Russia (Moscow/St. Petersburg)

Hire a guide to tour the Kremlin, they are abundant around the front gates, so negotiate a price. The guides are licensed and wear badges. They speak English fluently. The Hermatage in St. Petersburg, again, hire a guide for a full day if possible, or multiple days (it is worth it). Visit any of the Churches. St. Basils on Red Square and The Cathedral of the Resurrection in St. Petersburg are a must see. Many are undergoing restoration. Shopping is best at the airport Duty Free, but you've got to visit G.U.M. in Moscow. and the grand shopping Avenues (getting more Westernized every day)

Quick Tips:

If planning a trip to Russia, get a language dictionary and study the Cyrillic alphabet (and pronunciation). Since you must obtain a visa and an 'invitation' to visit, use the services of an experienced travel agent - Red Star Travel in Seattle is recommended.

Best Way To Get Around:

The Metro is extremely clean and efficient and cheap! An excellent way to move about (study your Cyrillic - there are no English maps except the ones in Guide books). Some of the Metro stations are beautiful, all are efficient and clean. If travelling between Moscow and St. Petersburg, do not fly. Take the overnight train (1st Class with a locking compartment)it may be the best nights sleep you have ever had.

Being an ex-soviet 'Intourist' hotel, the accomodations were functional. The hotel is being renovated to Western standards. The major Western chains (5-star) are extremely expensive (300-500/night) so this was an acceptable alternative. The rooms are clean with a private bath and much like other hotels throughout Europe. The views of Red Square cannot be beat by any other hotel.

Stumbled into the Restaurant looking for a photo op of Red Square, but stayed for the food. The staff does not speak English well, but you will be able to communicate. Local favorites, Shishleek, Lamb, Borscht are execellent and very inexpensive.

From the Russian Kremil, meaning wall, the core of Moscow and current government and religious seat of Russia. The Armory, with the government treasures (beautiful and astounding-visit the Diamond Fund). The Towers of the Kremlin - each with a history and a story. The Churches where Tsars and Tsarinas were crowned, married and buried.

One of the worlds most noted museums, the Hermitage is Catherine the Greats 'collection.' These are the treasures of the Russian Empire and preserved for the People during Soviet times. This is a remarkable collection. The Winter Palace grounds are very historical, as this is where the Revolution began, on 'Bloody Sunday.'