To Russia, With Love

A Reference Guide Curated by Paul Watson With much media conversation surrounding this year's Winter Games in Sochi, we thought it necessary to consult our Co-Founder, Paul Watson, who previously had a run as the Country Director for Central Asia-Caucases at the Department of Defense before taking on shirtmaking. Watson may consider himself less than an expert, but the rest of us in the office would argue that he's got more of a handle on Russian affairs than the average American. While we kept the political conversation to a minimum, this guide serves as more of an introduction for those interested in learning more about the area. We live in a social-driven world - what better way to research and consume media than our beloved social platform Twitter? Per Watson's suggestion, here are several influential folks to follow to keep tabs on current affairs. - Vladimir Putin, The President of the Russian Federation - Moscow Times, Primary English News Publication in Russia - Michael McFaul, US Ambassador to Russia - The Economist, for obvious reasons - Jon Chicky, Specialist on Eurasian security and military issues For those more inclined to reading long-form pieces, Watson suggests picking up a copy of Tom de Waal's The Caucasus. Primarily focused on the combustible nature of the region, its complex inner dynamics, and a deeper appreciation of the region's effect on the remainder of the world, renowned journalist de Waal provides a stimulating read for those interested in world politics and foreign affairs. Specifically Sochi-speaking, there are a couple of great reference guides already out there that give great insight to the Winter Games, where to go and what to see in Sochi. Our friends over at Gear Patrol put together this "Last-Minute Guide to Sochi," that covers everything from where to go, what to eat, and adventuring beyond Russia to enjoy skewered meats and sulfur baths. The Washington Post has a couple of great pieces, including "The Sochi Olympics, Explained in Two Minutes," and a breakdown of venue locations.