The art of history: REAL RUSSIA

[gleb90210]

Чтиво про Саратов!
Как приехал несколько лет назад к нам в Саратов тов. Кайзер.
Вообщем, интересный взгляд со стороны на нас тогдашних и на нашу жизнь в Саратове. Особенно интересно, для тех, кто был вовлечен в описываемые события. Не буду раскрывать секреты - читайте. Нам тогда небызвестный товарищ, описанный здесь как 27-years-old говорил иные вещи

Comments

Saratov 1996 - 2008

[anonymous]

I first arrived in Saratov in 1996 and I am still there as a regular visitor. Originally I was an exporter of Russian goods. Now I now own a consulting business. I think Mr. Kaiser was a little too gloomy even in 2000. Russians have a habit of excessive self critcism and many foreigners believe them. There have been reforms. Setting up a business is not very difficult (but a bank account - that's a different matter)! I have not encountered the Mafia recently and my staff have never been asked for a bribe although "speed money" is common, usually as part of a legitimate fast track procedure. This can feel like bribery to those who can't afford it. We have never paid "Speed money" but things still get done.

I also looked at tourism in Saratov. The main problem is getting there. For example, Saravia still doesn't take credit cards and someone who cannot speak Russian has no hope of ordering a ticket on the Domodedovo website. Even if it is done, there is no guarantee until you collect it that the ticket will be available.

It is a pity. The area has tourist potential for fishing, aerospace and wildlife, expecially the Great Bustard. There is no Real Russia. Only 140 million stories.