Lada Ray's Blog, page 104
February 1, 2012
Tsars, Oligarchs and Imperial Treasure: ST.PETERSBURG, RUSSIA
Above: Bankovsky Bridge
Below: the famous singing gold fountains of Peterhof
Year 1703. During the Northern War with Sweden, Peter the Great stands on the wind-swept bank of the Neva River, amid mosquito infested swamps and desolate landscape of the north, and declares that he'll build a city of unrivaled splendor, to become Russia's first sea port and maritime window to Europe.
Years later, his vision became a reality – and then some! Above: Medniy Vsadnik (Bronze Horseman.) Monument to Peter, the city's founder. The inscription says: To Peter – the First, from Catherine – the Second.
Presenting St. Petersburg, Russia's second capital, unique cultural phenomenon, UNESCO World Heritage site and the most beautiful city on planet Earth!
The entire center of "Peter," as it's affectionately called by the Russians, or St. Pete, as it's called by the expats, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The unbelievable beauty of its many exquisite buildings, bridges, palaces and statues can awe even the most seasoned world traveler. Despite its harsh northern climate, it can be incredibly romantic, and it always is unforgettable.
Some of the most important episodes in GOLD TRAIN take place in St. Petersburg. The GOLD TRAIN heroine, international journalist, Jade Snow, stays at the Duchess Vera's house, in the very heart of the historic center, not far from Nevsky Prospekt and the Hermitage.
Above: Romantic couple by the Anichkov Bridge. One of Nevsky Prospekt's most popular sights, Anichkov Bridge across the Fontanka River is particularly famous for the four equestrian statues – "The Horse Tamers" – which stand at each corner of the bridge.
Try visiting St. Petersburg in the summer, during The White Nights, a unique phenomenon, occurring when the Northern Lights illuminate the sky, making a night almost as bright, as day.
The mood during the White Nights in indescribable! No one in this city of 5 million sleeps, and scores of people wander the streets, marveling at its monuments and watching the drawing of its amazing system of draw bridges.
Above: St. Pete's bridges being drawn during the White Nights. Notice, how bright the skies are even after midnight!
Above: Dvortsovy Bridge (Palace Bridge) next to the Winter Palace – The Hermitage
All St. Pete's bridges are incredibly beautiful and unique. Above: Probably the most famous of its pedestrian bridges, Bankovsky Bridge - Bank Bridge, which is just a few meters down the Griboedov Canal from Kazan Cathedral, owes its reputation to its four beautiful golden-winged griffons.
The Lion Bridge, another gorgeous bridge along the system of St Pete's canals
Above: Trinity Bridge
Below: Winter Palace, former residence of the Russian Tsars, the most magnificent palace in the world. Now, the Hermitage Museum.
Inside The Hermitage Museum:
The Throne Room
The Grand Stairs
Tsar's Gold Coach
Above and below, The Hermitage Galleries
Below: The Ballroom. When I wrote the Menshikov Mansion ballroom scene in GOLD TRAIN, I imagined something like this.
Some of the most dramatic scenes in GOLD TRAIN take place at the Menshikov Mansion. Prince Menshikov (Duke Menshikov in GOLD TRAIN) was a real historic figure. As Peter the Great's first lieutenant, originally a commoner, the Prince rose to prominence during Peter's reign. Peter relied on him for reform ideas, staunch support and execution of his grand plans to re-shape Russia for the modern age.
In GOLD TRAIN, I thought it was especially fitting – and ironic – that the Menshikov Mansion would be owned by the infamous Russian oligarch, a nouveau riche and prince-wannabe, Yury Gurevich, who would be instrumental in plunging the country into darkness as a result of the conspiracy… But… I don't want to spoil your reading experience, so let's not reveal the plot. 
Of course, the real Menshikov Palace is now a museum and is owned by the state.
Below: The Menshikov Palace, now Menshikov Museum
More beautiful views of St. Pete:
Below: Peterhof, Peter's Summer residence and its magnificent gardens, complete with the system of gold singing fountains. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and my personal favorite.
The Grand Cascade
Above: Famous gold mythological fountains in Peterhof's gardens
In GOLD TRAIN, Jade is supposed to visit the town of Pushkin, near St. Pete, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its connection to the Russian writer Pushkin, as well as for magnificent Catherine the Great's Palace.
Above: Monument to Pushkin, who was born in St. Pete and went to school in Pushkin, originally called Tsarskoye Selo (Tsar's Village)
Below: Catherine Palace and gardens
The Amber Room (Yantarnaya Komnata) at Catherine Palace – considered by some the "Eighth Wonder of the World." The Amber Room had been carved from top to bottom out of precious Baltic amber and presented to Peter the Great by the Prussian king Friedrich, who went bankrupt to make it happen. The room was later expanded and perfected by the Russian craftsmen.
According to the historic accounts, Catherine could sit in the Amber Room for hours, meditating. Those who've been in the original Amber Room described the feeling, as being entranced and transported to another dimension. Catherine would forget about everything, including pressing state affairs, when she was in that state.
Unfortunately, the original Amber Room was stolen by the Nazi Germany during WWII. It was dismantled and taken to Prussia, where it had vanished without a trace. Its whereabouts are not known to this day.
Starting in 1979, the new Amber Room had been painstakingly re-created from the origianl photos and drawings. It took many years to complete the project and several years ago, the Amber Room reopened for the public.
Below: re-creating The Amber Room
Below: the magnificent Amber Room
Below: another room at Catherine Palace with Empress' images
And now, back to the city center.
