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	<title>Visit Russia</title>
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	<description>Visit Russia Blog</description>
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		<title>Red Square, Moscow</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=89</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=89#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 Apr 2011 22:55:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourism]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The Red Square is not imaginable without the St. Basil Cathedral. The Cathedral has two names &#8211; Pokrovskiy (The Protection of the Holy Virgin) or St. Basil. The Cathedral nearly came to a close and demolished for some time during the &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=89">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Red Square is not imaginable without the St. Basil Cathedral. The Cathedral has two names &#8211; Pokrovskiy (The Protection of the Holy Virgin) or St. Basil.</p>
<p>The Cathedral nearly came to a close and demolished for some time during the Soviet Union as the Cathedral was in the way for Stalin’s mass military parades on Red Square, the building was only saved from demolition by PyotrBaranovsky who was the architect ordered to demolish it, he replied by sending the kremlin a telegram refusing. The Cathedral is now a museum, open for service one day a year which is Intercession in October.</p>
<p>In Russia, churches and cathedrals were normally built to commemorate particular historical events. The first half of the 16th century was the time of great expansion of Russia under Tsar Ivan IV the Terrible. After siege of Kasan, Ivan IV ordered there be a cathedral built which will represent the vast power of Russia. There is a legend that Ivan ordered that the architect, Postnik Yakovlev, to be made blind so he could not design and build such another magnificent building to undermine St. Basil Cathedral. [it is claimed that Postnik Yakovlev hoped for another commission]. Barbaric and cruel destiny. But most like this is just a myth, because 17 years later Postnik Yakovlev was indeed commissioned to design one of the chapels of St. Basil. In the second half of 17th century a chapel was added on the grave of St. Basil, the Holy fool who lived in Moscow.</p>
<p>The Red Square is not only museums and historical monuments, the number one shopping center is also on Red Square. From the historical perspective it does not come as any surprise, ever since the 15the century the Red Square was the center point of trade in Moscow. That early in the 15th century there was no planning to organize the trade on the Red Square, so it had rather chaotic nature. In the end of the 19th century,. That became the most fashionable and prestigious shopping mall in the whole of Russia. Constructed from metal and glass which was vert progressive for its time, the mall consisted of three broad floors decorative in the modern style. This building is still on the Red Square.</p>
<p>After the Revolution of 1917 the shopping centre right across the Kremlin did not fit with the socialist ideology and it was used as an office building for Soviet bureaucracy. After its reconstruction in 1953, it reverted back to its first use, a shopping mall. Even in the Soviet Union it remained the biggest and was called <em>GUM </em>– Glavnyj Universal’nyj Magazine (Main Universal Shop). Compared to the other retailers in the Soviet Union, this shopping centre could boast with the abundance of goods including capitalistic jeans, bohemian high heels boots and exotic dainties. All Soviet tourists after visiting the Kremlin would rush into the GUM to buy presents and souvenirs.</p>
<p>Nowadays the GUM is a mirror of Moscow’s current fashions and trends. With fancy and expensive boutiques it became an elite shopping centre. The brand names are all there such as Louis Vuitton, Corneliani, Dior, La Perla, Ermanno Scervino, Escada, Sonia Rykel, Marina Rinaldi, Burberry, MaxMara, Kenzo, Hugo Boss.</p>
<p>It is not generally a busy mall. Most people see it as a place to gaze at expensive items and have a coffee in one of its many cafes.</p>
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		<title>Tours To Russia – Moscow and Saint Petersburg</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=85</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=85#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Feb 2011 13:26:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourism]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Russia has so many historical, cultural and natural highlights to explore it can be difficult to know where to start. Opting for a tour is an excellent way to experience some of the most incredible sights the country has to &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=85">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia has so many historical, cultural and natural highlights to explore it can be difficult to know where to start. Opting for a tour is an excellent way to experience some of the most incredible sights the country has to offer, and two of the major cities, Moscow and St Petersburg, contain more heritage treats than almost anywhere in the world.</p>
<p>Many of the tours offer you the chance to explore these wonderful cities on foot, and each takes a different approach to bringing you their unique cultural identities, such as touring by night or over a weekend. Some of the tours last only a day, some as much as a week or more. You can also opt for whichever package promises to make the best of your available budget, ensuring you get to see the ultimate highlights and a real flavour for these enchanting places.</p>
<p><strong>Moscow</strong></p>
<p>Any tour to Moscow will take in the main highlights people hope to see, including the magnificent Kremlin and Red Square. As well as being home to some of the world&#8217;s most breathtaking architectural visions, these places have set the scene for so much of Europe&#8217;s history, and you genuinely get a real sense of it when you walk the streets here.</p>
