Russian Wedding

Last week, I attended a wedding in Sochi.  Russian weddings last two or even three days.  The first day the bride and groom had a civil ceremony at ZAGS and afterwards had their photos taken at the nearby fountain and several other places around the city.

Later on, they made their appearance at the restaurant where the reception was held.  When they arrived, Pavel and Alexandra were presented with a tradtional loaf of bread to symbolize health, prosperity and long life. Russian weddings usually include a master of ceremonies who guides the evening through toasts, speeches, dances and games.  There is a copious amount of liquor (mostly vodka in this case) and food served.

Presentation of tradtional loaf of bread

Dancing and drinking game

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Inside Sochi

I posted Inside Socni Newsletter yesterday with new photos of Sochi's Olympic Village.  Please take a few moments to read the newsletter and pass it on.  Inside Sochi has on-the-ground photos and information of Russia's new sport capital.  

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Sunday and Hidden Sochi

Sochi is known for its ski resorts and beaches.  However, there are other places in and very near the city that most visitors are not aware of.  Sunday, I followed the Sochi River from the city center into the mountains.  At the end of the road is a trail that hikers and campers use.  The trail follows the river further into the mountains.   Ruins of a home that is reputed to be of 16th century village and a waterfall can be seen on the way.  The park and trail are only a few kilometers from the city center, but seem much further.



Sochi River



Ruins of 16th Century Building Above the Sochi River

Sochi has a life that exists alongside the tourist attractions and rapid development of the Olympic venues.  Saturdays in September are a popular time for weddings.  I saw scores of wedding parties last Saturday as the bride and groom registed at the wedding hall and proceeded across the street to have pictures taken near the fountain.  The area was full of celebrants and cars decorated for the occasion.



   



 

Hidden Sochi

Yesterday, Inside Sochi newsletter included a feature on "Hidden Sochi".  Sochi has a number of attractions that are unknown or hidden to outside travelers who come for the beaches or mountain resort activities.  Please take a look at the photos from "Hidden Sochi".

The Best of Sochi

Riviera Park- Sochi, Russia

September 11, 2011 Inside Sochi Newsletter is available.  Read and subscribe to receive the latest information, including a new feature: The Best of Sochi.