The grand St. Pete Metro stations, much like Moscow's, resemble underground palaces.
Below: One of such palacial stations.
One of the most dramatic scenes in GOLD TRAIN takes place at the Sportivnaya Metro Station. The incredibly deep metro escalator, much like the one, Jade took in GOLD TRAIN.
Below: Sportivnaya Metro Station with its Ancient Greek Olympics theme
For more about stately St. Pete Metro and Sportivnaya Station, check out my post
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
Above: The famous Church of Savior on Spilled Blood, featured on the GOLD TRAIN cover. The name of this church is highly symbolic, as those who read the book, would recognize.
Read Companion posts:
GOLD TRAIN Magical Setting: Moscow, Russia
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
GOLD TRAIN: the World of Russian Trains and My Childhood Memories
GOLD TRAIN: Meet Jade Snow, heroine of the Jade Snow International Adventure Series
GOLD TRAIN: Who is Alexei?
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please comment, RT, share and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
GOLD TRAIN Magical Setting: St.Petersburg, Russia
Above: Bankovsky Bridge
Below: the famous singing gold fountains of Peterhof
Year 1703. During the Northern War with Sweden, Peter the Great stands on the wind-swept bank of the Neva River, amid mosquito infested swamps and desolate landscape of the north, and declares that he'll build a city of unrivaled splendor, to become Russia's first sea port and maritime window to Europe.
Years later, his vision became a reality – and then some! Above: Medniy Vsadnik (Bronze Horseman.) Monument to Peter, the city's founder. The inscription says: To Peter – the First, from Catherine – the Second.
Presenting St. Petersburg, Russia's second capital, unique cultural phenomenon, UNESCO World Heritage site and the most beautiful city on planet Earth!
The entire center of "Peter," as it's affectionately called by the Russians, or St. Pete, as it's called by the expats, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The unbelievable beauty of its many exquisite buildings, bridges, palaces and statues can awe even the most seasoned world traveler. Despite its harsh northern climate, it can be incredibly romantic, and it always is unforgettable.
Some of the most important episodes in GOLD TRAIN take place in St. Petersburg. The GOLD TRAIN heroine, international journalist, Jade Snow, stays at the Duchess Vera's house, in the very heart of the historic center, not far from Nevsky Prospekt and the Hermitage.
A romantic couple by the Anichkov Bridge. One of Nevsky Prospekt's most popular sights, Anichkov Bridge across the Fontanka River is particularly famous for the four equestrian statues – "The Horse Tamers" – which stand at each corner of the bridge.
Try visiting St. Petersburg in the summer, during The White Nights, a unique phenomenon, occurring when the Northern Lights illuminate the sky, making a night almost as bright, as day.
The mood during the White Nights in indescribable! No one in this city of 5 million sleeps, and scores of people wander the streets, marveling at its monuments and watching the drawing of its amazing system of draw birdges.
Above: St. Pete's bridges being drawn during the White Nights. Notice, how bright the skies are even after midnight!
Above: Dvortsovy Bridge (Palace Bridge) next to the Winter Palace – The Hermitage
All St. Pete's bridges are incredibly beautiful and unique. Above: Probably the most famous of its pedestrian bridges, Bankovsky Bridge - Bank Bridge, which is just a few meters down the Griboedov Canal from Kazan Cathedral, owes its reputation to its four beautiful golden-winged griffons.
The Lion Bridge, another gorgeous bridge along the system of St Pete's canals
Above: Trinity Bridge
Below: Winter Palace, former residence of the Russian Tsars, the most magnificent palace in the world. Now, the Hermitage Museum.
Inside The Hermitage Museum:
The Throne Room
The Grand Stairs
The Gold Coach
Above and below, The Hermitage galleries
Below – the Ballroom. When I wrote the Menshikov Mansion ballroom scene in Gold Train, I imagined something like this.
Some of the most dramatic scenes in GOLD TRAIN take place at the Menshikov Mansion. Prince Menshikov (Duke Menshikov in GOLD TRAIN) was a real historic figure. As Peter the Great's first lieutenant, originally a commoner, the Prince rose to prominence during Peter's reign. Peter relied on him for reform ideas, staunch support and execution of his grand plans to re-shape Russia for the modern age.
In GOLD TRAIN, I thought it was especially fitting – and ironic – that the Menshikov Mansion would be owned by the infamous Russian oligarch, a nouveau riche and prince-wannabe, Yury Gurevich, who would be instrumental in plunging the country into darkness as a result of the conspiracy… But… I don't want to spoil your reading experience, so let's not reveal the plot. 
Of course, the real Menshikov Palace is now a museum and is owned by the state.
Below: The Menshikov Palace, now Menshikov Museum
More beautiful views of St. Pete:
Below: Peterhof, Peter's Summer residence and its magnificent gardens, complete with the system of gold singing fountains. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and my personal favorite.
The Grand Cascade
Above: Famous Greek mythology gold fountains in Peterhof's gardens
In GOLD TRAIN, Jade is supposed to visit the town of Pushkin, near St. Pete, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its connection to the Russian writer Pushkin, as well as for magnificent Catherine the Great's Palace.
Above: Monument to Pushkin, who was born in St. Pete and went to school in Pushkin, originally called Tsarskoye Selo (Tsar's Village)
Below: the gorgeous Catherine's Palace
The Amber Room (Yantarnaya Komnata) at Catherine's Palace – considered by some the "Eighth Wonder of the World." The Amber Room had been carved from top to bottom out of precious Baltic amber and presented to Peter the Great by the Prussian king Friedrich, who went bankrupt to make it happen. The room was later expanded and beautified by the Russian craftsmen.
