We have arrived via overnight bus in Saint Petersburg having not slept at all on the journey (well Ellen did a bit), and its all really weird! For a start SP is big, really big. And this is the first place where, because of the cyrilic I really haven't got a clue where I am or what anything says. Ellen is getting a grip but I am completely clueless and terrified! Still it does look wonderful here and I'm sure once we've ditched the backpacks, eaten, slept and drank all will be well with the world again.
At the border we had to leave the bus, collect our packs and go through customs of foot. I managed to make the customs scanning machine go 'beep'! No one else could do it, they were all rubbish, but I managed it All On My Own! A soldier chap (who personally I thought could have conducted himself with a touch more decorum) moved me to one side and asked me to open the pack. He seemed extemely perplexed by Munchkin which was wrapped in a freezer bag - I think it distracted him sufficiently as he then strode off in silence, glancing over his shoulder with an attempted glower. Well the coach engine started up and everyone began filing out, so I figured the best thing to do was to hitch up the pack and stroll quietly out to the bus. I've no idea whether I am still supposed to be stood at the border but it is much nicer here.