 |
| Irkutsk Coat of Arms |
Despite, being in deepest Siberia, Irkutsk
was a surprising wealthy and happening place. In the centre, there were a good
deal of trendy bars and cafes with fashionably dressed clientele.
During my limited time in Russia, there is
a decidedly anti-Obama feel to the place. I overheard his name mentioned as
people discussed current affairs, but it was also mentioned by the people I met, wishing to reassure themselves that Russia was taking the right path with
the Ukraine situation.
After the Russian tricolor, the Union Jack
was by far and away the most common flag on display. I saw it on t-shirts,
bags, and in shop windows.
The Eastern regions of Russia displayed
quite a cross section of ethnicities, and for the men, quite a cross section of
attractive women. Most people seemed relaxed and were probably reveling
in the last chance to enjoy outside dining before winter sets in. There was
certainly an icy blast on occasions.
 |
| Lenin |
From what I have read, a lot of the
industry in Irkutsk and other cities east of Moscow, originates from WWII when
the Soviets moved critical manufacturing out of the reach of the Nazi war machine. This
legacy remains today, with aircraft production amongst the industries which
offer employment.
 |
| Hustle and bustle |
 |
| Irkutsk train station |
No comments:
Post a Comment