NAME: Pavel Mylnikov

LOCATION: Smolensk, Russia

OCCUPATION: Teacher

Where do you live and what’s it like riding in your city?

Currently I’m living in the small city of Smolensk, in western Russia. There are not so many cyclists here due to several reasons. First, the infrastructure is rather poor (no bike lines on roads, narrow sidewalks and not-very-bike-friendly drivers). Second, the landscape makes it a bit difficult to ride as the city stands on 7 hills—often you have to go up and down then up and down again to reach the place you’re riding to.

Why do you love riding in the city?

It often saves me time (in old and small cities with winding streets you reach your place faster by bike than by car or bus) and a bit of money (maintenance doesn’t cost much). Some physical exercise, too! And it’s a good way to observe a city, to absorb into it. Not just for travelers—you may find some neighborhoods you’ve never thought existed in your own city!