Russian Travel Guide Blog. Russia interesting facts, pictures, videos, culture, tourism attractions

Top ranking Russian universities

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 14:57:00 +0000

What are the most prestigious and famous Russian universities? Here is a list of top 5 best universities in Russian Federation:

Lomonosov Moscow State University

The first in the list of the best universities is the Moscow State University named after M.V.Lomonosov. Lomonosov Moscow State University was founded in 1755, it is one of the oldest and largest universities in Russia with more than 40,000 bachelor and master students. Most of the faculties are located 5 km from the center of Moscow on the Vorobyovy Gory, where opens a stunning view of the Moscow River.

Moscow State University Lomonosov takes a honorable third place in the rating of QS University Rankings: BRICS. It scored most points on many of the eight criteria, namely for academic reputation, the ratio of teachers and students, the reputation of employers, the number of international students and the number of employees with a Ph.D. in Philosophy.

St. Petersburg University

It is called the oldest university in Russia. The history of the St. Petersburg State University begins with the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences, founded in 1725. With 32,000 students and 20 faculties, it is inferior in size in comparison to the Lomonosov Moscow State University. It offers an impressive range of cultural and sports facilities, located in close proximity to the main sights of St. Petersburg. The educational institution itself is located on Vasilievsky Island, which is equipped with a metro and tram lines.

St. Petersburg State University takes the 14th place in the rating of QS University Rankings: BRICS and in principle its strengths and weaknesses in many respects are repeated by Lomonosov Moscow State University. Lomonosov Moscow State University. The University received high scores for the ratio of teachers and students, an international reputation among professors, the proportion of staff with a Ph.D. in Philosophy and for the number of international students.

Novosibirsk State University

A relatively young school. The University was founded in 1959. Located 20 km from Novosibirsk, the third largest city in Russia after Moscow and St. Petersburg. The university offers courses of lectures on a wide range of subjects of a scientific orientation.

Novosibirsk State University takes the 22nd place in the ranking of QS University Rankings: BRICS, having received the highest scores for the number of foreign students and the ratio of teachers and students.

Bauman Moscow State Technical Univercity

The next in the BRICS ranking Russia is represented by the Moscow State Technical University named after N.E. Bauman. One of the oldest universities, which is also the largest technical university, has 20,000 students, including candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. The educational institution offers a wide choice of courses of lectures on engineering and applied sciences.

Like other leading universities in Russia, the Moscow State Technical University named after N.E. Bauman is distinguished by a high score in the ranking for the ratio of teachers and students and ranks 4 th among the universities of the BRICS countries in this indicator. Another advantage of the university is the demand for graduates among employers, which is proved by the research of Quacquarelli Symonds.

MGIMO

Once Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) was part of the Moscow State University, but in 1944 became an independent educational institution. The number of applicants is approximately 6,000 students to bachelor and master's levels. Based on the name of the institution, it becomes clear that the university has a humanitarian orientation and specializes in diplomacy, journalism and law, and also boasts a wide choice of languages.

Moscow State Institute of International Relations is ranked 37th in the QS University Rankings: BRICS ranking and received high scores for the ratio of teachers and students, and also has a high rating in international surveys. Impressive assessments the university received for the percentage of employees with the title of Doctor of Philosophy and for the number of foreign applicants - on the above indicators it ranks 3rd and 12th among the educational institutions of the BRICS countries.

Interesting beautiful Russian girl names. Pretty female names in English

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 18 May 2015 09:15:00 +0000

Many Russian names aren't Russian in origin. They were adopted from the Greek language as well as the Christian religion. All the old Russian names were gradually displaced by church names which came to Russia from Byzantium with the introduction of Christianity. Old Russian names were entirely forgotten in the XVIII-XIX centuries, and Christian names considerably changed their face to accomodate the features of Russian pronunciation.

It's a list of old (Russian calendar, old Russian and Common Slaviс) interesting Russian girl names.

The name Bazhena relates to an array of old Russian names. The name originated as a female form from the male name Bazhen which means "ardently desired and warm-hearted". This name goes back to the old Russian word "bazhenie". In other words "desire, mercy, and compassion".
In old times the naming Bazhena belonged to pet sobriquets expressed "love and care to a newborn child" and was a cognate to such family circle namings as "dear", "honey", "darling", and "precious".

Also a “Bazhoniy” child – a long-awaited, “begged, solicited from God” baby - was named Bazhen/Bazhena.

Initially these namings were used as secular, lay namings.

The name Lada is a slavic name. It means “cute” and “wife”. In the Slavic mythology Lada was the goddess of love and beauty. The word “lada” in the old Russian language meant “spouse”. It was the meaning which was given to this word in Slovo o polku Igoreve. The word Lada can either be neutral or feminine.

The name Olga is a great monument to the old Russian written language and culture. It can tell much about the history of old Russia and relationships between Russians and other nations. The name Olga came in Russia in IX-X centuries along with the names Oleg, Rurik, and Igor. Scandinavian by its origin, it goes back to the word Helga with the meaning “holy”.

Olga (after being christened Elena), grand Russian princess, Igor Rurikovich's wife, was the first famous bearer of this name in Russia.

Saint grand princess Olga is esteemed as “the first Russian Christian” and “Russian princes' foremother”.