<p>Moscow&#8217;s incredible subway system is also an area your tour may encompass, as is the beguiling Arbat Street, one of the city&#8217;s oldest and a must-see for tourists. Wherever your tour takes you, it will likely include the River in some way, affording you some unbeatable views of the city as a whole.</p>
<p>Your tour to Moscow may optionally include accommodation and dining/ refreshment, but you should check the details of any package you&#8217;re considering.</p>
<p><strong>Saint Petersburg</strong></p>
<p>St Petersburg has to be one of the major centres for culture and history around the globe. This is one city people always want to revisit again and again, such is its unique charm and presence. As well as being one of the most beautiful urban centres you&#8217;re likely to witness, Saint Petersburg is home to a vibrant arts scene and many of the country&#8217;s heritage treasures.</p>
<p>The Hermitage Museum is one of the key elements in most St Petersburg tours, housing an innumerable array of artworks and historical marvels. Saint Petersburg is the place to go if you want to see palaces and grand gardens, with Catherine Palace and Peterhof among the highlights. You&#8217;ll get to explore both the interiors and exteriors of these majestic places, with fountains making you feel you&#8217;ve strayed into a fairytale.</p>
<p>No tour of Saint Petersburg would be complete without a flavour of the arts here. From ancient folklore to the more recent array of notable writers, musicians, artists and poets that have represented Russia on a global scale, St Petersburg tours put you in the best location to get a feel for the culture that has given rise to so much creativity.</p>
<p>St Petersburg tours offer varying timetables, often including food and accommodation throughout the experience.</p>
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		<title>Hotels in Moscow and Saint-Petersburg</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=82</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=82#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:23:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Accommodation]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Barvikha Hotel &#38; Spa In the world of luxury hotels and resorts, one might expect that Moscow would be the last place to find a first-rate hotel, never mind a luxurious and modern hotel/spa hybrid that&#8217;s both warm and welcoming. &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=82">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa</strong></p>
<p>In the world of luxury hotels and resorts, one might expect that Moscow would be the last place to find a first-rate hotel, never mind a luxurious and modern hotel/spa hybrid that&#8217;s both warm and welcoming. However, Moscow has come a long way, and the Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa easily stands out as one of the finest new resorts on the planet.</p>
<p>The hotel is located in the Barvikha Luxury Village an ultra exclusive suburb of Moscow. This high-end area, known for its style and elegance, is the quintessential spot for such a well-designed, chic property, and the design team pulled no punches when it was time to build the resort only a few short years ago.</p>
<p>To handle the modern design aspect of the luxury hotel, Antonio Citterioa world famous designer was brought in. Antonio outfitted the hotels 65 suites and spa with features such as separate terraces, fireplaces, private unique massage tables, steam showers, and an overall chic and modern feel that&#8217;s light years removed from how Moscow is viewed.</p>
<p>From the lobby and restaurants to the individual rooms, the Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa turns heads with its pure originality. The furniture in the rooms, and even the way the walls are angled and built, completely abandons any traditional style of construction or designing. Everything located on the property is fresh and contemporary.</p>
<p>The spa portion of the resort, located on the ground floor, is an expansive project, featuring an in-ground, covered pool, a restaurant with a bar, state-of-the-art gym equipment, saunas, and more. The hotel has definitely earned some high praise, receiving a grade of 96.5% by The Leading Small Hotels of the World inspection team.</p>
<p>The individual suites really showcase what the Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa is all about. All 65 rooms feature a unique, floor-heated terrace. No two terraces are the same at Barvikha. All rooms also boast climate control features, HD plasma TVs with satellite service, high speed Internet access, a safety deposit box, mini bar and even a pillow menu.</p>
<p>The suites bathrooms are also state-of-the-art and large, featuring steam showers, a separate bath and shower cabin, lighted mirrors, and other accessories like makeup stations and hair dryers. Some rooms also feature private massage tables, for guests who would prefer the spa treatment in the privacy of their own quarters.</p>
<p>Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa isn&#8217;t overly large, so there&#8217;s only one restaurant found on the property. However, this unique eatery seems to be more than enough to keep the guests happy. For starters, the restaurant is designed like the hotels rooms, only much larger. It features a large, open terrace and famous chef Anatoly Komm fills the menu with tasty and healthy dishes.</p>
<p>Other services of the hotel &amp; spa include: 24-hour concierge service; 24-hour room service; an on-staff butler; babysitting; on-site florist; same-day laundry/dry cleaning service; and even a shoe shine service.</p>
<p><strong>Aquamarine hotel Moscow</strong><strong></strong></p>
<p>A stroll away from the Kremlin, Tretyakov State Gallery and close to the main Exhibition centres the new Aquamarine Hotel is the ideal address for Business and Leisure in Moscow.</p>
<p>The hotel is perfect for the needs and lifestyle of the modern businessman and business woman.</p>
