Russia Travel Resources >














Russia Travel Guide - Dining and Drinking  You are here: About > Travel > Eastern Europe for Visitors > Russia-Belarus-Ukraine > Russia Travel Resources > Travel Essentials - Russia > Russia Travel Guide - Dining and Drinking Travel Go Eastern Europe Essentials Best of Eastern Europe Map of Central/Eastern Europe Photo Gallery Country Profiles Discount Travel Websites Articles & Resources Planning Your Trip Ways to Travel What to Do in East Europe Maps for Eastern Europe Czech-SlovakTravel Hungary Travel Poland Travel Russia-Belarus-Ukraine Romania-Moldova Travel Baltic Travel Balkan Travel Culture and Holidays Photo Galleries East Europe Travel and Language Books Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Eastern Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Eastern Europe for Visitors Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Suggested Reading All Travel Guides Russia Travel Guide Profile of Russia Most Popular First Christmas Tree Europe map Best of Eastern Europe Croatia Naturism and Nudism Discount Travel Websites What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings Related Topics Hotels / Resorts / Inns European History Architecture Air Travel Europe for Visitors Dining and Drinking - Russia From Apply Now , Your Guide to Eastern Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Russia Travel Guide One of the pleasures of travel is reveling in the food and drink of the local cuisine. Russia has plenty to offer in this respect, whether you opt for traditional Russian fare or meals representative of other CIS countries. What Not to Eat You can eat well in Russia at any budget. However, because some people get sick when they travel and eat unaccustomed food, this situation can happen in Russia also. So, because you don't want to spend time being miserable in your hotel room from a stomach problem, it's wise to be careful, just to be on the safe side. Some suggestions: Don't drink tap water. Drink only bottled water. It comes with or without gas. When you order bottled water at restaurants, make sure the waiter brings you an unsealed bottle (not an open bottle that could have been filled with tap water). Of course, if you order water with gas, you won't have this possibility. Brush your teeth with bottled water, not tap water. Avoid salad bars (vegetables washed with tap water). If you buy fruit, wash it with bottled water, not tap water. You get the picture with tap water. If you order a coffee or tea, be aware you might be drinking tap water, but it's boiled. Avoid food from sidewalk stands. Enjoy all thoroughly cooked food. I should note that I have broken all the suggestions above throughout Eastern Europe and not suffered consequences. I love going to cafes for coffee and eating ice cream from sidewalk vendors. But again, you may opt for the safest route than take a chance spending your precious visit too sick to enjoy it. Restaurants Moscow and St. Petersburg have a proliferation of well-known chains, including McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King and TGI Fridays. But try to sample other food, as both Moscow and St. Petersburg can offer so much more. Check the English language newspapers such as the Moscow Times for listings of restaurants. For restaurants in Moscow and St. Petersburg, also see these lists: List of all types of restaurants in Moscow, from the Moscow City website St. Petersburg restaurants Almost 500 restaurants listed. Fodor's picks for Moscow restaurants Fodor's picks for St. Peterburg's restaurants Cuisine Russian cuisine does wonderful things with meat, cabbage, potatoes, and dough (both bread and pastry). Well-known dishes include : borsch (beet soup) pelmeni (boiled dough pockets filled with meat) beef roll (finely chopped meat and spices rolled in fine pastry) chicken kiev draniki (potato pancakes) golubtsy (cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice, covered in a tomato broth) There are many other dishes, with beef, pork, poultry and fish, as well as potato salad, pickled vegetables, mushrooms, caviar, and wonderful dark bread. Don't forget dessert: bliny, ponchiki (doughnuts), kulich (rum cake) and ice cream. Payment In top restaurants you will likely be able to pay with credit cards. At smaller cafes and restaurants, you will probably have to pay with rubles. Drinking in Russia We'll get to the vodka later but first, know that Russians love to drink tea (chai). With samovars boiling away in offices and train compartments and lots of other places too, Russians drink tea all day long. Vodka is a popular drink, and comes plain but also flavored: lemon, cranberry, herbs. It's hard to keep up with a Russian drinker so you may not want to try. Beer (pivo) is also popular. Russian brands include Tinkov pilsner , Baltika, Stepan Rizan, Nevskoye, Klinskoye, and Tolstiyak. A low-alcohol beer is called kvas. Russia also produces wine, with three million acres of vineyards. Russian wines aren't for everyone, as they can tend to have concentrated fruity flavors and some are rather sweet. While you're in Russia, you may want to try the wine of former Soviet republics, such as Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine. Popular white wines are the Anapa Riesling, Tsinandali, and Gourdzhuani. Reds are Saperavi and Mukuzani. Tipping Tipping has not yet become an expected norm in restaurants around Russia, although at better restaurants and cafes, you will find that patrons will do so. However, a normal rate has not been really established yet, so many people leave between five and ten percent, or more depending on the service. At not so fancy restaurants or cafes, you can round up the bill. Some restaurants will add service to your bill, so check first before you tip, and feel free not to tip at all if you believe the service doesn't deserve it. If there is a cloakroom where you need to leave your coat, there may be a sign telling you the amount to release your belongings. Otherwise, leave a few rubles or a dollar. Russia Travel Guide Index Profile of Russia City Profile: Moscow City Profile: St. Petersburg Before You Go Need to Know Money Matters Intercity Travel City Transit Driving Health and Safety Lodging Dining and Drinking Communications Shopping        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings



Hotel Travel

NSBA Annual Conference - Hotel/Travel Info General Session Speakers TLN Executive Briefing Fellowship Gathering Danzberger Memorial Lecture Topical Program Tracks Focus on Education Lectures Spotlight Sessions Deeper Look Sessions Board Member Boot Camp Sessions for Board Support Professionals Special Sessions Early Bird Workshops Technology Site Visit CUBE Programming School Law Seminar Rural and Small District Forum Large District Workshop Conference Orientation Executive Job Fair Walk of Excellence Spouse Programming Golf Tournament 5K Run/Walk Administrators' Breakfast Networking Luncheons Human Relations Dinner National Affiliate Center 2006 List of Exhibitors (PDF) Floor Plan 2006 Online Booth Space Contract 2006 Rules & Regulations (PDF) 2006 Floor Plan 2006 Product Category Listing (PDF) 2006 List of Exhibitors (PDF) 2006 Exhibitor Prospectus (PDF) 2006 List of Exhibitors (PDF) Exhibitor Benefits Attendee Demographics Exhibitor Services Contact Exhibits Department Sponsorship Opportunities Hotel Info and Reservations Housing for Attendees Housing for Exhibitors Hotel Listing and Map Travel Arrangements Sightseeing Tours Topical Program Tracks Schedule At-a-Glance Register for the Conference Attendee Housing Exhibitor Housing Hotel rates and map Housing FAQs Hotel and travel information: the best choice of accommodations, savings on your trip to Chicago, and how to enjoy this captivating city. Housing: NSBA wants to ensure that the best rooms (see map and rates ) are available for Conference attendees. You must register to attend the Conference before your housing arrangements can be made. Here's how it works: Conference Registration: All registrants receive a confirmation ID# for use in reserving their rooms. The quickest way to receive a confirmation ID# is to register online and provide us with your e-mail address. Hotel reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must be made through the NSBA Housing Bureau . You must have a confirmation ID# to reserve housing. Reservations made directly through the hotel will not be guaranteed. You may register and reserve housing online, by phone, fax, or mail. But online is definitely the fastest way — and the best way to improve your choice of hotel rooms. Travel to Chicago: Once again, NSBA has named Association Travel Concepts (ATC) as the official travel agency for our 2006 Annual Conference. ATC has negotiated discounts with United, American Airlines, Avis, and Enterprise to bring you fares and rates lower than those available to the public. Chicago is our kind of town — and yours! The host for NSBA's 2006 Annual Conference is one of the most popular convention cities in America. Chicago is also a world-class tourist destination — a great reason to bring your family along with you. Dining and nightlife. Enjoy a deep-dish pizza, invented in Chicago, or a prime steak, perfected in Chicago. Explore the Loop (maybe via the elevated "L" train) and visit famous jazz clubs. You know the movie Chicago? See and hear what inspired it! Museums and more. Discover the Field Museum and Sue, the biggest T. rex ever found. Plus the Museum of Science and Industry. Not just one but two zoos. Museums of classical and modern art. The world's largest indoor aquarium. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright's studio and the Robie House he designed. And the splendid Botanic Gardens. This city really grows on you! Shopping and skyscrapers. Max out your credit cards on the Magnificent Mile, then visit the Navy Pier with its 150-foot Ferris wheel. Speaking of heights, try dining on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building or visiting the Skydeck of the Sears Tower — 110 stories up. The sky's the limit on fun in Chicago! Want more details? Visit the website of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau . We'll also send you information about tours after you register for the Conference. In addition, special NSBA-sponsored tours will be offered. Click here for details. Suggestion: Mark your calendar now and plan to spend a few extra days in Chicago. You deserve it! Home | Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Site Map



