Imprisoned In Russia, Accused Of Being A Spy - Full Story

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 11 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 13 тис.

  • @SabbaticalTommy
    @SabbaticalTommy  27 днів тому +4230

    In so many ways, this was the hardest video I’ve ever made.
    It took me time to rest and recover from this experience, and to process it. I wanted this story to be shared the way I experienced it. I don’t know if there’s an equivalent to this video on UA-cam, so I hope it’s also insightful to anyone trying to help the people still locked up in Russia.
    I’m looking forward to getting back to more casual vlogs and adventures (by comparison) after this. I really am. I never forget how lucky I am to be able to do this as a job, but I often forget the dangers I put myself into sometimes. This was the ultimate wake up call.
    PS. If you’re here to tell me “it’s my fault” or that I made this up, please, very kindly, go fuck yourself.

    • @MilitechCorp
      @MilitechCorp 27 днів тому +185

      Man I hope you heal from this trauma

    • @Mikeb8134
      @Mikeb8134 27 днів тому +124

      Love your stuff man, glad you are ok.

    • @MilitechCorp
      @MilitechCorp 27 днів тому +181

      It’s actually hilarious how you were much safer and had zero problems in Africa and war torn countries.

    • @Richard87H
      @Richard87H 27 днів тому +40

      Come hang out with the PA Dutch and Amish communities! Their language is pretty unique and less likely to get jumped or ripped off hahah

    • @Christina_Maree
      @Christina_Maree 27 днів тому +52

      Lmao no fucks given ❤ glad you are okay.. Us subscribers were about to contact the government because I knew something wasn’t right!! The last sentence had me rolling 😂

  • @vladm5920
    @vladm5920 8 годин тому +392

    I read all of the papers you showed, the important stuff was on pages 2-3+ which you didn’t show, first pages mostly cover your personal details and people involved such as your translator, the judge, FSB officer, etc..
    On one of the pages it stated that they caught you close to the Leninskoye village which is a 2 hr drive from Birobidzhan, and that you were close to the Chinese border in a border security zone that requires permission. There’s drug trafficking from China to Russia so border guards are strict there.
    So they caught an unidentified person from USA, in a restricted area, during the time of war, without a passport. Obviously they’ll apprehend you.
    Besides, it’s no coincidence that you ended up in the exact same jail as Ben, so you knew that in advance and still decided to go to that exact place to take chances and walk in a patrolled area with no ID… which is likely intentional, since no experienced traveler would do that.
    For not having an ID on you and refusing to cooperate (as stated in the papers) they gave you 15 days jail time with a possibility of appeal in the first 10 days.
    In the papers the judge also stated that this sentence was carried out with the intent of giving a warning to you and other potential offenders. I’m sure they’re tired of western UA-camrs doing this on purpose at the time of war and testing their patience.
    But you got what you wanted and made this tear jerking propaganda piece.
    Now imagine Russia sponsoring a coup and then starting a proxy war against the US, then at the height of the conflict some Russian travel vlogger is wandering around the US Mexico border in restricted areas with no ID and broken English, I wonder how nice they would treat him.

  • @HoochMST
    @HoochMST 23 дні тому +519

    If the FSB had possession of your phone, consider replacing it if you haven't already

    • @sycksyngyrl
      @sycksyngyrl 21 день тому +35

      Definitely

    • @ChickenPotPie2010
      @ChickenPotPie2010 19 днів тому +19

      @@MikhailKhaimov Wonder where this guys from 😂

    • @stellac884
      @stellac884 19 днів тому

      Definitely for f ki ng sure. I was hit by one of their spyware remotely (I think I might be the first non member of civil society to have been hit) it’s horrible. It has caused me stress and I am bloody traumatised by that. They put real life spy on my ass. Someone please help me!!!!! If someone is reading this please help me!!!!!!!!!!!

    • @sycksyngyrl
      @sycksyngyrl 19 днів тому +6

      @@ChickenPotPie2010 he is from New York you obviously have no clue.. lol

    • @sycksyngyrl
      @sycksyngyrl 19 днів тому +15

      @@MikhailKhaimov it's obvious none of you guy have seen his video history he is not a fraudster by any means he flys places and just goes wandering without any plans he likes to meet the real ppl to see more every day life not tourist garbage

  • @Uuusssaaas
    @Uuusssaaas 27 днів тому +6429

    You traveled to Russia to find the real Russia. I think you succeeded.

    • @acg9891
      @acg9891 27 днів тому +128

      This guys a creep

    • @pred4507
      @pred4507 27 днів тому +500

      @@acg9891 what? ... didn't take long for the bots to appear i guess.

    • @camocas
      @camocas 27 днів тому

      @@acg9891how many rubles your dictator paid you ?

    • @Nolefan1966
      @Nolefan1966 27 днів тому

      @pred4507 typical liberal if people don't agree with you, they're obviously a bot

    • @StonkeyKong
      @StonkeyKong 27 днів тому

      @@acg9891????

  • @reeceharris5113
    @reeceharris5113 15 днів тому +54

    I forgot to say in my comment THANK GOD you are free! It's not much but i wanted to buy you a beer. Your a real one mate.

    • @markovmily6950
      @markovmily6950 6 днів тому

      10 dollars is one beer? :D

    • @juodagalvesniegena714
      @juodagalvesniegena714 4 дні тому

      you donated for a faker

    • @talkshow4377
      @talkshow4377 2 дні тому +2

      God was really with him just the fact that he is free many others aren't so lucky. It's sad the government is like that.

    • @Kardashian_merchant
      @Kardashian_merchant 22 години тому

      do not give him ur money give it to a hungry homeless person

  • @darthjawn
    @darthjawn 27 днів тому +2986

    The prisoner you shared the cell with was almost certainly an FSB plant to see if you’d have a different story, or a prisoner offered release if you’d talk.

    • @MrAndreybond
      @MrAndreybond 27 днів тому +208

      Completely agree!

    • @mistahgrimm9551
      @mistahgrimm9551 27 днів тому +268

      Straight facts. They clearly kept him isolated from the general population at all other times except for that instance.

    • @kurmanbakruk
      @kurmanbakruk 27 днів тому

      Also, he has large number of subscribers which I wouldn’t rule out as a factor in why he was let go. Otherwise, he could have found himself in a much worse situation. Given what’s known about russian misinformation operations, it’s highly possible that many of the comments here are from bots coordinated by their propaganda machinery. You can call them evil, but when it comes to creativity and finding ways they will stop at nothing. Absoultely principless. I’m almost certain that the fsp officials you dealt with have either watched this video or are monitoring it and the comments. I’d strongly recommend being cautious in China as well - not to mention countries like Belarus and Kazakhstan, where their kgbs are essentially in lockstep with their russian counterparts. Traveling to these countries is something I’d avoid entirely.

    • @TheJoeeReflex
      @TheJoeeReflex 27 днів тому +80

      Oo sneaky but probable

    • @Syllaeus
      @Syllaeus 27 днів тому +101

      The Anglosaxons in the FBI do the same things with Muslims.

  • @tihomir7832
    @tihomir7832 26 днів тому +664

    long time viewer, I almost always watch your videos while eating dinner. although im sure you can afford it yourself, this time dinner is on me. take it easy dude, and thanks for all the adventures

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  26 днів тому +123

      Thanks a lot, will do

    • @CommoditySC
      @CommoditySC 25 днів тому

      @@SabbaticalTommy Don't go to communist countries anymore please. Not worth it. You know better than most this could have gone even worse. Plenty of other countries to visit.