The origin of the name Svetlana is debated, and there are three theories. According to the first theory, the name was made up and used for the first time by Vostokov A.H. in his romance Svetlana i Mstislav (1802). It got wide popularity after the poet Vasily Andreyevich Zhukovsky had published his ballad Svetlana. There is a theory that Pushkin made up this name.

According to the second theory, the name was used by the Slavs in Russia, and Vostokov took it from forgotten names. The name Svetlana is a slavic, Russian name. It was formed by putting together two notions “svet” and “lan”. “Svet” literally means “light” (a noun), “lan” means “land” in old Russian. The name Svetlana means “The light of the Earth”, and its cut version – just “shining”. Sveta means “light” (an adjective).

The third theory says that the name is a loan translation of the Greek name Fotinia, under which Orthodox believers holds christening. The name Fotinia is literally translated from the Greek language as “light” (a noun).

Our ancestors believed that every word bears in itself a certain supply of energy, and a person's naming has real magic power.

Interesting Russian movies. Epic awesome films

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 07 May 2015 20:30:00 +0000

The cult film, which obtained the recognition of all of Russia, was pulled apart into quotes and a long time ago. People have watched it to this very day. The film Brat (Brother) is the best and most famous work of the Russian director Aleksei Balabanov.

The typical wild 90s. Danila Bagrov was transferred to the reserve. He came back to his native provincial city. His mother advises him to come to Piter to his elder brother. It turned out that his brother Vitya works as a hired killer and fears to take the next order. So he gave it to his younger brother.
To watch the film Brat means to become thoroughly engrossed in the dismal, depressed, but incredibly atmospheric Aleksei Balabanov's world – gray tones, naturalness, undisguised honesty, transparent melancholy, and genius soundtracks.

A continuation of the cult story about Danila Bagrov, film called Brat-2, was released in 2000. Taking part in a program on TV, Danila meets his friends by Chechnya. One of them was suddenly killed. Danila knows that guy had troubles due to his brother-hockey player in America. Bagrov should look into it. He flies to America with his brother. Now his photo is passed around among the Russian and American mafia.

Brat-2 is a criminal comedy. The plot of this part is again built on Bagrov's desire to recreate justice. He wants to take away unfairly earned money from an American businessman and pay it back to his dead friend's brother. The film is full of spectacular scenes and effervescent dialogs.

Mne ne bol'no is a sensible drama by Aleksei Balabanov. A leading actress is inimitable Renata Litvinova. It's a story about a difficult relationship between a well-to-do polished woman and a poor young man.

Three friends stand at the door of a splendid house at the center of a city. They are young, full of energy and power, ready to live in grand style, but they don't have only one thing - money. It's what they came here for - to offer the rich mistress of the house their service as designers. Natella Antonovna is young and beautiful too. She has everything that can be wished, but she is sick of the life. However, an unexpected romance with Misha, one of the three friends, cardinally changes her life. Natella gets a lost joy of love, and Misha with his friends get profitable orders and a lot of money. But it's meant to be finished soon...

The dramatical film Sestry became the first and, unfortunately, the last work of the cult Russian actor of the 90s Sergei Bodrov-young as a director. This is a story about two half-sisters of different age, who cannot stand each other until horrible circumstances force them to draw together and become only support for each other. How could Sveta and Dina hide from gangsters who look for them? And why did the gangsters need two young girls?

Dina's father, Alik, is a gangster with a long length of service got into big troubles. Typical for the 90s the gang war enters a new level of cruelty - Alik's enemies threaten to find and kill his daughter Dina.

The bandits find hidden at a deserted flat sisters. And those have to find a new refuge. Then a journey full of danger and daily threats to their lives starts. Read about famous Russian actors

Interesting Russian words, phrases. Awesome cool quotes, sayings

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 12:56:00 +0000

Cool and Interesting Russian words, phrases, sayings and meanings in English.

«Вы мне не тыкайте» [vy mne ne tykayte]

Officially formal treatment in the modern Russian language includes the pronoun of the second person in plural “вы” [vy], but we use it to address one respondent. The pronoun “вы”, addressed to a certain interlocutor, is written with a capital letter in a written form. Treatment with the use of the pronoun “ты” is considered to be informal. So the phrase “Вы мне не тыкайте” means that you shouldn't get into familiar (intimate) terms of address with somebody. The person wants you to address him formally using the pronoun “вы”.

«Руки не доходят» [ryki ne dahodyat] means that you don't have time to do something. You haven't got down to that problem (thing) yet.

You can use the phrase «Отложить в долгий ящик» [atlazhit' v dolgiy yashchik] when you mean to shelve something. Perhaps, the beginnings of this phrase originated in Moscow Russia. A long box, in which everyone who wanted could put a message with wishes and complaints to the Tzar, was placed opposite the Kolomensky Palace by Aleksey Mikhailovich's order more than three centuries ago. The box was being filled quickly but decisions on stirring problems were taken for a long time that's why people called the box “долгий” [dolgiy] instead of “длинный” [dlinniy].

«Выпить на брудершафт» means to drink Bruderschaft (brotherhood).

Пить на брудершафт [pit' na brudershaft] is a table ceremony at which both its participants cross their arms with glasses, simultaneously drink alcoholic drinks and kiss as a token of friendship and getting into familiar terms of address with each other. However, you will more often meet the phrase “мы с Вами на брудершафт не пили” [my s vami na brudershaft ne pili]. You use it when you need to remind someone that familiarities with unfamiliar people are inappropriate.

«А судьи кто?» [ a sud'i kto?]

