I was fortunate to have visited Ukraine once in my life. This was 5 years ago; I took full advantage of a stop over flight from Moscow to Tbilisi in the country of Georgia. While just a couple of days I got a feel for the city including its gorgeous cathedrals, a visit to Pechersk Lavra – a large complex of Orthodox Churches and a stop to the colorful buildings of Vozdvyzhenka. But one of my highlights was a visit to the National Chornobyl … [Read more...]
Best Countries to Visit in September
September is one of the best times of year for a getaway. It’s often cheaper for flights and accommodation and less crowded than the peak summer months, making it an ideal opportunity to enjoy some peace and quiet and explore new destinations before the busy Christmas period begins. But, where do you visit in September? With most popular beach vacation destinations now getting colder weather and most tourist attractions and activities … [Read more...]
Time Spent on the Trans-Siberian Railway
The Tran-Siberian Railway is the ultimate rail journey: the longest in the world - possibly the coldest if you go at the wrong time of year. A journey of almost mythical proportions that spans two continents while staying in a single country; without leaving your seat you clatter your way along almost a third of the globe. There are three routes that travellers can take to explore the Siberian expanse: The Moscow-to-Vladivostok route at over … [Read more...]
10 Things I Learned During my Stay in Minsk, Belarus
I recently spent a few days exploring Minsk and the nearby countryside. This city of 2 million+ people is at the same time spread out yet rather compact. The city features an interesting mix of noticeable architectural styles mostly dating from post World War II. Unlike a number of Western European countries, Belarus does not yet seem to be on the tourist route. Prices are fairly reasonable and it is easy to get around the historical core of the … [Read more...]
Top 4 cities to visit at 2018 World Cup in Russia
The 2018 World Cup in Russia will be a footballing extravaganza, with 32 nations battling to win the sport's most prestigious trophy. The event offers people the chance to visit some of the world's most beautiful cities, including Moscow which will host the final on July 15. Russia boasts a wealth of cultural and historical riches, and landscapes that have inspired artists and poets for generations. Read on to find out more about the … [Read more...]
How Sochi Became an All-Season Hotspot for Tourists
SOURCE: flickr.com Prior to the 2014 Winter Olympics, how many people had heard of Sochi? Outside of Russia, the answer is probably very few. When most people think of snow, skiing and snowboarding, they think of somewhere in Austria or Italy, at least if they’re in Europe. In the US, you can take advantage of lift pass deals like Fly and Ski Free and take to the slopes in Tahoe without spending a dime. Or, if you’re really adventurous, you … [Read more...]
Top 4 sports events to watch in 2018
The next 12 months promise to be a delight for sports fans across the world, with a vast array of top events taking place throughout 2018. Winter sports and football provide the year's top two attractions, with the Winter Olympics and the World Cup set to draw massive crowds to South Korea and Russia respectively. Winter Olympics, South Korea Scheduled to take place PyeongChang from February 9-25, the Winter Olympics brings together the … [Read more...]
Exploring Russia on a Viking River Cruise
This was my first river cruise with Viking Cruises, a trip I'd dreamt about for weeks! Russia, the world's largest country, takes up an eighth of the world's surface, borders 14 different countries, 12 oceans and seas and spans 11 time zones. Getting Ready to Cruise Through Russia Including start and end points St. Petersburg and Moscow, our cruise includes seven stops with optional offshore excursions, some included in the fare, others … [Read more...]
Moscow: Tagansky Bunker Blues
I am early for the tour and am made to wait in the entrance hall. At least I am out of the snow, although it’s colder inside than it was outside. Exactly on schedule, I am ushered in for a security check and then taken back to the cold entrance room for an introduction. Sasha, a youthful but stern 20-something, is my guide. His English leaves much to be desired and he speaks in a loud, military-style voice that seems appropriate for this … [Read more...]
Trier – Rome of the North
“Ante Romam Treveris stetit annis mille trecentis” (Trier stood 1300 years before Rome) – legend of Trier’s founding. Trier is the UNESCO World Heritage city you’ve never heard of. While you were busy swooning over Berlin’s modern architecture or Munich’s copious beer gardens, you’ve missed Germany’s most remarkable city, quietly minding its own business along the banks of the Mosel river, the way it always has for two and a half … [Read more...]