The Chelyabinsk region of Russia is located in both Europe and Asia. It is a place where East meats West. The region’s capital is traditionally known for its industry which grew rapidly in the Soviet era. However, there are still vast parts of the Chelyabinsk region that are still very far from the industrialized world. In some areas of Chelyabinsk there is a new tourism industry trying to get started. Here’s a fascinating report from Russia Today about the Chelyabinsk region and the beauties you can see there.

Video on YouTube

Link: Chelyabinsk Region (Oblast) at Wikipedia
Link: Chelyabinsk (capital city) at Wikipedia

Kvass is a fermented, mildly alcoholic, beverage made from rye bread that is popular in Russia. Sometimes called “Russian cola”, kvass is popular with people of all ages. The alcohol content in kvass is very low and considered acceptable for children. Kvass is often sold right on the street from mobile tanks. Here’s some photos of traditional kvass tanks.

Kvass is so popular that Coca-Cola is trying to get in on the market. Here’s a video from Russia Today about the soft drink giant’s attempt to start selling kvass.

Video on YouTube

Link: Kvass on Wikipedia
Shop: Gold Malt Kvas – 6 pack

Elena Marus, a student at the British Higher School of Art and Design in Moscow, gets lots of questions about Russia when talking with foreigners. As part of her graduate work, she decided to make a website to cover some of the most famous Russian symbols and stereotypes. The site takes a fun look at all the Russian classics such as samovars, vodka, matrioshka dolls, and even Russian brides. Elena’s site is fun and a great example of modern web design.

Russia Today recently interviewed Elena about her site.

Video at YouTube

Link: WOW Russia!

A baby mammoth was recently found in nearly perfect condition, frozen in the Russian permafrost. The mammoth was discovered by a reindeer breeder in the Yamalo-Nenetsk region. The mammoth has been named “Lyuba” after the wife of the man who found her. Click here to view video of the mammoth from BBC.

Link: Baby mammoth find promises breakthrough

It’s that time of year when the northern parts of Russia experience the phenomenon known as “white nights”. The best way to understand white nights is to experience it first hand. Giuseppe Bonetti has done us all a favor and posted some wonderful photos from St. Petersburg’s white nights so we all can experience this beautiful sight.

2.20 am (June 21, 2007): Playing with fire at the Palace Bridge, St Petersburg, Russia

2.40 am (June 21, 2007): Palace Bridge and Kunstkammer, St Petersburg, Russia

2:28 am (June 22, 2007): Trinity Bridge, St Petersburg, Russia

1.40 am (June 22, 2007): Palace Bridge and the Peter and Paul Fortress, St Petersburg, Russia

Recommended Book: The White Night of St. Petersburg