It was Radu who drove in his BMW 520 the 4-1/2 hours or so, to Odessa. The drive was long but easy. The scenery desolate and boring. The border cross was a "bit-of-a-bitch" but all that mattered is that we were now only 17 km. from "la-la-land".
Found the appt. and made a call to Anna who showed in 2 minutes.
As my "booked" apartment had an "electrical problem incl. no air-con" they made plans to put me in this higher-end pad on "Sadovaya Str." #11.
Paid her the balance owed ($ 134 USD per), incl. cell phone rental and damage deposit. Then paid Radu the balance of the 120 Euros owed for the drive.
All left at 2 pm; as did I for a walk, to by supplies and have a beef schwarma for lunch (28 UAH).
Took a 2nd stroll later buying air-time, vodka, beer, mix, and water.
Took a few snaps then relaxed.
It felt good to be back; after 11 months.
Dr. J.