<p>The 159 exquisite rooms and Suites are equipped with the latest multi-media technology and offer state-of-the-art business services.</p>
<p>The guests can enjoy gourmet meals at the Topaz restaurant or light snacks at the Ruby Bar.</p>
<p>For relaxation hotel offers the Fitness Centre including a steam room and a variety of massages, full SPA facilities with exclusive cosmetic products.</p>
<p>The Aquamarine hotel is your new place to be in Moscow for Business and Pleasure!</p>
<p><strong>Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow</strong></p>
<p>Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow hotel offers Quantum Spa and Health Club, one of the preferred spas in Moscow. This state-of-the-art fitness facility includes a heated indoor pool, dry sauna, steam bath, spacious Roman bath, gymnasium, juice bar and spa treatment rooms for a wide array of massage and beauty treatments.</p>
<p>The hotel is within five minutes&#8217; walking distance of the stylish shopping area of Tverskaya Street, close to iconic shopping malls GUM and TSUM and the central business district of Moscow. Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow hotel is in walking distance to Red Square, near Kremlin. The hotel recommends a selection of city tours organized by Victoria Travel House, highlighting the historical and political significance of Moscow through the ages.</p>
<p><strong>Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa</strong></p>
<p>Located in Barvikha Luxury Village, one of the most exclusive suburbs of Moscow, Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa perfectly embodies elegance, style and ease. The modern design of the hotel has been elaborated by Antonio Citterio, one of the trendiest designers in the world.</p>
<p>Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa offers 65 exceptionally spacious suites, each with its own uniquely designed terrace. Some of the suites have fireplaces whilst others are equipped with a steam shower and massage table for those who prefer to undergo spa treatments in the privacy of the suite.</p>
<p>There are two restaurants and a bar in the hotel. The restaurant and bar by Anatoly Komm offers contemporary Russian cuisine. The restaurant by David Desseaux caters to the dietetic, bio-light and a special French European menu.</p>
<p>Spa Dominique Chenot is located on the basement and ground floors of the hotel and occupies about 2000 sq.m.</p>
<p>Barvikha Hotel &amp; Spa has 65 rooms, 58 of them luxury suites including twelve luxury spa suites with a steam shower and a massage room, two luxury suites with fireplaces and one presidential suite. The interior of the rooms has been designed by Antonio Citterio and beautifully implemented by the B&amp;B company exclusively for this hotel</p>
<p><strong>Orient-Express Grand Hotel Europe: hotel description</strong></p>
<p>Orient-Express Grand Hotel Europe is the Russia’s oldest operating grand hotel. Managed by Orient-Express Hotels Ltd (from February 10, 2005), the Grand Hotel Europe invites you to plunge into a world of luxury and comfort with more than a century of tradition. When the Grand Hotel Europe reopened after an extensive renovation in December 1991, it had a rich historical tradition to live up to. Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Ivan Turgenev, Sergey Prokofiev, George Bernard Shaw, Elton John and Bill Clinton were just a few of the famous personalities to have visited the hotel, which opened its doors in 1875.</p>
<p>Few could have foreseen that its modern-day guest list would rival that of the past, as the hotel continues to host visiting royalty, politicians and other celebrity guests from all over the world. The accommodations reflect five-star luxury. Individually appointed with fine antiques and period reproductions, guests&#8217; rooms are also furnished with modern amenities.</p>
<p><strong>Radisson SAS Royal Hotel St Petersburg: hotel description</strong></p>
<p>Radisson SAS Royal Hotel has a prime location on the main street of St Petersburg – Nevsky Prospect and is close to the famous Anichkov Bridge. Situated in the very heart of the city, this 5 star hotel is only a short distance from all major cultural and historical attractions, including The Hermitage, The State Russian Museum and The Mariinsky Theatre. Radisson SAS Royal Hotel has 164 air-conditioned rooms, all decorated and furnished in a Classic style. The hotel has 24-hour room service, dry cleaning and laundry services, a Fitness Centre and a Business Centre.</p>
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		<title>Moscow In Winter</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=76</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=76#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Dec 2010 17:24:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Visiting Moscow during winter is a unique experience, and there is plenty things to do and see. Russians are the very best at making the cold season fun and festive, so whether you&#8217;re out in the weather or indoors and &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=76">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="_mcePaste">Visiting Moscow during winter is a unique experience, and there is plenty things to do and see. Russians are the very best at making the cold season fun and festive, so whether you&#8217;re out in the weather or indoors and safe from the cold, there are a variety of activities to keep you busy during this time.</div>
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<div id="_mcePaste"><strong>Ice Skating In Moscow</strong></div>
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<div>Ice skating rinks are plentiful in Moscow during winter. In the heart of historic Moscow, an ice rink appears in front of the GUM department store every year. Other ice skating rinks can be found at Gorky Park, Sokolniki Park, Izmailovsky Park, and Patriarch&#8217;s Pond.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste">Icebreaker Cruise on the Moscow River</div>