This is a quote from the comedy Gore ot uma by Griboedov A.S. This phrase is used to stress contempt for the authorities' opinion which is not much better than of those who they try to teach, blame, and criticise.

«Какие люди в Голливуде!» [kakie ludi v gallivude!]

This phrase is from the song of the same name. It means “Look! Who's here!” You can use it if you meet someone suddenly.

Галопом по Европам [galopam pa evropam]

A.A. Zharov's travel sketches, reflecting his superficial impressions, obtained from his trip over Western Europe (1928), were entitled so. The title is explained by that Zharov and his companions had to shorten their sojourn in Czechoslovakia and Austria by order of the police.

This phrase is used as a definition of superficial observations in general.

Есть еще порох в пороховницах [est' eshche porokh v porokhovnitsakh]

This is a quote from the novella Taras Bul'ba by Gogol' N.V. You can use it to say allegorically about an ability to do a great deal yet, about sound health, feeling of well-being, and a potential of a man who can do many big things even though those around already don't expect it from him.

Top Travel Apps to have for visiting Russia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 19:57:00 +0000

With smartphones and tablets becoming common and Internet speed growing language and other barriers common for travelers are disappearing. No wonder it’s becoming easier: every word you don’t understand you can translate in a matter of seconds; every place you want to go you can reach with booking a taxi almost the same way you did at home, etc.

As an experienced DMC, Olta Travel knows what issues the travelers may have during their trip to Russia and gathered some useful apps that may be particular handy to any travelers. All these apps were tested by numerous people, have the highest review ratings and work on different platforms.

Even if you are a novice and use your phone for very basic needs you will find these apps easy to use.

Maps

Yandex.Maps

Availability: iOS, Android, Windows phone, other platforms

You can always use Google Maps as you do while travelling to other countries. However, Russia has its own searching engine that is used more than Google and is more detailed than Google app. Compatible with almost every mobile device and free to download, Yandex.Maps provides the detailed maps for every Russian cities with numbers of streets, houses and local transportation available.

Yandex.Metro

Availability: iOS, Android, Windows phone, other platforms

Yandex.Metro is a special app to guide you through Russian metro. Free of charge.

Language Assistance

Google Translate Mobile App

Availability: iOS, Android

If you phone does not automatically have it: install Google Translate immediately. Its recent feature of photo-translating makes it the most powerful and friendly tool for every tourist who does not know the local language. Right now you can make a photo of every word or text you don’t understand and get the translation by Google immediately. Just remember to download the Russian language to proceed.

Be careful, this app works offline only on Android devices!

English-Russian Travel Phrasebook

Availability: iOS only

Every traveler knows that even several words spoken in local language can melt the hearts of locals and open lots of doors. It doesn’t matter if you pronounce the phrase correctly; you just need to show the effort.

However, if you want to go beyond simple ‘Privet’ and ‘Spasibo’, you can use this simple and up-to-date travel book. It has simple design and well-structured by different sections. It also has a Slang section for those who want to blend with the local people.

Taxi

Uber

Availability: iOS and Android

Uber is widely known as the cheapest and fastest taxi service in 55 countries in the world. It is also now available in Moscow and St. Petersburg. With this app you don’t even need to download a local app to get a taxi – adjust a city and book a taxi in a second.

Your credit card information is safe with this app and the quick response for your destination is regular. Just don’t panic if you’ll not get the response for your enquiry in 5 minutes – sometimes it takes up to 10 minutes to proceed with your order (at least, in St. Petersburg it is so).

This app will not work without internet!

Get.Taxi

Availability: iOS and Android

By its features, Get.Taxi is very similar to Uber and provides you with taxi services. Communication with a Russian-speaking driver is reduced to zero, so language barrier here is not important at all.

Trip Services

TripAdvisor Offline City Guides

Availability: iOS only

TripAdvisor is largerly known for its where-to-go, reviews and user ratings of different places around the world. With offline version of this app you can do the same you did online: it pairs maps and suggestions for where to visit, shop, and eat together.

After downloading TripAdvisor you just need to remember to install a specific map before going to vacation (download a map for the city of your choice), because it will not be downloaded automatically to save the space on your smartphone.

Winter in Leningrad Center - renovated places in St Petersburg

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 09:32:00 +0000

For almost a hundred of years Tavrickeskiy garden, placed in the historical part of Saint-Petersburg, was a center for exhibitions and events. Surrounded by the imperial pavilions of horticulture, Leningrad movie center building, attracted people of all ages to its’ big screen to mesmerize in the power of cinematography.

With a time passing the building grew old and was closed for renovation by the world-known architects with the guidance of Spanish architect and urbanist Ricardo Bofill. In the end of the December 2014, renovated center finally opened to serve a completely new purpose. Nowadays it combines art gallery and big show scene with several restaurants, all made in the high quality futuristic design. There is even an IMAX wall in the hall of the first floor; all the shows presented in the center have a touch of 3D graphics and illusions.

Future waits ahead, but for those who like history of St. Petersburg this Building may become a true peace of treasure. The building of Leningrad center is well-known for several generations of citizens. In the end of 50s it became the first panoramic cinema in the city and for almost four decades it remained to be the most loved one. No wonder this building can be read almost as a book: it knew the Romanovy dynasty when they placed the first horticultural pavilion in the building, it served its purpose in revolutionary events thanks to being close to Smolny, etc.

