Commentary: Noticing a different cultural behavior

When I opened the van door to step out in front of the Moscow Circus building, I almost put my feet right back inside.

Why?

There were bunches of kids purposely climbing the concrete steps with their parents and grandparents, and for a few seconds, I assumed that I would be surrounded all evening by shrieks and cries from toddlers to teens. Did I want that?

The circus is so popluar in Moscow that there are three different venues holding nightly shows.

Now don't get me wrong. I love children. Afterall, I taught for years. However, I LOVE behaved children in public, though, and lately at home, it has become trying to deal with the results of poor manners in public. I'm sorry to say that too many parents haven't a clue, and should know better. Besides, don't get me going on proper dress for special occasions either.

I was pleasantly surprised and happy that during the entire evening children behaved in a reasonable manner, conversed in normal voice tones with their families and dressed like it was an important night out.

The costumes were fabulous, and that included many changes, too.

Sure, the children had plenty of fun, too, with giggles and laughter since the Moscow Circus is well-known for its fantastic Las Vegas-like productions and entertaining clowns.

When Americans think of a traditional circus it includes tents, three-ring shows, acrobats and high-wire acts. Some of it is incorporated into the Russian circus, too. I wasn't too happy to see the dogs, tigers and lions appearing drugged, though, and put it out of my mind while I was there.

Truly, I had a blast, and I wolfed my carmel corn down like I hadn't eaten in days.

My seat was excellent and I had a good view of every act.

Live from Russia

You need a visa and a serious face to pass through Customs at the Russian border along with a measure of patience to handle the red tape (no pun intended) .

My visa is a single entry for 29 days, which I already obtained from the Russian Consulate in the US.

I wore red along with my tour mates to make a good impression at the border. Not a smile from the officer at the booth, nor a nod back to me as I stood in front of her.

My traveling agenda is five days in Saint Petersburg, easily the most majestic city anywhere, and Moscow for three days.

An iconic landmark in Saint Petersburg

With 6 million people, Saint Petersburg is crowded with citizens and tourists everywhere. There is no signage anywhere in English; however, most can speak well enough to engage with you.

Vodka warms the spirit and supposedly keeps the germs at bay. Who am I to argue? There is no proper time to drink vodka according to the Russians. I had my first shot at 10 am in a store (complimentary) while shopping. Yes, I made purchases, too, caught up in a grand mood.

Russia’s choice to offer

Winter is here without a doubt, and everyone is bundled up in parkas, scarves and hats. Russian drivers make New York City cab drivers look timid as they blow their horns and weave in and out of lanes.

Best rainy day photos

Before my enthusiasm dampened, I did manage to capture several pictures.