This trip was ... I don't really know how to put it in words, but it was quite an experience for me. Landscapes are incredible yet it is so close to Japan, but at the same time really far...
The nature is pristine, wonderful, colourful, rich and virtually untouched. I hope man will preserve this treasure islands as long as possible.
The landscapes were truly wonderful, from Mount Otsanupuri to Kurilsk, Mount Balanski, The Lion's Rock, and so on and so on. Also we saw true wilderness: seals, foxes, forest, volcanos, fumerolles, lakes, river, coastline, bear footprints, endemic trees, even whale...
The people we met helped me a lot to understand Russian culture and way of life deep in the countryside. We've been helped by many people. Valentina is a wonderful guide, always happy, patient and happy to explain many interesting things. She's pure gold. The food was excellent : salmon is my favorite fish, and have it everyday at almost every meal is just like paradise to me.
Not only Kurils but also Sakhalin, the ferry ride to Iturup and the trip to get there were also part of the experience. This was interesting because we don't hear too much about this area and the people who live there back in our countries. I also like things that are not planned, like going along the coastline of Kunashir and look at beautiful Mount Tyatya, or landing for an hour on Shikotan... This was unique and very rewarding!
I try to summarize the trip on my personal blog and upload pictures I took during these memorable 3 weeks. It's there : http://tinou81.wordpress.com. It's in French though. But there are many pictures. Do not hesitate to use for your website if you want!
My imaginations after taking part in the Iturup 2008 expedition: I would like to to the same kind of trips in regions such as Kamchatka, Central Asia, Kazakhstan, Yakoutia, Bouriatia, Kolyma, maybe even Choukotka (but I heard this might be difficult)
Also I would like to tell my Japanese friend that Russia is very close to Japan, in fact the closest country to Japan is Russia, and is a very intense country for travelling, full of surprizes, and enjoying pristine nature and wilderness.
Best Regards,
