Snapshot from Tatarstan

[peacetraveler22]

I don't know much about the Tatars, but I began to go through old photos I took in Kazan last year and noticed I have a lot of shots of locals walking the streets. I guess their appearance is highly unusual to me, even exotic to some extent. Here's just one example. About this girl (woman?), I know nothing, but find her intriguing. :)

What do I need to know about the Tatars, and this Republic of Russia? My host in this city spoke very little English, so it was difficult to learn a lot about the region from the native showing me around. Please share any interesting facts or insights. I struggle to understand why cities like Kazan are so much nicer than other parts of Russia? Is it because the region is rich in oil, and has more resources? Kazan is now my second favorite city, only Peter is more aesthetically pleasing. Both have very friendly locals, and Kazan has more English speakers than any other city I've visited. I guess because there are so many young students there, but it makes navigation in the city much easier for a foreign tourist like me...

Comments

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

I visit Russia for the exact reasons you state - because it's a complex and interesting country, and I'm never bored there. In travel, I like to experience new sensations, be exposed to different mentalities and customs, and try to make sense of it all. :) For an American, Russia is exotic on many levels, but I've been there so many times the past few years, that it's time to move onward to other interesting places. After Georgia, I want to go the "stan" countries. Not sure which one I'll pick first...probably Uzbekistan. I'm very much a free-spirit, and yes, a butterfly to a certain extent. I don't like to be caged, and prefer to roam about...I write about music a lot in this blog. It's my second greatest passion after travel. Here's my main post on the topic - http://peacetraveler22.livejournal.com/32708.html.

[zx-ready.livejournal.com]

Oh, thanks! It explain a lot))
Like almost all Russians, I prefere Britons. But I eat music by megatones for decades, so know much about American music too. Up to The Carpenters and Andrews Sisters. I maybe only guy here who listen Tom Petty and John Mellencamp.
So you walks on rocky roads for life - good, I like it)) Thx for response, shiny, just don't drink much in Georgia - local wine kicks like a mule!

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

You're welcome! Visit the blog more often. :)