Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
times, are usually not signposted and tend to be located in basements and courtyards,
but if you stumble across one you'll usually be very welcome to partake. Experiences
don't come much more local than this one. Likewise, the local equivalent to a pub is
the
ryumochnaya,
where traditionally an all-male clientele knocks back glasses of
vodka and nibbles on dried fish. While generally dark and uninviting places, there's
nothing to stop you visiting one, and recently there has been a spate of fashionable
conversions of old Soviet-era
ryumochnaya
into modern, inviting and cool places to
come and enjoy a drink or two, where women will feel comfortable, and which even
serve drinks beyond vodka.
See How Locals Really Live
If you really want to get out and see how the majority of locals live, then hop on the
metro and head to any of the end stations on almost any line - you'll find yourself
emerge into Soviet neighbourhoods that look quite different to anything you'll see in
the centre. While not beautiful, they can be interesting to walk around to get a sense
of daily life for millions. Try getting out at Ozerki, Kupchino, Avtovo or Leninsky
Prospekt.