As well-known Russian writer Maxim Gorky once said, - “Without knowing the past, it’s impossible to understand the present or assume the future”. These words are true for every historical place in St Petersburg and for every place tourists are visiting. Olta Travel experts can point out such places for your travel groups while in Russia. Moreover, these words are completely true for the Leningrad center now. Maybe, that is the main reason why for the several months after the grand opening the center presents us an exhibition of the building history called “100 years, 100 winters”. To link the past with the present, the exhibition contains interactive parts.

As for the present and the future of a place, it will be flashy and bright for sure, because performances that Leningard center offers to public show us a completely modern and new format for the city. for example, Illusio 3D show contains a lot of interaction between the audience and the settings, mis-en-scene surrounds the audience from every angles and even from the ceiling. As for the plot and the quality of performances, the names speak for themselves: the first grand show already has the stars and winner of world pole-dancing contest.

NEW blog about Russia - privet-russia.com

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 19:49:00 +0000

Hello, dear visitors and subscribers! I created new Wordpress blog about Russia. Welcome!

Click here to visit my new blog about Russia privet-russia.com

Travel by Train and See the Real Russia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 23 Nov 2013 22:35:00 +0000

The vast size of Russia means that there are few short journeys if you want to visit the main cities and sights. Flying is the quickest way to get about, yet travel by train across Russia’s railway system offers a touch more adventure and romance. Moscow in particular is easily accessible by train with direct trains running from European capitals such as Paris, Warsaw and Kiev.
What will the trains be like?

Train travel in Russia is mostly safe, reliable and inexpensive. Inter-city and express trains in Russia will generally be modern and comfortable. Most have a restaurant car serving food, tea and coffee, soft drinks and alcohol. Enjoying authentic Russian vodka with your evening meal in an elegant dining car, as your train hurtles through the Russian countryside is a memorable travel experience!

The quickest trains are the top of the range Firmeny trains which offer first, second and third class travel. For overnight journeys, first class 2-berth apartments are available with toilets and washrooms shared by the nine compartments in each carriage. The 2-berth compartments offer privacy for solo travellers who book a whole compartment or for couples. In second class, if you choose the 4-berth compartments you might have to travel overnight in close proximity to strangers. Second class is the most popular method of travel with tourists and backpackers and you can buy tickets that include bedding and a meal in the restaurant car.

Third class on Firmeny trains offers travel in open plan dormitory carriages where you will spend an overnight journey sharing one of 54 bunks with fellow travellers. Whichever class you travel in, your carriage should have an attendant who will check tickets and offer things such as bedding and hot water. They should also provide some assurances about security. The smaller compartments are lockable and whilst you might read some scare stories about Russian trains, security on them is usually very good.

Popular routes

The Moscow-St. Petersburg train is probably the most popular route for tourists, linking two of Russia’s prime attractions. You can also take direct trains into Moscow from Budapest, Cologne or Minsk. St. Petersburg links to cities in neighbouring countries including Riga and Vilnius. If you want to explore the routes available in Russia outside of the most common journeys for visitors you can use the Russian Railways website to check routes, timetable and prices, as well as booking tickets online. Another popular route for tourists entering Russia is to enter by boat from the Scandinavian and Baltic states to the north. There are many international ports in this part of Europe, attracting all kinds of vessels from tiny passenger ferries to the most luxurious cruise-liners. Try a night or two in Helskinki before sailing across to Tallin, the capital of Estonia,one of the old Soviet Baltic states. From there you can take a train direct to Moscow or break your journey with a visit to beautiful St. Petersburg. The Helsinki to Tallinn ferry is an experience at weekends with party-loving Finns taking the three hour journey to enjoy the cheap drinks and lively nightlife in Tallinn.

Buying tickets

You can buy tickets at your departure point if you are heading into Russia on an inter-city train from abroad or via travel agents that specialise in European rail travel. Another useful resource for online booking is Real Russia which will deliver tickets to you before you travel to Russia, provide e-tickets or arrange for you to collect tickets at train stations in Russia. The site will also guide you through the visa application process for travel to Russia. You can book single or multiple journeys within Russia or if you are travelling to neighbouring countries and also arrange for travel on famous routes such as the Trans-Siberian Express

The Trans-Siberian Express

If anything epitomises travel by train in Russia it is this classic journey. Made famous in both literature and film, it is an adventure that crosses time zones and climates and delivers you to exotic destinations such as Beijing and Mongolia. The original route stretched from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok in the far east of Russia but a number of routes come under the umbrella of the Trans-Siberian express these days and travellers can choose between the entire route or, if pushed for time, just travelling on sections of the route. As with the other routes in Russia, the standard of accommodation varies according to cost and you can either choose to travel in style or do the spectacular journey on a budget.

Local food culture in St. Petersburg, Russia. Food tours

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 19:12:00 +0000

When visiting a new place, we usually try to get some authentic experience which necessarily includes tasting local food. Being famous for its history, St. Petersburg lags behind when it comes to cuisine. However, just like palaces and churches have their own history, so do a great number of cafes, bars and restaurants which open cultural and social codes that help with understanding our history.

During the era of the Russian Empire there were a lot of poets, writers, actors and musicians living in St. Petersburg; there even was a special name for that elite - so called ‘artistic Bohemia’. They used to meet up in cafes, some of which still exist downtown, for instance, the cafe “Podval brodyachey sobaki” (“Vault of a stray dog”) and cafe “Literaturnoye” (“Literary”). The imperial poet Pushkin, one of the most prominent Russian poets of all time, used to recite his poems there. Later on during the Soviet time the cafe also hosted Vladimir Mayakovsky as well as many other outstanding figures of the Russian artistic circles.