    • @lynnkesh254
      @lynnkesh254 24 дні тому +18

      Send me dinner too 😮

    • @toocharged
      @toocharged 24 дні тому

      ​@@lynnkesh254😂😂😂

    • @kipapula6838
      @kipapula6838 24 дні тому

      ​@lynnkesh254 make videos he can watch while earing dinner and maybe just maybe

  • @blankpapertour
    @blankpapertour Годину тому +1

    Tommy, I’m glad to hear you’ve been released. I’m quite familiar with both Russia’s Far East and Shanghai-they are essentially just as you imagine, far from being bastions of freedom. Two years ago, Shanghai was a living hell, and many of the brave people are still in prison. Thank you for being willing to visit Urumqi Middle Road again. Take care. China usually doesn’t go out of its way to trouble an American, but if you say the wrong thing, you might never be able to enter the country again.

  • @tamsamf
    @tamsamf 24 дні тому +113

    The words you found in that park in Shanghai, after enduring this nightmare of emotional and psychological torment, not knowing when, or even if it would end, really got me emotional. Beautiful stuff. Wanting to just watch the birds, feel the sun on your face, appreciating the little things. Appreciating freedom.
    Thank you for sharing your adventures with the world. The way you include the history of the places you visit and get into conversations with the locals makes it that much more interesting to me. Your way of storytelling is truly unique to this platform. You're an amazing person, Tommy. Keep on being you!

    • @Kardashian_merchant
      @Kardashian_merchant 22 години тому

      do not give him ur money give it to a hungry homeless person

  • @nicesky360
    @nicesky360 26 днів тому +1392

    Arrested for being too close to the Chinese-Russian border. Allowed to fly to China afterwards. The irony

    • @aleksandrs1422
      @aleksandrs1422 26 днів тому +62

      border procedures are secret, and the goods that travel accross the border during basically war time might be interesting

    • @Polit_Burro
      @Polit_Burro 26 днів тому

      Prancing around the world in a Man-kini labeled "Human Rights Beauty Queen" while running an international torture/human trafficing ring called "Gitmo institute of human rights". Americans are no strangers to "The Irony."
      🍔🤖

    • @sidneystott9025
      @sidneystott9025 26 днів тому

      ​@@google_is_a_criminalyou 🔔 end

    • @Iamexalted
      @Iamexalted 26 днів тому +3

      😂😂

    • @budgetking2591
      @budgetking2591 26 днів тому +8

      @@google_is_a_criminal lol? i dont think he expected Russia to be that bad, would you?

  • @ChrisMustList
    @ChrisMustList 25 днів тому +383

    I feel your pain, I also was arrested and Jailed in Trinidad for filming this year. They charged me for being in a gang because I filmed a gang. I am still fighting Sedition charges with a max of 2 years in prison. Glad you are out and safe!

    • @ChrisMustList
      @ChrisMustList 25 днів тому +53

      @@bigmc561 I'm not sure why you are so mad, but I wish you happiness. I committed no crime my new friend, and therefore have no reason to be in jail.

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  25 днів тому +45

      Sounds rough. Good you survived

    • @fphagfphag6192
      @fphagfphag6192 25 днів тому +6

      @@bigmc561 You sound like he filmed and exposed your boyfriends

    • @user-sh2mk8ew4c
      @user-sh2mk8ew4c 25 днів тому +6

      Is that what they charged you with?!?! 😂 That’s absolutely hilarious since you’re white and from Canada.
      I mean compared to Tommy-He actually could be a spy. 😊

    • @OfficeV.
      @OfficeV. 24 дні тому +4

      Guys stay out of trouble.

  • @zaicliff3010
    @zaicliff3010 14 днів тому +18

    Videos like this is what makes youtube golden. I’m sorry you had to go through this and it’s sad because there are many beautiful places and people in russia

    • @nainka11
      @nainka11 12 днів тому

      I think Westeners have seen the last of Russia......The iron curtain has already started going up.... it will be complete in 2025.

  • @portlandGTR
    @portlandGTR 27 днів тому +687

    From a man that’s been locked up before I can fully understand. The WORST part is the not knowing portion. Once you know for sure what your sentence is, charge, crime, whatever it’s not so bad. But when you are in that portion where you don’t know what will happen the human mind is a very dangerous place to go alone. This was captivating, I felt like I was with you at parts. Thank you for telling this

    • @SubvertTheState
      @SubvertTheState 27 днів тому +27

      I'm the kind of person who worries, and needs to plan. So that would really stress me out. Being at the mercy of an inhuman state.

    • @3613jeremy
      @3613jeremy 27 днів тому +10

      I'm not the type to take the chance with any foreign country that I don't understand their language 100%. Like going to japan and renting a motorcycle to explore the country side and culture has always been a dream of mine.
      Even with knowing I'd be perfectly safe as an American visiting Japan I know I do stupid stuff to entertain my self and would be worried about crossing a line that would be insulting or illegal in Japan. But a country like Russia I know I would never feel safe or relaxed in especially considering how nervous & scared the locals are.
      But adding the idea of being falsely accused and sentenceds for something that gave me a pointless 2 week jail sentence would of freaked me out 10 times worse. Because I look at it as if they wanted to just check out my story and scare me they would of just grab me and all my stuff held me over night as they investigated & erased any and all video/photos they didn't like before kicking me out of the country the next day. The idea that they just spent the time, money, and resources to falsely accuse me of breaking the law for a 2 week stay in their prison system would of had me terrified of what they really needed that extra 2 weeks for.
      Luckily, he wasn't as valuable as they were hoping for!! Allowing him to leave. But during those 2 weeks, I'd bet big money they were going through his life with a fine tooth comb looking for any connections they could exploit through threats of harm or imprisoning him permanently.

    • @dazzamcg2369
      @dazzamcg2369 27 днів тому

      What did you do?

    • @lemagreengreen
      @lemagreengreen 27 днів тому +3

      It's terrifying, especially knowing they could just make something up and the repeated efforts to make Tommy believe they were going to. Combine that with the language barrier meaning you're not privy to a whole lot of detail...
      I wouldn't blame anyone for going crazy in this scenario. Being locked up is only bearable knowing with certainty you are getting out in a fixed time.

    • @alexoolau
      @alexoolau 27 днів тому

      Very likely secret border military defense structures in the region, which is very important info for China. Hey, any one finding it can really get rich (paid by both China and west). But only good for the first finder.

  • @marten9334
    @marten9334 26 днів тому +148

    This has got the be one of the most interesting youtube videos ive ever seen. You have been doing awesome content during the many years i have watched you and im so glad you got out of that horrible situation. I think you give the most complete view of the places you visit and i appreciate you giving out actual opinions and advice. You inspire me in learning languages and travelling and you make these dark cold winter days much more pleasant by showing me the wonders of the world.

  • @criostoir25
    @criostoir25 27 днів тому +138

    Your face when you got to China was priceless I was delighted for you.. must have been an incredible relief. Thank you for the excellent content. Travel safe man

  • @OceanBlue82
    @OceanBlue82 17 днів тому +10

    Thanks for sharing!

