We were met off the train in Bugulma by Ramilya who is the Scout leader and Lily who was interpreting. We took taxis to the Hotel Plazma and although it was still very early in the morning, we were able to check in and settle into our rooms. The first meal of the day arrived - continental breakfast.
We walked to School 3 which was nearby and were welcomed by some of the English teachers. After dropping off our bags, we were taken to the canteen for breakfast! The fruit salad was very refreshing but it was swiftly followed by a bowl of porridge and then an omelette. There were also other cakes, chocolates, fruit and of course tea. Little did we know that there was much more food to follow throughout the day! Next we were taken to a very impressive assembly hall full of teachers and senior pupils and were sat at a desk with microphones. We introduced ourselves and then answered a range of questions with Lily interpreting. Helen and Hamish were interviewed by the local newspaper. The pupils left and we did some activities with the teachers. We told them a bit about Scouting, played some games and did some craft. After this we were taken on a tour of the school and met some of the Scouts who asked us some more questions. We sang some songs before it was time to return to the canteen for lunch. Lunch was another huge meal starting with noodle soup, followed by sweet and savoury dishes and tea. In the afternoon we were taken by minibus to Karabeche. We visited the war memorial. the sports centre and a recreation area beside a reservoir. What was waiting for us there but afternoon tea! There was the usual spread of sweet and savoury dishes and tea served from a samovar. We made a valiant job of eating as much as we could but it was all getting a bit too much! We went for a walk along the shore and the scenery was lovely. We then visited Karabeche school where we were greeted by children in national costume. We watched a display of singing and dancing which was excellent and then did some games and singing with the teachers. We had a tour of the school and visited their museums before ending up in the canteen for tea. Yes - it was the usual spread but this time we had a special treat - balish which is a big round pie filled with potatoes, onions and beef. No one could face eating this so Ramilya took it home for her husband who was delighted. Finally we were driven back to the hotel where we were all ready for an early night after our overnight train journey and a very busy day!
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