The city has also formed its own very special culture of tea and coffee drinking which includes eating some sweets as a dessert. Spending time in a cafe with some cakes/cookies/chocolate discussing the latest news with friends is a part of life for many St. Petersburg residents. Therefore, you can find a lot of local confectioneries such as “North” (Sever) that suggest trying locally produced pies and other kinds of desserts.

The Soviet time did not change this custom of St. Petersburg residents; in fact, a new kind of desserts appeared. It was called “pyshka”, which is like “donut”. It is a piece of dough fried in oil like French fries and then topped with sugar powder. Normally served with coffee and milk, donuts are still very popular in St. Petersburg. There is still one donut bar (“pyshechnaya”) that has been working since the 1960s which has never been shut down and has always been very crowded!

One more food heritage that was left from the Soviet time is ryumochnaya or so-called ‘vodka bar’. It is normally open from 7am to 9pm. No food can be found on the menu other than some fish sandwiches and a wide range of cheap vodka and other alcoholic drinks. During the Soviet time vodka bars used to serve factory workers; nowadays it is a mysterious place for just the same type of people plus ex-intelligentsia.

Historical restaurants and bars of St Petersburg can tell a lot about history and culture of hundreds of years.
As St. Petersburg is the second biggest megapolis in Russia, there are a lot of immigrants from post-Soviet countries. When moving they assimilate with the local population, and the city accepts their culture as well. This way a lot of Central Asian and Caucasian food spots appeared in St. Petersburg. Usually the food there is very cheap (2 or 3 times cheaper than in a restaurant). One of the best places to eat cheap and good quality halal food are Uzbek diners. Not all of these diners are trustworthy and tasty, but if you know some, life becomes a food paradise!

Places described in this article are strongly connected with history, literature, culture and social life of St. Petersburg of different time periods from the Russian Empire till nowadays. Places reflect processes happening in the city and tell the story which is just as good as a walking city tour.

Moscow Ballet – Everything You Need To know to go to the Bolshoi Ballet

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 20:40:00 +0000

Thousands of English speakers will visit Moscow this year. Almost all will go to the Kremlin. A tiny fraction will attend a Moscow ballet. Let’s move those numbers closer to being even. Why wouldn’t everyone go to a Moscow ballet?

- Some people just don’t like the ballet, so a Moscow ballet is no better? Right? Okay they MAY be a lost cause.
- Some people are not comfortable in Moscow at night. This is easy to remedy.
- Some people don’t know how to buy Moscow ballet tickets.
- Some people think you have to dress up to attend a Moscow ballet.

Let’s address each of these so that no one, needlessly, visits Moscow without enjoying a beautiful Moscow ballet performance.

The theater district in Moscow is very centrally located. Three of the best theaters, the Bolshoi Theater, the Stanislavsky Theater and the New Opera Theater are near Pushkin Square and reasonably close to the Teatralnaya Moscow metro station. A “better” hotel (note I said “better” not expensive) will not be far from the Moscow theater district. Even if you are, see below.

If you are a little bit uneasy about navigating, even this area, do one of the following:

- During your Private Moscow tour, ask your guide to take you from your hotel to the theater you want to attend before your first stop of the day. Go back to the theater on your way back to the hotel and notice the return procedure.
- Ask your Moscow hotel to organize a taxi cab which will take you to the theater and be there when the Moscow ballet performance is over to return you to your hotel. Your Moscow Tour Guide can do this for you.

You don’t have to dress up to attend a Moscow ballet. For my Moscow tours I wear a polo shirt, black jeans and Timberland comfortable shoes. I can go to any ballet performance in Moscow in those clothes.

Now for the tickets. You can buy your tickets directly from the theater website if you speak Russian. Some have English versions. Most Moscow theaters require that you register for their website. The easiest way to get good seats at a fair price is to include those in your private Moscow tour. We do it all the time for our clients. Please note due NOT by from online third-party ticket vendors. They are 2 to 3 times face value in cost and sometimes they are fakes. Don’t try to negotiate with “scalpers”. Sometimes they are a good source of scarce tickets but let your Moscow tour guide do it for you.

So what about the people who just don’t like the ballet? If you like Symphony music and beautiful theater interiors (especially the $1 billion renovated Bolshoi Ballet Theater) it might be worth the visit.

Great theater in Moscow is less expensive than in New York City. The quality of the staging, dancing and music is so great that I never hesitate to see a performance repetitively especially in different Moscow theater venues.

Steve Fowler is a pilot for an American, international, legacy airline and a tour planner for RussianTourGuide.com and MyRomeTourGuide.com. He travels extensively around the world but is especially knowledgeable of Moscow, St. Petersburg and Rome.

Why to Visit Russia. Moscow, Petersburg, Kremlin, Lake Baikal, Taiga

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:11:00 +0000

Russia is a country that is found very interesting by people as it shares a good part of history and also has a much checkered history. Russia stands beautifully with the most popular tourist destinations in the world and has 23 UNESCO World heritage sites.

Russia has the world’s largest forest reserves and is known as the “lungs of Europe” and is second only to the Amazon rainforest in the amount of O2 it produces. It has many famous tourist destinations and the most famous natural tourist destination in Russia is Lake Baikal which is named as the Blue Eye of Siberia, the lake has crystal clear water and is surrounded by Taiga covered mountain. While booking check out for last minute deals and save good on airfares.