    • @Kardashian_merchant
      @Kardashian_merchant 22 години тому

      do not give him ur money give it to a homeless person

  • @0Leonx0
    @0Leonx0 27 днів тому +1681

    They gave you that authentic Russian experience

    • @besovereign2032
      @besovereign2032 27 днів тому

      @@0Leonx0 you do not enter Russia, Russia enters you

    • @ПетрВрангель-т8п
      @ПетрВрангель-т8п 27 днів тому +78

      Ignorant you mean, just like anyone who think this comment reflect reality somehow. Seriously, you. simply. CANNOT get into such a situation in Russia if you have any common sense. Why, despite all the prohibitions, would you film the border territories, while being on the ground without documents, being a citizen of a state that directly and openly declares its desire to inflict a ‘strategic defeat’ on Russia? Some, lets put it lightly, *mentally underdeveloped* americans here are here like "tHAts a frEeeEdoM!!!", but thats not, it's called lawlessness, and you will be punished for such clear negligence of the law in any country that respects itself, that should be made clear.
      This whole situation is unpleasant and wrong in the way it turned out, and certainly everyone on that channel is reasonably sad for Tommy, but in this situation he is in the wrong.

    • @Dan-el4mz
      @Dan-el4mz 27 днів тому +152

      ⁠@@ПетрВрангель-т8пarrests like these seem to be incredibly common in Russia in comparison to other countries and the judges don’t appear to be impartial they seem to do whatever the state or local law enforcement wants and the punishments for these non-violent “crimes” if you can even call them that are beyond draconian you don’t ever hear about Russians doing prison time in the US for being near a border or for criticizing the US military

    • @alexoolau
      @alexoolau 27 днів тому

      Very likely secret border military defense structures in the region, which is very important info for China. Hey, any one finding it can really get rich (paid by both China and west). But only good for the first finder.

    • @emilioestevezz
      @emilioestevezz 27 днів тому +3

      @@ПетрВрангель-т8п you have a serf mentality

  • @matthewsemenuk8953
    @matthewsemenuk8953 27 днів тому +1719

    Tommy is very lucky he wasn't used as a bargaining chip.

    • @xdgs567z
      @xdgs567z 27 днів тому

      Good thing Trump won the election while he was in prison…Russia don’t want to make Trump mad

    • @3613jeremy
      @3613jeremy 27 днів тому +108

      I honestly think that's why he was allowed to leave because he didn't make a good bargaining chip for them 15 days is a decent amount of time to figure out if he was worth it

    • @xdgs567z
      @xdgs567z 27 днів тому

      @@matthewsemenuk8953 Trump won the election while he was in prison, there’s no bargaining with him

    • @actoraine_
      @actoraine_ 27 днів тому +68

      I am also glad US didn’t have to swap a prisoner to get Tommy out

    • @xdgs567z
      @xdgs567z 27 днів тому

      @@matthewsemenuk8953 good thing this happened during the US Election…AND that Trump won….they then realized that he couldn’t be used as a bargaining chip

  • @bonniefromwashingtonstate7808
    @bonniefromwashingtonstate7808 27 днів тому +414

    The most warmth you were ever shown thru this was from a sweet little kitty cat…..thank you for opening up about this most horrific experience

    • @Duke0Hunter
      @Duke0Hunter 27 днів тому +47

      That kitty was probably trying to get the hell out of there!

    • @ArminiusGroß
      @ArminiusGroß 27 днів тому +1

      @bonniefromwashingtonstate7808 the closest thing to an ambassador that slimy country actually has

    • @Lsp1968
      @Lsp1968 27 днів тому +20

      I was thinking the same thing about the cat it's like he was saying everything's going to be ok now just get the hell out of this place.

    • @billwx3864
      @billwx3864 27 днів тому +15

      Cats know.

    • @TehCoz
      @TehCoz 26 днів тому +10

      The Cat is the only trustworthy Russian.

  • @yingany
    @yingany 9 днів тому +2

    Welcome back Tommy. It’s so wonderful you’re safe finally. Do stay aware while planning any trip though what the relationships are between America and any place you’re thinking of visiting. If the relationship is sour please try somewhere else at least while things cool off hopefully. Sadly, the situation you met with can be replicated in so many other places . Stay safe. That feeling of freedom and liberty most westerners take for granted stokes feelings of deep, grudging resentment in people in the world too poor and repressed to travel and in petty bureaucrats the world over.

  • @djkly1
    @djkly1 27 днів тому +158

    I was checking everyday to see when this video would be uploaded. This is Amazing, but a very unfortunate experience, may the Lord continue to be with you everywhere you go, your content is really good.

  • @albert-rn6wp
    @albert-rn6wp 27 днів тому +640

    The Russian authorities made sure you won’t come back and they made it difficult for you to leave also. It’s like a psychological game they play.

    • @LeaksRepairswhenurplumbe-bn6xk
      @LeaksRepairswhenurplumbe-bn6xk 27 днів тому +27

      Yes in America too . and if u open your eyes it happens every where even in your town

    • @xdgs567z
      @xdgs567z 27 днів тому

      Russia likes to play psychological warfare especially Putin

    • @Oxnaforda
      @Oxnaforda 27 днів тому +78

      ​@@Syllaeus the anglo saxons ended around 1000 years ago, we are british and guantanamo is a prison run by the americans.

    • @Syllaeus
      @Syllaeus 27 днів тому

      @@Oxnaforda
      The Anglo-Saxon identity didn’t disappear; it evolved into identities like British, Canadian, American, and Australian, but the core systems of power remained. Terms like WASP in America and the Anglo-Celtic identity in Australia show how these cultural legacies continue to shape how people live and how nations act. It’s not just history-it’s a story of real people impacted by colonial expansion, native genocide, and modern-day injustices like Guantanamo Bay. These Anglosaxon societies may change their names, but their patterns of exploitation and hypocrisy still affect hundreds of millions of lives today. Ignoring that reality just to paint Russia as evil only allows Anglosaxon crimes to continue.

    • @Syllaeus
      @Syllaeus 27 днів тому

      @@Oxnaforda
      The Anglo-Saxon identity didn’t disappear; it evolved into identities like British, Canadian, American, and Australian, but the core systems of power remained. Terms like WASP in America and the Anglo-Celtic identity in Australia show how these cultural legacies continue to shape how people live and how nations act. It’s not just history-it’s a story of real people impacted by colonial expansion, native genocide, and modern-day injustices like Guantanamo Bay. These Anglosaxon societies may change their names, but their patterns of exploitation and hypocrisy still affect hundreds of millions of lives today. Ignoring that reality just to paint Russia as evil only allows Anglosaxon crimes to continue.

  • @TK-jq3wr
    @TK-jq3wr 24 дні тому +87

    I am from the UK and I was also kept in a detention center there and can confirm everything Sabbatical said. In my case, I came to Russia on a temporary residence permit, and was taken aside at the border. They claimed I did not have a visa in addition to my residence permit. (In fact it was immigration's fault for not giving me one or informing me about it). From then, it was just mind games and psychological abuse, kept waiting for days in the detention center, being transferred from one place to the next, kept in a freezing cold room, treated like a criminal. You can't do anything in these situations. Its lawless, and this is what can really freak you out. But what happened to you is next level with all the drug tests. Glad you got out at the end. Thanks for the video.

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  23 дні тому +12

      Glad you got out too

    • @freedomm
      @freedomm 20 годин тому

      Your countries are effectively at war with Russia. Not smart to test the limits of their laws. I expect them to continue to be suspicious of any western citizens until the war is resolved.