According to the historic accounts, Catherine could sit in the Amber Room for hours, meditating. Those who've been in the original Amber Room described the feeling, as being entranced and transported to another dimension. Catherine would forget about everything, including pressing state affairs, when she was in that state.
Unfortunately, the original Amber Room was stolen by the Nazi Germany during WWII. It was dismantled and taken Prussia, where it had vanished without a trace. Its whereabouts are not known to this day.
Starting in 1979, the new Amber Room had been painstakingly re-created from the origianl photos and drawings. It took many years to complete the project and several years ago, the Amber Room reopened for the public.
Below: re-creating The Amber Room
Below: the magnificent Amber Room
Below: another room at Catherine's Palace with Empress' images
And now, back to the city center.
The grand St. Pete's Metro stations, much like Moscow's, resemble underground palaces.
Below: One of such palacial stations.
One of the most dramatic scenes in GOLD TRAIN takes place at the Sportivnaya Metro Station. The incredibly deep metro escalator, much like the one, Jade took in GOLD TRAIN.
Below: Sportivnaya Metro Station with its Ancient Greek Olympic theme
For more about stately St. Pete Metro and Sportivnaya Station, check out my post
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
Above: The famous Church of Savior on Spilled Blood, featured on the GOLD TRAIN cover. The name of this church is symbolic, as those who read it would recognize.
Read Companion posts:
GOLD TRAIN Magical Setting: Moscow, Russia
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
GOLD TRAIN: the World of Russian Trains and My Childhood Memories
GOLD TRAIN: Meet Jade Snow, heroine of the Jade Snow International Adventure Series
GOLD TRAIN: Who is Alexei?
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please comment, RT, share and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
January 26, 2012
GOLD TRAIN Magical Setting: Moscow, Russia
"Want to talk about Russian history? Got a Millennium?" – Anthony Bordain, TV show host, No Reservations.
Russia's history is overflowing with revolutions, wars, change, as well as incredible achievements in science, technology, art, sport and literature. And its capital, Moscow, has always been at the forefront of it all.
I was born in Moscow, but my parents moved a lot for work, and so, I spent part of my childhood in Kishinev (Chisinau) Moldova, and Odessa, Ukraine. However, I always maintained close ties with Moscow.
My aunt lived on famous Tverskaya Ulitsa (Tverskaya Street,) Moscow's principal street, starting at the Kremlin Wall and Red Square, and stretching all the way to the outskirts, where it would become the highway to St. Petersburg. Lined with posh hotels, restaurants and homes of the rich, it was the street used by the Russian Tsars and dignitaries on their visits to Moscow. More about Tverskaya here.
In GOLD TRAIN, Jade Snow walks along the "always noisy Tverskaya Street," until she makes a sudden turn onto a quiet alley, leading to the fateful encounter with a mysterious and handsome stranger, which would forever change her life.
Upon arrival, Jade and her Russian journalist friend Svetlana take a tour of Moscow, including the Red Square, complete with Lenin's Mausoleum (above.)
Above: The iconic St. Basil's Cathedral on Red Square. The most photographed building in the world.
Above: One of the Golden-domed Kremlin cathedrals
Above: Russian Tsars' crowns and scepters, adorned with priceless furs, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. From the Kremlin's Armory exhibit.
Alexander Gardens by the Kremlin Wall, named after Russia's Emperor Alexander.
Above: Spasskaya Tower with its famous clock. Kremlin's main tower
New Year's on Red Square
Above: British Buckingham Palace Guards marching in the Victory Day Parade, May 9th, Red Square.
Below: For the winter months, part of the Red Square turns into the giant skating rink. Here you can skate to your heart's desire, while enjoying some of the most dramatic and magnificent views in the world.
Together with Svetlana, Jade also visits Moscow's pedestrian artists' district, called Arbat.
It is here, on Arbat, that Jade hears the strange and disturbing predictions of the clairvoyant Gypsy, called Rada. These predictions will set the wheels of Gold Train's fast-paced action into motion.
Above: historic pedestrian street Arbat
Alone in the unfamiliar country, Jade unwittingly finds herself embroiled in the net of lies, glamour, intrigue and alien ideals. In fact, she becomes so popular, that it may be hazardous to her health. And Jade deals with this unwanted and dangerous popularity in the way that is guaranteed to surprise even the most seasoned reader!
Above, the FSB Building (former KGB,) the infamous Lubyanka, which plays no small part in the book.
Later, Jade and Alexei take a stroll in the ancient city's new attraction, the Sculpture Park, where scores of Soviet statues, monuments and plaques, complete with the statue of the KGB"s infamous first boss, Felix Dzerzhinsky, have found their final resting place.
In Gold Train, Jade says: "Moscow was indeed the city of contrasts. Noisy and quiet, in your face and retrospective, old and new – all at the same time."
More views of Moscow – old and new, noisy and quiet – all at the same time:
Above and below: modern Moscow
Below: Beautiful Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Below: Moskva River
The famous main building of Moscow University
The Friendship Fountain, The historic All-Russia Exibition Center, formerly VDNKH (USSR)
Famous Bolshoi Theater, which just re-opened after a major renovation
Bolshoi Ballet
Dancing in Alexander Gardens
Moscow has so many facets and attractions, that all I can do here is barely scratch the surface. But I hope you enjoyed this post and I hope it will come handy when you decide to visit Moscow.
