his read of the game – and I had to hear about him every time I tried to be creative.

“I’m not acting like I’m Kadlec; I’m Kempný,” I replied.

But that wasn’t the end of it. Růža drilled me in almost every practice; he made me watch video and noticed stuff in my play that I never even thought about before. He showed me how to be better thanks to the tiniest details.

And he yelled at me, of course. There were plenty of moments when I would have his face a few centimeters from mine and he’d shout and splutter. I felt like he always chose someone on the team to pick on. For a while, it was me. It all came to head when the puck jumped my stick at a bad moment during practice. Banality. But Růža started screaming at me, and pretty obscenely too.

“Fu-- off already,” I hissed through my teeth. “Shut up and leave me alone.”

We were far from each other, he probably didn’t hear me, but it gave the guys standing around me a laugh.

And most importantly, I didn’t shit my pants because of Růža. Quite the opposite; I showed him every day that I wanted it. I admit I didn’t like his methods sometimes, but it’s true that he can use them to push everyone to the max. He made me grow for sure, anchored me as a hockey player. He showed me what direction to take and where such a road could lead if I abide by the principles of his understanding of hockey. After years of flopping around without direction, I suddenly knew who I was, what I could do and what more I could learn.

Moreover, I broke up with my then-girlfriend, whom I’d been dating through my teens; and as a young single guy in Prague, I also gained self-esteem I didn’t have until then. I started to live my life the way I wanted.

It all came together at the right time. If it wasn’t for Slavia, I could be driving a delivery van right now. It was only there everything started for real. I returned to Kometa the summer before my 23rd birthday as a different person. People couldn’t comprehend how I could have changed so much, and I too felt like I was starting from scratch.

What followed were two perfect years during which I made the national team for the first time and reached the goal I set for myself – I transferred abroad. I refused good money that Brno was offering me for a contract extension and left for Omsk. Not for a fortune: compared to other players’ salary, mine was closer to the minimum, but to me it was a chance to move forward. I wasn’t in want of money; I don’t need much and made a good living even as a young guy in Brno. I mainly wanted to advance my hockey. So after a year, when I could have signed in Russia for a much bigger amount, I was already looking forward. To another goal I saw in front of me.

The NHL.

* * *

I noticed Joel Quenneville in the lobby of a hotel in Pittsburgh, where we were playing our friendly games before the World Cup. At that time, he was an assistant coach to the Canadian national team, but more importantly the coach of the Chicago Blackhawks.

The coach of the team I signed a contract with a few weeks ago.

I thought it would be impolite not to greet him when I saw him. So I went and introduced myself to him; I considered it basic courtesy.

I approached him as much as my poor English allowed. But he was pretty suspicious of me.

Mainly because he had no idea who I was.

That’s the impression I got from him even later when he was coaching me on a team. He stomped on me a lot. I got it the first year. I understood I was new to America, I popped up from nowhere, had never been drafted. I thought he was trying to see how much I could endure and if I had the will to work hard when things weren’t going well. Sometimes I didn’t play ten games in a row, but I stomached it.

Not in my second season.

Before it started, the coach told me he was planning to give me more opportunity. And I got that indeed.

For exactly seven games.

After the last one in St. Louis, he told me I wouldn’t be playing the next time. Not because I did something wrong or made a mistake, apparently I played okay… Someone else was just going to get a chance the next time.

From that moment on, it went up and down. I would play a game, then not, until I was scratched for 13 games in a row. For a month starting in mid-November, I just skated around in practice like a tool, slowing down and sweating on a bike in the gym to stay in shape.

I entered a phase when I took no joy in hockey. There was no reason to when the games weren’t my business. I was resigned; I felt I was about as important to the team as the last bottle of water left on the boards. Not because of the guys; they were great. Even Johnny Toews cheered me up, that I’m a great defenseman and that I should be patient, that I’m probably just not what the coach is looking for. That’s encouraging, but it doesn’t help in the least when everyone is getting ready for a game in the evening and you’re off to do some extra skating.

When you miss the rush we all play hockey for.

“Your game was okay, but you’re not playing tonight.” I was starting to get nightmares about that line.

