Here we are in St Petersburg - no way David and I would have ever imagined we would ever be here . What a surprise , the weather is mild - jeans and a t- shirt. The city in more modern than we ever imagined. Today is the birthday of the city and we think a holiday - lots of people and traffic. We embarked on a guided tour with 30 other passengers . Meeting at 8.30 am in the lounge we continued through customs and continued on our coach to the highlights of St Petersburg . The academy of arts, the university, rostral
Colums and the church of our savior on spilled blood. Proceed past the Peter and Paul Fortress , the Winter Palace. The Bronze Horseman, the Palace Square, St Isacs Square and cathedral. A typical russian lunch in an old wealthy family home converted in to a restaurant. The meal was cabbage, pork then a course of vegetable soup and a main course of chicken something with rice and carrots . A glass of champagne and some vodka - a typical Russian meal ?
After eight hours we were tired and over churches and old building. Very pleased to have visited this country as don't believe we will return. All good impressed overall - a modern city - well dressed citizens. Visited the souvenir shop as directed by the tour guide Maria, while browsing the goods received a telephone call from Margaret. (Mamu) very pleased the hear of all the news at home . Purchased out obligatory fridge magnet and a set of russian dolls for Mamu. Also managed to smuggle a bottle of Russian vodka on to the ship.