One of my observations worth noting was the stark contrast between the bustling city life of Saratov and the calm tranquility of Engels. The bustle and hustle of Saratov with its grand buildings and busy streets gave way to the serene beauty of Engels. A perfect illustration of Russia’s diverse landscapes.

“Мы все мыслим по-разному, но все живем под одним небом.” (“We all think differently, but we all live under the same sky.”) – A local I met in Engels told me this, and it resonates deeply with my travels.

During this journey, I crossed the mighty Volga River via the Saratov Bridge, the longest in Europe. As I crossed the bridge, I was greeted by a stunning view of the river. It was a moment of utmost tranquility, a stark contrast to the bustling city life I’d just left behind in Saratov.

My total journey so far has been 8947.1 kilometers, having visited the cities of Engels, Kalashnikov, Saratov, Engels, Pribrezhnyi. I have spent 303 days on the road, each day bringing a new adventure and a new perspective.

As I continue my journey, I am reminded of a local song I heard in Saratov: “Ой, мороз, мороз, не морозь меня, морозь моего коня.” (“Oh frost, frost, don’t freeze me, freeze my horse.”) This song, with its stark imagery and haunting melody, captures the harsh yet beautiful Russian winters.

And so, as I bid farewell to Engels and look forward to my next adventure, I leave you with a thought from Tolstoy: “Все, что я знаю, я знаю благодаря путешествиям.” (“Everything I know, I know thanks to travel.”)

Stay tuned for more tales from the road! До свидания and remember, wherever we are in the world, we all live under the same sky.

Firstly, Engels is home to a gem of Russian architecture, the Engels Estate. This grand house with its white walls and green roof is a sight to behold! In Russia, as they say, “Красота в простоте” (Beauty lies in simplicity).

Secondly, the city is known for its connection with Alexander Radishchev, a celebrated author and a forward-thinker of the 18th century. He challenged the societal norms and inspired generations. His famous work, “Путешествие из Петербурга в Москву” (Journey from Petersburg to Moscow), is a symbol of resistance and free-thinking.

A city that nurtures the beautiful and the bold. As the famous Russian composer, Rachmaninoff once said, “Музыка – это откровение выше, чем мудрость и философия” (Music is a revelation higher than wisdom and philosophy). Engels, in its own way, is that revelation.