I spent that long break at the end of autumn asking myself what I was even doing there. I was losing faith in my abilities. I went from being in demand and getting offers from plenty of NHL teams after my season in Russia to the position of someone who was superfluous. I was losing everything that made me who I was as a hockey player. Even if I was living the NHL life, it was as if I didn’t belong in it. I didn’t deserve it. Not the way I saw it.

Isn’t this my ceiling? What am I even striving for; maybe I just hit the limit of my abilities…

That crossed my mind too.

I had my girlfriend with me, she was my rock, but still I kept asking myself whether there was a point in staying in America when I was only skating from board to board. Why was I so far from my family and friends? For this?

Despite all that was going through my head and in spite of feeling completely useless, I never slacked off in practice. That’s how it’s been my whole life. If I was told to do something ten times, I did eleven. Or twelve. Just for the feeling of it.

But my play suffered. Right from the first moment in Chicago, I stopped playing the hockey that got me in the NHL. I got to a point where the most important thing was not to mess up, because I was always on the edge. You screw up – someone else will replace you. My self-confidence was toast, I didn’t dare do anything. Everyone who ever did any sport knows this.

Despite that, I never – even when I was at my worst – instructed my agent to start arranging for a transfer to Europe and find me a job there. We only asked for a trade within the NHL before Christmas so I could find out if anyone at all was still interested in me.

And Washington was. The trade was in the works for three months, until the teams reached an agreement shortly before the trade deadline in February.

Today I know that if that change didn’t happen, I wouldn’t be in the NHL anymore.

Generally, my trade was presented as a situation where Chicago had no interest in me and Washington grabbed the opportunity to add an experienced defenseman to the team before playoffs. But the truth is that right after I arrived, I was told that they’ve been monitoring me for a long time and they wanted a defenseman exactly like me.

That caught me off-guard. Me? But I spent a year and a half either sitting in the stands or playing chickenshit. And they told me I was a great skater and a good playmaker, which is what they needed. The head coach informed me that he planned to have me dress for every game and that I would never be a healthy scratch. In short, that he was betting on me.

I was floored and at the same time, such words warmed me and encouraged me.

Moreover, nothing changed about them even when I wasn’t doing so well in the beginning. I let two goals past me right in the first game; I let the player get away from me. But I played the same portion of minutes the next day. And the next one, all the while next to John Carlson, our key defenseman.

Three weeks after the trade, I was on the ice for three goals scored against us in Philadelphia, one was a direct giveaway from me, and the next morning Todd Reirden, the coach of the defensemen, came to me.

“How was yesterday?” he asked.

“Sucked…”

“Huh, but I already forgot about it, you’re playing again tomorrow. I don’t care that you made some mistakes. I like what you bring to the team.”

This is what I’ve been waiting for!

For the first time, someone really believed in me in the NHL. For the first time, a coach stopped by to ask me how I was feeling. For the first time, he leaned over the bench during a game to ask how I was and if I wanted to get back on ice. I never experienced that in Chicago. I couldn’t even imagine that I would be able to knock on the coach’s door there and talk about anything.

The environment I found in Washington was such that we were all equal and everyone talked to everyone else. For me personally, Todd was a blessing.

He’s going to be the head coach now, but last season he was in charge of the defensemen. I could come to him at any time and talk about hockey stuff, but also about things that weren’t related to hockey at all. When we analyzed games, he didn’t even want to discuss what went wrong, he always turned his evaluation to the elements he liked. Even when some goal was my fault during playoffs, he was cool with it. He brought my confidence back and let me play the way I felt I should. Suddenly I had the freedom I needed for my hockey again. Everything was strict in Chicago; I wasn’t supposed to go in the right corner since I was a left side defenseman, and if I ended up in there somehow, my first thought had to be about how to get back to my side as soon as possible. I repeated to myself what I was and wasn’t allowed to do before every game, what the coach focused on. It was stifling. And here? Michal, play however you can…

No coach is happy when you help your opponent score, but now I know that I can try stuff again. I know the system of the team and I have to stick to it, but I can do whatever I want in that framework. And that’s exactly the right thing for me. Here, it’s suddenly me once more. I’m myself again and it’s Todd who gets the most credit for that. He’s been making it clear that he wants to work with me right from the start, so the name Kempný, unknown until now, can become a brand in the league.

