I. My Story, Моя история

My eyes flashed open and I gasped for air. I slowly arose from my bed, wiping my forehead and neck, both damp with a thick layer of sweat. It was like a story, literally. I had just discovered the destination for my ultimate dream vacation. Although the chapters and content were missing, the imaginary title of the book provided a spark to my journey that awaited me...

My Dream Vacation

10 Shots, 10 Emotions, 10 Memories is how I plan on discovering my Russia. We all know this country is renowned for its premium vodka and as a UWO student this coincidentally served as an ideal inspiration for me. My idea is that each day of my vacation I'll capture a photograph drinking a vodka shot at a memorable landmark and that experience will reflect my emotions for that respective day. Just in case the alcohol gets to me, I have taken many shots (no pun intended). These 10 Shots, 10 Emotions, and 10 Memories will provide a thematic road map to my travelling adventures as I discover Russia to its absolute extent.

Cheers!

Austin

II. Prelude, прелюдия

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step"
~Lao Tzu~

Similar to a book, a prelude of a vacation is essential as it summarizes everything. As Tzu indicates, I must begin with a single step. My starting point for this dream vacation will be mapping out the logistics...


Potential Graduation Present?
This dream vacation will hopefully take place in a couple years after I complete my undergraduate education. It'll be a 10 day adventure as I don't want to shortchange myself. This journey will occur in the peak of the winter (February) as the sleeping giant of Russia comes alive in this absolutely magical season (I'll definitely invest in a Ushanka). There'll be no better time to explore one of the most mysterious and fascinating countries in the world then at this point. I'll presumably not be employed (the economy sucks) and already be buried in tremendous student debt, so why not dive into this once in a lifetime adventure? Thinking about it, I probably won't have another opportune time to put everything on hold and enjoy Russia to its fullest magnitude.

Basic Facts about the Russian Climate

Why Russia?

It's simple, why not? Although it's the largest country by land mass and notoriously known for being plagued with corruption, crime, and violence, you may wonder what's my rationale? In a nutshell, Russia compliments my unique personality as noted by my friends and parents in my "About Me" section. It also offers 10 Shots, 10 Emotions, and 10 Memories that'll be irreplaceable for the rest of my life!

Father-Son Adventure:
After carefully reviewing all my potential travelmates, my decision was made. The obvious choice was my father as he compliments me as an individual and craves adventure, excitement, and new experiences. My father recently retired and has been obsessed with travelling the world ever since. Since both of us have never visited Russia, yet ironically have historical roots there (my dad's father lived in Lanovits, Russia) I knew that he would be my true partner in crime if he could wait a couple years. The two of us won't be rocking tees and bathing suits in a tropical island as illustrated below, but rest assured we'll be prepared for the cold climate of Russia, as after all we do live in Canada!

My Father and I Basking in the Sun (We always travel together!)

Brief Itinerary:
Although I'm not the type of individual that meticulously maps out there trip ahead of time and decides how long or what they're going to see in a specific place. Due to Russia's enormous size and coupled with its perceived image of crime, I've decided that doing so would serve us best. I've determined that this 10 day dream vacation will commence in the capital and most populous city of Russia, Moscow. My father and I will stay there for 4 nights and visit several historical sights, museums, and other key tourist landmarks. From Moscow we will travel South via the high-speed railway train to the beautiful and majestic city, St. Petersburg, for the remainder of the trip. While in St. Petersburg we'll visit two touristy and popular towns, Petergof and Pushkin. Now turn the page to the first chapter and join my father and I on this thrilling journey!

A Sketch of My Dream Vacation

Cheers!

Austin

III. Chapter 1: A Shot of Satisfaction, Выстрел из Удовлетворенность

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page" 
~St. Augustine~

Well, according to St. Augustine the world is a metaphor to a book and from this page forward I warmly welcome only true explorers to join me on this remarkable journey of Russia. The 1st day of this vacation will be lost to travelling, but the excitement and enthusiasm that we'll build up will be tremendous. My father and I will be travelling via airplane on a direct flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to the Moscow Domodedovo Airport (DME). I made sure to fly Air Canada as it's a reputable airline, but most importantly because they offer complimentary movies to passengers which will be very useful on a 10 hour flight! Speaking of a 10 hour flight, we'll be touching Russian soil at 9:00 AM, but wait, we forgot to take into account the time difference (UH-oh Jet Lag!). Our watches need to be set forward 8 hours as the local time is 5:00 PM. Nevertheless, we've officially landed in Russia and it's time to celebrate as we take our first alcoholic shot at the airport bar. This experience will signify our SATISFACTION as we've finally arrived. This shot will also be accompanied by the backdrop of the Russian national anthem...

