Archive for 'History'
Peril of the Ruble Posted by Jenya on Dec 23, 2014
Many of you have likely noticed that the Russian ruble has been in the news lately. The ruble decreased in value by 11 percent against the U.S. dollar on Monday, 15 December. In a matter of weeks it has dropped over 40 percent. According to the Moscow Times on Monday, the ruble is the world’s…
How to Drink Vodka with Russians Posted by Jenya on Dec 3, 2014
Because the holiday season is upon us, more and more alcohol will likely be consumed. Given that many people associate vodka with Russian people and culture, it seems like a good idea to say a little bit about it. This is my second blog this week about beer and spirits and it should be noted…
Odd Russian Behavior? Nyet Posted by Jenya on Nov 25, 2014
I suppose it can be said that every culture has its share of idiosyncrasies, and Russians are no exception. What follows are examples of how some Russian behaviors may seem odd to people elsewhere. I have been caught exhibiting some of these behaviors myself. What can I say?…You can take a girl out of Russia…
Why Some Men Want to Marry Russian Women Posted by Jenya on Nov 19, 2014
What makes Russian women desirable to so many men around the world? Sure, some possess the type of beauty that could make even supermodels jealous. They are typically very fashion-conscious and strive to look great even when going to the grocery store. Like with women everywhere, some have great personalities, some do not. Well, there…
What It Was Like to Be a 90s Kid In Russia – Part II Posted by Maria on Nov 6, 2014
Earlier this week we talked about growing up in Russia in the nineties. Many of you brought up things you remembered from your childhood in Russia or in other countries. It is always fascinating to see what things transcended borders and what things were more regional. Let us continue this week. Chewing Gum with Stickers/Inserts One…
Smiling: It’s a Russian Thing! Posted by Jenya on Nov 5, 2014
For those of you that have traveled to Russia, you may have noticed that Russians don’t seem to smile in public. Upon traveling there for the first time, my husband pointed this out and made some comment about people looking sullen. When you compare Russians to people living elsewhere, especially Americans, you could easily…
World War I and Russia Posted by Jenya on Nov 4, 2014
We are nearing the 96th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles which ended World War One – the Great War. World War I began after Arch Duke, Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary, was assassinated on 28 June, 1914, in Sarajevo by Yugoslav nationalist, Gavrilo Princip. Prior to the…