  • @tonyvenardi8943
    @tonyvenardi8943 27 днів тому +630

    I am an American who was imprisoned in Laos from July 20th to September 11th 2024. I have been home a few months (against unreal odds) and want to make a video detailing and explaining it but just haven’t. The conditions were something beyond words yet I feel I should have something more profound to say. Props to you, maybe I’ll release mine in the next day or two who knows. People need to understand the risk involved with traveling to certain places. Glad you’re home man, you’re not alone in many feelings you shared

    • @Anonymous-kw4jf
      @Anonymous-kw4jf 27 днів тому +22

      Omg what did they arrest you for? I heard some sus stories about Laos

    • @patrick1992
      @patrick1992 27 днів тому +8

      What did you do? 😂 In which city you got arrested? 😮

    • @jasonthomas1688
      @jasonthomas1688 27 днів тому +5

      Legendary experience Bro and I'm glad your safe.

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  26 днів тому +162

      You should, doesn’t have to be fancy

    • @nightowl7261
      @nightowl7261 26 днів тому +13

      Tell us what you did

  • @GabrielTravelerVideos
    @GabrielTravelerVideos 25 днів тому +56

    What an absolute nightmare. Glad to hear that it worked out in the end. Enjoy your freedom and keep travelin'.

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  25 днів тому +16

      Appreciate that, coming from the travel genre OG

    • @astroantares
      @astroantares 25 днів тому

      🤡🤡

    • @ErvuJukl
      @ErvuJukl 24 дні тому +2

      ​@@astroantaresGabe is the Canadian/American icon! 🇨🇦🇺🇸

    • @Andrij_Kozak
      @Andrij_Kozak 7 днів тому

      Gabriel please dont repeat his mistake. He didnt want to learn from bald and bankrupts experience 2 years ago in the same city.

    • @ErvuJukl
      @ErvuJukl 7 днів тому +1

      @Andrij_Kozak Gabe has already explained that he will not visit Russia as long as there is a brutal dictator in power there.

  • @lowabstractionlevel3910
    @lowabstractionlevel3910 27 днів тому +215

    Watched it all in religious silence. Your final thoughts are, as always, very profound. Among a thousand travel vloggers to me you stand out as the only one who tries to reflect on camera, the only one who is not in a hurry all the time, and the only one who doesn't want to present us an "engaging" (as they say) video with so much editing and so many cuts that in comparison the old MTV music videos seem ASMR.
    Keep doing what you do, and if ever in Italy in the future I'd love to shake your hand.

    • @alexoolau
      @alexoolau 27 днів тому

      Very likely secret border military defense structures in the region, which is very important info for China. Hey, any one finding it can really get rich (paid by both China and west). But only good for the first finder.

    • @dalecostich8794
      @dalecostich8794 27 днів тому +2

      i agree whole-heartedly...thie Tommy is correspondent level.

    • @trilithon108
      @trilithon108 27 днів тому

      I like he's real and compassionate with the people. He acknowledges Russians as a people are pleasant and friendly but when totalitarian Dictators take over it twists the guys in uniforms.

    • @lowabstractionlevel3910
      @lowabstractionlevel3910 27 днів тому

      @@ddlc_monika often eating, or distracted by other things in general

    • @dannydanny2789
      @dannydanny2789 27 днів тому

      If you see that as profound, I'm truly sorry for you. It takes a very special kind of man to get arrested in Russia as a westerner, they get special treatment here and are actually allowed many transgressions of our societal norms due to their assumed ignorance of such norms. And that special kind of man is certainly not the sharpest fella.

  • @teds9656
    @teds9656 27 днів тому +40

    A lot of people were thinking about you. I was one of them. I hope you get some rest and take care of yourself. All the best to you and your family.

  • @MykToronto
    @MykToronto 27 днів тому +165

    Tommy, I've been watching your videos for a long time. I spent a good chunk of my late '20s & early '30s backpacking, and your videos are the only ones that truly resonate with me. You do an excellent job at showing viewers that good people exist in all corners of the earth; there's a human element to your videos that is unparalleled. I'm sorry that you've had to endure this experience.

    • @terrenceolivido741
      @terrenceolivido741 27 днів тому +7

      man, i just am cheking out this video, but this guy is such a breath of fresh air. here in his comments while in China, it still shows he is naive ... I think the intro to the video shows he has matured a little.

    • @shokthemonkey
      @shokthemonkey 25 днів тому +1

      @@MykToronto I agree with you Myk

  • @zobodohtar
    @zobodohtar 27 днів тому +916

    Imagine escaping Russia for the safety of China. Now I've seen everything.

    • @daeseongkim93
      @daeseongkim93 27 днів тому +1

      China is definitely safer than Russia lol it's not actively at war with a country, it's more developed and thriving, it's not a pariah state to the same extent of Russia and Putin, it's generally open to tourism and has done a lot to relax visa restrictions for most nationalities, it's a trading hub and not under the same crippling sanctions by the west.

    • @lldd11
      @lldd11 27 днів тому +34

      I saw some of his videos in Russia and felt he is really sketchy type, seems like he was looking for darkest places and trouble in Russia to show bad experience - and he found it in the end! ( if he is telling the truth)

    • @lldd11
      @lldd11 27 днів тому +26

      @@Burgaboi788 He is full of sht, he posted video 2 weeks ago from Omsk (which is mid russia) then 10 days ago from Far East (it takes 2-3 days to get there by train) - saying he was arrested for over 2 weeks (there was only 4 days between those videos and that is how much time will take you moving from one location to another)

    • @lldd11
      @lldd11 27 днів тому +24

      @@Burgaboi788 And BTW I have travel across US (and other countries as well) - you don't know what total crap means when you go into deep woods! Try it!

    • @gallicat9783
      @gallicat9783 27 днів тому +6

      ​@@Burgaboi788And thats not because rural areas in Russia are far from cities in development due to high urbanization. Another westo "logic"

  • @dartht8er
    @dartht8er 15 днів тому +16

    Its pretty wild how many other creators are piggybacking off this story. You made it, Tommy!

    • @jerryrfields
      @jerryrfields 6 днів тому

      Karma is working on you. Consequences have come back to you in that you have lost your freedom with You Tube. You do not care if Ukraine does not receive help. No body likes a bully like Russia and You Tube.

  • @Dr_Adam
    @Dr_Adam 25 днів тому +19

    This is your best video yet. Sorry that happened to you Thomas.

  • @melvinve7354
    @melvinve7354 24 дні тому +398

    imagine if the Chinese police arrested him after for being a russian spy after he got to china lol

    • @DC-zc5fq
      @DC-zc5fq 24 дні тому +7

      😂😂😂

    • @SimonTemplar1800
      @SimonTemplar1800 24 дні тому +28

      Well he was criticizing Chinese covid policy and the apartment fire. He's sort of asking for trouble.

    • @Angin0
      @Angin0 23 дні тому

      @@SimonTemplar1800 🤡

    • @starstencahl8985
      @starstencahl8985 23 дні тому +20

      @@SimonTemplar1800”critizing” = “asking for trouble” lol

    • @medved4030
      @medved4030 22 дні тому

      @@SimonTemplar1800 He's not currently uploading any videos in China. Maybe the Chinese also arrested him for suspicious behaviour? The guy is an utter tool. 🤣

  • @wigalert
    @wigalert 27 днів тому +42

    Excellent video. Thanks for sharing your experience. Stay safe.