<div id="_mcePaste">Boat cruises down the Moscow River offer a special view of Moscow. Previously only available during the warm seasons, boats that can break up the ice that crusts the river during winter have now been launched. You can enjoy dinner or lunch during this 2-hour cruise while viewing the snow-capped sights of Moscow from within the glass-enclosed deck.</div>
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<div id="_mcePaste"><strong>Ice Sculpture in Moscow</strong></div>
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<div>Ice sculptors show off their skills in Moscow during winter. Ice sculpting competitions are organized on an annual basis at various venues and featuring various themes. Ice sculptures are also made as a part of the Winter Festival in Moscow. The Gallery of Russian Ice Sculpture in Moscow celebrates Russia&#8217;s ice sculpting tradition throughout the year.</div>
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<div><strong>Snowman Parades</strong></div>
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<div>The snow becomes so plentiful in Moscow during winter that it is possible to create legions of snowmen within a small area. Look for snowman parades on Arbat Street and elsewhere in Moscow.</div>
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<div id="_mcePaste"><strong>Moscow Winter Festivals</strong></div>
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<div>Enjoy festivals celebrating the winter season in Moscow. Russians love to celebrate the winter weather and the holidays with the Russian Winter Festival, Moscow&#8217;s December Nights, New Year&#8217;s Eve festivities on Red Square, and finally Maslenitsa, which occurs towards the end of winter.</div>
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<div id="_mcePaste"><strong>Painting on Snow Competition</strong></div>
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<div>An annual competition called &#8220;Art on Snow&#8221; takes place in Moscow&#8217;s Sokolniki Park. Dozens of families participate to create temporary masterpieces on the smooth white canvas nature provides during winter.</div>
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<div id="_mcePaste"><strong>New Year&#8217;s Trees</strong></div>
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<div>Russians mark the holidays with New Year&#8217;s trees rather than Christmas trees, but these trees usually stay up until the Russian Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. Inevitably, trees will be erected at significant spots in the city, like Red Square and the Kremlin&#8217;s Cathedral Square. These trees offer travelers photo opportunities &#8211; by day, with family and friends &#8211; and by night, when they glow with their trimmings of lights.</div>
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		<title>Imperial Places &#8211; Saint Petersburg</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=73</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=73#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 13 Nov 2010 22:06:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourism]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[One of the most magical places to visit in Russia, wandering around the streets of Saint Petersburg gives you a real flavour of the magnificent history of this incredible country. For a taste of something even more breathtaking, the Imperial &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=73">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the most magical places to visit in Russia, wandering around the streets of Saint Petersburg gives you a real flavour of the magnificent history of this incredible country. For a taste of something even more breathtaking, the Imperial Palaces around the city are an essential feature of any trip here. The palaces lie in the suburbs of the city, and offer a unique insight into the country&#8217;s imperial past.</p>
<p>As well as the wonders brought by the palace buildings and extensive landscaped grounds, a wealth of fantastic artworks also have their homes in these amazing places.</p>
<p><strong>Peterhof</strong></p>
<p>Peterhof, also called Petrodvorets, is a must see destination when you&#8217;re in this part of the world. Both the palace itself and the park make this an unforgettable experience, and unsurprisingly one of the country&#8217;s best loved places to spend time. Peter the Great initiated the development, which was later extended by the Empress Elizabeth. The Fountains and the magnificent Grand Cascade are a truly overwhelming sight, paying testament to incredible heights of ambition.</p>
<p>Peterhof did undergo significant damage during the war, but was restored by a dedicated effort on the part of many people. The main highlights at Peterhof are the Grand Palace, the Cottage Palace, the Park and Gardens, and the Fountains.</p>
<p><strong>Tsarskoe Selo</strong></p>
<p>Tsarskoe Selo lies within the gorgeous town of Pushkin in one of Saint Petersburg&#8217;s loveliest areas. The architecture here is the very definition of opulence, a real treat for the eyes with its astonishing commitment to decorative adornments and breathtaking stretches of landscaped outdoor grounds.</p>
<p>Without doubt the highlight here is the Catherine Palace. The architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli also designed the city&#8217;s Winter Palace. The Amber Room is the focal point for most trips here, and certainly doesn&#8217;t disappoint. Tsarskoe Selo is also home to a lovely area of parkland, and a gallery which houses exhibitions for public viewing.</p>
<p><strong>Oranienbaum</strong></p>
<p>Oranienbaum, also known as Lomonosov, is the only one of the major palaces that escaped the war largely unscathed. The Grand Palace of Prince Menshikov is a wonderful baroque structure, and the definition of grandeur. The Chinese Palace and Park at Oranienbaum are also well worth the visit.</p>
<p><strong>Pavlovsk</strong></p>
