About Russia
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Moscow
Moscow is the epicentre of contemporary growth in Russia, a place where the reminders of the Imperial and Soviet years stand side by side with the international brands of the West. The city has an impressive abundance of galleries, including Tretyakov's eponymous gallery which exhibits Russia’s finest and most distinguished artists and the Pushkin Museum which houses Moscow’s largest collection of foreign art. Stalin’s Bunker provides fascinating insight into Russian military history, while the Cold War Museum reminds visitors of a delicate point in east-west relations. Moscow’s profound musical heritage may be celebrated at a number of venues, notably the Bolshoi (productions currently staged at the New Bolshoi, adjacent to the original) and the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall. Other highlights include the Kremlin, Red Square, Novodevichy Convent and the ornate Metro stations.
St. Petersburg
Hailed as the “Venice of the North” for its canals and waterways, St. Petersburg is a historic centre uniquely fusing a stylistic allegiance to Europe with elegant Russian architecture. The glamour has returned to this one time Russian capital since the massively devastating siege during World War II, adding to the deep historic spirit of reform. Nowadays, it is a year round destination, with enchanting winter skies and otherworldly midsummer white nights. Highlights include the Hermitage, St. Isaac's Cathedral, the Peter and Paul Fortress, Yusopov Palace, Catherine Palace and Petrodvorets.
The Golden Ring
The Golden Ring is a circle of towns to the northeast of Moscow which forms an excellent touring itinerary outside of the city into rural Russia.The towns were created from the 11th century onwards after hostile tribes led to northward migration from the south. Many of these towns – Vladimir, Suzdal, Yaroslavl and Rostov – flourished as trade centres, whilst Sergiev Posad became an important religious centre following the foundation of the Trinity Monastery of St Sergius. The prevalence of churches in the region became a sign of their relative wealth and their onion-domed spires are a common feature of the landscape.
The Volga River
Beginning in the western parts of Russia, sail along the magnificent Volga, the longest river in Europe.Cruise through the rural Russian countryside from Moscow to St. Petersburg, admiring unrivalled views of a largely unchanged landscape, still abundant with silver birches, elaborate wooden houses and a deep-rooted way of life. Visit ancient towns such as Uglich and Yaroslavl and experience authentic Russia beyond the lights of the Kremlin. The route continues to the picturesque northern areas across the largest lakes in Europe - White, Onega and Ladoga.
Kamchatka
There are few places in the world left that can boast such diverse and abundant wildlife as the Kamchatka. This land of volcanoes, geysers, wild bears and Pacific salmon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Valley of Geysers is best visited by helicopter and numbers are restricted. This is the only geyser field in Eurasia and the second largest concentration of geysers in the world. Kamchatka is best known for its brown bear population. Under the control of the most skillful local guides and instructors, guests may watch wild bears in their natural environment.
Northwestern Russia
From the Gulf of Finland to the Ural Mountains, northern Russia is a tapestry of pine and birch forests, marshes, tundra and remote lakes. Explore the frozen landscapes of the Karelia region by snowmobile safari or travel cross-country through the Urals, admiring the magnificent panorama from horseback. Sail to the Solovetsky Islands to see the eminent wooden churches, before journeying across to the White Sea to observe rare beluga whales in their natural habitat. Over in Murmansk, trek or ski through uncultivated territories and nature reserves where reindeer herds continue to wander freely.
Uzbekistan
1991 saw the emergence of Uzbekistan as a sovereign country. Although now a major cotton producer, the country has long been a strong trade centre, being located on the Great Silk Road between Europe and Asia. The architecture in cities like Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand is highly intricate with turquoise blue domes, minarets, mausoleums and detailed mosaics, all of which glisten against the yellow desert sand. Tashkent, the modern capital, combines the beauty of the ‘old city’ with the newly constructed towering glass and metal buildings, manicured parks, museums and fountains, lots of which popped up following the independence of the country in the 1990s. Out of the capital the cities are still dominated by their majestic historical structures and strong traditions. Many local artisans can be found in their workshops and factories, producing goods such as hand-knotted carpets, Uzbek ceramics and wood carvings. Locals can often be found in traditional dress in bright colours and performances of folklore singing and dancing are commonplace. The country also enjoys the lowest divorce rate in the world and the commitment to family life is evident in their culture, with skills and traditions being passed down the generations.
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent at arcu varius purus hendrerit dictum. Nam sit amet erat. Integer rhoncus erat vel pede. Mauris pellentesque. Nulla at nisi semper quam accumsan congue. Sed feugiat. Morbi dignissim sapien id dui imperdiet vestibulum.
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent at arcu varius purus hendrerit dictum. Nam sit amet erat. Integer rhoncus erat vel pede. Mauris pellentesque. Nulla at nisi semper quam accumsan congue. Sed feugiat. Morbi dignissim sapien id dui imperdiet vestibulum.