    • @Jhonnyalex82
      @Jhonnyalex82 27 днів тому +8

      That pays his original ticket in Russia.

    • @oblivionzzzmike
      @oblivionzzzmike 27 днів тому

      @@Jhonnyalex82lol right

    • @cuana2
      @cuana2 27 днів тому +3

      @@Jhonnyalex82😂

    • @alexoolau
      @alexoolau 27 днів тому

      @@Jhonnyalex82 Very likely secret border military defense structures in the region, which is very important info for China. Hey, any one finding it can really get rich (paid by both China and west). But only good for the first finder.

    • @doitdan2354
      @doitdan2354 27 днів тому

      Don’t pay this weasel

  • @metielking
    @metielking 18 днів тому +4

    Thanks!

  • @sanderr950
    @sanderr950 27 днів тому +581

    I’ve just kinda payed your 500 Ruble fine. Hope this brings some sort of smile on your face and whenever that fine and all that negative shit that’s behind it pops up in your mind, I hope my clumsy and silly gesture reminds you that most people are kindhearted souls. You will heal, you will write beautiful things and you’ll come out on top.

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  27 днів тому +264

      Thanks man, you covered the fine and added a tip

    • @alexoolau
      @alexoolau 27 днів тому

      Very likely secret border military defense structures in the region, which is very important info for China. Hey, any one finding it can really get rich (paid by both China and west). But only good for the first finder.

    • @bigshineythings3996
      @bigshineythings3996 27 днів тому +23

      Tommy I’m very glad you made it out and I hope you are able to heal mentally ❤

    • @seneca4ever
      @seneca4ever 27 днів тому +5

      common sanderr W

    • @Syllaeus
      @Syllaeus 27 днів тому +12

      @@SabbaticalTommy
      Do you think the Anglosaxon/Scots-Irish built Guantanamo bay is a lot nicer?

  • @alanzolotoff6014
    @alanzolotoff6014 27 днів тому +1417

    Tommy I’m a Russian and I had a bad feeling as soon as you arrived in Russia. Count your blessings that you made it out ok. I’m glad your ok 👍

    • @alextiga8166
      @alextiga8166 27 днів тому +114

      yeah gotta keep your mouth shut and stay way from the military sites or borders in countries like this

    • @Zagreb-v2n
      @Zagreb-v2n 27 днів тому +1

      ​@alextiga8166 or maybe you should shut it up and stop trolling people here ! 😂😂😂😂🫵🫵🫵

    • @deanl0
      @deanl0 27 днів тому

      @@alextiga8166 Usa not much better and you ain't seen nothin' yet
      see you in 25

    • @Allieduser
      @Allieduser 27 днів тому

      @@alextiga8166 the same in every country. try it in the USA near secret places:)

    • @carlustin4034
      @carlustin4034 27 днів тому

      @@alextiga8166 That will not save you. His crime is he is ,,Ango-saxon'' and on teir terretory

  • @khills242
    @khills242 26 днів тому +76

    Tommy, I started watching your adventures about two years ago when I was going through a really rough patch and they helped guide me through one of the toughest times in my life. Now I am living in South Korea (from the US) and have taken inspiration to be more adventurous. I am glad you're still alive, thank you for what you do.

    • @i.ehrenfest349
      @i.ehrenfest349 9 днів тому +1

      This has inspired me to be yet less adventurous

  • @JellyBeansMystreyMachine
    @JellyBeansMystreyMachine 21 день тому +4

    This needs to get over a millions view. People NEED To see this. I'M sorry for all of your struggles and I'm so glad you got out of that situation. I can only imagine the trauma you went through.

  • @Kaven-g2b
    @Kaven-g2b 26 днів тому +36

    Tommy
    I’ve been a subscriber for some time now
    I’ve enjoyed your vlogs, they have been well researched and very educational. It’s given me and I am sure many of your subscribers the joy of travelling without having to leave home.
    I am incredibly grateful for your videos, we hope you can continue your incredible journey.
    We love and support what you’re doing Tommy, keep the great work up.

  • @KrazyRabb1t
    @KrazyRabb1t 25 днів тому +30

    Man I’m getting anxious just listening to this. Props to you for keeping your cool the entire time.

  • @tr0llol677
    @tr0llol677 25 днів тому +19

    Cheers for more videos on the road !

  • @Audio10001
    @Audio10001 17 днів тому +9

    Crazy , I knew it , I was watching your vids and something happened where your vids stopped during the Russian travel period and I said to my self that's not normal I hope he's okay. Thank god you are free , we all live through your eyes and your ability to take us to places where most of us will never have the freedom or finances to go.Your blessed with youth insight intelligence and the ability to learn new languages and to show us how we as human beings have so much in common no matter where we live on earth.Keep strong Tommy and living with passion.Peace

  • @fdk7014
    @fdk7014 27 днів тому +1235

    "'They told me not to visit Russia"
    and this is why

    • @Hector.Banuet
      @Hector.Banuet 27 днів тому +19

    • @ETERNALCYCLES
      @ETERNALCYCLES 27 днів тому +35

      i was afraid he would get into trouble watching his previous vlogs where he was very critical of the russian government.

    • @SirBoethius
      @SirBoethius 27 днів тому +23

      Exactly this, he keeps saying he committed no crime; laws are made for the lawmakers, not so they can be applied justly but so they can do whatever they like to the naive.

    • @Pm3m_Dia
      @Pm3m_Dia 27 днів тому +43

      @@lostinspain66 You only need to get unlucky once.

    • @Kuticul
      @Kuticul 27 днів тому

      guy is a russia simp, he had a rude awakening

  • @jenc9021
    @jenc9021 23 дні тому +6

    So glad you made it back to tell the story. Definitely a wake up call for some of my ignorance about the world. Wishing everyone peace and love during this holiday season.

  • @BimmerWon
    @BimmerWon 27 днів тому +43

    I’ve been waiting for this!

  • @danielwampler7375
    @danielwampler7375 11 днів тому +1

    This is the best travel vlog I've ever seen. Thank you for sharing.

  • @brakmaster
    @brakmaster 27 днів тому +103

    The flight was actually a rare occurence because during the english message on the flight I heard the word charter. You were very lucky. I feel so sorry for what you went through but this was a very well put together video. What an ordeal. I'm glad that when you got off the plane in China you weren't arrested for something else. Be safe brother and God bless.

  • @evilrulo85
    @evilrulo85 27 днів тому +225

    Love your videos dude. Be safe! We love you Tommy.

    • @mikekares-b8q
      @mikekares-b8q 27 днів тому +5

      He's definitely one lucky guy this time around.

  • @MaccaSlackerNZ
    @MaccaSlackerNZ 25 днів тому +60

    Hell of a ride mate. You are definitely living.

  • @channarosenblatt8197
    @channarosenblatt8197 3 дні тому

    Thank you for this excellent, well-edited story. You are a master.

  • @barnabywhite9336
    @barnabywhite9336 26 днів тому +20

    Really glad you made it back safely Tommy. I love your channel, please don’t stop doing what you do, we all love traveling with you. 🎉

  • @sawyer6555
    @sawyer6555 27 днів тому +136

    Finally! I have been waiting for this video. I'm glad you are okay.

  • @MylissRuth
    @MylissRuth 26 днів тому +64

    Make sure you get some EMDR for potential PTSD from this experience. We love you.

