Given what we'd heard about UB, with some even saying it was the worst city they had ever visted, expectations were low. What we found after arrival to Zaya Hostel wasn't amazing but it wasn't that bad either. The air was warm and balmy, Sukhbaatar Square nearby was grand and the people were turned out nicely enough.
We took advantage of the long daylight to visit Zaisan memorial which overlooks the city. It's a monument to the Russian "defeat" of the Japanese in World War 2 and incredibly windy but afforded a pleasant view of the river going by and the city past it.
Going back we made use of one of the coolest cultural customs in the history of mankind. Stick your hand out on the street in Ulaan Baatar and within seconds someone will pull you over to give you a cheap ride. Cheaper than the taxis and completely safe - before you get in, you tell them your destination and show them how much money you want to pay them. They'll nod acceptance and take you there. In our whole time in Mongolia we never had to wait more than three cars before getting a lift, and it's so much cheaper than taxis. If you feel nervous about the safety of this watch the Mongolians - they do it as well, with aplomb. One funny moment came when a very attractive girl put her arm out and almost caused a pile-up for drivers wanting to take her somewhere.
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