Disney Vacation Deals at

disney vacation discount usedir.dynu.net disney vacation discount online disney vacation discount Top List Disney Vacation Deals at Travelocity Visit Travelocity.com to get great prices on Disney vacation deals. Book your vacation online and save. site: travelocity.com Disney Vacation Deals at Travelocity Visit Travelocity.com to get great prices on Disney vacation deals. Book your vacation online and save. site: http://www.travelocity.com/ Unique Florida Homes Lists Orlando vacation homes and villas with private pools. Includes actual photos of vacation rentals and a location map in relation to the Disney World. site: uniquefloridaorlando.com All Star Vacation Homes - Florida Vacation Rentals Vacation home management company offers vacation rental homes, condos, and town homes that are located less than four miles from Walt Disney World. site: allstarvacationhomes.com Exclusive Florida Homes, Vacation Homes in Orlando, Florida Agency specializes in short-term vacation homes for rent in the Disney area of Orlando, Florida. site: exclusivefloridahomes.com All Star Vacation Homes - Florida Vacation Rentals Vacation home management company offers vacation rental homes, condos, and town homes that are located less than four miles from Walt Disney World. site: http://www.allstarvacationhomes.com/ Unique Florida Homes Lists Orlando vacation homes and villas with private pools. Includes actual photos of vacation rentals and a location map in relation to the Disney World. site: http://www.uniquefloridaorlando.com/ Exclusive Florida Homes, Vacation Homes in Orlando, Florida Agency specializes in short-term vacation homes for rent in the Disney area of Orlando, Florida. site: http://www.exclusivefloridahomes.com/ Discount Airfare, Hotels, Cruises, Vacations Offers a great selection of travel agent prices for multiple airlines, hotels, cruises, and vacation packages with helpful information, tips, and links. site: http://www.1800gofly.com Discount Disney Vacation - Travel Bargains Find great travel bargains with one-stop comparison. Try SideStep, the award-winning Traveler Search Engine. Download our toolbar to search and save on flights, hotels, car rental and more! site: http://www.sidestep.com Hotwire: Discount Travel To Orlando Bargain travel options, even last minute. Hotwire can get you a deal. site: http://www.hotwire.com Discount Disney Vacation - Travel Bargains Find great travel bargains with one-stop comparison. Try SideStep, the award-winning Traveler Search Engine. Download our toolbar to search and save on flights, hotels, car rental and more! site: http://www.sidestep.com Unique Florida Homes Lists Orlando vacation homes and villas with private pools. Includes actual photos of vacation rentals and a location map in relation to the Disney World. site: www.uniquefloridaorlando.com Florida Dreams Vacations Ask a Disney-vacation-rental specialist about available villas with up to five bedrooms in the central Florida area. Contact homeowners. site: www.floridadreamsvacations.com Florida Vacation Villas - American Homes Rental & Management Call toll-free to reserve these Orlando rental homes close to Disney World and local attractions. Vacation villas are fully furnished and feature swimming pools. site: www.floridavacation-villas.net WeeklyTop10-Orlando.com - ResevationSystem.com Reservation service offers discount rates and packages on Orlando-area accommodations near Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Sea World. site: www.weeklytop10-orlando.com Looking For disney+vacation+discount? Find disney+vacation+discount and more at Lycos Search. No clutter, just answers. Lycos -- Go Get It! site: http://search.lycos.com disney+vacation+discount: Find more information here. Get more information on disney+vacation+discount right now! We pull from the some of the biggest search engines on the internet, so you don't have too! site: http://www.ezanga.com disney+vacation+discount Find disney+vacation+discount at one of the best sites the Internet has to offer! site: http://www.redzip.com Travel Air Tickets, Hotel Reservations, Car Rental PriceLine For Travel Auctions and Airline Reservations, Hotel Reservations, Car Rentals, Take a Cruise, and Vacation Rentals. All at Discount Prices. YOUR ONE STOP TRAVEL CENTER!! site: http://service.bfast.com Not satisfied with your results? Yahoo © 2005 Best Offers at usedir.dynu.net All Rights Reserved Great Thanks for Microsoft Related Categories Criminal Justice Career Online Casino Free Chip No Deposit Mortgage Broker Training.html Hotels Whistler Allentown Lawyer Florida Law Auto Insurance Generic Propecia Progressive Oxford Individual Health Plan C4127x Final Expense Insurance Leads Offshore Account Wholesale Handbag Softwalk Paton Real Estate Jewelry Discount Arizona Divorce Law Mother Of The Bride Dress Free Spyware Spotter Detection Buck Pocket Knife Health Training 2001 Bmw M5 Parts For Colman Pop Ups Windshield Repair Kit Prestige Mortgage Cadillac Cts V Lowest Intrest Rate Fha Home Inspection Capital One Credit Cards No Credit Acne Medication Home Health Care Furnace Air Cleaner Order Norco No Prescription Bi Weekly Mortgage Payment Calulator With Amortization Schedule Tenn. Real Estate Pet Supplies Uk High School Home Study Dodgeviper Instant Personal Loan Carr Insurance Havana Joe Shoe Sql Server Driver Slipper Genie Intellicode Garage Door Opener Outer Bank Vacation Rental Linksys Etherfast Cable Modem Vinyl Shutter Poker Table Plan Christian Home Based Business Internet Homebased Business Millionaire Fast Weight Loss Program Structural Engineering Netxpress Student Loans Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Man Rolex Watch Mortgage Broker School In Florida Business List Perfume.com Clothing Hanger Homes For Sale In Maryland Tampa Fl Real Estate Computer Technology Usaa Mortgage Website Discount Animal Pharmacy Without Prescripton Vacations Hawaii Accommodation In London Celebrity Cruise Discount Noritake Dinnerware Homeowners Insurance Online Quotes Only Hotels Chicago Il Cheap Bontril Mortgage Bank Umbrellas Apply For Credit Cards Online Hotel Myrtle Beach Estate Planning Lawyer Poker Bonus Codes No Deposite Apply For Credit Card Online Didrex Online International Auto Shipping Credit Card High School Student



