One of the big problems in planning our trip has been Dagestan.

[klausnick]

Information is so badly conflicting that we hadn't been sure what to think. The American government says it is sketchy, but our teacher and other Russians all think that is ridiculous. Our teacher said that they are very welcoming to guests. Sasha gave us that impression last night when he came home from shopping. Then, this morning, we went out to get groceries. We saw a lady and her son carrying a cabinet down the stairs. I held the door open for her. Outside, she asked where we are from. Then she offered us some apricots. She gave us about a kilo for free. "To remember Dagestan."