Companion posts:
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
GOLD TRAIN: the World of Russian Trains and My Childhood Memories
GOLD TRAIN: Meet Jade Snow, heroine of the Jade Snow International Adventure Series
GOLD TRAIN: Who is Alexei?
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please comment, RT, share and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
January 24, 2012
How My Family Celebrates Chinese New Year of the Dragon!
I love celebrating Chinese New Year! My husband's family is from Hong Kong, so Chinese New Year has a special meaning for us. My husband's parents always have auspicious red Chinese envelopes, stuffed with money, waiting for us, when we visit.
The family dinner includes fish, shrimp and lots of auspicious vegetables – the symbols of prosperity. The house has to be brimming with red lanterns and envelopes, as well as oranges and mandarins, also, symbols of prosperity and abundance.
Whenever we get a chance, we go to New York Chinatown to watch the Dragon and Lion Dances. All Chinatown restaurants are packed, reservations being made well in advance, each restaurant trying to outdo themselves and each other with the most creative and prosperous dishes imaginable. In addition to sharing the New Year's festivities with family, it is also a fabulous idea to share your New Year's meal with close and dear friends.
Above: Dragon Dance
During the Chinese New Year Celebration, various ceremonies are conducted to ensure the fortunate year ahead. This includes New Year's parades, as well as Dragon and Lion dances. My personal favorite is the Prosperity Cart Ceremony, which I learned from my Hong Kong Feng Shui teachers.
Above: Lion Dance
Traditionally, the New Year's celebrations last 15 days. Therefore, this year, the celebrations will continue from 1/23 through 2/6.
The year 2012 is very special, as it is the year of the Dragon, considered to usher in a very powerful energy of prosperity and renewal.
During the New Year, Chinese people will greet each other with pleasant words like:
Xin nian kuai le – Happy New Year in Mandarin. Simplified Chinese: 新年快乐; trad. Chinese: 新年快樂.
Hao yun – Good Fortune. Simplified Chinese: 好运, trad. Chinese: 好運,
Kung Hei Fat Choi – Happy New Year in Cantonese (Literally: Congratulations and best wishes for a prosperous New Year!)
Cantonese language: shares the written word with Mandarin, but sounds different in its spoken version. It is the #2 dialect of China, spoken in Hong Kong and south of China.
Finally, Gong Xi (or 'Gong Hei' in Cantonese) means 'Congratulations', derived from the legend of 'Nian', congratulating each other to have escaped the harm of the beast.
Also, read my special posts:
'Ultimate Energy and Power: Chinese Dragon'
'Feng Shui Master's Advice: Secret of True Prosperity'
Watch live! January 23 2012 Year of the Dragon Fireworks – Shangahai, China. Courtesy, Michael Edwards, who resides in Bangkok, Thailand and is currently visiting Shanghai for Chinese New Year.
I am very pleased to announce that Michael Edwards will be doing the eyewitness guest blog on 2012 New Year's Celebrations in China right here, on Lada Ray Blog! His post will appear in the beginning of February! Don't miss this very special event!
From our family to yours: Have a wonderful and prosperous 2012 – Year of the Water Dragon! Xin nian kuai le! Kung Hei Fat Choi!
Lada Ray
Author and Feng Shui Master
January 24, 2012
If you liked this post, please comment, RT, share and follow Lada Ray Blog!
January 22, 2012
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
Above: Komsomolskaya Metro Station, Moscow
If you are used to the gloomy, dungeon-like New York Subway (sorry, dear New Yorkers,) as I am, absolutely nothing can prepare you for the gorgeous Russian Metro! Don't get me wrong – I love New York, and it is my second home, but its unbelievably ugly and outdated subway is a different story all together.
When I complain about it, my husband – a consummate New Yorker – just shrugs his shoulders: "It gets you from point A to point B!"
Yeah, right… Point A to point B. But what about beauty? Style? Aesthetics?
Well, in all truth, even if you come from Paris, London, or Vienna, with their much nicer underground transportation systems, you'll still be amazed at the Russian Metro!
One of Moscow's most popular tours is "A Day in the Moscow Metro." I am not kidding! They actually take you on a day-long tour to ride from station to station, during which time they tell you all about the history and art featured in each. And the day, spent doing that, is likely to become one of the highlights of your trip!
Can you imagine doing something like this in New York? Ouch! Not a chance! The best I can do, if I have absolutely no choice, but to take subway, is to try and get in and out as soon as possible. And I would gladly ride it with my eyes closed, if it wasn't too risky to walk up and down the stairs without looking.
In GOLD TRAIN, Jade Snow also takes a tour of the Moscow Metro on the day of her arrival. But the main action in the book takes place in the St. Petersburg Metro.
Without further ado, presenting The Magnificent Russian Metro!
Moscow Metro (Moskovsky Metropoliten) first opened in 1935. It is the second busiest metro system in the world after Tokyo's twin subway. Length, 305 kilometers, 185 stations. Moscow Metro carries 7 million people a day!
Are you listening, New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority, New York Mayor and City Council?! Not only they get 7 million people from point A to point B each and very day, but also do it on time, in style and much more affordably, then New Yorkers could ever dream of! How do they do it? And why can't you?
Above: Arbatskaya Metro Station, Moscow. As on this picture, tourists happily snap pictures of beautiful statures, chandeliers, frescoes and paintings.
