Italy/Russia 2011
So yes, I am a slacker… I had full intentions of updating you on my travels while I was away… BUT… I guess I was just enjoying myself too much! 
But now I am home with some time to reflect on the past month.
Italy- the land of Les Soeurs Tribales!
My workshop in Milan
Wow, when I think of Italy, the first thing I think about is three women who make up the group Les Soeurs Tribales based in Milan. When I was invited to teach at their studio I was just speechless. These ladies are seriously talented, innovative and beautiful people. So if you haven’t checked them out, click here, this is one of my favorite performances.
Cinzia and I at the park
During my time in Italy, in addition to savoring many delicious cappuccinos, pizza and pasta, I was able to see three cities, Turin, Milan and Venice. Venice, the city on water, was of course my favorite of the three. I walked for countless hours on end and took hundreds of pictures. To see some of the photographs, check out my facebook page. Being in Turin was great because I was able to study with some fabulous dancers; Amir Thaleb, Raqia Hassan and Jillina during the Stelle D’Oriente festival. Then in Milan, what sticks out the most is the cathedral, the Duomo and all the Dolce and Gabbana. It was a short week full of dance and sight-seeing, but a beautiful week thanks to Cinzia of LST!
Russia- the land where random acts of kindness still exists!
Many of us think of Russians as the stereotypical cold, mean looking people who drink lots of vodka. When I think of Russians, I see kind, welcoming and loving people who are the most hospitable I’ve ever come across. For example, random strangers carrying woman’s suitcases and baby strollers up stairs at airports. I have to say, it’s very convenient to not have to lift your suitcase up on your third connecting flight of the day! So starting from my first hour in Russia, I was already impressed by their kindness and manners. Three weeks later I still hadn’t changed my mind, men and women alike are super kind once you get to know them. They may not smile at you while walking down the street, but they are filled with warmth, beauty and love!
Elbrus- the highest mountain in Europe
Church of the Spilled Blood
During the first two weeks of my stay, I was in the very southern part of Russia close to Pyatigorsk, a town in the mountains known for its healing mineral waters and springs. This area was stunning, full of fresh air and beautiful landscape bordering the Caucasus mountains. After two weeks we headed way north to Saint Petersburg. This city is one of the most beautiful I have been too! It is definitely at the top of my list (along with Madrid) and has one of my favorite churches so far, church of the spilled blood. After a few days, we were off to Moscow, the last city of my trip for Tribal Fest Russia. This weekend was icing on the cake for me. An amazing end to a fabulous journey! The tribal community welcomed me with open arms and it was a pleasure to experience the talent and joy that is currently erupting from the Russian Tribal and Tribal Fusion dancers!!! I loved Russia and I can’t wait to return… I already miss it!
My workshop in Moscow
For more pictures view my albums on Facebook.
