Date: 18th May
Flight: Moscow
“Dasvidaniya!” We bid goodbye to our passengers’ end of a hectic flight. Most of them disembark with brief eye contact and a nod, implying they had a good flight, and a rare smile or two implying that they had a great flight. It’s part of the Russian culture to be strong inside and outside both. Some may identify this as unfriendly, or rather rude, but this is how life rolls there. Especially being too polite isn’t going to get you too far if you are in the streets of Moscow.
Some of the crew was very excited to be finally done with the work. They were all ready making plans to go out, especially after looking at the pictures off of airhostess’s who has done the sightseeing all ready; the colorful domes of St. Basil church, Inspiring Red square and stacks of Matryoshka dolls (mostly known as Babushka Dolls) lured them to head out to the city soon. Having done that many a time, and not having enough rest before the flight some of us decided to stay back and call it a night. 
It is remarkable how a day flies at the speed of light when you are tired. I couldn’t believe it was all ready time to dress up and head back to the airport. As we one by one sleepily got in to the crew bus, I hardly noticed the crew member I sat next to. When I said good morning, she would just nod; I couldn’t help seeing that she has been crying as her eyes were red and swollen and her hands had bruises that she didn’t have the day before. “Is everything okay? Did you have a good stay?” She started pouring out, telling her freaky encounter in the city.
Apparently a few of the crew decided to take the train (in a city where everything from Baskin Robins to McDonald’s is written in Russian). None of them spoke the language and ended up in a neighborhood where apparently the darker skin wasn’t allowed to roam around freely. They were unfortunately attacked and mugged.
Thankfully they made it to the hotel and authorities were informed. It is sad to see that in a century where people are overcoming differences of race, colour, and nationality racial attacks still do happen. Also the economical turmoil the world is facing, is influencing robbery.
Whether in Europe, America, Middle East, Africa or Asia, extremist’s gangs lurk around looking for an opportunity, just like Hyenas in the African wild. It would be a perfect Colombo if a woman alone could go to Galle Face after dark and enjoy a snack staring at the sailing ships in the far horizon. Unfortunately it’s not our ideal world, thus no matter where we go, first comes personal safety. It is common sense to research or even get travel advice from the hotel, or more pro travelers, regarding the safety aspect. Hopefully this incident may make them smarter travelers next time.
Love, Dany
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