Much to do in Moscow Aug 2012 by Judy Takemoto

It took me 3 hours to complete the application for the Russian visa and

it cost $351.00 to be processed.  All the literature I read about entering

Russia, forewarned that going through customs was a lengthy ordeal.  Not so.

It’s true that the Russian people don’t smile a whole lot but the hospitality

has been warm and welcoming.  In two days, we have crammed in what

might normally take 4 days!  The Ritz Carlton Moscow is a 10 for location

and of course for service level.

Highlights:

Red Square

Private visit to the Grand Kremlin Palace

State Diamond Fund (collection of the most valuable gems in Russia)

State Armoury-oldest museum in Russia, famous for Faberge Eggs

Cold War Museum-underground bunker, 18 stories-depth of 65 meters

Metro Station-beautiful chandeliers, mosaics, paintings, bronze statues

St. Basil’s Cathedral

New Maiden Convent and Cemetery

Sparrow Hills

Site inspections of the Park Hyatt and Radisson Royal Ukraina

Late this afternoon we took the high-speed train (Sapsan) from Moscow

to St. Petersburg-4 hours.

To be continued.

From Russia with Love…

JT