Russia Travel Guide, climate:

Russia Travel Guide - Information and Advice Russia Travel Guide Information and Advice 'A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma' Churchill St Petersburg Travel Guide | Moscow Travel Guide Russia Map | Russia Pictures Russia Travel Guide, climate: Best: May, June, Sept, Oct. July/August can be wet . Worst: Nov-March [winter is long, dark and extremely cold with short days, but the snow scenes will be stunning. Early Spring is muddy, slushy and falling icicles kill! ] Length of stay: Minimum worthwhile stay, not including flights: Moscow or St Petersburg are excellent for a wild and wooly underwear weekend. Recommended: 2 weeks to take in Moscow, St Petersburg and some of the surrounding towns - such as the Golden Ring - and countryside. The Trans-Siberian Railway to Irkutsk [Lake Baikal] will require at least 5 days. Main Russia Festivals Guide : 25 Dec- 5 Jan, Russian Winter is celebrated with traditional activities such as music, dance, sleigh rides, folk shows. New Year's Eve tends to be a family/friends occasion, so not wildly exciting. late Feb-early March, Goodbye Russian Winter, as above. Easter Sunday, Moscow, procession and service in stunning Kolomenskoe [Orthodox] church. April/May, Moscow Music Spring Festival , classical music. May 9, Victory Day Parade, Moscow. A stirring military procession. June, the White Nights arts festival is St Petersburg's liveliest event. April/May, St Petersburg Music Spring Festival , classical music. For some precise dates, more suggestions and information see: Colourful Festivals or European Festivals Activities Guide: The country is spacious - to say the least - and outdoor activities are popular but facilities and safety measures can be primitive so get specialist advice before undertaking anything halfway dangerous. Hiking: There is no shortage of excellent trekking terrain, just a shortage of marked trails or maps, so extracting information from locals regularly is essential, and as a consequence a few words of the language are vital. Either that or get a good guide. Lake Baikal [see Russia travel favourites, right], the Elbrus area of the Caucasus, west Ural Mountains and Altay Mountains are prime targets. Check the travel safety situation . White Water rafting: The Katun River in the Altay Republic, Vladisvostok and Kamchatka. Climbing: The Elbrus area of the Caucasus are superb but get specialist advice before arriving in Russia, safety aspects included . Cycling: roads are often in bad shape, cars and drivers even worse shape, but bike travel can still be rewarding, with care, a tough bike and essential spares. Local hospitality is tremendous. Canoeing: rivers can be heavily polluted so inland water travel is difficult to recommend, though the Volga River delta is supposed to be alive and delightful, while the coasts up north offer prospects of isolated adventure. Boat cruises: either on posh tourist boats or cheap, dilapidated Russian craft. The main highway is the Volga River and boats go to/from Moscow, Novgorod, Volgograd and many other attractive cities. Volgograd to Rostov-Don is supposed to be the most interesting section. June-September only. Fishing: mostly salmon out east e.g. from Vladivostok and Khabarovsk. Skiing: Cross country skiing is traditionally more popular than down-hill skiing; snowboarding is becoming increasingly popular and heli-skiing is available and remarkably good value. There are more than a hundred ski areas, many of which need modernisation, though some resorts in the Caucasus Mountains offer good facilities and comfortable accommodation. For instance, Cheget in the Baksan Valley offers challenging runs, including the longest of 2.5 km; or Mount Elbus - Europe's highest peak at 5,642m [1,8513 ft] - hosts one of Russia's largest resorts, Prielbrusye. There are at least 20 ski slopes within 50 miles of Moscow and some can even be reached by metro! Ice Skating: Possibly the country's most popular pastime with frozen lakes and outdoor rinks all over during the long winter and even indoor rinks open in the summer. Inexpensive and very cheerful. Banya bathing: this Russian style sauna is a good way to experience authentic Russian social life, particularly if you are a graduate of an old British public school where extreme heat, cold and beatings were a way of life. There are banyas everywhere, ranging from appallingly dilapidated to highly polished. The Trans-Siberian Railway This week long, non-stop 10,000km [6,000mls] or so ride travels from Moscow to either: - Vladivostok on Russia's Pacific coast. - via Mongolia to Beijing. - via Manchuria and Harbin to Beijing. This is reputedly one of the world's great train journeys but does not necessarily deliver a comfortable or fascinating experience for everyone. Downside: - there are no showers, except for a few lucky 1st class travelers. - conditions will be cramped. - dining car food will be abysmal. - the scenery is mainly dull, tending towards endless forests and grassy plains, interspersed with the occasional log cabin, log village or vast lake. The train stops for 10 minutes a few times a day, leaving no time to explore, just time to aquire emergency supplies from the platform. - As a consequence, life on the train is paramount, and this depends on various factors coming together. Is your car attendant cordial? Are your fellow passengers interesting? Does anyone snore? Do you mind living off