Russia Trip - Magical in multiple ways

There are some trips that happen on one pretext, and end up being memorable for something quite the opposite. 

Russia was never on my bucket list. But watching a football world cup was, and that FIFA 2018 happened in Russia was the only reason we went to Russia. Small group and an unknown country, and with Jinesh and Akar around, things were naturally gonna be fun. Add Alps and Billoo and we had a quorum which was just right for a small group.

The flight was uneventful, and once in Moscow, we only marvelled at an unexpectedly clean city. We had an Airbnb in a very pleasant quarter of the city, right by the river and in an upscale building.

Yes, between three rooms, there was only one common bathroom, but that was a very small issue. Else, it was perfect. The interior of the house, very Russian, with floral wallpaper. And the location - in a residential area with upscale shops & dining options. 

We watched the Spain versus Russia game, and cheered the Russian team to victory, only because we wanted to see the celebrations on the streets and on the way out of the stadium. Our first WC match turned out to be great. Luckily, we even had the opportunity to book a table in a big arena where we saw two very thrilling matches, with high quality football on display. And then being able to visit some very scenic sights, including the Kremlin and the St Basil's cathedral at the Red Square. Yes, we didnt do more of the touristy stuff, but snuck along roads and lanes which were full of football enthusiasts, and that was good enough for us.

St Petersburg was a different experience for us. While Russian cities scare you, because the reputation of the Russian rules and the 'monarchy' precedes the visit, the experience was amazing. I remember telling everyone that St Petersburg rivals my experience in London and my desire to re-visit a place over and over - it was that good. The city is a museum on the streets. Vienna comes close, but this is quite simply enthralling.  

And it is dotted with multiple other attractions - from swanky nighclubs (which you can head to in cheap uber fares), to great cafes (one right next to our flat), serene parks (in which we lay our heads down and snoozed) to amazing churches - it has it all. The food scene was great - amongst other things, we had one of the best hot chocolates in all our trips here. The touristy thing wasnt bad either - seeing the bridges split up as ships pass through was simply out of this world. And the people - so very helpful. Donno if it was football that made these residents be on their best behaviour, but it was simply awesome to see Russian residents try and break the language barrier and help us.