I can’t wait to see what the next four years I signed a contract for bring.

* * *

I got an assist in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final the likes of I haven’t managed in a long time. I got the puck in the circle, faked a shot and found a completely free Lars Eller in front of an empty net. Pure hockey beauty, as you can see here.

And you know what?

In the first moment, I was thinking that I pulled risky crap again. For a second, I wasn’t even happy about the beautiful pass that helped us even the score.

It’s the fault of all the crap I’ve been getting my whole life for this kind of plays that sometimes didn’t work out.

So many times I got kicked for that.

So many times I felt down for screwing it up for the others.

So many times I saw my teammates stomp off angrily because they didn’t get a simple pass from me.

So many times I lost the puck unnecessarily, the crowd started whistling and booing, the other guys scored a goal and on top of that, the coaches yelled at me on the bench.

So many times I got to perch in the stands as punishment.

Even so, I still wanted to be the one making up plays the next time. Not a defenseman who just clears the puck to be done with it. It was still worth all the moments when I’d want to disappear somewhere.

I’m glad I never gave this style up completely. After all, there’s something good and bad to every player, they just need to find balance. Yes, I used to do a lot of stupid stuff on the ice, but it also worked many times and resulted in beautiful plays. The dumb plays made me the hockey player I am. The things I can think up during a game are what sets me apart from others and it’s on each team’s coaches to find the players whose personality fits them. Washington chose me exactly because of the stuff I can do.

Maybe at the right time. I feel my hockey evolution is slower compared to many other guys. Some come to the NHL at eighteen and can play in it with ease. I can’t imagine anything that could pique a scout’s interest enough to even be drafted to the NHL when I was eighteen.

When I see how they work with youths in America or Sweden these days, how confident and constructive players they thoughtfully raise, I’m in awe. They let them make mistakes… Maybe it’s different in our country too by now, but I always got scratched for mistakes. I learned by myself; I had to watch others to learn how to get by so I could stay myself without driving the coaches crazy. In senior teams, I listened to older players, valued their advice and gleaned from them what I thought was suitable for me. It’s one of the reasons why I’m still evolving year after year. I am gaining experience and I know better and better how to react in specific situations.

I know that I don’t always have to try a sweet pass to the second blue line and deke four times behind my own net with a guy breathing down my neck. That there’s no need to try to be exceptional all the time, but that it’s more important to show it at the right time. And that clearing the puck out of my own zone or shooting it off the boards is often the best thing I can do. Sometimes I simply pitchfork it to be done with it. The speed in the NHL forces you to think like that. Everyone had been telling me that ‘there’s beauty in simplicity’ for so long that I finally understood it.

On the other hand, if had I been thinking like that when I was twenty, if I had played according to it in Brno or Omsk, I never would have learned anything extra. I would be average.

Now I’m in the position where I tell younger kids the same thing that experienced guys used to tell me. Don’t make up dumb plays. But at the same time, deep down, I’m rooting for them and see myself in them.

I was the same kind of dumbass. But that’s the only reason I am where I am now.

There’s no ‘Pat’ or ‘Mat’ engraved on the Stanley Cup. It says: Michal Kempný.

—Michal Kempný, the first Czech undrafted Stanley Cup champion

#Michal Kempny #Todd Reirden #John Carlson #Washington Capitals #Czech Yo-Self #translation #article #links #long post #FOUND FAMILY

171 notes · View notes

haveclotheswilltravel · 5 years ago

Text

Karina Dresses is a small company that makes wrinkle-free dresses with a vintage flair. And they proudly make these dresses in the USA.

If you’ve been following my blog over the last year, this isn’t the first time you’ve seen their dresses featured here. I now own a total of 4 of their dresses, so I felt I could give my honest opinion of the quality of a variety of their dresses, now. I’ll share my honest opinion on the quality, sizing, versatility and price of these dresses, below.

Click here for the Karina Dresses website.

My 1st Karina Dress – shown here for a day of exploring in Moscow, Russia!

