THE REPORT FROM THE CRIMEA: VLADISLAV ALFIOROV.*

According to the partnership program a group of our pupils have been visiting the Crimean Metropolitan Gymnasia No. 9 since October 20. Vladislav Alfiorov, a Form 11 pupil, is a group member. He described his experience of the first days in the Crimea especially for our site.

The travel to the capital of Crimea promises to be very informative and interesting. We realised that on the platform when we unexpectedly got the heartiest welcome at four o'clock in the morning. Friendly greetings by teachers, students and their parents moved us to the core. After getting accustomed to our new temporary homes and having a several-hour rest, we had an opportunity to get acquainted closer with the hosts and the city of Simferopol. We visited numerous parks, saw architectural monuments and so on. In the evening we decided to go to the local theater, where we saw a fantastic film. In general, all of us were satisfied with the first day. We were looking forward to the continuation. The second day of our trip was no less interesting. Our day started with familiarity with the educational process at the Simferopol gymnasia. Going to the museum was informative for us. Afterwards we headed to the charming town of Bakhchisaray, where we familiarised with the unique Khan Palace. This architectural monument is the most prominent material reference to the Crimean Khanate at the entire territory of Ukraine. We were pleasantly surprised by the luxury of the life of Khans of that time and features of their way of life and culture in general. We also had an opportunity to visit the park of thumbnails. This is a unique place that helps people familiarise with the most prominent monuments of the Crimea within hours. An evening walk downtown completed this rather physically and mentally stressful day. However, as they say, there is nothing better than a nice fatigue. Third day, we are looking forward to you!