Moscow Musings: Damp Socks and Unexpected Kindness
okay, so. moscow. i’m still trying to process it, honestly. it’s…a lot. i landed, bleary-eyed and fueled by questionable airplane coffee, and immediately felt like i’d walked onto a film set. everything’s grand, imposing, a little bit grey. i just checked and it’s drizzling a persistent, clinging drizzle right now, hope you like that kind of thing. the kind that soaks through your shoes before you even make it to the metro. seriously, pack waterproof everything.
I was here scouting locations for a potential indie project - think moody, atmospheric, a little bit bleak - and the light is perfect for that. It’s that kind of overcast that makes everything look like it’s been filtered through a vintage lens. I’m hoping to find some interesting backdrops, maybe a crumbling factory or a forgotten courtyard. I’ve been checking out some local boards on TripAdvisor for hidden gems. Apparently, there’s a whole network of abandoned Soviet-era structures just outside the city. Spooky, right?
I’m staying in a tiny apartment near the Kitay-Gorod district. It’s…cozy. Let’s go with cozy. The building itself is gorgeous, all ornate carvings and peeling paint. My neighbors seem to be mostly elderly women who watch me with a mixture of suspicion and amusement. I think I accidentally woke one up when I was trying to figure out the heating system at 3 am. She gave me a look that could curdle milk.
Speaking of neighbors, if you get bored, St. Petersburg is just a high-speed train ride away. I’m thinking of taking a day trip next week. I need a change of scenery, and I’ve heard the Hermitage is incredible.
Food-wise, it’s been…interesting. I’ve mostly been eating pelmeni and borscht. It’s good, don’t get me wrong, but I’m starting to crave a salad. I did stumble upon a tiny cafe that makes amazing blini. Seriously, go find it. It’s tucked away on a side street near the Arbat. I overheard a couple of tourists raving about it - “best blini in Moscow!” they declared, with the kind of conviction only achievable after several glasses of vodka.
Someone told me that the metro is a must-see, and they were right. It’s like descending into a series of opulent underground palaces. Each station is decorated with mosaics, sculptures, and chandeliers. It’s absolutely breathtaking. Just be prepared for the crowds. It’s a madhouse down there, especially during rush hour. I almost got trampled by a group of school children.
I also got some drunk advice from a guy at a bar about avoiding certain areas at night. Apparently, there are a few neighborhoods where it’s best to stick to well-lit streets. He didn’t elaborate, but I took his warning to heart. I’m not looking for trouble.
Honestly, the best part of this trip so far has been the unexpected kindness of strangers. Despite the language barrier, people have been incredibly helpful and welcoming. A woman helped me navigate the metro when I was hopelessly lost, and a shopkeeper gave me a discount on a scarf because I looked “cold and sad.” It’s those little moments that really stick with you.
I’m still figuring out this city. It’s complicated, contradictory, and utterly captivating. I’ll keep you posted. Check out Yelp for some restaurant recommendations, if you're planning a trip. And maybe pack an extra pair of socks.
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