<p>Pavlovsk is one of the more recent imperial palaces, but its amazing and far reaching landscaped gardens make it one of Europe&#8217;s most delightful outdoor places. The area was victim to serious devastation during wartime but thanks to efforts since then it is today in excellent condition.</p>
<p><strong>Gatchina</strong></p>
<p>Gatchina was a well used home for generations of Tsars, and is the site of a truly remarkable piece of architecture in the Grand Palace. Originally designed by the great Antonio Rinaldi, the structure was later redeveloped by none other than Vincenzo</p>
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		<title>Luxury Hotels &#8211; Saint Petersburg</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=70</link>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 13 Nov 2010 22:04:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Accommodation]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[If you&#8217;re taking a trip to Saint Petersburg, you can expect to experience one of the world&#8217;s most beautiful places. Just taking a stroll along the street in Saint Petersburg is like wandering through history, with some of the most &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=70">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you&#8217;re taking a trip to Saint Petersburg, you can expect to experience one of the world&#8217;s most beautiful places. Just taking a stroll along the street in Saint Petersburg is like wandering through history, with some of the most inspiring, uplifting architecture you&#8217;ll come across anywhere. What better way to enhance your trip than to do it in authentic style at one of the city&#8217;s many luxury hotels.</p>
<p>Luxury hotels in Saint Petersburg offer not only magnificent locations with views to match, excellent comfort and service throughout your stay, but also in many cases put your accommodation within buildings and areas that form part of the city&#8217;s cultural heart. Enjoying Saint Petersburg to the full involves immersing yourself in the distinct cultural character of this place, and staying at one of the city&#8217;s top hotels is a great way to get started.</p>
<p>Saint Petersburg today is an excellent tourist destination, with a host of top quality accommodation options to choose from. There are many top of the line hotels operating across the city, but there are a few that are the most famous (and that little bit special).</p>
<p><strong>Astoria Hotel Rocco Forte</strong></p>
<p>The Astoria Rocco Forte Hotel is situated in one of the most enviable locations in the city. Almost a century old, this hotel has a past that would be difficult to rival, and is a favourite spot for couples looking for romance. The hotel faces the magnificent cathedral of Saint Isaac, and is a stone&#8217;s throw away from most of the city&#8217;s major tourist highlights. Within the complex itself you can enjoy the stunning Winter Garden and Ballroom, as well as some of the best cuisine in the city. The interior of the Astoria is indulgent and stylish, comfortable and elegant at the same time.</p>
<p><strong>Kempinski Hotel</strong></p>
<p>The Kempinski Hotel, Moika 22, boasts a breathtaking location on the banks of the River Moika, with the Winter Palace and Palace Square spread out before you across the river. The interiors are understated, subtle but unmistakably luxurious and comforting. The hotel lies within easy reach of all of the city&#8217;s central attractions. The hotel services bring a modern sensibility to what is an amazing historical setting.</p>
<p><strong>Grand Hotel Europe</strong></p>
<p>Saint Petersburg&#8217;s Grand Hotel Europe has to be one of the most impressive hotels in the city. Its location on the Nevsky Prospekt puts you in the heart of the city, just a short walk from many of the central attractions. This is an award winning hotel, and offers generously proportioned stylish rooms, fantastic services and some of the most tempting dining options you could possibly ask for, including world cuisines and even a dedicated Chocolate Factory!</p>
<p>A trip to Saint Petersburg always promises to be unforgettable, so why not make it an experience you&#8217;ll treasure for years to come. If you prefer not to stay in a central location, Saint Petersburg&#8217;s many districts are both charming and visually stunning in equal measure so you&#8217;re bound to find accommodation that&#8217;s right for you.</p>
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		<title>Visiting Russia &#8211; Summary</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=64</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=64#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 06:07:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=64</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For those readers who are new to our blog, we have decided to summarize what we have been writing about over the last few months so you can familiarise yourself with what we offer our regular readers. Below you will &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=64">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For those readers who are new to our blog, we have decided to summarize what we have been writing about over the last few months so you can familiarise yourself with what we offer our regular readers. Below you will see a brief explanation of what The Russian National Tourist Office provides for clientele all year round and why we are the UK’s leading operator when travelling to and from Russia.</p>
<p><strong>Russian Visa</strong></p>
<p>If you’ve decided to visit Russia, you may want to arrange your visa for the trip. To do this you must to undertake the application process, by which your visa can be acquired at the discretion of the Russian consulate. The consulate may take the decision as to whether or not to issue you a tourist visa, and they are under no obligation to do so.</p>
<p>To go through the Russian visa procedure, it is advisable to go through a tourist body such as the Russian National Tourist Office, who can carry out the application process and give you the requisite supporting documentation for your Russian visa application.</p>
