WHERE & WHEN ~ Russia: Moscow, in Winter

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WHERE & WHEN
Russia: Moscow, in Winter

"Just prepare the itinerary ahead and choose curiosity as guide."

Moscow, with its bright lights, is one of the European capitals that never sleep and despite the economic crisis the morale seems high.

I love the city in the winter, it’s cold, very cold, but it’s sunny, although for few hours and the snow makes everything look cleaner and more beautiful.

To optimize even the shortest sojourn here’s what I’d do. ...


Lodging ~ Prefer the city-center, within the 1st ring – “Sadovoye Kol’tso”, there are all kind of accommodations and for all budgets.
Being in the middle make it safer to walk around and you are at walking and/or subway distance from the main attractions like the Kremlin, the Red Square, etc.

Transportation ~ The Moscow Metro, (subway), is the easiest way around, especially for a city constantly under traffic alerts. Just prepare the itinerary ahead and choose curiosity as guide.
Official taxicabs are quite expensive and to be booked in advance. I would not advise to use the gipsy-cabs unless you master an excellent Russian language and are familiar with the city.

Shopping ~ If looking for souvenirs, there is a dedicated area just off the Red Square, pure folklore over the weekend and, if your budget allows it or not, don’t miss to visit the historical department store “GUM”, the place is still keeping its Soviet allure though with all modern designer stores.
Please Note that Moscow is a very expensive city.

Food ~ Where to eat?
Considering the number of ethnic groups living on the Russian soil, talking of traditional cuisine seems as a very vague term. To try the Russian basics, together with all International cuisines, check this link, waytorussia.net, it has an updated listings of the main spots in town, hang-out for locals and tourists. As well you have Starbucks and a lot of small cafes serving a local "nouvelle cuisine", sign of the changing times.

From Moscow with Gusto,
Orsola

Published also on: onetravel.wordpress.com




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