Vacations in Russia
Introduction to Russia
Russia is a transcontinental country extending over the northern part of Europe and Asia, and a country that spans eleven time zones. It is by far the largest country in the world, with an area covering almost twice the area of the next-largest country, Canada. Russia is one of the most beautiful countries to visit with its unique culture, fascinating cities and quaint towns. Long gone are the days when people have the misconception that Russia is still a dreary place depicted on 80s television. Travelers will find Russia a modern country with many attractions for vacation, from rich cultural heritage to fascinating natural heritage waiting to be discovered.
With its vast landscape, beautiful contrasts, vibrant life and interesting people, Russia is a nation with great diversity and overwhelming vitality. From the ancient times until today, Russia has been changing and reshaping itself, its boundaries, and its culture. Its unique character and culture is defined by a mix of different traditions from different nations who has made their way to Russia in the ancient times.
Transportation in Russia
Major cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg are well connected to the world with frequent flights operating from their international airports, and hence they are the most visited cities in Russia for travelers. Metro services are available in major cities, and is one of the best way to get around cosmopolitan such as Moscow due to its heavy road traffic. In Moscow, metro can deservedly be a sight of attraction for tourists as some stations has unique and incredibly beautiful architecture.
Finding a special taxi stand can be difficult in big cities including Moscow. Taxi stands are generally located near railway stations and airports. The official taxi cars are yellow, but there are many people work by giving a lift for money. A little bargaining usually takes place before getting onto these cars, provided the driver speaks the same language, which usually is a barrier. It is advisable to spend a little extra to call one of the taxi services with English-speaking driver. Hitchhiking is an alternative to catching a car.
Minibus taxi, also known as “marshrutka”, is one of the popular way of traveling in almost every cities and towns in Russia, due to its reasonable price, variety of routes and rapidity. Minibus taxi usually departs near railway and metro stations, or at the end stops of buses, trams and trolleybuses. However, the minibus traxi will pick up or drop off passengers anywhere along its route.
Official Language in Russia
Russian is the official language in Russia. English is spoken only in major cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, especially by the younger generations. Language can be a barrier outside major cities in Russia as most people do not speak English. Traveling outside major cities will require a local tour guide as there are many cities where train station and airports signs are only in Russian, and hotels with English-speaking staff are few.
Currency in Russia
The monetary unit in Russia is ruble, and is subdivided into 100 kopeks. The banknotes are denominated in 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 rubles, while coins are in 1, 5, 10 kopeks, 1, 2, 5 rubles. Travelers’ checks are not acceptable as payment in Russia, you can only withdraw money from them in banks, which normally opens from 9am to 5pm, and a fee is charged.
Best Time to Visit Russia
Russia is not always cold, summers could be just as hot as Florida. July and August are the warmest months and is the most popular season for vacations in Russia.
Places of Interest in Russia
Capital city of Russia, Moscow has came a long way from the kremlin built within defensive walls, to become the largest city in Russia today.
A canal city modeled on cities in Netherlands, St. Petersburg is a must-go destination on your vacation to Russia for its unique architecture and classical cityscape.
Located about 119 miles from St. Petersburg, Novgorod is a powerful center of cultural richness that is unique in Russia.