Large sporting events are often touted as a surefire way to improve an economy by creating jobs, bringing customers to a region, and boosting tax revenue. In reality, the costs often outweigh the benefits, with …
It would be an understatement to say that some people take football (or soccer to the uncultured) seriously. Wars have been fought because of the beautiful game, literally. Thus, it would seem that the worst …
When it comes to travel and food, I am all about the local dishes. But if you are in a country long enough, eventually, you will get a hankering for something different. In Russia, it …
The rusty Lada covered in tree branches, metal tube fixed to the hood, thundered down the oddly named 22 Parts’Yezda Avenue. A patriotic tune blared from its open windows, the hammer and sickle fluttering proudly …
I recently returned from a trip to the Caucasus, which included summiting Mt. Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe. As I haven’t had time to write anything thoughtful, here is some footage I shot while …
The elections in Russia are over, and to no one’s surprise Vladimir Putin has won another six-year term as president. I recently sat down in Moscow with Valya, a young activist, member of the LGBT …
On March 18th, Russia will hold presidential elections with the largest field of candidates since 2000. Seven opposition hopefuls ranging from avowed Stalinists to free-market reformers will go up against Putin in hopes of bringing …
“I heard all you have to do to vote for Putin is nod in front of the TV.” The comment was made by Andrei as we drove by a large billboard of Vladimir Putin urging …
It’s that time again when nationalistic fervor and kitsch uniforms are strangely appropriate, where a blond-haired and blue-eyed man holding a torch isn’t cause for alarm. Yes, it’s time for the Winter Olympics. And what …
Привет товарищи! It’s time to fly your red banners high and turn up L’Internationale because next week marks the 100th anniversary of “The Great October Socialist Revolution!” (November 7 according to Pope Gregory XIII and …