Above: Kievskaya Metro Station, Moscow. One of the original stations, built in the 1930s. As in this mosaic, exquisitely performed Soviet art dominates some of the historic stations.
One of the absolutely amazing facts about the Russian Metro is that during WWII, it doubled as a giant bomb shelter – by far the most luxurious, comfortable and spacious bomb shelter in the world.
Above: Another historic Moscow Metro Station, complete with beautiful marble paneling and bronze statues. Take a look on the right! See the famous statue of the "good luck dog?" Notice it's nose? It's almost white. That's because everyone who passes by this dog, rubs his nose for good luck. 
More magnificent classic stations:
Below: several newer Moscow Metro Stations.
Below: One of the Museum Metro cars, complete with art, decking its walls. No cattle car here!
And now – to the beautiful St. Petersburg Metro!
Rivaling Moscow Metro in its splendor, and mainly built in the 1950s, it's the 5th busiest metro system in the world. In addition, it is also the deepest underground system in the world, with some stations placed well beneath the Neva River bed.
Above: Pushkinskaya Station, St. Petersburg. Monument to the Russian writer, Alexander Pushkin.
Above and below: more palacial St. Petersburg Metro Stations.
One of GOLD TRAIN's most dramatic and crucial episodes takes place at Sportivnaya Station.
Below: Sportivnaya Station with its Ancient Greek theme.
More images of Sportivnaya Station.
The incredibly deep Metro escalator, much like the one, Jade Snow was on in GOLD TRAIN.
One of the St. Petersburg Metro entrances, much like in the dramatic GOLD TRAIN episode.
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please rate, comment and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
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January 20, 2012
GOLD TRAIN: the World of Russian Trains and My Childhood Memories
Trains and travels are in my blood. I was born in Moscow, and my parents both worked for Russian Railways. When I was barely two, they were transferred first to Kishinev (now, Chisinau) Moldova, and later, to Odessa, the beautiful city on the Black Sea, now part of the Ukraine. As part of my parents' job benefits, I always had free railroad tickets, the privilege, I enthusiastically abused for years.
There is a huge train-centric culture in Europe in general, and in Russia in particular. Something, that is probably very difficult to understand in the US, with its car dependent culture. There is always something romantic and breathtaking about a train journey through the night, when everyone's asleep and the rythmic song and sway of the rails makes you think about far away lands and the fascinating discoveries awaiting you at tomorrow's destination.
Trains have always had a soothing effect on me and when I was little, I loved sleeping on a train. In GOLD TRAIN, Jade rides on a sleeper express from Moscow to St. Petersburg, sharing a compartment with a retired Russian teacher. This scene resonates deeply with my childhood memories.
The idea for the Gold Train took root, when I first heard the story of the lost Russian Imperial Treasure. I knew right away that it was my book to write.
It starts in 1918, during the Russian Civil War, as the special steam engine train, carrying the Gold Reserve of the Russian Empire by Lenin's personal decree, is attacked, and the treasure disappears into the night.
Then, the action fast forwards to present day New York, as international journalist, Jade Snow, prepares for her unexpected and exotic assignment to Russia, to investigate the mystery of the Gold Train.
Action steams full speed ahead, as Jade arrives to Moscow and finds herself a pawn in a deadly game – the game, she is forced to play.
Various trains play a big role in the story, including the high-speed train Sapsan, the Moscow-St. Petersburg sleeper express, as well as the luxurious, one-of-a-kind Russian Metro. I'll have a separate post for the Russian Metro, with beautiful pics and videos – well worth watching – in a couple of days.
But today, let's talk about the fascinating world of Russian trains!
Russia is a relative new-comer to the high-speed train market. Its new high-speed train is called Sapsan (Moscow-St. Petersburg-Moscow.) The name was chosen well, as "Sapsan" is a variety of hawk, considered to be the fastest bird in the world.
Sapsan, the first Russian bullet train, currently shares tracks with regular train traffic and because of that, "only" achieves speed of 250 km/hr. It is also larger, than its European counterparts. New tracks, being built now, will allow it to travel at its optimal speed of 360-380 km/hr. More high-speed lines are porjected to be built in the next several years.
It takes 3 hrs 45 min to get on Sapsan from Moscow to St. Petersburg, while an overnight express takes 7-8 hrs.
Check out these cool videos:
Sapsan at High Speed http://www.youtube.com/user/LadaRay?feature=mhee#p/f/83/MqtWZZDxqes
Another video 'The Fastest Trains of Russia' starring the cutest kitty 
http://www.youtube.com/user/LadaRay?feature=mhee#p/f/82/9eURuvwG3Lo
Moscow – St. Petersburg trains:
Nikolayevsky Express
Red Arrow Express
First Class compartment, much like the one in which Jade traveled from Moscow to St. Petersburg
Russian express train corridor
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please rate, comment and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
Featured in GOLD TRAIN: High-Speed Sapsan and Other Russian Trains
Trains and travels are in my blood. I was born in Moscow, and my parents both worked for Russian Railways. When I was barely two, they were transferred first to Kishinev (now, Chisinau) Moldova, and later, to Odessa, the beautiful city on the Black Sea, now part of the Ukraine. As part of my parents' job benefits, I always had free railroad tickets, the privilege, I enthusiastically abused for years.
There is a huge train-centric culture in Europe in general, and in Russia in particular. Something, that is probably very difficult to understand in the US, with its car dependent culture. There is always something romantic and breathtaking about a train journey through the night, when everyone's asleep and the rythmic song and sway of the rails makes you think about far away lands and the fascinating discoveries awaiting you at tomorrow's destination.