My Honest Review of Karina Dresses – Quality, Sizing, Style, Price and Versatility

Karina Dresses Quality

Now that I have been wearing and washing my Karina Dresses for close to a year, I can say without a doubt that they are fantastic quality. That particular dress above (the “Ruby” fit) has been worn and washed at least 30 times now and still looks like new.

I really love that they are machine washable, and they DON’T WRINKLE. They are perfect for traveling, as I can throw them in my suitcase and not think about it.

They are also very breathable and comfortable to wear. I’ve worn them in blisteringly hot weather and have also been wearing them in winter with tights and leggings (pictured below).

Karina Dresses Sizing

Karina Dresses offers sizes XS – 3X (and in some styles, they also offer XXS and 4X). Their dresses also have quite a bit of stretch to them. Typically, my dress size is a size 6 or medium. In Karina Dresses I can fit in a size XS or Small/Medium.

For example, the dress below (the Nora Dress), I am wearing a size XS.

And their Megan dress, which is a very similar fit and style of dress, I am wearing a size Small/Medium (below). Both of these dresses fit me well.

If you’re in between sizes on their size chart, I would say your best bet is to size down. The dresses are quite stretchy and forgiving, and for me, the smaller sizes stay in place through the bust area better. However, If you’re looking to layer under the dress, though, (with a cami) then the larger size would be better. I could easily pair the dress above with a cami under it.

Click here to shop the Megan dress.

Click here to shop the Nora dress.

Versatility

In my opinion, ALL of my Karina Dresses are incredibly versatile. I can easily pair them with boots, heels, sandals or sneakers. I can also wear them with tights or leggings in chillier weather.

These dresses have been worn for days of sightseeing from exploring Russia to resorts in Jamaica, fancy dinners, work events and for every day just running errands! They work for just about everything, in my opinion.

Price

The biggest downfall for these dresses is their price tags. Which is understandable, though. They are high-quality dresses, and they are made in the USA. They aren’t being made in a sweatshop in China.

I do understand, though, that this can make them unaffordable. The average dress price is $108 – which is pretty high.

However, some dresses do go on sale at the end of the season. These sale prices are between $68-$88. (My Nora Dress is currently on sale for $88.) They also host a Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale every year. (These can be between 25%-30% off the entire website.)

Click here to shop their sale dresses.

Shipping

I’ve also gotten quite a few questions about Karina Dresses’ shipping policy for international customers. They do ship internationally, and the rate will vary on where it is being shipped and how heavy the package is.

For a rough idea, though, when I was living in Moscow, Russia, to have a dress shipped to my Moscow address would cost around $22.

Click here to see Karina Dresses full shipping and return policy.

The Verdict on Karina Dresses

So, my overall opinion of Karina Dresses, is… yes, they are pricey, but they are worth the price tag. These dresses are fantastic quality. They are great for just about every event under the sun. And as someone who travels frequently, they are absolutely perfect for traveling!

I really can’t recommend them enough.

Heads up, Karina Dresses just launched their new Resort Collection today! Click here to shop it.

You can also see all of my blog posts featuring Karina Dresses, below. The dress pictured above will also be getting its own blog post next week! Stay tuned. (Or click here to shop it.)

[mv_create title=”Honest Review of Karina Dresses – Vintage Style Dresses That Don’t Wrinkle” key=”33″ type=”list” layout=”grid”]

If anyone has any questions at all about Karina Dresses, please feel free to ask me in the comments section at the end of the post! And I’m curious, do you own any Karina Dresses? Let me know in the comments!

*Thank you to Karina Dresses for sponsoring this post. As always all opinions are my own, and I am never compensated for a positive review. I do, honestly, REALLY love these dresses!

*Disclosure: some of these links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you click a link and make a purchase, Have Clothes, Will Travel gets a very small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! I am also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Honest Review of Karina Dresses – Vintage Style Dresses That Don’t Wrinkle Karina Dresses is a small company that makes wrinkle-free dresses with a vintage flair. And they proudly make these dresses in the USA.

#dresses #Karina Dresses #review #Vintage style #wrinkle-free dresses

1 note · View note

bokutosbiceps · 6 years ago

Note

(BSD) How about some headcannons on how Poe, Edgar, and Oguri would spend time with their significant other? Thanks!

