Not quite as I had left my main suitcase in Moscow waiting for my return to the hotel, how to get it home to me? First stage was to get it out of the hotel and my dear friend Roman took charge of it and kept it at home with him whilst we tried to find a way for it to be returned. As I am writing this, I hope that it is finally on the way back to me …will write more when it is home safe and sound.
Finally, what were the things that I can take from the trip?
Finally, what were the things that I can take from the trip?
- I saw some spectacular scenery and had some wonderful unforgettable experiences along the way. Much more than I was expecting and was something that will last with me for many years. The trip was a dream but the reality was much more.
- I had the privilege to meet some fascinating and wonderful people, some of whom have kept in touch and our friendship has been cemented.
- I learnt a lot about other cultures and belief systems and how these are embedded in Russia and their historical part in the development of the country and region in addition to the connection to other independent countries connected to Russia.
- Understanding myself, my inner soul and emotions was a surprise to me, mostly as an effect of isolation during the trip and realising that I am very comfortable in my own company. I also easily coped with the stresses and pressures of taking such a trip , the extreme weather and also the energy required to visit all the scheduled places even when I was physically and mentally tired.
- I also understood that sometimes you have to rely on others to make decisions for you in specific circumstances. Mel did a wonderful job of getting me home and making important decisions with love and caring.
- The strength of my friendships with my long-standing Russian friends was reinforced and the caring nature of those true friends is something that I treasure.
- The trip strengthened my keenness to travel when it is possible back to the Russian Far East, revisiting Khabarovsk and Vladivostok and then travel up the Pacific coast to finally visit Kamchatka
- My very short time in Tashkent has heightened my interest in visiting Uzbekistan and possibly other Caspian countries as well (on my original bucket list).