  • @GaryGS1
    @GaryGS1 5 днів тому +1

    Thank you so much for posting your amazing blog of your detainment in Russia. So unbelievable and scary! Glad you got out of there and can continue your travels! One of your fans, you are a very good Vlogger and awesome personality! Keep up the good work and best wishes Gary from NJ/USA.
    PS I’m heading to Guyana, Suriname French Guiana, and Northern Brazil in a couple days backpacking solo for two months. I really enjoyed your travel Vlogs of those areas and found them very useful and unhelpful in my planning. Thank you/Best wishes/Gary.

  • @Reveal_City
    @Reveal_City 26 днів тому +469

    The perfect sequel to "You should never visit Russia. But I did."

    • @crackawood
      @crackawood 25 днів тому

      Russia continues to spread its own PR. The days of romanticizing the Motherland are over. They just can't stop themselves

    • @aawe1
      @aawe1 25 днів тому +4

      Birobidzhan incidentally is the capital of the only Jewish-designated oblast of Russia and is Russia's only 'autonomous oblast'

    • @kowismo
      @kowismo 25 днів тому

      I don't want to sound harsh but people need to understand its their own stupidity to visit such country where you know they act like shit

    • @mathewvanostin7118
      @mathewvanostin7118 25 днів тому

      Cause he is a spy. Its been since 2015. Secret agency agents had moved in in social medias

    • @myaopan
      @myaopan 25 днів тому

      I guess he didn’t know Russia and the west are practically in war. Did he think the Russians government was going to be kind and friendly to an American?

  • @TheKingOfBeans
    @TheKingOfBeans 27 днів тому +1630

    You saw the side of Russia that the media DO show us.

    • @dimitriig
      @dimitriig 27 днів тому

      Oh, sunny child.. It's not about Russia or any other country.. There is cold war between Russia and USA as you should to know. USA not safe country for russians in this days too.

    • @jeannienelson1035
      @jeannienelson1035 27 днів тому +40

      some media

    • @dimitriig
      @dimitriig 27 днів тому

      It's not about Russia or any other country.. There is cold war between russia and USA as you should to know. USA not safe country for russians in this days too.

    • @Weise1001
      @Weise1001 27 днів тому

      some pro russian channels already label him as faking this.. Its funny how they go head over heel to defend the hole that russia is

    • @danworth3669
      @danworth3669 27 днів тому

      The media will want to use this story to use as a reason for more war.

  • @danielsullivan5607
    @danielsullivan5607 27 днів тому +22

    Tommy, I have been watching you for years, you are absolutely awesome, an ambassador of Love and humanity, one of my favorite people on the tube. Maybe because I'm a long islander and identify with you and the way you are so chill with all the people you meet. Your grasp of language is what makes you so dangerous. i love your grasp of history and your understanding of the human experience. Thank God you are still here. Sounds exactly like a book I read about a kid who drove his trans-am into the ussr back in the eighties. Not to mention Evan Geiselman, and all the others. Thank God you are here and safe. Dan S

    • @goldenpacificmedia
      @goldenpacificmedia 27 днів тому +1

      Came here to say this as well, but have only been following Tommy's Sabbatical channel on YT for about six months.
      A long time ago (about almost 50 years ago) there was a Big Blue Marble show sponsored by AT&T on PBS where the shows toured the world. I recall having a pen pal in Australia from the show. Your work is a modern and more immediate post-card to the world from so many destinations. Your work is a 100% stronger than Travel Channel and more genuine in interaction because of your linguistic skills. Thanks for your phenomenal work. I think in the long run, this video that you posted is going to be recognized for its harsh reflection on the realities of current 2024 Russia. I pray in 20-40 years that Russia will change and that you others can take viewers like me on a journey to these far off lands and share about the people there. After all, Earth is just a big blue marble.

  • @StarHelix-
    @StarHelix- 27 днів тому +55

    Glad you're safe, Tommy. Your videos are something I always look forward to, and you're far more informative and entertaining than many other travel vloggers. May the Sabbatical continue!

  • @SnowyFeet
    @SnowyFeet 26 днів тому +258

    You weren't served tea or fell out of a window. Consider yourself lucky.

    • @colonelfustercluck486
      @colonelfustercluck486 26 днів тому +7

      and even better, there was no "drop the soap in the shower" drama... that's pretty good

    • @charrua59
      @charrua59 26 днів тому +3

      Yeah seems like his prison stay was peaceful. But I don't know the guy. Maeby he would have liked soap play.

    • @nobbynobbs8182
      @nobbynobbs8182 25 днів тому

      @@charrua59 try to have some empathy, sociopath

    • @MarkFranklin-ws5jf
      @MarkFranklin-ws5jf 24 дні тому

      As a guest of the intelligence police, you went shown, and got to stay in the same prison cell as Brittney Griner

    • @TheSmokingHatManSeesYou
      @TheSmokingHatManSeesYou 11 днів тому

      Peaceful? 😂😂 nothing "peaceful" abt any of that. ​@@charrua59

  • @OutDehExplorer
    @OutDehExplorer 27 днів тому +201

    Damn Tommy! 13:00 That car ride , the FSB officer 👮 “Thomas , you said I’m a bad person, that’s not good we don’t want something to happen to you …” scarier than any horror movie

    • @Andrea-ek9cp
      @Andrea-ek9cp 26 днів тому +4

      Stupidest comment. This wasn’t scary.

    • @ramunsbrx2419
      @ramunsbrx2419 26 днів тому +15

      @@Andrea-ek9cpit might not be scary only for people who truly lost their mind. You seem to be one of them.

    • @bardo0007
      @bardo0007 26 днів тому +5

      @@Andrea-ek9cp Are you pro russia?

    • @perfectmazda3538
      @perfectmazda3538 26 днів тому

      ​@@bardo0007 he's literally a bot, he has been going under every comment writing nice things about Russia and saying that Tommy is a liar, he's not the only one... it seems like the kremlin bots had to work overtime xD

    • @JohannDaart
      @JohannDaart 26 днів тому +5

      They were fucking around with him, it was a joke/irony from that officer ;)

  • @SimplyNatasha25
    @SimplyNatasha25 20 днів тому

    Thank you so much for sharing. So sorry that this was your experience. Glad you made it out unscathed.

  • @vincenzoli3608
    @vincenzoli3608 25 днів тому +6

    been watching your videos for 6 months now, started from the oldest, now I'm still on your Africa trip. I will watch EVERY video you make, thanks for the good content.

  • @TheGaryj57
    @TheGaryj57 27 днів тому +135

    I was arrested in Kismayo, Somalia while backpacking in the early 1980's I was supposed to be a spy because I took pictures, I got out quckley but it scared the shit out of me. Looking back i view the experience with an amusing feeling. Your experience will be remembered for the rest of your life. How will you remember it? Gary from California

    • @positivevibes4573
      @positivevibes4573 27 днів тому +6

      @@Syllaeus Lol

    • @Globewatcher224
      @Globewatcher224 27 днів тому +1

      How was Somalia back then?

    • @MasterShake9000
      @MasterShake9000 27 днів тому

      @@Syllaeusexcept they were guilty of terrorism, and like all Muslims likely guilty of rape or attempted rape against any woman “anglosaxon” or otherwise.
      Only bad thing about Guantanamo is that it can’t hold more of your kind.

    • @SteveRoy88
      @SteveRoy88 27 днів тому

      @@Syllaeus your a joke. probably a bot.