Yes yes !!! okay this is the first request i’m writing since i’ve been back so wish me luck !! and i’m so happy mushi is getting the recognition he deserves.

- pocky

Ps. you said poe and edgar…so i’m assuming you wanted edgar allen poe, but not sure if you meant/wanted ranpo, so i added in short hcs at the end for him !

Edgar Allen Poe

Poe is not a super touchy person in general, unless he really trusts someone, then he’s an absolute cuddle bug — so once he trusts you enough, he’ll be practically glued to your side and smothering you in cuddles and butterfly kisses

Poe likes to stay in since he’s a hermit, but if you beg him enough and bat your lashes enough, he’ll let you whisk him away to a local cafe or park

he likes parks better because there are more secluded areas where he doesn’t have to worry about prying eyes or the judgement of others

If you like to read, Ed will often write you poems and short mysteries and things of the like for you to enjoy them — he loves to see your face light up at something he’s written for you

one time he tried to write a romantic short story that was based off you and his first date, and when you realized what it was based off of, you called him out on it and it left him blushing for days

he still blushes when he thinks about it

You guys often share cups of tea or hot chocolate or anything that is hot and soothes your throats; it’s quite relaxing for the both of you

Ed doesn’t wake up till the late morning, mainly because he can’t fall asleep until the wee hours of the morning (poor baby has insomnia), so you often stay and doze with him until he’s up and about for the day

Another pastime that the two of you enjoy is playing with Carl

carl adores you and will often choose you over Poe when it comes down to it

this makes Poe very jealous — but he can’t decide who to aim his jealousy at because you and Carl have a mutual love affair

carl sometimes gets in the way of you and Poe’s cuddle sessions, wedging himself in between Poe’s head and your stomach when Poe settles on the couch/bed with you

no matter how hard Ed tries to move him, Carl will not budge

Oguri Mushitarou

Oguri is on the more outgoing side, so he likes to go out with you (and show you off)

he’s a pretty proud and flashy guy, always boasting about his intelligence and dressing his best, but the thing he likes to brag the most about is you

his favorite place to go out with you is downtown Yokohoma, where he’ll buy you crepes and hold your hand and take you “sightseeing” to the places you both know very well

Oguri loves making grand romantic gestures to make you blush

he’ll bring flowers to your workplace

he’ll show up at your door randomly with goodies/food

LOTS AND LOTS OF PDA

he’ll plan spontaneous candlelit dinners or walks by the river in the moonlight

This man is scared of lightning, so during stormy days, he is by your side 100% of the time

blankets usually help to calm him down during a thunderstorm

so prepare to be cuddled up next to him and tucked in bed under a heavy blanket

Mushi likes to cook for you, even though he’s not especially good at it

you like to help him out in the kitchen

you’ve started doing it less just to mess with him because he bought himself a “Kiss the Cook” apron

Mushi also likes to surprise with amazing and expensive vacations

some of his favorite getaway destinations are: Paris, London, Amsterdam, Moscow, and Santorini

you guys went on a cruise once, but he got seasick the entire time poor guy

Edogawa Ranpo

Ranpo is the biggest cuddle bug, so most of the time you guys spend together would be spent on the couch, cuddling

He’s super possessive of your attention, so 9 times outta 10, you’ll be spending one on one time with each other–also he’s like a cat and can get extremely antisocial

Ranpo isn’t especially fond of being outside, so most of your time is spent inside, but there’s never a dull moment

you like to challenge each other to games of chance or guessing games or any games in general

he is super competitive, so anytime you challenge him, he takes it so seriously

if this baby loses, you have to coddle him and basically beg for peace because he’ll be very pouty and hold a grudge

watching mystery movies is his favorite activity to do with you

it is definitely not your favorite though because he’ll spoil the big reveal by nonchalantly calling it out

but it doesn’t dismiss the fact that you’re always amazed at his “ability”

#bsd #bungou stray dogs #oguri mushitarou #oguri #edgar allen poe #poe #ranpo #edogawa ranpo #bsd x reader #headcanons #armed detective agency #guild #rats in the house of the dead

152 notes · View notes

tripindicatorweb-blog · 5 years ago

Text

Berlin in February is Fantastic, But Can Be Very Cold

We had been thinking about going to Berlin for a few years and with the twentieth anniversary of the Berlin Wall coming down later this year decided we must make a booking.

