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[Slim Jim]

I was wondering if there's anybody out there in Krasnoyarsk who could give me the lowdown on life in the city. I'm planning to go and teach there in the not too distant future and was a bit unsure of what I'm letting myself into. Although I've travelled in parts of Siberia (five years ago) and spent a couple of years teaching in Moscow, I haven't a clue what to expect when I arrive. Is it as developed as, say, Ekaterinburg or Novosibiirsk? Enough bars, restaurants, cinemas, (anonymous western-style) supermarkets and the like to keep an expat diverted and supplied with the bare necessities? Any info from past and present dwellers in this city slap-bang in the middle of Siberia would be greatly appreciated.

PS. I know it's going to be cold enough to freeze the ballz off of a brass monkey.

[loki42]

I have the exact same question, but no replies seem to be forthcoming. Anyone got any info?

[Red and white]

Well, I've never lived in Krasnoyarsk but have happy memories of stopping over there on my Trans-Sib trip a couple of years back.

In summer it seems very lively - there's a nice strip of open air bars along the river, lots of music, dancing, karaoke etc. It seemed busier than Yekaterinburg. Saying that, I was amazed how quiet Yekaterinburg seemed for a city of 2million people.

The surrounding countryside is said to be very beautiful - we only made it to the park near the city (Stolby, named after the volcanic columns that people like to try climbing) but I gather it's possible to explore rather more widely.

I can't really comment on shopping, restaurants etc because I just wasn't in town long enough. As a sports fan I'd be a bit reluctant to pitch up in Siberia and not have a good hockey team to watch, though!

My overall instinct would be: nice place to visit, maybe not the best place to spend a winter. But if I spent more time there I'd expect to find a few hidden charms. If you've got good Russian and a back-up plan in case it all goes astray, I'd go for it!