Policy change in blog - anonymous comments banned

Please replace the word "MOVIE" with "FORUM", and by forum I mean the internet as a whole, and specifically LJ. Over the weekend, some self-loathing troll decided to invade my blog and leave all kinds of misogynistic comments, all written as "anonymous." I've never censored any type of criticism toward me here - people have openly insulted my looks, clothes, mentality, life choices, etc., and I tolerate it for two reasons: (1) people are entitled to their opinions; and (2) freedom of expression is the only way to have open and productive discussions, facilitate changes in mentality, and progress societies as a whole. But I will no longer permit blatant misogyny here, directed toward all women in general.

All anonymous comments are now banned. I previously allowed them, but only after I screened them first. I don't have time to weed through dozens of sexist comments to find a diamond in the rough. If you wish to communicate with me, you will have to register as an LJ user to leave comments moving forward. Of all the comments left the past few days, nothing infuriates me more than the following:( Read more... )

Snapshot from Tatarstan

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...