Moscow
by Valentina777
If St. Petersburg is Russia's imperial crown, Moscow is its familial heart. It is a city in which one comes face to face with all that is finest and all that is most frustrating in Russia. The gregarious geniality of its people is as evident as the extreme tensions of a city coming to terms with the confusions of rapid social change. More than anywhere else in the country, it is in Moscow where the Soviet past collides with the capitalist future. Lenin's Mausoleum remains intact.
Some historical facts about the monastery
by MEdelmann
The monastery was founded in 1524 to celebrate the return of Smolensk to the Moscow Empire. The history of the monastery was always tied with russian history and many happenings had to do with the monastery.
The pictures shows my brother Hannes standing in front of the beautiful tower.
10 Getting a 'Taxi' is...
by Eric_Nixon
10 Getting a 'Taxi' is strange. There are no official taxis as such. You just stand on the street. Stick your hand out and an ordinary car will stop for you almost straight away. Fix a price (always less than $2 for a drive anywhere in the city centre and your away. Make sure you put on that seat belt! One of my taxis insisted on going 70 mph through the main street in the city.
Russian Language
by Gillianina
I have attended a couple of courses, but still...I cannot say almost anything!!! The fact is that the language is sooo difficult! But at the same time it's fascinating, and the most fascinating and exotic thing is the cyrillic alphabet. ;) You might think it is difficult to learn, but it's not at all! It takes some days.....and believe me, it's the easiest part of learning Russian!!
In the picture you see the Russian alphabet with a brief explanation of how to read each sound.
Good books
by civi68
Bring a backpack to take for when you walk. Pack water, toilet paper, snacks,travel book, language guide, and umbrella Wear hiking shoes. A language book is essential. Buy The New Penguin Russian course for beginners and study it 3 months before you travel. Knowing how to read street signs and speaking some Russian is essential!