fairly basic food for six days? Can you happily stare out of a dirty window looking at birch trees for hours on end? Is TV an integral part of your life? Do you have a good selection of books with you? Do you like vodka? And so on... Upside: - you can arrange to take a stop over at key points en route, for example attractive Irkutsk [see Russia travel favourites, right] and nearby huge, mountain-hemmed Lake Baikal. Siberian timber buildings are often charming, colourfully decorated and carved. - due to the fame of the train and the number of serious travellers on it there will almost always be someone interesting you can find to chat to for days , though a good companion and a monster picnic hamper [loaded with - you've guessed - vodka] would be a useful starting point. - if you are actually going east/west for a purpose - such as for work in Japan or China - you will be saving the air fare. Train Survival hints: - don't drink the tap water. A samovar [hot water pot] in each carriage supplies sterile water. - clean your window to improve views and photos. - stand well clear when flushing the toilet , it can backfire if the train travels at speed. - learn a few key Russian phrases to charm your surly attendants. - take lots of vodka with you . You can buy some snacks, fruit, cigarettes etc during 15 minute stops at stations, but no alcohol, and you will be doing a lot of socialising! Russia Travel Star Guide: Monuments **** Shopping and souvenirs *** Walkability *** Food Quality and Variety *** Value for Money *** Hotel Prices and Value *** Beaches black sea Wildlife * Landscape *** Local People **** Architecture **** Safety ** Nightlife and Clubbing ***** Health Problems ** Museums ***** Why Travel to Russia? This vast and diverse country, occupying the top chunk of a continent all the way from Poland to Japan - and a big chunk of world history too - demands travel attention. The architecture is both glorious and hideous, the history is monstrous, the art is sensational and the people can be touchingly friendly . Absurd Fabergé eggs? Extraordinary onion domes? Caviar crepe? Yes, please. A hard day's White Night in St Petersburg? Slamming vodka with your taxi driver? Da! Big , brutal, beautiful and intriguing, Russia is an enigma that's got to be sampled by any serious traveller. Downside: - Accommodation is hardly cheap if comfort is an issue, though plenty of budget options are available. - Hygiene can be a problem. - Officials are often unpleasantly boorish . - Crime and corruption in the cities requires an ever-open eye . - Despite the size of the country, internal flights are unreliable and Russian airlines have the world's worst safety record. Some Russia tra vel favourites: 1] ***Moscow, a diverse and interesting city with masses of history, action and must-see spectacles, though not on the same planet as St Petersburg for elegance. See Moscow Travel Guide . 2] ***St Petersburg , one of the world's most beautiful cities, with many splendid buildings and museums, including the spectacular Hermitage, with a sophisticated service industry. See St Petersburg Travel Guide . 3] ***Novgorod, 190 km [118mls] south of St Petersburg , an important political and artistic centre from the 9th century and still holds a wide and varied collection of magnificent structures including Russia's oldest cathedral, frescoes galore, and plenty of glorious oddities. 4]***The Golden Ring,a few hours travel northeast of Moscow, are a collection of attractive historic towns dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. These can be visited on day trips, but better, hire a car or join a boat with a guide and take your time to enjoy: ***Suzdal , the most important town in the Golden Ring, Suzdal used be a political and religious centre and has more than fifty quaint and well-preserved old structures. About 210km [131 mls] from Moscow. It is a major tourist attraction, yet still retains an enchanting, pre-Soviet atmosphere. **Vladimir is famed for its Golden Gate and two splendid cathedrals. About 180km [112 mls] from Moscow. **Rostov. This quiet, rustic town offers the usual churches but also a lovely lake and spectacular kremlin. **Yaroslavl is much bigger than other towns in the Ring but totally crammed with gorgeous churches, if you haven't seen enough. 250kms [156mls] from Moscow. 5] **Irkutsk , the 'Paris of Siberia', is a long way from anywhere except Mongolia, but is on the Trans-Siberian train route [see more info left] and well worth a stop-off. The city is mostly charming, with considerable Chinese influence and some magnificent architecture, including typically elaborate Siberian 'gingerbread' houses. Another of Irkutsk's attractions is the proximity to lovely, 636km [398mls] long Lake Baikal where hiking, biking, horse trekking, fishing and boating are big time. The north end is the most beautiful and isolated. Listvyanka village is a popular place to stay for tourists. 