<p>For a tourist visa that covers you for a set amount of time for your journey, you will have to pay a fee, submit information and proof of identity using your passport, as well as receive an invitation and voucher for a Russian visa. The tourism organisation you’re using will be in a position to supply the requisite supplementary documentation, as well as the voucher and invitation, and will be able to process your application by way of the consulate. You can apply on the Web and get your documentation by post.</p>
<p>It is important that you make sure you have taken the necessary steps to secure a tourist visa before you start your journey. It is impossible to merely get it sorted when you arrive; it must be done beforehand. The application steps may appear tricky and stressful, but when you do it via the website of a tourism body it becomes as straight forward and hassle free as possible.</p>
<p><strong>Travel to Russia</strong></p>
<p>When you’re sorting out your trip to Russia, you will likely face a large range of options. Flights to Russia will generally involve stopping over and making connecting flights in other countries, depending on your departing and arriving spots. When you come to choose a travel option for going to Russia, it’s worth looking through the various deals that are available, as numerous alternative routes are often taken in going from A to B.</p>
<p>A host of airlines are currently offering Russian locations. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious and top quality service, or are hoping for a more cost effective option, you&#8217;ll likely find a deal that suits your requirements. In an ideal scenario you should look to make use of a resource such as the ones on the Web that offer an overview of the different flights to Russia, together with the facility to compare the relative advantages of each.</p>
<p>Dependant on where you’re heading for within Russia, you might want to book your flights to a location that is not necessarily where you want to end up, and then arrange additional transportation either by air or other method to your end location. Remember that Russia is a large place, and you will not necessarily be able to arrange a flight that takes you specifically where you want to be. However, there are a great many airports in Russia and so you can make connecting flights from airports around the world.</p>
<p>Russia is home to cities falling within many different time zones, which is generally worth remembering when you’re fixing any travel plans. Using Internet guides to sort out your flights can make things a bit easier, as the website services will take into account time differences and make sure that your connections are going to be manageable and appropriate.</p>
<p><strong>Tourism in Russia</strong></p>
<p>A great way to experience the unique culture, sights and heritage of Russia is to do it via touring. Today’s tourist market is loaded with tempting tour deals that provide easy access to some of the country’s best outstanding places for visiting, and takes the stress of arranging transportation at the same time. Rather than you spending several hours looking up the attractions you wish to see and then figuring out the details of getting to and from them, an organised tour does all the hard work for you, and gives you more time to get on with making the most of your time in this incredible part of the world.</p>
<p><strong>Accommodation</strong></p>
<p>Accommodation in Moscow is available in various different forms. For people looking for style and luxury, a great selection of top notch 4 and 5 star hotels are offering, often tempting, and deals at present. Moscow’s many wonderful areas are populated by a range of hotel types, tailored to accommodate a number of requirements and preferences. If you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Moscow, you’ll also be spoiled for choice, with a great set of available packages currently on the market within places across the city.</p>
<p>Accommodation in Saint Petersburg is similarly the source of a fantastic choice. From cheap through to top quality options, there are numerous types and locations to choose from. This is one of the planet&#8217;s most remarkable places, as people who have been there will testify, so you’ll wish to soak up what opportunity here by choosing a place that is right for you.</p>
<p>Deciding on a setting and accommodation deal in a country you’re not necessarily familiar with is always tricky. No-one wants to invest huge amounts of time studying the security and style of different locations before coming to a decision. Using an Web guide to help you browse through the accommodation deals available is useful and affords you the benefit of the expertise that a tourism organisation accumulates through time and experience.</p>
<p><strong>Visiting Russia</strong></p>
<p>There has never been a preferable time to take a trip to Russia. This place is one of the most special and inspiring tourist attractions in Europe and indeed the world. The Russian tourist market is presently thriving, and the time is right to get yourself a fantastic travel deal both money-wise and in terms of the pleasure you’ll experience on your journey.</p>
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		<title>Hotels in Moscow and Saint Petersburg</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=60</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=60#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 05:36:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Accommodation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=60</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Russian cities of Moscow and Saint Petersburg are surely some of the planet&#8217;s most incredible and beautiful cities to experience. These fantastic locations are home to lengthy, colourful histories and today have their own unique style as well. If &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=60">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Russian cities of Moscow and Saint Petersburg are surely some of the planet&#8217;s most incredible and beautiful cities to experience. These fantastic locations are home to lengthy, colourful histories and today have their own unique style as well. If you’re visiting either Moscow or Saint Petersburg, it’s worth ensuring you secure the best place to stay, not only to make the most of your trip but also to give you the optimum value for your available budget.</p>