    • @khaled__k2
      @khaled__k2 26 днів тому +2

      I feel sorry for what happened to you as a Somali.

  • @Ryanc4281
    @Ryanc4281 27 днів тому +8

    Bro, I'm so sorry this happened. The despair you and your loved ones had must've been impossibly frustrating. I'm happy as hell you got through this and continued on with your travels in China. I would've tucked tail and headed straight HOME! God bless, Happy Holidays.

  • @stargalaxy308
    @stargalaxy308 11 днів тому

    I’m so glad you’re alive , and happy to know you’re safe now.

  • @paros320
    @paros320 24 дні тому +29

    Glad you are safe. You deserve some time off. I still want to see Russia but I’ll wait until a calmer time in the world. ✌️

    • @loganknowsnoneofyourbusine263
      @loganknowsnoneofyourbusine263 13 днів тому

      Same. I’ve always been interested in Russia, have always wanted to visit. But as long as this evil regime remains, I will never consider it. This video confirmed my exact fears.

    • @MrSaljstn
      @MrSaljstn День тому

      I went during Covid and all was well, even as an American, I think he was just unlucky with his video clickbait titles. Russia was a beautiful experience for me.

  • @jaysonwilliams1278
    @jaysonwilliams1278 27 днів тому +9

    One of two turns can come out of nightmare situations. A turn for the better or a turn for the worse. I, and everyone who has followed this is blessed to see you not ruined or worse, but instead resolved and better. Even if better takes a bit of time to fully manifest. Be encouraged my friend. Praying for your safe travels, and continued bravery tempered with increasing wisdom, understanding, and compassion. Can't say I've ever watched any "UA-camr" that had me a bit choked up.

  • @GSMMW
    @GSMMW 27 днів тому +37

    I was glued to this from start to finish. I saw a shirt today and it said "Living the dream one nightmare at a time."

  • @JohannesWeinzerl
    @JohannesWeinzerl 16 днів тому +2

    Thank you Tommy for your insides of the world out there! Uncensored unfiltered....

  • @TommyEngdahl
    @TommyEngdahl 27 днів тому +28

    Real content from real interaction with hard reality.
    I would not find myself in this situation as i am very scared of reality.
    I dont make myself any illusions about the world anymore.
    The world is much harder than most people think.
    Good to see that you got out in one piece.

  • @courtneywilliams4143
    @courtneywilliams4143 27 днів тому +51

    Can I just say ( and I don't say this lightly) I appreciate your videos. Before this Russian "adventure " I always enjoyed you your honest videos of places that I'd love to see. What makes your videos so enjoyable is the fact that you arrive with no ego or bias. I hope this doesn't stop you still travelling and doing your thing. But saying this obviously we don't want to see you go through this again. Basically please be mire cautious.

    • @MarkFranklin-ws5jf
      @MarkFranklin-ws5jf 24 дні тому

      I visit Russia every time I sit down open up a Dostoevsky novel and take my vodka bottle out of the freezer!

  • @redcomic619
    @redcomic619 26 днів тому +48

    One day this will be an episode of Locked Up Abroad.

  • @KS1x17
    @KS1x17 14 днів тому

    What a crazy experience! Thank you for sharing and we're so glad that you're okay and safe!

  • @うみねこ-h8t
    @うみねこ-h8t 27 днів тому +408

    My man visually aged from stress. I wish you a speedy recovery, take your time to rest

    • @SeattleLooksLikeScheisse
      @SeattleLooksLikeScheisse 27 днів тому +8

      Agree... I just recently found his channel and have enjoyed watching his mild demeanor for adventure. Seeing this video, I was thinking that the stress had dampened that spark of optimism that woven through his blogs.

    • @jackyack7850
      @jackyack7850 27 днів тому +17

      Eh it was two weeks. Stop being a drama queen.

    • @SeattleLooksLikeScheisse
      @SeattleLooksLikeScheisse 27 днів тому

      @jackyack7850 I'm still catching up on his videos and guess I haven’t gotten to the more recent videos where he looks like a meth addict before he was arrested.

    • @keenannorris3309
      @keenannorris3309 27 днів тому

      @@jackyack7850 Stop being a try-hard. Nobody thinks you're tough.

    • @sunny74763
      @sunny74763 27 днів тому

      @@jackyack7850lol let's see you do 2 weeks in Russian prison

  • @trinleywangmo
    @trinleywangmo 26 днів тому +28

    Very kind of you to care about your viewers' concerns. I'm also glad that you were able to get out of that horrible situation safely. And, look forward to the book you're writing. If you let them rob you of your spirit, you'll remain locked up, as has happened to me... and I never ONCE spent the night in a REAL prison anywhere.
    And, just because you couldn't finish your trip now, doesn't mean that it's forever lost. _Na zdorovie_

  • @DEVIL9999ish
    @DEVIL9999ish 26 днів тому +37

    Bro ! you looked Really Happy Landing in China , stay Safe 🙏

  • @helixmaxter
    @helixmaxter 27 днів тому +20

    Thanks for telling us this!! Glad you are out!

  • @wrighrw2
    @wrighrw2 26 днів тому +12

    I hope the physiological torture you went through doesn't give you lasting nightmares and hope you have safe and happy travels in the future. Form NZ

  • @ekaterini2957
    @ekaterini2957 25 днів тому +60

    As x military I would never take the chance. You went and gave those of us who don’t take the chance a chance to see more of the world. You didn’t fail, you made it and for that we are all thankful. God give you peace as fast as possible. Blessings…

    • @marlon596
      @marlon596 22 дні тому +2

      💯 percent

    • @user-qo4kb4dr1i
      @user-qo4kb4dr1i 20 днів тому

      Yeah he gave his money to a country that hates him and tried to promote them. What a genius

  • @MagicMahoney
    @MagicMahoney 7 днів тому

    WOW, glad you got out of that situation, man! What a moving story and a reminder, even though the people are good, ideologies are sometimes too hard to break humanity or understanding. Hope this experience doesn't break your urge and hunger to sidcover more of our beautiful world!

  • @charlesharvey2164
    @charlesharvey2164 27 днів тому +45

    Tommy, you probably won't see this and it will be buried among all the other comments, but I'm very proud of you. You went through hell for all of us. As a fellow traveler (40+ countries so far), I almost went to Russia but my fear kept me away. With my background in the navy I would have been kept there for much longer.
    You've gained a loyal subscriber and look forward to seeing more of your videos.

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  26 днів тому +17

      Saw it. Good luck to you, but skip Russia for now

    • @flo2677
      @flo2677 26 днів тому

      You have to understand; Russia do not consider you a friend. They hate everything about you and the US. If they got the chance they would obliterate you in a moment. Thats how russian fascism is. There is a reason for the war in Ukraine; they dont see Ukrainians as an own people; they view them as russians. Trying to say the government and the people are different is extremely naive. Putin is a product of the russian way of thinking.

    • @AI-oh5oy
      @AI-oh5oy 22 дні тому

      Any US veterans should not travel to Russia. It's really dangerous.

