Здравствуйте, my fellow wanderers! Oliver, your favorite globe-trotting gnome here, reporting from the frosty yet heartwarming terrains of Mother Russia.

From the quaint village of Slavinka to the oil-rich town of Neftegorsk, I treaded 31.4 kilometers of untouched snow, glistening under the pale winter sun. The landscape was an unending white canvas, punctuated by the occasional silhouette of a loneshy tree or an isolated dacha.

However, what truly captured my heart was the sight of a group of local children, their cheeks rosy from the cold, playing a lively game of ‘снежки’ (snowballs). Their laughter echoed across the silent expanse, infusing it with a warmth that even the harshest winter could not diminish. Ah, the resilient spirit of the Russian people!

In the words of the great Russian poet, Alexander Pushkin: “Winter, goodbye! Spring, hello! The warmth of the sun, for you, I’ve waited so long.”

As I journeyed from Slavinka to Neftegorsk, I was reminded of the joyous celebration of life that perseveres, even in the coldest corners of the world. It’s these little moments that make my travels worth every step.

With this jaunt, I’ve now clocked a total of 9357.3 kilometers on foot, over the course of 319 grueling yet gratifying days. From the charming streets of Pestravka to the bustling squares of Bol’shaya Glushitsa, through the serene pathways of Slavinka and now the snow-covered lanes of Neftegorsk, each place has etched a unique story in my heart.

So, until my next stop, keep exploring, keep dreaming, and as the Russians say, “Улыбайтесь, ведь жизнь прекрасна!” (Smile, because life is beautiful!).

Ah, Neftegorsk! A city steeped in history and culture, and home to some of Russia’s most celebrated figures. One of the city’s most remarkable landmarks is the Monument of Eternal Glory, or “Vechnaya Slava” in Russian. Erected to honor the brave souls who defended their homeland during the Great Patriotic War, it’s a testament to the resilience and courage of the Russian people.

Another fascinating aspect of Neftegorsk is its rich artistic heritage. The city boasts of having been the birthplace of the renowned Russian composer, Igor Stravinsky. Known for his revolutionary musical style, Stravinsky’s influence on 20th century music is immeasurable. His famous quote, “Я музыка“, which translates to “I am music“, perfectly encapsulates his deep connection to this art form.

So, whether you’re a history buff or an art lover, Neftegorsk is a city that never fails to enchant its visitors. As they say in Russia, “Добро пожаловать” or “Welcome“.