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| The Hermitage, St Petersburg
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Even though early entrance is given to Cruise ships, it was a bit of a surprise to find so many people in the main hall, all waiting to begin their tour. By the time we left, around noon, there were hundreds in the queue at one side and many hundreds more approaching from the main square. Although our guide was brilliant, there is absolutely no time to stop and stare at paintings or artefacts you would like to examine. It's quite awesome seeing how endless amounts of money can be spent producing a palace with 1057 rooms. The decadence takes your breath away and looking at the gilt and marble, not to mention the fabulous candelabras and wood block floors, just amazed me. Only the length of the queues and the inability to stay longer, spoilt it for me. The only way to see The Hermitage, probably the best museum in the world, is with a private guide and at your own time. This is at the moment impossible so we left feeling we had only seen the tip of the iceberg. The paintings are beyond price and the antiques beyond measure. It is a fabulous place in the true sense of the word.
This morning I feel, as I have felt since I arrived, really frustrated by the fact I cannot get off this ship unless on an excursion. I look longinly across the river where I see ordinary Russian people going about their ordinary days and I wish I could walk past the houses and get some feeling of what this city is really like. The only way to achieve this is to come again, next time with a Visa. Russia has a culture completely different from any other European country. It is enormous and with a history that is unlike any other. I have only tasted a little of it and am now fascinated to read more.
Today we sail again and tomorrow we are at see before arriving in Poland. I have reached the stage where I long to see my dogs again and of course, my little grandson and the rest of my family. That's just me. I have had a great experience and it has really opened my eyes. Talk more when I reach Poland. Hope this finds everyone well and enjoying a great weekend, hopefully warmer than here! E |
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Posted by overthehillandfaraway on 2008-06-22 02:57:44 | Rating: | Views: 60
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For see, read sea. Sorry, I didn't check and I'm running out of time on the internet.
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Posted by overthehillandfar...
on 2008-06-22 02:58:46
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Auntie E - we know what you mean!! LOL
Again a fantastic descriptive post, where I feel your frustration, but enjoy the imagery of a world so foreign to me. 1057 rooms, wow that would be tough to keep clean!
Poland next, excellent, i'm looking forward to it.
Hugs
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Posted by EasyToSay
on 2008-06-22 06:41:38
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The museum sounds huge and amazing. Museums are places where one could spend weeks and still find more to see and explore. When it comes to art I could be in the presence of a painting or sculpture, that catches my eye or speaks to my spirit, for hours. Could relate to your pangs of homesickness. Even when I'm having a fantastic time I deal with those feelings as well. Bring on Poland. Can't wait! Peace.
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Posted by ColoradoDreamin
on 2008-06-22 11:57:41
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As you know cruises give you a glimpse of places so you can return. That seems the case with Russia. I did a study abroad in the Czech Republic and Poland. I loved being there and I met some great people. I hope you enjoy it.
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Posted by prelude2it
on 2008-06-22 15:30:41
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sounds like you are getting homesick
but at least you are not seasick!
I cant wait to hear about Poland
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Posted by roe
on 2008-06-23 01:25:31
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