Trains have always had a soothing effect on me and when I was little, I loved sleeping on a train. In GOLD TRAIN, Jade rides on a sleeper express from Moscow to St. Petersburg, sharing a compartment with a retired Russian teacher. This scene resonates deeply with my childhood memories.
The idea for the Gold Train took root, when I first heard the story of the lost Russian Imperial Treasure. I knew right away that it was my book to write.
It starts in 1918, during the Russian Civil War, as the special steam engine train, carrying the Gold Reserve of the Russian Empire by Lenin's personal decree, is attacked, and the treasure disappears into the night.
Then, the action fast forwards to present day New York, as international journalist, Jade Snow, prepares for her unexpected and exotic assignment to Russia, to investigate the mystery of the Gold Train.
Action steams full speed ahead, as Jade arrives to Moscow and finds herself a pawn in a deadly game – the game, she is forced to play.
Various trains play a big role in the story, including the high-speed train Sapsan, the Moscow-St. Petersburg sleeper express, as well as the luxurious, one-of-a-kind Russian Metro. I'll have a separate post for the Russian Metro, with beautiful pics and videos – well worth watching – in a couple of days.
But today, let's talk about the fascinating world of Russian trains!
Russia is a relative new-comer to the high-speed train market. Its new high-speed train is called Sapsan (Moscow-St. Petersburg-Moscow.) The name was chosen well, as "Sapsan" is a variety of hawk, considered to be the fastest bird in the world.
Sapsan, the first Russian bullet train, currently shares tracks with regular train traffic and because of that, "only" achieves speed of 250 km/hr. It is also larger, than its European counterparts. New tracks, being built now, will allow it to travel at its optimal speed of 360-380 km/hr. More high-speed lines are porjected to be built in the next several years.
It takes 3 hrs 45 min to get on Sapsan from Moscow to St. Petersburg, while an overnight express takes 7-8 hrs.
Check out these cool videos:
Sapsan at High Speed http://www.youtube.com/user/LadaRay?feature=mhee#p/f/83/MqtWZZDxqes
Another video 'The Fastest Trains of Russia' starring the cutest kitty http://www.youtube.com/user/LadaRay?feature=mhee#p/f/82/9eURuvwG3Lo
Moscow – St. Petersburg trains:
Nikolayevsky Express
Red Arrow Express
First Class compartment, much like the one in which Jade traveled from Moscow to St. Petersburg
Russian express train corridor
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please rate, comment and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
January 19, 2012
Secrets of Effective De-Cluttering: Reclaim the Health of Your Space
Secrets of Effective De-Cluttering:
Reclaim the Health of Your Space
Originally published in Magic Bird Feng Shui, 2005
when several people in one day approached me with the same question: "How do I de-clutter my home? And how do I de-clutter my business space?" I knew the time for this article has come!
In Feng Shui terms, clutter represents stagnant, old, dying energy. It prevents the free flow of Chi, the life giving force that is necessary for us to feel vibrant, positive, successful, and have you guessed? …HAPPY.
It has become a cliche of sorts, everyone knows they need to de-clutter. In our consumer oriented society having many things – some unfortunately useless – is a norm.
We buy things & clothes when we feel down, when we need a boost, when we want to lift our spirits. The logic behind that is correct: new items brought into our space bring fresh energy with it. However, here is a problem: when you buy while feeling sad or depressed, chances are you will buy the wrong item(s). Items you have no use for will reflect your low energy level & your state of mind at the time. It is like eating cake when we feel lonely or depressed – we want to boost our energy, instead we are cluttering our body with waste.
The same happens with our home or office. When feeling lonely, depressed, or wanting to bring a new energy into your space, buy high quality uplifting art, crystals, great music, or acquire high quality & effectiveness Feng Shui remedies & energizers, designed specifically to boost the CHI level! Much like eating fruit instead of cake, and vitamins & minerals instead of beer will strengthen the life force of your body, such items will increase health & vitality of your space!
Going back to the issue of de-cluttering. While you may know you need to de-clutter, you may feel it is too much of an effort. Some get discouraged in the middle of the project & abandon it all together. How to start & what to focus on seem to be the main questions.
Here is some advice I give to my clients when I hear such complaints:
Do your de-cluttering little by little. When you de-clutter, you stir up a ton of wasteful, stagnant energy. Much like when you are cleansing, all those toxins get stirred up in your body and temporarily you feel worse before you start feeling better. Same happens to your house. When you cleanse, if you do too much too fast, you may get sick. When you de-clutter too fast, your life may get worse temporarily as well! That is why sometimes de-cluttering projects get abandoned before completion.
Solution: de-clutter slowly, one room, or corner at a time. Gradual de-cluttering will allow your space & your psyche adjust to the new energy flow. Then rest a little & start a new corner, or a new room. Pace yourself over a course of a few weeks or months. At that time, bring only meaningful items into your space. Use highly effective, thoughtfully acquired Feng Shui remedies & energizers (do not buy cheap trinkets – they are ineffectual & sometimes even harmful).
Another important point: let your space tell you what your de-cluttering priorities are. Do not assume anything. One of my clients, when I told her this, said, "This makes sense! Sometimes, I would start de-cluttering the office, but it is like some kind of force is pulling me to the bedroom instead". Do not resist that force! Our home, or office, believe it or not, is a living, breathing entity. It has its own mind, its own needs & preferences.
