Ekaterinburg, The Russian Federation From the airport Koltsovo International Airport (SVX) is about 16km SE of the city.  The most efficient way into the centre of Ekaterinburg is by bus.  There’s a bigger bus, the #1, and a smaller mini-bus which is #01.  #01 is more expensive, 100 roubles, plus

Do you have a garden with plants and flowers?  Or is your outdoor area paved and concreted? Or maybe you live in a flat and don’t have a garden at all.  Maybe you have a balcony garden, or only indoor plants, like I have. One thing (of many!) I love

I was 16 years old before I ever saw or rode in a tram.  That’s because I grew up in Perth, Western Australia.  Trams operated in Perth from 1899 to 1958.  I was born in 1967, so they were long gone before I was born. So, the first time I

Recently, Olivier and I went to a very unusual museum.  It’s called the Museum of Industrial Culture.  What does that name conjure up for you?  Industrial machinery?  Business/office machines?  Machines for the home? Well, to be honest, I didn’t know what to expect. So, we set off one Saturday to

First of all, a little language lesson. The following pictures are: crisps – in British English (potato) chips – in American English (potato) chips – in Australian English And then we have: chips – British English French Fries – American English (hot) chips or French Fries – Australian English For

Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russia From the airport I’ve only arrived in Kazan by train, which is conveniently located in the centre of town, so I can’t be 100% sure of the airport arrival information I’m about to give you. Kazan International Airport (KZN) is 30km to the southeast of

Have you had the pleasure of the Russian shashlik experience?  Shashlik is a barbecue, but maybe a little different than you’re used to. Click on the links below to go directly to any section.  Or just read the article all the way through from the beginning! When can I eat

In part one of our 5 Minute Guide to Moscow we found out about airport transfers, hotels and public transport, shopping and sight-seeing.  In part two we’re going to look at parks and squares, and the Kremlin. Parks and squares Moscow has many beautiful green areas in the centre and