    • @stellac884
      @stellac884 19 днів тому +2

      I went to Russia and i was accused of having a knife in my bag at the airport. Maybe it was going to be planted (that bag had been at the hotel the entire morning) was lucky it wasn’t in the end. Not sure who stopped it

    • @1.4billion65
      @1.4billion65 11 днів тому

      ​@@SabbaticalTommy你下一个国家应该去北朝鲜。

  • @hydrostream76
    @hydrostream76 27 днів тому +16

    God Bless Tommy
    been following you for so long ..
    what a crazy story
    i can imagine the mental stress ,
    you had going through that shit
    Glad you're okay,
    Take care Brother

  • @Ryy86
    @Ryy86 27 днів тому +35

    Can see the emotion this draws up in your opening statement, it's bad enough to be locked up and have a real date of release to focus on.. I can't imagine what my mind would do to me in your position, jesus hope your doing okay, love your content from Scotland, have a good christmas & new year when it arrives!

  • @chuckolu4394
    @chuckolu4394 20 днів тому

    So happy you are back Tommy. Take care of yourself!
    I am never going to Russia, not this lifetime.

  • @silverfox6844
    @silverfox6844 27 днів тому +25

    So glad you’re okay. Been watching you since you’ve started your adventures. Looking forward to next video.

  • @marklikesit4523
    @marklikesit4523 27 днів тому +21

    I've reallyed enjoyed your content over the years, this one not so much but glad you're ok.

    • @lldd11
      @lldd11 27 днів тому +2

      He is full of sht, he posted video 2 weeks ago from Omsk (which is mid russia) then 10 days ago from Far East (its take 2-3 days to get there by train) - saying he was arrested for over 2 weeks (there was only 4 days between those videos and that is how much time will take you move from one location to another)

    • @mitchellapps9865
      @mitchellapps9865 27 днів тому

      @@lldd11 Many youtubers schedule videos in advance, for us it looks like they just posted it.

    • @Anonymous-kw4jf
      @Anonymous-kw4jf 25 днів тому +2

      @@lldd11 this stupidity blew my mind. apparently he uploaded everything after he got out

    • @lldd11
      @lldd11 24 дні тому

      @@Anonymous-kw4jf No he didn't, he said he got arrested in the end of October.

  • @HistoryDose
    @HistoryDose 27 днів тому +131

    Have to say again-SO relieved that you’re back safe, Tommy!
    ~Chris

    • @SabbaticalTommy
      @SabbaticalTommy  26 днів тому +14

      Thanks man

    • @YaKefir4eg
      @YaKefir4eg 26 днів тому

      ​@@SabbaticalTommyHow much do you need to be paid for all these lies? What are the weeks in prison? How could you edit and upload videos to the channel? Why are you lying to people?

    • @YaKefir4eg
      @YaKefir4eg 26 днів тому

      ​@@SabbaticalTommyyou are a lier

    • @chlindh1
      @chlindh1 26 днів тому

      ​@@YaKefir4eg do you work for FSB? 😹

    • @mrstealyourgurl3910
      @mrstealyourgurl3910 26 днів тому +1

      Hi Chris ~ no more RUSSIA plzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

  • @kellysteele78
    @kellysteele78 14 днів тому

    I just started watching your channel in the past month. I have enjoyed them very much. I'm happy you made it out of Russia. You're lucky you weren't there for much longer. I look forward to watching more of your content. Take care.

  • @apexkrown
    @apexkrown 27 днів тому +59

    Been watching for a while, I had to subscribe. I could see and feel the disdain in your eyes and voice. We all know you are a very friendly and respectful traveler. Be careful out there, my dad told me before i went to Medellin, "the world owes you no understanding. Things happen outside of your control, especially in other countries."

    • @Champwsox05
      @Champwsox05 27 днів тому +1

      How was your trip to Medellin? That's at the top of my bucket list of places to visit.

    • @apexkrown
      @apexkrown 27 днів тому +3

      @@Champwsox05 it was amazing! But i also speak fluent spanish. I would not recommend going there if you dont speak at LEAST semi-fluent spanish. But if you decide to go, just avoid El Centro and Manrique after 7pm.

    • @Champwsox05
      @Champwsox05 27 днів тому +1

      @@apexkrown Awesome, thanks!

    • @Tearoze
      @Tearoze 26 днів тому

      ​@@apexkrown Thanks for that 💯

    • @Артур-ш6я9т
      @Артур-ш6я9т 26 днів тому

      просто надо соблюдать законы и не лезть туда куда собака свой нос не сунет

  • @bryantsherman7263
    @bryantsherman7263 27 днів тому +25

    Thank you Thomas for sharing that experience. It makes us look at the freedoms many take for granted in a different light. I sincerely hope that things change for the better in the world.

  • @Oz_Darkr1d3r
    @Oz_Darkr1d3r 25 днів тому +10

    Sorry this happened to you and i hope you keep making these videos so people like me can see the world! Get yourself a coffee on me ☕

  • @yingany
    @yingany 9 днів тому

    So glad you’re back. It’s put a quiet, powerful fire in your belly. A sadness too but hopefully that will pass. Can’t wait for our next adventures. Get going soon. Skip out on the cold feet.

  • @glitchard3685
    @glitchard3685 27 днів тому +9

    Wow. wow wow wow. What a tremendous video. And a tragic tale. Many more need to see this and hear your story.
    You seem different now. Transformed. Changed. I don't applaud what happened to you, even in the slightest. I can only imagine how terrifying, isolating, and uncertain the feelings you had to deal with in that cell and during those long silent car rides. But I will shine a light on how true growth comes from struggle and pain. You have what it takes to complete your next journey and the many more that will follow in after it.
    You are stronger for this. I swear it. I'm glad you made it out of there. Your journey (not just this one, but the countless others you have shared with all of us) has been truly impactful to watch.
    Wishing you the best from here on out. Stay safe, Tommy.

  • @lasmileyo
    @lasmileyo 27 днів тому +17

    There you are ! I was waiting for your video

  • @Kaygee79
    @Kaygee79 27 днів тому +29

    Glad you ended up safe in China! Experiences only happen when you go and live your life. Sometimes you have to experience the rough to appreciate the good even more. I can see you've had a lot of reflection after this which is great. You're still motivated and looking forward to seeing your next adventures. Happy you're well! Cheers brother!

  • @Lucio2010able
    @Lucio2010able 21 день тому

    That was quite the ordeal. I am glad you are safe and were able to get out and tell the tale, Safe travels!!

  • @grahamstewart615
    @grahamstewart615 25 днів тому +19

    You ain't dumb, Tommy.
    You're a traveller.
    With an audience.
    Respect.

  • @marcinna8553
    @marcinna8553 27 днів тому +42

    What an experience....

  • @timstar28
    @timstar28 27 днів тому +79

    I've been waiting for this! 😂 I'm glad you made it through to be able to post these videos, man. You're one of the best bro, be safe!

    • @tombimashri8149
      @tombimashri8149 27 днів тому +1

      Sabbatical u r the Best your vloggs should be hitting the roof. U nd Tayo Are top notch interesting vlogging nd stories, u don t beg or constantly make upsobb storys for monetary gifts etc although gir all u do Ubtrully deserve donations nd subs. Keep going nd God's Blessings

  • @channelelectronique
    @channelelectronique 22 дні тому

    This video is a masterpiece. Grateful you’re okay. It’s hard to find the words to express how gripping and moving your account of your worst nightmare experience is. I can’t fathom how anyone could be a judge only to impose incredible injustice upon innocent people. For sure, the US is guilty of just such atrocities (recall our record in the so-called “war on terror“ in Baghram and Guantanamo and many other places where there weren’t even judges, just unaccountable torturers and murderers representing us!). Surely every society has its skeletons.
    This is a world-wide problem of humanity. Keep on traveling.