There’s two cool hangouts in Downtown Vladimir that I should revisit over the next seven weeks: the comic books store and the anti-cafe “Rabbit Hole”.
The former probably needs no explaining; the store is cozy, but filled with American, Japanese and Russian comics. I absolutely love it, because they also sell posters, figurines, key chains and other knick knacks there. Plus, the prices are nice since the US dollar is pretty strong compared to the ruble now. (Hope I haven’t offended anyone with the last sentence.)
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| Голодные игры – Anyone? Watched the first movie in Russia years ago. |
The latter is a bit more nuanced. I know anti-cafes exist in Los Angeles and bigger cities in America, but my experience has only been limited to Russia. At the anti-cafe, customers enjoy unlimited drinks, snacks and game. You can also play instruments, board games or video games with your friends there. Instead of paying for the food and beverage, like at a traditional cafe, you pay per hour or minute which you spend at the location.
At the Rabbit Hole, we noticed there were plenty of laptops, free wifi, Guitar Hero and loads of board games. We spent a good hour trying to explain the instructions of Settlers of Catan in Russian and playing the game. When we ended, I was in last place, but I don’t mind so much, since it was only my second time playing. Jenga and Cards Against Humanity are closer to my strength, so I’ll look if they have these games later.