We had seen a comment in Simon Calder's travel page in The Independent on Saturday about flying there and decided to fly to Tegel that is the closer of the two to the city centre. This meant flying with British Airways and using the new Terminal 5 at London Heathrow.

Our flight was due to go out 8.45 on a Thursday morning in mid February. Fortunately the heavy Berlin Tv Tower Tickets snow that covered a fair part of the south east of England had now gone, however snow was forecast for Berlin.

We checked in online and were dropped off at terminal 5; we immediately joined a fairly long queue for BA's "Fast Bag drop off". This modern airport appears to have a very slow system whereby you queue for a long time as we did, you are looking out then for the next available check in person who does not process modern technology like they do in banks and many department stores - a system of a number appearing so you go to that check in desk. No, instead there is a helper who comes and goes and either the check in person waves to that BA employee or to the next person looking for a free check in assistant.

Once you have cleared this you must hurry to security and again join another long queue. If you get delayed here you are warned you could miss your flight! Eventually we got through security and were able to explore the wonders of Terminal 5. A fine modern warehouse style glass and metal construction full of shops and restaurants. Does an airport really need such a shopping centre like this, there seems to be a lot of wasted space. It seems like BAA and BA are concentrating too much in leasing out spacious retails zones, whereas had the check in and security areas been larger and a lot more efficient then the terminal would be more efficient.

What a contrast when you arrive at Berlin's Tegel airport. The airport is in the western part of the city and as we got off the plane we were going through passport control within a couple of minutes and collecting our baggage five minutes later.

This airport is a hexagonal terminal building around an open square and this for walking distances as short as 30 metres from the aircraft to the terminal exit. Inside there are numerous shops and restaurants, they difference to Heathrow's terminals is that they are open to people flying out or anyway waiting to collect visitors.

There are small duty free (or cheaper shops for alcohol, cigarettes and perfumes when you go through the various gates, but it looks like there are individual security and passport controls for the individual gates and so as you have got through these you are in small lounge with the small "Duty free" shop and a snack bar and just a few metres from the aircraft door.

Unfortunately Tegel is destined to close in 2012 when the enlarged Berlin-Schönefeld Airport is due to re-open as Berlin-Brandenburg International Airport in 2011. I hope that their design is modeled on Tegel opposed to the Heathrow style terminal buildings.

When we touched down although there was some snow in the surrounding area there was none at the airport and we took a taxi to our hotel, It was very cold not even 1 degree, but dry. The Hotel Augusta is situated in Charlottenburg area in the west of the city, near to Zoo. It is a very pleasant small hotel offering bed and breakfast and as it located in a couple of older buildings, it has very spacious rooms with high ceilings that have been very tastefully modernized. We had our slightly out of date Rough Guide and in late January.The Independent had run a brief article by their travel writer Simon Calder on his experiences visiting Berlin in January 1999 a few months before the wall came down in November, looking back on that visit plus one of their brief guides "48 hours in Berlin". Armed with this information we set out and decided the best way to get an overview of the city on a cold Thursday afternoon was to take a guided tour on the Berlonina sightseeing double decker bus. There are few companies operating these tours and you can normally pay for the complete circular tour and hop off one bus at a given point and then hop on another.

We got off the bus at the Daimler Chrysler building in Potsdamer Platz and paid to take the express lift to the rooftop viewing gallery. Great views of the city from this point. Back onto the bus again past the only remaining section of the Berlin Wall, through Checkpoint Charlie and up past the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag (Parliament building).

We got off the bus where we had got on originally and walked down the Kurfürstendamm shopping street to the KaDeWe department store. This magnificent 100 year old establishment was very warm and inviting as early evening approached. Visiting the top floor restaurant and bar complex with views over Berlin was fantastic; however going down a floor to the food floor was unbelievable. There are numerous small food bars serving food and drink in amongst the vast selection of produce you can buy. This is a place to visit and stay a long time in if it was a wet day in Berlin.

