Russia
Matryoshka dolls, Moscow, Russia / photo: Neiljs
It may have diminished in size since so many countries were splintered off roughly two decades ago, but Russia is still the largest country in Europe even without its Asiatic component. And, to many Americans, still the most fascinating.
St. Petersburg is an incredibly beautiful city. What captivates most visitors here is the Czarist history of the country, still alive in its architecture and museums. It is home to the world-renown Hermitage
museum, the Winter Palace and scores of other beautiful buildings, which are a photographer’s dream.
The Winter Palace, St. Petersburg / photo: Daniel Ng
Moscow, although drabber from a visual perspective and exceptionally expensive for travelers, still provides a wide variety of attractions and experiences including, most notable to many, the immense Red Square with Lenin’s Mausoleum and the Kremlin.
Those who want to go further afield — much further afield, in fact – may want to take a tour to Novosibirsk, in Siberia (Russia’s third-largest city), and then continue on to Lake Baikal, an additional 3,000+ mile jaunt by train.
Top Experiences
Moscow – heart of the country
St. Petersburg – an incredibly beautiful city
Good to Know
Two Russian Train Rides
There are two well-know train rides in Russia. One lasts nine hours, the other closer to nine days.
Transportation
There are nonstop flights from New York to Moscow as well as from a number of European cities. Flights to St. Petersburg must me made via Moscow or another European city. Bus and rail transportation is good and there are good rail connections with major Eastern European capitals. Travel by car can be problematic due to aggressive drivers and a lack of knowledge of local traffic laws.
Hotels
There are a variety of hotels ranging from budget to luxury in both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Although there are fewer hotels in Novosibirsk, several meet high standards.
Food
Food is usually traditional depending upon the region/city. International cuisine can be found in St. Petersburg and Moscow, although it is expensive.
Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor)
Fair
