----- Original Message -----
From: "Johnette Davies" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, June 12, 2000 1:11 PM
Subject: Re: Trip to Russia


.  I've also been told to
> bring my swimsuit in case we go to the bath
> house/bathing cottage or some sort of thing.  As far as
> I can tell, it's a cottage on the water where they go in
> summer for swimming etc.
> Thanks for the advice!
> - Johnette


As far as I know on the basis of my 7 years spent on restoration project in
Riga which at the time was a part of the former USSR with many Russian
customs incorporated into the daily life, last thing I would like to wear in
the "russkaya banya" or bathing cottage if you wish, will be the swimsuit.
With the temperature inside over 70C (just forgot current rate of exchange
between Celsius and Fahrenheit) you can have your swimsuit on you forever
unless is 100% cotton. The customs may vary but usually it is naked and coed
and to clear high hopes - in this temperature last thing man need it is what
you may think it is about. Otherwise do not miss it, its healthy, enjoyable
and you will made real friends there.


Sign me,
Bathboy Who Really Miss The Good Old Times (even in USSR)