If you go deep into Russia there are some amazing facts to know while you are planning to visit Russia. Let’s take a look at some amazing facts about this place. Street rules don’t exist in Russia, so when you are there, don’t be surprised when you see locals drinking and walking down the street. Moscow Metro is the best in the whole world! The ticket costs less than a dollar, there are no zones, and during rush hours trains come every 1.5 minutes. Be sure that you are not creating any nuisance while on the streets and discovering new places as there are a number of policemen patrolling the streets and trust us you will not be forgiven. So the total enjoyment is solely in your hands. Russians are very hospitable and make sure that when you are visiting.

Russia meet some local people there and taste some black tea and sausages which are awesome and highly recommended when in Russia. Be sure to buy a t-shirt which has ‘I’ve been to Russia. There are no bears there’ printed on it. As they think the Americans think that in Russia bears walk along the streets, so they came up with this slogan, got it printed on t-shirts and also think it is very patriotic. Russia is going to surprise you and make you leave thinking about things and how that is possible. See the above mentioned things actually happening and explore this beautiful place. Welcome to Russia!

Click the link to read about last minute deals

White nights in St.Petersburg, Russia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 20:15:00 +0000

The chance to spend a weekend in St Petersburg was one that I leapt at; I visited in June in the middle of their very short, very beautiful summer and was intrigued about what it was like living with the seasons so far north. It is such a beautiful city and the White Nights (the brief summer with near 24 hours of daylight) is a magical time to be there.
The word most widely used by the Russians I spoke to when discussing their winter was a resounding “depressing”, but everyone was so enthusiastic about the fun and life of the period when everything turns bright and warm and so was I.

I arrived in St Petersburg and made my way to meet up with a friend of a friend, who was to be my hostess for the weekend. She was interning at New Holland Island, a small triangle of land divided by 3 narrow canals, recently bought by the girlfriend of Roman Abramovich (Chelsea football club owner) and turned into something of a party spot. There are art galleries, games and activities, bars and eateries and a stage for bands to play. It is very much the place to be and be seen in the summer. It was packed with hipsters of all ages, quirkily dressed, carrying this season’s Chanel handbags and sipping complimentary champagne in the VIP area. I felt a tad unfashionable surrounded by the elite of the St. Petersburg social scene, but no-one else seemed to have noticed!

At about midnight New Holland was no longer the place to be and a group of us walked on to our next destination. Walking through the city with the skies still the colour of late afternoon, looking at the beautiful buildings, canals, retro cars and people was magical. One of my new friends, a translator, who spoke perfect English with an astoundingly English accent, was acting as my own personal tour guide, telling me all about the city she grew up in and obviously loves.

She showed me how the facades of buildings are mostly freshly painted and in good condition, but if you look a little closer and down the side of them they’re still very soviet, with peeling paint and pockmarks. The architecture was one of my favourite aspects of St. Petersburg. A juxtaposition of incredibly grand and total disrepair is something I’ve always found beautiful, like some of the old colonial palaces in India. It is a gorgeous city to see both on foot and from a boat on the canals, providing a totally different angle. The city has a decidedly European feel to it, from the architecture to the people; with some twists you could be in Amsterdam or Paris.

The following day we began with a walk around Peter and Paul’s fortress, then watched Russian Orthodox worshipers taking communion at St Nicholas’ Cathedral, then my favourite, St Isaac’s Cathedral. The word magnificent just doesn’t even scratch the surface, but it’s the only one I can find to describe the incredible mosaic interior of this historical building. I made the traditional wish standing directly below the dove in the centre of the colossal domed ceiling, insisted my guide make one too and then we moved on.

After a morning with my guide we parted ways outside the unfeasibly large Hermitage, the world famous art gallery, home to 21 original Picassos and countless other treasures. I wandered around on my own, illegally drifting after any English guides I heard, and saw some amazing things; an incredibly preserved mummy in Antiquities of Siberia, a beautiful library in Palace Interiors, a gorgeously ornate jewellery box and stunning paintings from all over the world. There is so much to see here, that to make the most of your time I would definitely recommend a guide, or the audio guide’s available offer a good alternative.

After the few hours spent wandering I then made the 40 minute walk down the main street, Nevsky Prospekt, back to my hotel. I stopped off at Kupetz Eliseevs, a ridiculously deluxe and expensive food hall with a grand piano in the centre, selling macaroons and sweet treats of every colour of the rainbow. I was here that I bought and consumed the nicest chocolate muffin I’ve ever had (for a hefty price!). It’s worth a visit here even if you’re not intending to buy anything, but I would recommend you treat yourself to a macaroon, for which they’re famed.

Next I did the European thing and sat having coffee with another new friend, a photographer, who told me about life in St Petersburg, utilising the weather and the seasons, hibernating in winter and bursting into bloom in the summer for all night parties and socialising. We ate hot cheburerky (soft pastry filled with cheese or meat) dipped in soured cream – I thought it sounded awful but it was delicious, all accompanied by White Russians. I walked home alone in the rain, which provided the perfect opportunity to just take everything in.

