People in the Caucasus region are really (REALLY) dedicated to their homes. Even with modest salaries—averaging around 15-25 thousand rubles a month—they somehow manage to decorate their interiors surprisingly well. Funny enough, in cities where salaries are higher, everything often looks more modest.

On the way to Beslan, I saw this guy, around 55-60 years old, walking along the highway into the city. I offered him a ride, and we got to talking. Next thing I know, he's inviting me over for tea. So I went in (curious, you know?). And man, was I impressed )

Here's the thing though—the guy doesn't even own a car. Every single day he walks from Beslan to the airport and back for work (about 1.5 hours each way). And honestly, his house looks pretty ordinary compared to his neighbors' places. A lot of them actually look way fancier.

Of course, they do all the renovations themselves. They can't afford to hire workers anymore.