We'll then collect our baggage and take a private, pre-arranged limousine to the Kempinski Hotel Baltschung Moscow Luxury Hotel. This lavishing hotel is in close proximity to several popular tourist attractions and is frequently of host to numerous celebrities. As this is my dream vacation I only want the best and remember I embrace the motto YOLO (You Only Live Once). After hotel check-in, we'll eventually crash due to the jet lag as we want to be fully rested for our first big day ahead of us!

Unbelievable Reviews and Ratings!

Cheers from Moscow!

Austin

A Shot of Satisfaction

IV. Chapter 2: A Shot of Euphoria, Выстрел из Euphoria

"Explore, Discover, Dream"

~Mark Twain~

After a peaceful sleep the adventure will begin. We'll take Mark Twain's advice and start exploring, discovering, but instead of dreaming, we'll start witnessing and experiencing. Our 1st stop will be the Red Square which is a key historical landmark and a staple to any Russian vacation. At the Red Square we'll visit Lenin's tomb (I'm a history buff) and we'll also visit the archaeologically brilliant department store, GUM, to pick up sentimental souvenirs for friends and family.

Lenin's Tomb (SPOOKY)

Department Store, GUM

In the afternoon, we'll continue this historical themed day by visiting the marvelous sites of the Saint Basil's Cathedral (ranked 2nd best attraction in Moscow by tripadvisor) and the Kremlin.

Saint Basil Cathedral (Imagine this in the Winter!)

The President`s Residence

At this point we would've seen enough for today and are ready for our 1st celebratory shot. This is symbolic as I will not only take this shot in front of Lenin's Tomb with my imaginary political idol, but it reflects my initial feelings of EUPHORIA in this magnificent country.

Cheers from Moscow!

Austin   

A Shot of Euphoria

V. Chapter 3: A Shot of Divinity, Выстрел из Божественности

"Traveling regulates imagination by reality"

~Samuel Johnson~

Chapter 3 of this adventure will be a spiritual and busy day as we'll visit many remarkable sights. Including the Tretyakov Gallery in the Lavrushinsky Lane, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, and the New Maiden Convent and Cemetery.

Tretyakov Gallery (Treasurers of Art)

Cathedral of Christ (Breathtaking Experience)

New Maiden Convent (Rated 4.5/5)

     
At the art gallery we'll pay an extra fee so that we're allowed to capture photographs, remember I take tons of shots! At the famous Cathedral that was recently rebuilt we'll take a private tour that I booked ahead of time to receive the whole experience. Finally, at the 16th century Convent and Cemetery that fantastically displays characterful sculptures which memorializes ballerinas, authors, poets, and politicians we'll roam the beautiful snow-covered gardens.

Samuel Johnson proclaims "seeing is believing" and ultimately this dream vacation allows my imagination to turn into reality. I have dreamed, read, and viewed pictures of these sights, but the opportunity to roam the grounds and feel the serenity in person truly stimulates all my senses. Remember that traveling is not just about historical sights and landmarks. It's the emotions, memories, and feelings that you gain. Speaking of that, I think it's time for round 2. I'm going to take this shot at a local Moscow bar to receive the entire cultural experience. I will toast this shot as an act of DIVINITY in light of my religious and breathtaking day of travel.

Cheers from Moscow!

Austin

A Shot of Divinity

VI. Chapter 4: A Shot of Culture, Выстрел культуры

"If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion, and avoid the people, you might better stay at home"

~James Michener~

WOW! This is already our last day of Moscow before we head south. We've already seen and experienced so much, so for our last day in Moscow (with the exception of the elegant Ryabushinksy Mansion) it'll be an open ended and non-structured day. This will allow us to take James Michener`s words of advice and simply dive into Russian culture firsthand. We`ll experience Russian delicacies, customs, and of course premium vodka!

Bright and early in the morning we`ll take a step back into the 1930`s and travel to the stunning, state of the art Ryabushinsky Mansion. This is an extraordinary illustration of art noveau architecture.

Maxim Gorky`s Mansion

After accomplishing everything we had scheduled for today, we`ll start exploring and discovering on our own path. Since I`m a massive foodie and quite adventurous, the menu for today will feature some classic Russian dishes...