For me, the people are what made St Petersburg. There is a stigma on the Russian people; it’s thought that they are quite abrupt and stern, but St Petersburg is different, everyone I met was warm, welcoming and happy. I think this European city is a wonderful and gentle introduction to this vast country. I flew home the next morning and my time in St Petersburg was far too brief. I would head back in an instant to spend the whole summer there!

“Steppes Travel are experts in Russia holidays. They specialise in holidays to Moscow, St Petersburg, and other parts of Russia.”

Back to USSR. Pictures of Moscow 1969

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:37:00 +0000

Beautiful pictures of Soviet Russia, Moscow, 1969

Russia defeated Slovakia 6-2 to win gold at the World Hockey Championship 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 20 May 2012 21:56:00 +0000

Russia defeated Slovakia 6-2 to win gold at the World Hockey Championship 2012!

https://www.rt.com/sport/hockey/ice-world-final-russia-732/

Life in Russia’s Frozen North. Arctic circle, Russia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:56:00 +0000

There is more to Russia than the elegant cityscapes of St. Petersburg and Moscow, or the huge rivers that carve through the green countryside of the south, down to the sunny Black Sea coast.
There is much more: the Russian Arctic Circle stretches almost half way around the world, and is home to a population of around two million. Most of them are ethnic Russians, but a sizeable minority of them are indigenous people, many of them still trying to live in the ways their ancestors have lived for generation upon generation.

In contrast, many of the non-indigenous people in Arctic Russia live in cities and towns, having moved there (or descended from people who moved there) to work in industries such as mining and shipping. Despite their differences, Russia’s indigenous and incoming Arctic people face many similar challenges, not least the long, dark winter that seems to enclose its vast wilderness, as the Northern lights pulse overhead. To live in the Arctic, even in its cities, is to accept nature rather than to fight against it.

Indigenous People

The indigenous people of the Arctic Circle come from several different tribes, some of which are indigenous to Russia, others of which (like the Sami) are spread over other parts of the Arctic Circle, particularly Scandinavia. Arctic tribal people were once nomadic, but most are now settled. A few still make their living moving across the tundra, herding reindeer and hunting, but their way of life is dying out as younger people move to the cities to seek work. Even those who are settled still live mostly in the natural world: hunting, fishing, herding and farming.

The story of these tough people has always been one of struggle for survival. Today, their struggle is harder than ever. Not only do they still battle to eke out a living in the harsh northern winter, but they battle the encroachment of the modern world too. Climate change is altering ancient ways of life by changing the environment. Warmer weather brings changing agricultural and hunting patterns and reduces the supply of animals and fish (such as seals) that rely on sea-ice cover. Industrialisation has also taken its toll, forcing some indigenous people off the land. Having lived according to predictable patterns since ancient times, life is changing for Russia’s indigenous arctic people. However, their story is one of survival and adaptation against the odds, so it may be that they will still have a future.

Cities and Industry

The Arctic Circle is rich with minerals, and Russia is beginning to take advantage of it, as their neighbours have done. The Russian government is drilling for oil and gas, hoping to take advantage of the rich pickings under the ice. Billions of barrels of oil are thought to be buried in Russia’s Arctic. The oil drilling is controversial, with environmentalists and indigenous people fearing it will further damage the delicate Arctic ecosystem. It may also breathe new life in to the region’s flailing economy. Half-a-million people live in the city of Murmansk, the largest city anywhere in the Arctic Circle. The city’s economy has struggled since communism collapsed, with its fishing industry in particular struggling. Previous resource development in the area did not benefit it, but damaged it, with both indigenous and non-indigenous people seeing falling employment and a bleak future. The hope of the people of the area is that they will be able to start to take advantage as government policy changes.

The Arctic Future

The Russian government sees the Arctic as vital to its future, both economically and militarily important. The Arctic Circle’s cities were built by the Soviets, and have since been neglected, but they are undoubtedly part of Russia’s economic future. Whether the rewards are seen by the people of the Arctic remains to be seen.

For visitors, the Arctic Circle can be a fascinating, if difficult, place to visit. It's easier to arrange car hire in Lanzarote than get from A to B in one of Earth's most hostile areas, and mod cons aren't to be expected. But if you want to experience huge wildernesses, cities covered in feet of ice for many months of the year, and to meet some of the world’s last nomadic people, a visit to the Russian Arctic Circle might just be worthwhile.

Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia 2012 video

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 May 2012 19:26:00 +0000

Parade on Red Square was held in the Victory Day May 9, 2012, marking the 67th anniversary of Victory in Great Patriotic War. Acting Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov took parade and Colonel-General Valery Gerasimov commanded a military parade.

Real hero. Officer died protecting soldier from granade

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 20:29:00 +0000

An infantry battalion commander in Russia’s Far East Sergey Solnichnicov was killed on Wednesday after he threw himself over a granade to protect people around him when a grenade fell near by during a training exercise, Eastern Military District spokesman Alexander Gordeev said.
“An emergency situation occurred during a grenade throwing exercise. A grenade…bounced off the trench wall. The battalion commander immediately reacted to the situation, pushed the conscript soldier away and covered the granade with his body,” Gordeyev said.

The injured officer was taken to a military hospital in Belogorsk, but died one and a half hours after.

"Remember, love, grieve ... Mayor, you are our military father. Eternal memory to you "- is the status of his former soldiers.