Listen to it, tune into its vibrations. You may be amazed how much it will tell you!
An example I often cite is that of my uncle. It took me several years to convince him to de-clutter the South East corner of his property. The South East in Feng Shui is responsible for wealth & prosperity. I had a hunch that my retired uncle never allowed himself to travel because he felt insecure spending his retirement money & the clutter in the South East corner was a contributing factor. We systematically cleared stacks of old magazines & papers accumulated there for years. The whole project took us a few weeks & in the end we felt exhausted. After it was complete, we uncovered some important missing papers, including cash & some greatly appreciated stock certificates. My uncle thought it was a miracle! Apparently our de-cluttering efforts have liberated the energy of prosperity, as well as my uncle's wealth luck that has been suffocating in that corner for years. His space literally started breathing. My uncle sold his stocks just on time: right before the crash & at the top! He used that money to boost his energy & horizons through world travel with his newly found sense of prosperity.
Just like with the above example, clutter in any corner of your home or office usually is a sure sign & a contributing factor to all kinds of problems in your life. When I am called on a Feng Shui Consultation, clutter immediately tells me what area of my client's life is not flowing right. Invariably, my conclusions are confirmed by client's complaints.
Try to develop mindfulness toward clutter-induced life problems. For example, clutter in the kitchen indicates that residents are overwhelmed by the house maintenance. Clutter in closets indicates unwillingness or inability to deal with hidden issues. And clutter in the attic is a sign of not being able to part with the past.
Word of caution! While de-cluttering, do not inadvertently create the opposite problem. It is important not to get carried away & overdo things. Try not to clutter your space, but do not make it look too bare or clinical either. That applies not only to your living space, but also to your office. Avoid the sterile, impersonal appearance that government offices, hospitals, and military installations are notorious for. Such places possess too much lifeless metal energy. Other examples are computer, machinery or trading rooms.
One of the neatest homes I have ever seen belonged to a financial consultant with a major wirehouse. He was certainly in no danger of clutter! In fact he feared clutter so much, that he would obsessively clean every day. Frankly, I've never seen a man's home so neat. So neat in fact, that you felt uncomfortable staying there. Have you guessed, that the man had no life, except for his job?
So, remember that balance is key in Feng Shui!
Ok, so we have successfully completed our de-cluttering process. Now what?
Exceptionally good compliment to de-cluttering is Space Clearing. There are some very good space clearing methods available on the market. Do your research to come up with the space clearing method that suits your needs.
After all the dust (literally & figuratively speaking) has settled, we have made room for new, fresh energies. So fill it only with positive, life affirming energies of success, prosperity, joy, great relationships & wisdom. Just like filling your body only with good foods will give you more energy, filling your home or office only with high quality meaningful items, music, flowers, Feng Shui symbols & energizers will propel your life to the new exciting levels of accomplishment, peace & happiness.
Good Luck & God Bless!
Copyright 2005, Lada Ray
January 16, 2012
Feng Shui Master's Advice: Secret of True Prosperity
First, to answer a question I received from some of my followers: 'Feng Shui' is pronounced: (feung-shway)
This article was originally published in Magic Bird Feng Shui, as well as The World of Feng Shui Magazine, 2004.
Feng Shui Master's Advice: Secret of True Prosperity
I hear many complaints from clients, who despite making big money "have nothing to show for it". Meanwhile, I also know some other people, who while having much smaller incomes live full, happy and truly prosperous lives.
In observing various cultures from around the world I can't help but notice that the amount of cash in the bank, or a fat paycheck are not synonymous with prosperity. True prosperity is so much more than that! And alarmingly, a disproportionate number of complaints about lack of it originate from my American clients – some of the highest paid in the world.
What makes life prosperous and abundant is the feeling of life's fullness, which in turn is generated by balanced enjoyment of fruits of one's labor. This very positive energy can be attracted into one's life by certain actions and attitudes, and discouraged by others.
Prosperity likes positive thoughts and dislikes negative ones. It is drawn to bright colors, space, light, and generosity. It doesn't care for dull, dark and cramped atmosphere. And it certainly hates appearance and mentality of scarcity.
That's why, no matter how much money you have, you will never have the feeling of prosperity and abundance in your life if your fridge is empty – not full; dining table brimming with papers – not fruit; and your house is dark and cluttered – not bright and tasteful.
So, what is the secret of true prosperity? And what can those, who lack the feeling of security and abundance, do to attract this valuable energy?
The bad news is that if you lack a feeling of true security, abundance and prosperity, the reason may be karmic. Karma belongs to the "Heaven Luck" portion of our trinity of Luck (Heaven – Mankind – Earth), while Feng Shui governs its Earth portion. They seem to belong to different "Universes" of our being.
The good news is that afflicted Feng Shui always seems to come with the territory. And any Feng Shui affliction can usually be minimized or reversed through clever use of specific remedies and enhancers. How exactly does this work?
Well, I like to define karma as "Lessons we must learn in this lifetime". Therefore, positive intention of change helps overcome karma. If we focus our intention on correcting a Feng Shui affliction, we are on our way to learning our karmic lesson.
So whether your concern is karmic, or plain bad Feng Shui, don't fret. Just start making positive changes and prosperity will come knocking on your door before you know it!
Some ways to make it happen:
1. Keep the front door into your residence or office brightly lit at all times! Light attracts yang energy, which brings activity, good news and, consequently, prosperity.