1. Russian Borscht (Local Culinary Classic - Savoring!)
2. Blinis (Like American Pancakes - Delectable!)
3. Piroggis (Fried to Perfection - Not Healthy, But I`m On Vacation!)
4. Caviar (Expensive and Salty!) 

To learn how to make borscht soup so you can try it out, check this informative video out...

Finally, everything will be coated with a smooth shot of Vodka. Our shot will be taken at the best restaurant in Moscow, Les Menus, with the lead chef Pierre Gagnaire. It`ll resemble the unforgettable CULTURE that we've been exposed to thus far on my dream vacation.

Cheers from Moscow!

Austin

A Shot of Culture

VII. Chapter 5: A Shot of Exhilaration, Выстрел из Exhilaration

"Every exit is an entry somewhere else" 

~Tom Stoppard~

Our journey in the capital is officially coming to an end, but as Tom Stoppard indicates this exit is an entry to somewhere else. My father and I will take the 7:00 AM high-speed railway train to Saint Petersburg. I booked the Sapsan Train as it`s the fastest train available and only takes 4 hours between the two cities (driving takes over 9!). 

Come join me on this speedy ride...

We`ll be arriving in Saint Petersburg at roughly 11:00 AM which gives us the entire day to start discovering the 2nd largest city in Russia. The itinerary for today will include a panoramic city tour which visits the Peter and Paul Fortress (this was the 1st building in Saint Petersburg), the majestic St. Isaac`s Cathedral (4th largest dome in the world), and the Church on Split Blood. 

The Stunning Peter and Paul Fortress

St. Isaac`s Cathedral (Largest Russian Orthodox Cathedral)

    

The Unique Church on Split Blood

To cap this day off we`ll be taking our daily shot in a bar on the Nevsky Prospect which is the main avenue and one of the most famous streets in all of Russia. This will be a shot of EXHILARATION as Saint Petersburg has and will continue to excite us!

The Nevsky Prospect (The Main Street in Saint Petersburg)

But wait, because of all this excitement we almost forgot to find a hotel for the night. Our hotel for our stay in Saint Petersburg will be the 5-star, luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace. Although expensive, it`s a magnificent 19th-century royal palace that simply defines pure perfection and opulence.

State of the Art Accomodations

Cheers from Saint Petersburg!

Austin

A Shot of Exhilaration

VIII. Chapter 6: A Shot of Royalty, Выстрел из Роялти

"We should come home from adventures, and perils,  and discoveries every day with new experience and character"
~Henry David Thoreau~

Our 2nd day in Saint Petersburg will be dedicated to a journey to the stunning and colorful Catherine Palace which is situated in the touristy town of Pushkin.

Catherine Palace (Witnessing Imagination)

This lavishing palace has simply been described as incredible and magnificent according to many past tourists and close friends of mine (ranked 4th best attraction in Saint Petersburg). As a matter of fact it's been visited by Bill Clinton, Sting, Tina Turner, and other top celebrities (you can include my dad and I now). Also, Elton John actually held a concert here in 2001. Although this attraction is roughly 45 minutes away from our hotel, my father and I will commute via taxi (remember we crave adventures). Our specific route is illustrated below...

Our Hotel to Catherine Palace

Finally, our shot today will be taken inside the Catherine Palace (hopefully we don`t get in trouble) in honor of the absolute ROYALTY it's clearly associated with!

Cheers from Saint Petersburg!

Austin

A Shot of Royalty

IX. Chapter 7: A Shot of Extravagance, Выстрел из Экстравагантность

"Adventure is worthwhile"

~Aristotle~

Thank you Aristotle for simply understanding who I am and what I love. Anyway, this day will be spent at the #1 attraction in Saint Petersburg, the absolutely breathtaking State Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace. Although we could spend 3 weeks here or maybe longer, due to time constraints we'll have to settle for the day. Plus, in the winter months we can expect that it won't be as busy (I despise crowds). In preparation for this eventful day, the night before we would've planned out particular art pieces that we'd like to see, such as: the Peacock Clock, the Red Figure Vase, and much more!

To get a more accurate illustration of this historical landmark, refer to the video below...

It's that time of the day again folks. This shot will be taken at this glorious museum and palace to mark a day filled with pure EXTRAVAGANCE. Although we only have a few days left remaining in this trip, it feels like everyday is filled with more and more pleasant surprises and wonderful memories.

