English teacher, freelance writer, traveller, aspiring linguist and bon vivant. My curiosity's taken me to North Korea, Chernobyl, the Balkans and now on to Russia.

Currently working full-time as a native speaker (and learning Russian on the side) in Novosibirsk, I'm veritably obsessed with all things in the so-called 'Russosphere;' from culture and food to history and nostalgic reminders of the Soviet era.

Just what do I think of Russian queuing etiquette? Is their customer service as bad as to be expected? How hard must I fight to get milk in my tea and will I ever understand the operating principles of a Mashrutka?

If you're interested in any of my journalistic work back in the UK, please take a look at my portfolio.