June 07, 2021

Flooded with Fun


Flooded with Fun
Even though SUP surfing is becoming more common in Russia, it doesn't stop people from looking at you funny while doing it.  Photo by Andrea Junqueira via Unsplash

What do you do when your city experiences massive flooding and a sudden increase in summer-like temperatures at the same time? Grab your inflatable flamingo inner tube and hit the "beach," of course! 

This spring, heavy rainfall and melted ice both contributed to particularly strong flooding of the Yenisey River in Krasnoyarsk. Instead of staying away from the potentially dangerous rising water, as strongly suggested by police and government authorities, citizens have decided to take a more adventurous approach. 

Photos are circulating around the internet of citizens enjoying waterfront activities in the city. One particular individual decided to bring out his trusty inflatable flamingo, because why not?

Others chose to partake in stand-up paddleboarding (also known as SUP surfing), which is becoming an increasingly popular sport in Russia. Others just take regular inflatable boats out to enjoy the unusual scenery. 

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From the shores of the White Sea to Moscow and the Northern Caucasus, Russian Rules is a high-speed thriller based on actual events, terrifying possibilities, and some really stupid decisions.

93 Untranslatable Russian Words
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93 Untranslatable Russian Words

Every language has concepts, ideas, words and idioms that are nearly impossible to translate into another language. This book looks at nearly 100 such Russian words and offers paths to their understanding and translation by way of examples from literature and everyday life. Difficult to translate words and concepts are introduced with dictionary definitions, then elucidated with citations from literature, speech and prose, helping the student of Russian comprehend the word/concept in context.

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The story of the epic Spine of Russia trip, intertwining fascinating subject profiles with digressions into historical and cultural themes relevant to understanding modern Russia. 

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This mesmerizing novel from one of Russia’s most important modern authors traces the life journey of a selfless Russian everywoman. In the wake of the Soviet breakup, inexorable forces drag Vera across the breadth of the Russian empire. Facing a relentless onslaught of human and social trials, she swims against the current of life, countering adversity and pain with compassion and hope, in many ways personifying Mother Russia’s torment and resilience amid the Soviet disintegration.

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