<p>Whenever you’re staying in a new country, it goes without saying that you need to get the best guidance regarding the areas that are suitable for visiting, both with regard to safety and fun. If you want to make the most of your stay in these excellent destinations you’ll of course want to choose your accommodation well. Using Internet tourism services is an ideal way to make sure you’re taking an good choice about where to stay.</p>
<p>Visiting Russia is without doubt a way to get up close to a culture that is significantly distinct to what you might be accustomed to in the West, however Russia currently has brilliant facilities for tourism, with a great range of places to stay with an excellent market range in terms of cost, location and sort of accommodation. Given the brilliant choice, it&#8217;s worth comparing the available choices before you take a final decision, which is easily done on the Internet.</p>
<p><strong>Moscow</strong></p>
<p>Accommodation in Moscow is on offer with a great range of options. Numerous different types of accommodation in Moscow are currently available for purchasing, from top quality hotel accommodation through to budget hostel accommodation and the full range in between. Moscow’s numerous varied districts offer different environments for a trip, so it’s worth thinking about which area of the city you wish to use as your touring base, perhaps by looking at the attractions you especially want to visit while you’re in the city.</p>
<p>Whether you’re looking for top notch or more basic accommodation in Moscow, its worthwhile taking the time to look at the selection of deals that are available, and there are many Internet services that may aid you in navigating these choices.</p>
<p><strong>Saint Petersburg</strong></p>
<p>Accommodation in Saint Petersburg similarly offers a fantastic set of options in terms of cost, type and location. Saint Petersburg is an incredibly stunning destination with many places to enjoy, and each district has its own particular ambience to bring the backdrop for your journey. Similar to Moscow, accommodation in Saint Petersburg serves many styles and needs, so comparing what options are on offer to suit your budget is a good way to begin.</p>
<p>Your accommodation in Saint Petersburg will naturally have an impact on the experience of your journey. Taking a little time to look at the different choices and places may vastly enhance the unforgettable experiences can enjoy in this inspiring city.</p>
<p>A trip to Russia is a unique way to enjoy yourself, and the nation today offers a wide set of choices to the tourist market, particularly in the magnificent cities of Moscow and Saint Petersburg.</p>
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		<title>Russian Tourism Continued</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=45</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=45#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:23:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tourism]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=45</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Following the previous post about sightseeing in Russia, this post is going to delve a little more into some of the top tours that Russia has to offer. Whether you are a fan or the arts, history or Russian culture, &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=45">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Following the previous post about sightseeing in Russia, this post is going to delve a little more into some of the top tours that Russia has to offer. Whether you are a fan or the arts, history or Russian culture, there should be something that will grab your fancy in this week’s discussion.</p>
<p>Kicking this post off is the magnificent Moscow’s Kremlin, the world’s largest medieval fortress of all time. This statement is also backed by the Guinness Book Of World Records. Believed to have been fortified with stone in the 1300’s, this beacon of human architecture has played host to some impressionable figures over the last thousand years and has been at the centre of some of the largest conflicts in recorded history.</p>
<div id="attachment_47" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 306px"><a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/kremlin.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-47" title="Moscow kremlin" src="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/kremlin.jpg" alt="Moscow's Kremlin" width="296" height="170" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Picture of the Moscow Kremlin at night</p></div>
<p>Here are some of the things you can expect to see on a tour around the Moscow Kremlin. You will see treasures inside the Kremlin including amazing cathedrals, the treasure-house and the famous Armoury Chamber. Upon entering the Assumption Cathedral, you will see the world-renowned cathedral-ensemble in the Cathedral Square, the Archangel&#8217;s and Annunciation Cathedrals, the Church of Laying Our Lady’s Holy Robe and the Patriarch&#8217;s Palace.</p>
<p>Other astonishing features are the Tsar Cannon and the Tsar Bell on Ivan Square; made purely from Russian castings. The Arsenal building is also another crowd pleaser, theprominent architectural monument of the Peter the Great&#8217;s, and the Senate – one of the best masterpieces by the famous Russian architect Kazakov. Inside the Arsenal, Old Russian cannons and captured arms from the Patriotic War of 1812 are displayed.</p>