Cheers from Saint Petersburg!

Austin

A Shot of Extravagance

X. Chapter 8: A Shot of Serenity, Выстрел из Serenity

"We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open"

~Jawaharal Nehru~

Wow, it's already the 2nd last day of my ultimate dream vacation (I didn't count the last day as it's lost to travel). Time flies, but my memories will last forever and I definitely won't forget this memorable day ahead of me. As Jawaharal Nehru indicates, adventures always exist and if we keep our eyes open then we'll experience this wonderful world filled with beauty and charm.

In the early morning we'll take a taxi to the touristy town, Peterhof (Petrodvorets), which is approximately 1 hour Southwest of our hotel. The map below outlines the route...

Our Hotel to Peterhof

Upon arrival at Petergof, we'll visit Saint Petersburg State University (I want to compare it to UWO), the Petrodvorets Watch Factory, and of course the opulent Peterhof Grand Palace. I always find it fascinating to visit foreign state Universities and to imagine myself attending that school. Also, as a watch enthusiast the opportunity to visit one of the leading Russian watch manufacturers presents a once in a lifetime opportunity that I simply won't miss. But the true highlight of this journey will be visiting the Peterhof Grand Palace which is a piece of art in itself. At the luxurious palace we'll walk the grounds (winter doesn't phase me) and feel the vitality!

What would it be like if I was a student at SPSU?

An Intricate Design at the Petrodvorets Watch Factory

The Peterhof Grand Palace is also known as the "Russian Versaille"

This was a long and tiring day, but there's still one last thing left on the itinerary. It's SHOT TIME! Today,  my father and I will take this shot outside of the Grand Palace. This shot resembles SERENITY as the peace of mind I'll be in after today will be incredible.

Cheers from Saint Petersburg!

Austin

A Shot of Serenity

                                                 

XI. Chapter 9: A Shot of Pleasure, Выстрел из Удовольствие

"All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware"

~Martin Buber~

This is the last true day of my vacation as tomorrow will be lost to travel. After witnessing countless historical landmarks and tourist attractions, today will be exclusively dedicated to discovering and exploring. It won't be influenced by travel brochures, past tourist testimonials, or an itinerary. My father and I will simply walk and explore. We'll search for secret destinations and make Martin Buber proud.

Our 1st stop on our adventure will be at some local souvenir shops. Since it's our last day in Russia we'll pick up sentimental souvenirs to bring back home for friends and family. I'll purchase fashionable Russian scarves for my sisters and mother. For my friends I will purchase military paraphernalia and classic Russian literature.

Stylish Russian Scarves (Hopefully My Mother and Sisters Like Them)

An Assortment of  Souvenirs (Expensive)

After souvenir shopping, we''ll grab lunch at the popular fast food chain, Tepemok. I'll order the Blinis (similar to American pancakes) as they're absolutely mouth-watering and savory and I know this from trying them in Moscow. I'm also going to try the Buckwheat Porridge with Cabbage Salad as it's a classic Russian dish that my grandfather always eats and because my middle name is adventurous, remember?

Check Them Out on Facebook

To finish this marvelous day off, we must take a shot. This time around, the shot will be symbolic to the notion of PLEASURE as up until this point that's all that we've encountered.  

Cheers from Saint Petersburg!

Austin

A Shot of Pleasure

XII. Chapter 10: A Shot of Memories, Выстрел из воспоминаний

"The future belongs to whose who believe in the beauty of their dreams"

~Eleanor Roosevelt~

Eleanor Roosevelt took the words right out of my mouth. The future is within yourself and imagination, you just need to act on it. Dreams are fantasy until you turn them into reality. At the beginning of this book I woke up in a deep sweat understanding what my ultimate dream vacation was. Now it's up to yourself to figure out what your dreams are and act accordingly. I can ensure you though that the future is promising if you chase your dreams.

On a different note, this is our last day of travelling. I've booked the morning direct flight back home from DME to YYZ. Due to a very limited number of airplanes travelling from Moscow to Toronto, I couldn't be as selective with which airline I opted for this time around. I'll be taking the Russian airline, Transaero, back home with my father.

My Father and I (Perfect Travelmates)

On the airplane home, I'll tabulate my total expenses so I know how much to declare at customs roughly. Don't get scared I know it's a lot (~$3875 and if we included airfare it would be ~$6475), but remember that I can potentially convince my dad that this is a graduation present, but if not, I might as well add it to my existing student debt. Regardless, I received a huge bargain as this 10 day trip was worth way more to me than any monetary value. The breakdown of the costs are as follows...