6] ***Cruising the Volga River via some superb old towns like Kazan [ancient Tatar city], Shiryaeva and Ulyanovsk [Lenin's birthplace]. See Boat cruises, left. 7]**Black Sea, Sochi. This is a Russian beach resort town with a warm climate and sophisticated health spas [sanatoria], with beaches and tennis courts, scenically situated at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains. 8] ** Yekaterinburg in the Ural Mountains is a pretty, pleasant city except perhaps for Tsar Nick II and his family who met their end here and the USA's U2 spy pilot who was shot down in the area. The place offers excellent architecture, museums, entertainment and access to the Urals for varied activities. Cuisine Guide: You can eat well and inexpensively nowadays, especially in cafés and fast food places in the cities. Do choose places that look clean and are busy , poor hygiene could result in intestinal blowout. Moscow and St Petersburg in particular have seen an astronomical growth in cafés, bars and restaurants, including classic Chinese, Japanese and Italian offerings, western fast food chains and traditional Russian cuisine . Russian food tends to be rich and on the heavy side in winter , such as meaty dumplings, meaty cabbage rolls, cabbage soup with sour cream, and the national icons - borscht [beetroot soup], blinis [pancakes] and caviar, while lighter foods like superb soups and salads are around in the summer . Avoid eating shellfish except in St Petersburg and street ice cream anywhere. Drinks: We all know the varied pleasures of vodka, particularly drunk chilled and in one gulp, but Russia also does a fine line in local beers with lively flavours, good champagne, not such good wine , passable tea and effective coffee. Russians love to press drinks on foreigners so prepare your excuses now. Or practice chugging. Accommodation guide: You are supposed to have a place booked in order to get a tourist visa . There's a wide range of accommodation from luxury hotels at silly prices to cheapish hostels at around $20 pn, but it's important to book well ahead for the June-September season. Private home stays are widespread , giving the tourist relatively good value rooms and a close look at real Russian life. The downside is that the place may be out of the way, the bed lumpy and the morning-after breakfast provider in-your-face during your recovery time. Camping is fine in many places though - as usual - check with locals before bedding down. Organised camping sites are rare and usually open mid-June to mid-September. Russia Tours Tour operators offering travel to Russia can be found in our listings here: Russia Tours For links to Tourist Offices, Embassies, Cheap Air Tickets, Currency Converter, Climate, Language advice, other online Travel Guides and more, visit Bugbog Travel Directory Map of Europe Travel Safety: Travel to Chechenya and the north Caucasus is not recommended; check the Foreign Office site or tour operators for up-to-date warnings. Otherwise stay on the regular tourist routes. Don't flash your cash! Pickpocketing and bag filching may occur on crowded public transport while hotel rooms are by no means thief-proof. Lock everything into your bags before leaving the room and use a safe deposit if there is one. Take care with taxis. Don't get in if there is anyone other than the driver inside, and don't necessarily trust the driver. See Safety page. Travel Health: Do not drink Russian tap water , not even for cleaning your teeth. Check you are up to date with all jabs, and consider including vaccinations for diptheria, typhoid, hepatitis A and B. A flu jab is also useful if you plan to travel to Russia in spring or autumn when the bugs are rampant. Foreigners usually prefer to be treated at private clinics, which are very costly. Get Insurance! Costs: Russia can be good value if you don't mind slightly crude accommodation and eat/drink at local establishments rather than typical tourist places. Change money for roubles only at official exchanges or banks. Cash is easier to change than travellers cheques. Tipping: About 10% to taxi drivers and 10-15% to waiters in restaurants. Electricity : Electric sockets are 230v and take 2 round pin plugs. Internet: There are masses of reasonably priced web cafés in bigger cities. Local travel: The big cities have good metro and bus services at low prices . Locals enjoy life as illegal taxi drivers for extra cash. Beware though, some are pure evil, others wonderful, hospitable guides. Hitch-hiking is common for Russians but not advisable for tourists . Intercity travel: Trains connecting Moscow to St Petersburg are common, efficient and inexpensive . The Aurora day train takes 6 hours, the evening train 4 hours. Passenger boats are common between cities - tho' slow - including Moscow to St Pete. For exploring the countryside around big cities consider car hire, with or without a driver/guide. It's not expensive and very convenient. International travel: Moscow and St Petersburg are both easy to reach from many European cities by fast, efficient trains and buses ; other Russia cities are more difficult to access directly. Language: Some locals speak English, French, or German but ability to recognise the Cyrillic alphabet and a few words of Russian would really help your experience along. Visas: All visitors need a visa which needs a hotel/hostel booking . If you plan to travel in Russia you may want to see our: China Travel Guide Japan Travel Guide Austria Travel Guide Czech Republic Travel Guide Finland Travel Guide Hungary Travel Guide Turkey Travel Guide Travel Pictures | Destination Finder | Exotic Places | World Festivals | World Wonders | Safari Wildlife | Beaches | Top of Page European Places | Walking Tours | Travel Health | Travel Safety | Travel Directory | English Speaking Places | Tours Gap Year | Site Map | Travel Guide Homepage | Contact | Press | Advertising | Legal | Maps | Travelogue © 2000-2005 Bugbog