<p>These are just a few of many great features of this unforgettable tour. There are several cases where tourists were so astonished with what they saw they took the tour a second time and this would surely cross your mind once you have witnessed what lies behind these huge stone walls.</p>
<p>For the more artistic person the Tsereteli&#8217;s Art Gallery is a must see. It houses a large display and was created by the president of the Russian academy of arts, Zurab Tsereteli who aimed to bring Russian culture back to the way it was in the 18<sup>th</sup> and 19<sup>th</sup> centuries.</p>
<p>Designed by the well-known architect Matvei Kazakov, in the 18th century, the building used to be the stately home of the Counts Dolgorukov. During Soviet times, the house fell into a bad state or repair. Today, following its reconstruction and repair, everyone can enjoy its facade and insides restored to their original splendour.</p>
<div id="attachment_58" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 271px"><a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/art.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-58" title="Tsereteli Art Gallery" src="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/art.jpg" alt="art-gallery" width="261" height="193" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Tsereteli Art Gallery, Russia</p></div>
<p>The exhibition of Tsereteli’s work has paintings, sculptures, graphic art works and bronze miniatures. Tsereteli has accurately sculptured portraits made of bronze, representing noted figures of Russian culture of the 20th century named &#8220;My Contemporaries&#8221; which you might find very interesting. At The <strong> </strong>Gallery, there is a huge monument called &#8220;Good Defeats Evil&#8221;. The centre of the atrium is a massive bronze apple where all the visitors can trace the history of human passions from the so-called &#8220;Fall&#8221;. The walls of the room around the perimeter are decorated with monuments on the Bible themes depicting the &#8220;spiritual rebirth.&#8221;</p>
<p>There is much to see in the Tsereteli Art Gallery so that our memories and experiences of well-known art-works will stay with you the rest of your life.</p>
<p>These are just a couple of the vast amount of tours available in Russia. Tours operate daily and visiting Russia without seeing these sites would be a regrettable action. Check back soon for more on tourism in Russia.</p>
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		<title>Russian Visa</title>
		<link>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=40</link>
		<comments>http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=40#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Sep 2010 21:08:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Visa]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=40</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Taking a trip to Russia is an exciting and inspiring experience. However, before you begin your journey, there are a number of things you need to consider that are specific to this amazing destination. A Russian visa is one of &#8230; <a href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/blog/?p=40">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Taking a trip to Russia is an exciting and inspiring experience. However, before you begin your journey, there are a number of things you need to consider that are specific to this amazing destination. A Russian visa is one of these concerns, and it’s worth getting this organised for your journey at an early stage. You can’t arrive at Russia for your visit and arrange your visa at that point; it must be done before your travel.</p>
<p><strong>Requirement and Application</strong></p>
<p>Citizens of most states need a <a title="Russian Visa" href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/visa/" target="_self">Russian visa</a> to visit the country. In order to get a Russian visa, you have to go through the Russian consulate. However, you can pursue some of the procedure through other organisations that have been given the ability to carry these out by the Russian government, such as the Russian National Tourist Office. Paperwork has to be put forward to the consulate, where the resulting decision is taken as to whether your visa is going to be granted. There is no certainty that you will in fact be issued a visa by the consulate, and it is not just a case of paying the necessary fee. This is why it is worthwhile to use the services of a travel or tourist organisation that are in a position to carry out the Russian visa procedure.</p>
<p>Bodies that can carry forward your application for a Russian visa are sometimes able to perform this on the Web. You can apply through the relevant sites, submitting the relevant info and documentation and paying the necessary fee. In order for your Russian visa application to proceed, you will have to supply an original passport, a photo, a completed application form, and in some cases other documents for example with relation to your income. Your application will also require support documents, some of which might be supplied by the body you are applying through.</p>
<p><strong>Process</strong></p>
<p>The Russian visa application process goes through a number of stages. You must have an invitation, and a voucher, which your tourist organisation can arrange. There are different types of Russian visa available, relating to the reason of your trip. For a tourist visa, your tourism agency or company should secure the right type of invitation for your application and attach this along with the supplementary documentation for your Russian visa.</p>
<p>Also along with your tourist visa application should be your tourist voucher plus information about your trip to the country. Again, the tourist organisation should be able to facilitate including this <a title="Supporting Documents for a Russian Visa" href="http://visitrussia.org.uk/visa/" target="_self">supporting documentation for a Russian Visa</a> as well as the relevant details with the application, and will attach them with the invitation.</p>
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