Across the road from the Hotel Augusta is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Reinhards bar and restaurant. Here you will find all the staff smartly dressed in long white aprons and outside as was typical of several bars and cafes, the normal tables and chairs, with a folded blanket on each chair.

The next morning following a buffet breakfast we set off to find an English speaking tour of Berlin. The contact and guide were outside the Zoo Station at 9.45. No one else had turned up that morning at the western meeting point for Original Berlin Walks. Our guide who was half German and fluent in English took us on the train to the east meeting point at the Hackescher Markt. Fortunately there was another couple there, so the tour went ahead. This is a four hour walking tour costing EUR12 per person and worth every cent of it. The same company also runs a selection of other tours, some of which take place in Greater Berlin.

It is a great way to see the sites, have history explained and ask questions. We saw the remains of the wall in the centre close up and where the wall once was there are now two rows of cobbles.

We walked through the Brandenburg Gate and past the Reichstag and onto the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (Holocaust Memorial) sculpture and the location of Hitler's bunker. By the end of the tour we had seen all the famous landmarks, many of course we had seen from the bus the previous day including the famous east Berlin Television Tower that constructed under communist rule and had to be shorter than its counterpart in Moscow. It has a rotating restaurant and we were told has some exceptional views, but you don't want to go up there if it is too cloudy.

Our guide told the same story as in the "What to see" section of 48 hours in Berlin from The Independent. When the tower was constructed, crosses off churches were removed by the East German Government. Whenever the sun shines on the globe of the tower, a perfect cross appears and this is known as the "Pope's Revenge".

We stopped for a snack in another of those delightful Berlin cafes complete with blankets on the outside chairs and carried on walking and attempted to get back to our hotel for a station near Checkpoint Charlie. A very helpful Berliner saw us studying our map actually when back down onto the tube station, travelled out of his way to put us back on the correct line. It is very important to pick up a DB BAHN map for the S+U-Bahn-Netz from any station opposed to relying on the small scale version reproduced in many tourist publications. The underground system is very efficient and there are only trams in the East Berlin.

Saturday was Valentines Day. Although there were a lot of flower sellers about and shops were full of Valentines gifts, it appeared that restaurants did not have special dinners at inflated prices that you would normally find in the UK and Ireland.

We started off with breakfast at Reinhards. Most people were having long breakfasts and they offered a choice of German, English, Australian and New York American. Those having breakfast were drinking a glass of champagne say we did as well.

The breakfast set us up well for the cold day ahead and like the day before was also bright and sunny. We walked down the Kurfürstendamm to the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche Memorial Church and then took the underground to visit the DDR Museum. Both our walking guide and the Independent feature suggested going there. It must be fairly new as it was not in the 1998 edition of the Rough Guide which proves, you do need to buy up to date guides when you go travelling.

The DDR Museum is quite small and portrays life in the former Democratic German Republic (GDR). You are encourage touching the exhibits, listening to the music and see the TV of the era and the largest exhibits are a typical apartment layout from a concrete slab housing estate and an original Trabi that you have to try and start.

We then moved onto the Berliner Dom, the catherdral and headed up towards the Reichstag. We had to queue for three quartes of an hour and it was cold. However oncwe you have got past the security, you are whisked up by lift to the roof abnd can walk around the glass dome desidneg by Sir Norman Foster. There are spectacular viws of the city from up there and of course as it is the Parliament and all citizens (and visitors) are welcome to see their Parliament working, trhere are no admission charges.

The evening ended with a nightcap at Reinhards and we caught the bus into Tegel airport in the morning. The journey takes about 30 minutes and like all the public transport we experienced was very inexpensive. Apparently most Berliners depend on it and approximately only a third actually own cars.

Overall the city See More.. has a lot of unemployment and unlike Munich, Brussels, London, Rome and other similar cities there are not lots of very expensive cars about. It did not seem too expensive staying in Berlin and eating and drinking. There are of course luxury style hotels and restaurants and there certainly appears to be an excellent selection about.

Berlin is a city that is very cold in winter and very hot in summer. The best time to visit is around April or late September. Enjoy your stay in Berlin, we did.

1 note · View note