Travel Company (AMEX:OTV) Home

OneTravel.com - airline tickets, discount hotels, cheap car rentals, vacation packages and more. A OneTravel Company (AMEX:OTV) Home • Check Reservation • Privacy & Security • Become a Corporate Affiliate document.write(' '); Airline News Rules of the Air Smart Travelers' Corner Ask the Experts Passport Airport Delays Currency Converter Weather Insurance Destination Tidbits Internet Only Specials! Hotel Quick Links Hotel Discounts Frequently Asked Questions Terms and Conditions Privacy and Security Manage Your Account Manage Newsletters About Us Become an Affiliate Wednesday, December 28, 2005 Air Hotel Car Vacation Cruise From City Name or Airport Code To City Name or Airport Code Leave Date Leave Time Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Anytime Early Morning Morning Noon Afternoon Evening 12:00 AM 1:00 AM 2:00 AM 3:00 AM 4:00 AM 5:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 1:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM Return Date Return Time Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Anytime Early Morning Morning Noon Afternoon Evening 12:00 AM 1:00 AM 2:00 AM 3:00 AM 4:00 AM 5:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 1:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM Select up to 7 Travelers # Adults # Children (under age 12) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 " onclick="return fc_click('Home-Air Search','media');" / Full Flight Options : 1st class, nearby airports, and more! One-Way Multi-City City # Adults # Children 1 2 3 4 none 1 2 3 4 City Name or Airport Code Check-In Date Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Check-Out Date Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 " onclick="return fc_click('Home-Hotel Search','media');" / Click here to book five or more rooms More Hotel Options : Search by address, name, amenities, and more! Pick up City Name or Airport Code Drop off City Name or Airport Code Pick up Date Time Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 12:00 AM 1:00 AM 2:00 AM 3:00 AM 4:00 AM 5:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 1:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM Advanced Car Search Options: Search by rental company and more! Drop off Date Time Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 12:00 AM 1:00 AM 2:00 AM 3:00 AM 4:00 AM 5:00 AM 6:00 AM 7:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 12:00 PM 1:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM " onclick="return fc_click('Home-Car Search','media');" / HOT DEALS LAS VEGAS EUROPE Machine Name: SITE04 Assembly Version: 2.0.91.0 Time: 12/28/2005 4:36:58 PM The OneTravel Family Of Companies OneTravel 11thHour Discount Hotels 1-800-Cheapseats SunTrips © 1996-2005 OneTravel.com | All rights reserved Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Credit Card Safety Static Departing from Oakland or Denver – click here for special rates! See Mamma Mia! in Las Vegas Massachusetts getaways including lodging and breakfast for two starting at $79 Looking For a Holiday Gift Idea? Get the GIFT of COMMUNICATION Get travel ideas at IgoUgo.com Ready for Action? Ireland's ready for you! 1)Indonesia - Bali 2)Nevada - Reno 3)Nevada - Las Vegas 4)France - Paris 5)Texas - San Antonio 6)Minnesota - Brooklyn Center 7)Pacific Coastal 1-Night 8)Cruise to Nowhere 1-Night 9)Baja 2-Night 10)Pacific Coastal 3-Night 11)Cruise to Nowhere 2-Night 12)Baja 3-Night document.write(' + char(39) + ' ' + char(39) + '); document.write(' ');