2. Keep a prosperous looking bowl of fruit on your dining table! Eat at your dining table as often as possible, and make it look brimming with goodies. Eat only high quality nutritious foods. You'll rip dual benefits: acquiring better health & sending the right message to the Universe: I am prosperous!
3. Always keep your fridge full of good, nutritious foods! In the old days in China, people kept rice in porcelain rice urns. Since rice was the main food staple in Asia, the family rice urn was considered a depository of family's prosperity. To ensure a never-ending prosperity, the urn was kept full at all times. Today, we consider the fridge an equivalent of the ancient rice urn. Therefore, even if you live alone or eat out a lot, keep your fridge prosperous!
4. De-clutter your house – who knows what treasures you may uncover, when you do! Last year I finally convinced my Uncle to clean up the Wealth Corner of his house. After removing several years' worth of papers and rubbish, we recovered several valuables, including $10,000 in cash! My Uncle was pleasantly "shocked" at this miracle, but, his forgetfulness notwithstanding, the simple fact is that de-cluttering liberates energy that has been confined and suffocating, and may bring unexpected wonderful things into your life.
5. Always take good care of the universal Wealth Corner of your home or office. That's where, according to Feng Shui, the energy of Wealth resides! Located in the Southeast, it is the area of small wood, thus, fill it with healthy, green plants. Plants are synonymous with growth and prosperity. Include here Lucky Bamboo, Money & Orange Trees. Yang, moving water is also a good energizer. (Note: do not keep plants or water in the bedroom.)
6. Take very good care of your Personalized Success Direction. This direction is different for everyone and is determined by calculating you Lucky (KUA) number, based on your year and date of birth.
7. In traditional Feng Shui, it is considered very important to preserve wealth and avoid flushing it away. Therefore, make sure you don't have a toilet in one or more of the following locations: 1. The Southeast – Universal Wealth Sector; 2.Your Personalized Success Sector; 3. Right next to the main entrance; 4. Facing the door into the kitchen or dining room. Flushing a toilet in these areas symbolically flushes away all your wealth and prosperity.
8. Feng Shui is very symbolic. Keep Good Luck Symbols that attract wealth and prosperity in your house. Some of the preferred symbols are: the Lucky Money Toads, I Ching Coins tied with red ribbon, Laughing Buddha, Kuan Kung (God of Wealth), images of Auspicious Birds, and a Citrine Crystal Money Tree with 9 I Ching Coins tied to the branches.
9. Donate your hard-earned money to charity & give presents to your loved ones. My friend's mother-in-law often says: "Money has to change hands, otherwise it gets stale". Every family gathering she gives out envelopes full of money to all four of her grandchildren. This old Russian lady is neither Ph.D. in Economics, nor a Feng Shui Master, but she's got it right! Instead of fear: "What if I don't have enough money to last me in retirement?" she confidently declares to the Universe: "The pie is big, there is enough for everyone!" Meanwhile, her grandchildren are taught from an early age the true meaning of abundance. Interestingly enough, this old lady never made more than $30,000 a year, but she always has money. In fact, Feng Shui hates the void, so when you spend money for a good cause or for your loved ones, the Universe rushes in to fill your wallet again.
There are many other powerful ways to bring prosperity into your life. But the above suggestions are a good start. Start the New Year right by making the above changes and by sending your intention to the Universe. Don't postpone abundance, and don't skimp on prosperity. Life is short – enjoy it to the fullest here and now!
Original photography: Lada Ray
Copyright 2004 Lada Ray. All rights reserved.
January 14, 2012
GOLD TRAIN: Who is This Mysterious Alexei?
For the fans of the Da Vinci Code and National Treasure, comes this gripping new mystery/thriller, set in Russia and based on true historic events!
"Alexei" is pronounced (Ah-lek-sáy) with emphasis on "say."
Alexei, is the iconic Russian name, whose popularity never dwindled through many centuries of use. The name "Alexei" is especially symbolic in GOLD TRAIN, as those, who read the book would appreciate, because it is also the name of the last Russian Tsar Nicolas's son and Heir to the Russian Throne.
In GOLD TRAIN, Jade Snow travels to Russia to investigate tantalizing mystery of the lost Imperial Treasure, instead she finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy, threatening to change the fate of the world's largest country, and, perhaps, the future of the entire world.
At the same time, Jade finds something, she, a happily married woman, with a small child and a lovely apartment on New York's Upper West Side, never expected – forbidden passion, defying time and space. The man Jade meets is unlike any, she's ever known. Who is this mysterious Alexei with a sexy smile no woman seems to be able to resist? And can she trust him?
As Jade and Alexei race against time, and their destiny unfolds, we learn all about Alexei's incredible background and amazing abilities.
If I had to draw Alexei, this is what he'd look like. On pictures above is actually another Alexei – Russian singer and actor, Alexei Vorobyov.
GOLD TRAIN Magical Setting: Moscow, Russia
GOLD TRAIN: Amazing Russian Metro
GOLD TRAIN: the World of Russian Trains and My Childhood Memories
GOLD TRAIN: Meet Jade Snow, heroine of the Jade Snow International Adventure Series
Check out GOLD TRAIN ebook on:
GOLD TRAIN paperback is coming on April 25, 2012. More: http://ladaray.wordpress.com/blog-tours/
For descriptions/excerpts/trailers from GOLD TRAIN and other Lada Ray's books: LadaRay.com
If you liked my posts, please comment, Rt, share and follow Lada Ray Blog!
Till next time,
Cheers!
Lada Ray