1. Hotel and Accommodations (only the best!) = ~$2500
2. Travel (not including airfare) = ~$400
3. Drinks and Food = ~$500
4. Souvenirs = ~$75
5. Private Tours, Admission Fees, Excursions = ~$400
6. Memories = Priceless 

Speaking of expense #6, although it was priceless it was the best investment made. Memories are something I definitely received throughout this vacation and I'll remember for the remainder of my life. As I'm getting a little bit emotional here, I'm going to call the stewardess over to bring 2 shots of vodka for my father and I. We'll drink and reminisce about our unforgettable MEMORIES. The 10 keywords of my trip are illustrated below...

Cheers from the Sky!

Austin

A Shot of Memories

  

XII. References, ссылки

References (in chronological order):

1) Russian Flag -> http://russia.adoption.com/foreign/russia-flag.html

2) Russian Winter -> http://doberman4ik.deviantart.com/art/Classical-russian-winter-75289387

3) 1st Map -> https://maps.google.ca/maps?ie=UTF-8&gl=ca&daddr=St+Petersburg,+Russia&saddr=Moscow,+Russia&panel=1&f=d&fb=1&dirflg=d&geocode=Kcmw1HP8SrVGMUzPV1fM1kQ9%3BKe1lSseMN5ZGMf-OhKs_Z8dt

4) Hotel -> http://famouswonders.com/moscow-luxury-hotels/

5) Lenin's Tomb -> http://www.richard-seaman.com/Travel/Russia/Moscow/Highlights/index.html

6) Department Store -> http://www.cityknown.com/Cities/Shopping.aspx?BusinessID=275

7) Saint Basil Cathedral -> http://famouswonders.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/st-basils-cathedral.jpg

8) Kremlin -> http://worldofwar.incgamers.com/2012/10/ural-steel-20-lashes-of-a-noob-in-russia/kremlin/

9) Tretyakov Gallery -> http://about-eastern-europe.com/tretyakov-gallery-galeria-de-arta-tretyakov/

10) Cathedral of Christ -> http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Russia-Moscow-Cathedral_of_Christ_the_Saviour-6.jpg

11) New Maiden Convent -> http://www.bestrussiantour.com/daily_tours/novodevishy_monastery

12) Ryabushinksy Mansion -> http://thatswhenireachformyrevolver.wordpress.com/2010/04/03/ryabushinsky-mansion/

13) Peter and Paul Fortress -> http://www.saint-petersburg.com/virtual-tour/peter-paul-fortress/

14) St. Isaac's Cathedral -> http://www.saint-petersburg.com/cathedrals/st-isaacs-cathedral.asp

15) Church on Split Blood -> http://www.saint-petersburg.com/virtual-tour/church-of-savior/

16) Nevsky Prospect -> http://www.saint-petersburg.com/virtual-tour/nevsky-prospect/

17) Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace -> http://press.fourseasons.com/stpetersburg/hotel-news/preview-the-superbly-restored-four-seasons-hotel-lion-palace-st.-petersburg/

18) Catherine Palace -> http://cruises.about.com/od/northerneuropeancruises/ss/pushkin_3.htm

19) 2nd Map -> https://maps.google.ca/maps?q=google%20maps&rlz=1C1DVCJ_enCA498CA498&aq=f&um=1&hl=en&biw=1241&bih=606&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=il

20) 3rd Map -> https://maps.google.ca/maps?q=google%20maps&rlz=1C1DVCJ_enCA498CA498&aq=f&um=1&hl=en&biw=1241&bih=606&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=il

21) Petrodvorets Watch Factory -> http://personal.vu.nl/e.i.motchenkova/

22) Watch -> http://www.autosoviet.altervista.org/autosoviet-watchcollection.htm

23) Peterhof Grand Palace -> http://www.saint-petersburg.com/peterhof/grand-palace.asp

24) Russian Scarves -> http://lizblair.blogspot.ca/2009/03/russian-folk-scarves-are-work-of-art.html

25) Souvenirs -> http://www.inyourpocket.com/russia/st-petersburg/Shopping-in-St-Petersburg/gifssouvernirs/Onegin-Art-Gallery-souvenirs-and-paintings_9418v

26) Tepemok -> http://wikigogo.org/ru/25140/


*Photos Not Referenced are Personal Images