Many aspects of Russian culture have been constantly under scrutiny since the melting of the big freeze between Russia and the rest of the world.
Fiscal policies, security measures, the nuclear industry and the Hermitage are all examined on a fairly regular basis. There is, however, one key area of Russian existence which is rarely granted a place in the limelight.
I am referring to that unpredictably-textured white miracle known to the locals as smetana, and uninspiringly translated into English as sour cream.
Oh Boy! do I need a drink. (Photos)
The Polustrovsky Rynok near Finland Station undergoes a transformation each weekend into the Ptichy Rynok, or Bird Market. But birds aren't the only thing sold there. The market sells tropical fish, canaries, parrots, turtles, chihuahuas, and gerbils -- all creatures better suited to warmer climes than northern St Petersburg.
RESTAURANT REVIEW: North meets East at exclusive club
If you are stuck for an idea where to hold your office party then I would highly recommend the Northern Club. Located at 16 Nabarezhnaya Reka Karpovky, this is not your ordinary run-of-the-mill restaurant. It never advertises, has no signs outside its discreet premises and from the outside, to all intents and purposes, doesn't even look like a restaurant.
GETTING AROUND
Ancient Icon art gets modern touch. (Photos)
An exhibition of psychological and religious icons by Baltic artists has been hailed as one of the most remarkable cultural events in St Petersburg this Easter.
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
The library that's fit for a prince. (Photo)
On St Petersburg's Fontanka a unique library has been founded in memory of a Russian emigre prince who spent most of his life in England. The small library contains a unique collection of books in both English and Russian.
MUSIC
The bohemian Art Clinic
The city's newest club has just been launched in the notorious art bohemian hangout at 10 Pushkinskaya Ulitsa.
Studebaker Party. (Photo)
The Oxford Dictionary's definition of the word "subbotnik" is "in the USSR, voluntary unpaid work on days-off," but the All-Russian Student Dance Subbotnik promises to be something entirely different. Organized by The Indie Music Center and Zorro Club, the night will be the sixth of now-regular Studebaker Parties started in November 1994.
