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We flew out of Krakow International Airport and although this was my first trip to Krakow and it was on my “to-do list“, I hope that it wasn’t my last. I really wouldn’t consider this even visiting Krakow, so let’s act like it didn’t happen.
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It was only a two hour flight to Moscow, Russia but realizing I’m about to get a row to myself is always a celebrated moment.
Hey Krakow.
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One thing I have learned is that Europeans sure do love their cheeses, meats, and bread combos.
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My first time having a macaroon.
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Even though I’ve visited a lot of countries over the years, I’ve seen a lot of them from behind the glass.. Bus windows, plane windows, hotel windows, taxi windows, and gym windows. I’ve seen so much, but at the same time I’ve seen so little.
Flying over Moscow.
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When we arrived to Moscow we had to do a bag transfer, which is always fun when you’re trying to get something fast to eat and get your next connection.
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We had a difficult time finding a place to eat as a group and it was my first time seeing my team and staff struggle with language barriers. Usually I’m the only one walking around not understanding and not being able to communicate what I want and need without a lot of effort.
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The first place didn’t understand our team leader and by the time we figured out something there was no time left for us to order and wait for the food, so we moved onto the next place.
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After that we had a successful and easy flight to Kazan, Russia and waiting for us at the hotel when we arrived was dinner. Unlike traveling in the airport, there was no decision making needed.. actually there was, so that was a lie. Chicken or fish. And with that rice, potatoes, or pasta. But after that, it was just sitting and letting the food come to you.
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It’s always interesting to see different countries takes on salads. A lot of oils.
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Not sure what this soup was, but it was like a tomato chunk soup.
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This has definitely been the best hotel room window view so far this season.
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Bus ride pictures of the city.
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My US teammate and Dinamo Kazan player, Jordan Larson, told me that when it snows here the roads don’t get cleaned enough to see the lines. So when it’s time to drive all the lines are covered up and it is pretty much a free for all when it comes to where you want to drive.
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Our hotel was tucked away down an ally off the main street.
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One of the first things that shocked me when I first visited Europe in 2009 was that restaurant water was not only served to you in a glass water bottle and a cup on the side, but it wasn’t free. And it had the option to be served “with” or “without gas”.
In the US I’m used to the waiters coming around filling up our glass when ever it gets low with their free pitcher of water. But now, paying for water when I go out to eat is something normal.
The match didn’t turn out the way we wanted, but I did get to enjoy an Italian dinner with my fellow American after the match which always goes a long way and brings a little piece of home and comfort.
Spending my Halloween in Russia while eating at an Italian restaurant, that’s a new one. Random Halloween pumpkin at the restaurant.
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I can’t explain to you how dirty the cars in Russia were. It’s as if all the roads were dirt roads on the main street, but clearly they weren’t. I have no idea where they got all the dirt and dust from, but the fact that you can’t see their license plate when driving is crazy.
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