 Home

 Travel And Vacations

 Travel Help Worldwide Call

 Travel Guides | Hotels

 Travelers (Children or seniors?)

 Travelers' Health Destinations Health

 Travel Education Special Reports

 Travel Guides Hotels Flights

 TRAVEL SERVICES TRAVEL TICKER

 Travel Education Special Reports

 Travel World

 Travel Planning Survey. Home

 Travel Advice UK Embassies

 TravelGuide.com All material herein

 Travelers (Children or seniors?)

 Traveler? Take a quiz

 Travel Business Travel Family

 TravelGuide.com All material herein

 Travel Guard | AgentLink:

 Worldwide Travel

 travel counselors love their

 travel services, discounts, information

 Travel > Global Style

 Travel

 Travel gift card today

 TRAVEL Welcome - Already

 Travel photography, travelogues and

 travel to and in

 Travel Guides Community Special

 Travel Notes™ Destinations Budget

 Travel

 travel counselors love their

 Travel Company (AMEX:OTV) Home

 travel books | camera

 Travelers Trust City: Check-in:

 Travel Cruise Visits For

 Travel Plan My Travel

 Travel Industry Association (ATIA).

 Travel | Destination |

 Vacation Homes Contact Owners

 vacation ever in beautiful

 vacations Sign in •

 Vacation Club (AFVC) ,

 VACATION West Middle East

 vacation is only a

 Vacation Work Information Exchange

 Vacation Rental Home here!

 vacation stories Win a

 vacation response? Going on

 vacation ever in beautiful

 Vacation Rentals Villas, Condos,

 Vacation Guides Free Brochures

 Vacation Rentals Take your

 VACATION FEATURES & EXTRAS

 vacation from the life

 Vacations Aruba | Bahama

 Vacation Rentals!! "Vacation Rentals,

 Vacation Rentals, Homes Vacation

 Vacations specialist. You need

 Vacations or Business Travel

 VACATION RENTALS Africa Asia

 Vacation homes, condos, villas,

 Vacation Guide: Sign up

 vacations : rental cars

 vacation rentals, bed and

 Vacation Club Check-in date

 Vacation Rentals and Vacation

 Vacation! BY DESTINATION BY

 Vacation Outlet Home Page

 Vacation Rentals RV Parks/Campgrounds

 Vacation Rentals at your

 Vacation Inn of Victoria

 vacation ideas from around

 Vacation® Inc. is a

 Vacation Information "The beauty

 Vacation Travel and Outdoor

 Vacation Rentals, Holiday Rentals,

 VACATION FEATURES & EXTRAS

 vacationing in Florida. Here

 vacation guide to Honduras

 Vacation Rentals - USA

 Vacation Rentals Hotels Real

 Vacation Rentals Hotels Real

 vacation rental, is available

 Vacations | Flight Schedule

 Asia Travel || Malaysia

 Asia Travel Tips ,

 Asia Travel || Hong

 Asia Travel

 Asia Travel Newsletter :

 Asia Travel || Laos

 Asia travel, Deluxe travel

 Asia Travel SINGAPORE HOTELS

 Asia Travel || Cambodia

 Asia Travel to assist

 Asia Travel Office Hours

 Asia Travel || Malaysia

 Asia Travel according to

 Asia Travel || Indonesia

 Asia Travel (65) 6235

 Asia Travel || Indonesia