Another chance to see...

A few months ago, I wrote a review of a documentary called "Russia's Toughest Prison" (article). It's been shown again on the BBC and they've put it back online, here, until 22nd May. Worth a watch if you get the chance.

Two sides to every coin.

Russia Today reports that an organisation called For Security is calling for special cyber police to crack down on internet trolls.

As a part of this, the suggestion is to fine anyone who creates a social network page using a false name (about £7 - £30) and is a way to stop cyberbullying.

VKontakte - Russia's equivalent of Facebook

This is all very commendable, but

Thinking of emigrating?

Russia Today summarises findings of a survey by the Levada Centre which says that the percentage of Russians wanting to emigrate is at a historic low.

The poll says that a surprisingly low 9% of Russians "are having thoughts of emigrating" while 81% "have never thought of uprooting to another country".

However, a survey from the same pollsters two years ago

Dances with Wolves

The day started a lot like any other… well, maybe not. It was Tuesday – the only day I had morning lessons so the only day I got up early. 8.30am and it’s for 45 minutes. Bugger! Following the normal Tuesday pattern, with the lesson finished, I was off to the internet café.

Let me take you back further. I took a Lincoln City hat with me. It was a black ski-hat with the team name in red italics. I'd lost it about three months ago – I even knew when… the night we all went to Igor’s workplace to see how he makes neon signs. After that, never seen again until…

Recipe: Solyanka (soup)/ солянка

One of the culinary delights in Russia is the range of soups and this one is one of my favourites. It's meaty and rich... and delicious.

 

 Here's a recipe (in near industrial quantities)...

Love is...

a Turkish brand of bubble gum that was hugely popular in the former USSR countries in the 1990s and is still available in Russia today.

Up in smoke

As widely reported, a fire in a shopping centre in Kazan, Tatarstan, Russian has killed 14 people, with more bodies likely to be found.

Photo: BBC

Reuters say that the cause could be arson, but, according to the President of Tatarstan, that the managers hadn't complied with safety regulations. This reminds me of a couple of things from my time in Russia.