Siberia Russia Part 4 Airport Follies and a Stern Lecture
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Siberia, Russia Part 4: Airport Adventures and a Stern Encounter
Summary:
Join me as I transition from San Diego to Chita, Siberia, to become a professor at Chita State Technical University. The story continues mid-flight from Anchorage to Khabarovsk, Russia.
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As I settled into my spacious Aeroflot seat, the stewardess announced our imminent arrival in Khabarovsk, located in the far east of Russia near the Chinese border. Known for the Far East Military, it’s the largest city east of Lake Baikal. My immediate concern was finding a hot shower. Armed with a phrasebook, electric blanket, traveler’s checks, and adrenaline, I was ready for my Siberian adventure, despite never having taught before.
Descending through rain clouds, the view captivated me?"the plane gliding into a flat valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. Below, a smattering of cabins dotted the landscape.
As we looped through the valley for a western approach, I noticed the airport’s eerie stillness. Typically bustling with lights, this one seemed deserted. No lights in sight. Backpacking from the plane to the airport seemed likely. When in Rome...
Our Russian pilot’s gentle landing set the tone for what I hoped would be a memorable year. Suddenly, the terminal lights flickered to life. Despite being just 50 feet away, we were shuttled on a transport for a short loop to the gate. It felt reminiscent of "The Gods Must Be Crazy," a satirical nod to the quirks of modern life.
Inside, the terminal’s industrial feel was refreshing?"no temptation to buy fast food or souvenirs; just the essentials.
The customs experience was typical: gathering bags, borrowing pens for forms, and lining up with other weary travelers. It went smoothly until my turn?"my introduction to the Russian language barrier. I handed over my passport, forms, and visa with a hopeful smile?"about as effective as at the IRS.
The customs agent pointed to my form, speaking rapidly. I was clueless. I turned to Grae for help. However, crossing the "wait here" line prematurely is a cardinal sin, and Grae was sternly directed to step back. I received a lecture?"its content a mystery, but the tone unmistakably stern?"the universal "stupid foreigner" expression etched on the agent's face.
Eventually, my form issue resolved itself with the agent’s aggressive stamping?"my passive prayers for its stability seemed to work. Grae cleared customs smoothly, and we stepped into Khabarovsk’s cool, wet air.
To be continued...
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Siberia Russia Part 4 Airport Follies and a Stern Lecture.
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