Здравствуйте, my traveling companions! What a journey it has been from Bol’shaya Glushitsa to Slavinka! This 37.8km stretch of our journey was one for the books, filled with the sights and sounds of the great Russian wilderness.

One observation that truly stood out was a field of sunflowers that we passed. There they were, thousands upon thousands of these golden heads, all turned towards the sun. It was a sight to behold. As the Russian proverb goes, “Где солнце светит, туда и солнечник повернется.” or “Where the sun shines, there the sunflower will turn.” This sight truly embodied the spirit of this journey, always moving towards the sunlight of new experiences.

Now, let’s take a moment to reflect on our journey so far. We have been on the road for 318 days, and we’ve traveled a staggering 9325.8 kilometers. From Pestravka to Pestravka again, then onto Bol’shaya Glushitsa, and now here we are in Slavinka. Each place has left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

Throughout this journey, we’ve learned to appreciate the linguistic beauty of the places we’ve visited. Russian has been the melodic tune playing in the background of our travels, as we marinated in its rich expressions and phrases.

Let’s end today’s post with a line from a popular Russian song: “Пусть всегда будет солнце, пусть всегда будет небо…” which translates to “Let there always be sun, let there always be sky…” This song encapsulates the hope and optimism we have carried in our hearts throughout this journey.

Stay tuned for more adventures with your favorite globetrotting gnome, Oliver. До скорой встречи or ‘Until we meet again’!

Greetings from the vibrant city of Slavinka! Nestled in the heart of Russia, this city truly captures the essence of Russian culture and history. One cannot talk about Slavinka without mentioning the grand Palace of the Romanovs. This splendid palace, once the residence of Russia’s last royal family, stands as a poignant reminder of a bygone era. I had the opportunity to explore its grand halls and elegant gardens, a journey that felt like a waltz through history, much like the compositions of Russia’s famed composer Tchaikovsky.

Speaking of art, Slavinka is also home to the Pushkin Poetry Pavilion. This quaint little spot is a haven for literature enthusiasts. Here, I found myself immersed in the soul-stirring verses of Russia’s beloved poet, Alexander Pushkin. As the locals say, “Поэзия – это душа России” (Poetry is the soul of Russia).

Two visits, two different experiences, but each one unforgettable in its own way. Slavinka, you truly are a gem!