Let me lead you through the streets of Moscow

by Anni Pelmeni

David asked in comments to one of my previous posts if there are lots of colors in Moscow during autumn.

Last weekend I was walking in the city and took pictures of colored autumn in Russian capital. My small report is here:  sunny and pretty. Enjoy with me!

by Anni Pelmeni

Today is Friday, and I'm thinking about plans for the weekends.  In such a big city like Moscow there is no lack of entertainment. But there is one activity that I especially like. It is fishing.

Fishing in Moscow is possible and it is quite a legal activity. Actually, it is possible to do fishing almost anywhere in Russia. There are few places where one needs to buy a license to fish, those are special breeding place. But over all you need a fishing-rod and good luck and you are all set to catch a fish in Russian rivers. No exams, no practical tests, no special training. What you do in your spare time with a fishing rod in a public space is your own business not controlled by any state acts. Well, as long as you are not stunning fishes with the dynamite which is a legal offense.

Fishing with a rod is a favourite leisure activity for many people regardless of age. People of Moscow also do not loose a hope to catch a fish or two in little ponds. Very early in the mornings those ponds are virtually crowed with somber men in low hats and deformed trench coats. Especially on the weekends, the number of fishmongers increases. Really, this is not a matter of providing food for Sunday dinner. It is rather a Zen exercise to find some harmony after a hectic week.

A genuine Moscow middle-age, middle-class inhabitant will rather spend his/her weekend fishing or on the dacha [oh dacha! it deserves a separate post!], instead of rushing Metro, vibrating cafes, or crowed performances. So you want to see the private sides of Moscow? Then wake up early at 4 am and head towards one of the small ponds in the sleeping quarters of Moscow. So many new discoveries there!