Russians offered end-of-world kit for $27

MOSCOW, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Russians can face the Mayan apocalypse fully prepared thanks to a kit being sold that includes a bottle of vodka and -- as a nod to pessimists -- some rope.

For those who think they might have a chance of surviving whatever comes on Dec. 21, the kits contain other staples: a packet of buckwheat, a can of fish, candles, matches, notepad, pencil, heart and other medication, and soap. It also has a helpful tutorial on post-apocalypse board games to pass the time after the world as we know it comes to an end.

The kits, produced by a local bridal party operator as a joke gift, cost 890 rubles ($27), RIA Novosti reported Monday. Funny or not, the sale of more than 1,000 of the kits prompted local officials to put the kibosh on the operation because special permits are needed to sell alcohol or medication.

The kits are in response to the supposed cataclysm to come at the end to the 5,000-year Mayan calendar, which lists Dec. 21 as its final date.