God, where to begin? This is easily the most stunning city I have seen. As a point of contrast, look at New York City.
Some might find this cityscape exciting. I know I did at one point. There’s so much texture. Here and there buildings stab into the sky. It’s a sensory overload as you try to find the start and end of each building.
But once you get past that, what is there? Everything is brown and grey, geometric, rigid, logical, boring. Regardless of which building you look at, you feel like you’re looking at the same thing. It’s no wonder people forget to look up. They could look up anywhere, but they know they’ll see nothing new.
Now look at Saint Petersburg.
Ain’t she beautiful? Aside from the regular tourist sites, you wouldn’t believe the precious spots I’ve found already. There’s a cat cafe called the Cat’s Republic. Sadly, it’s not internationally recognized, but the Cat’s Republic gives you a visa and a coin of their own currency regardless. I believe there is some purpose for it, but I’m going to keep it as a souvenir.
Ah and the other day, I stopped at a cosmonaut-themed Soviet cafe on Nevsky Prospect. It’s called Pyshki Place. The coffee came with condensed milk. Americans aren’t used to hearing that so it might sound scary, but it tasted delightful like an extra special coffee with cream and sugar. Hear that? Extra special. I didn’t say terrible. I had a cup of that coffee and a doughnut as well. The total price: 60 rubles, which is less than a $1. How’s that for a steal?
Yes, and as any young adult would, I have checked out a few bars. But bars are bars. When you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all. Perhaps that’s not true. I’m sure your mind is now constructing the most fanciful bar possible with glimmering lights and crystal chandeliers included. If I find something like that, I’ll let you know. For now, my experience is limited to a few pubs with cheap brews and craft beers.
So, there’s a little taste of Russia’s cultural center. I’ll be sure to keep you updated on my adventures. Пока!
He Who Wanders 
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