Kaliningrad: The Russia Outside Of Russia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 22:43:00 +0000

200 miles from the main Russian border, there’s a small enclave of land next to the Baltic Sea, sandwiched in between Poland and Lithuania, which is part of Russia too. Kaliningrad Oblast is the name of the territory, and the capital city there is, not surprisingly, called Kalinigrad, after a leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Kalinin. You may ask yourself how this piece of land, covering less than 6,000 square kilometres, has come to stay part of the Russian Federation, the world’s largest country at over 17 million square kilometres. There are good reasons why it has stayed part of Mother Russia, but first let’s look back a little further.

The short history of Kaliningrad

Before Kaliningrad was Kalinigrad, the city was actually called Konigsberg, a German name given to the town that was founded in 1255, on the same site of the current city. The town was ruled by the Teutonic knights, a group of German origin who had ambitions to spread Christianity through their conquests. Konigsberg prospered and became a seaport city, expanding into a centre for culture and science, and was the hometown of philosopher Immanuel Kant. It was also the original capital of the historical state of Prussia, before it was changed to Berlin. Konigsberg developed into a wealthy and culturally pluralistic city over the almost seven hundred years before it became part of Russia. So why did Konigsberg become Kaliningrad? It was all down to the Second World War.

After a heavy aerial bombardment by the British Royal Air Force, the Red Army laid the siege to the city, and eventually the German Army surrendered. Konigsberg was occupied by Russian troops, annexed by the Russian government, and renamed Kaliningrad in 1946. From then on the historic old city became a highly militarized zone, with the Russian Baltic fleet stationed at the seaport. At the height of the Cold War up to half a million Soviet soldiers were stationed there, but now this has all changed. Before it was closed off to tourists and foreigners and only in the last 20 years has Kaliningrad opened its doors to visitors once again.

What to do and see

Since the end of the USSR era, Kaliningrad has had its ups and downs. Industry and commerce were almost abandoned, and there was a time when health services were dire, and even getting common kidney disorders treated was difficult. In 2001 the writer A.A. Gill visited the city, and wrote about it in his article titled, ‘The Town that Russia Forgot.’ Now it seems to be on the up, and with the help of tax advantages the region’s economy is on the up. It may not be a tourism hotspot, but there is much to see and do in modern day Kaliningrad.

One of the main attractions here is the Konigsberg Cathedral, which was originally built back in 1333. During the Second World War it was almost completely destroyed by bombing raids, and it was left in ruins until the 1990s. Reconstruction of the cathedral was completed in 1998, and now it has been restored to its former glory. Here you can see the tomb of philosopher Immanuel Kant at a mausoleum on the corner of the cathedral.

Another attraction, although you cannot wander around inside this one, is the ‘House of Soviets’, often called ‘The Monster’ by residents of Kaliningrad. Another post-war construction, the typical Soviet architecture employed for this building has made it into an anti-attraction. It was built on the former site of the Konigsberg Castle, also severely damaged by Allied bombs, but has never been used. It was supposed to be an administration centre for the region, but was left as a concrete shell for over twenty years, until it was painted and windows were put in. The underground tunnels and dungeons of the former castle have rendered the building unstable, but it still has not been torn down.

To get a glimpse of the past try to visit the Bunker Museum, the real-life headquarters of the German command during the war, complete with many interesting artefacts. The Museum of World Ocean is also worth a visit, with old Russian ships and a submarine as its exhibits.

One of a kind

Kalinigrad is a city that was stuck in the past, and now it is speeding to catch up. There is no denying that the city is Russian through and through, but it still retains some of its older Prussian history if you look hard enough. It’s a city of contrast that has been born out of turmoil, unique but also regimented. There isn’t another city on earth quite like it.

Opposition protests in Moscow

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:56:00 +0000

"I was going to a date (when police arrested me)."

Cruises in Russia: An Unexpected Hidden Gem

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 18:59:00 +0000

Russia: a vast land of gilded palaces and remote villages, of sweeping beaches and icy wilderness, of ancient tradition and modern lives. Russia's huge size and its varied landscape and history make it a fascinating place to visit. Once of the most relaxed and romantic ways to do so is board a cruise ship. Cruise travel in Russia will take you down the great River Volga, past some of the country's greatest cities. It can take you along the river Lena, through the mysterious Siberia. It can take you to the elegant resorts of the Black Sea. From a cruise ship, you can see the best that Russia has to offer.

Volga River Cruises

The Volga rise in the Valdai Hills a little to the north of Moscow. It passes through the vast, calm Lake Sterzh and then heads south to the Caspian Sea. It is Europe's longest river, and flows through the center of Russia. It plays a special part in the hearts and minds of Russians, referenced often in literature and folklore. The Volga runs near Moscow, and most Volga cruises will travel via one of its tributaries to take in the great city, home to the stunning Kremlin and historic Red Square. Some cruises also take in the fairytale city of St Petersburg, which lies to the north but is connected to the Volga via tributaries.

Further downriver, there are many less well-known but equally as beautiful cities to explore. Uglich is off the general tourist trail, but certainly deserves to be seen. There, you'll find echoes of Russia's past in its ornate cathedrals and ancient streets. In Kazan, you can see old and new Russia meet. Founded in 1401, the city is an important river port, and home to the university at which both Tolstoy and Lenin studied. It is famous for its museums and cultural scene. Volgograd, once known as Stalingrad, might not be one of Russia's most beautiful cities, but it is a fascinating place to visit if you want to know more about Russia's long and often bloody history. In Astrakhan, close to the river's mouth, you'll find a city focused on the water, home to fishermen and traders of wide variety of ethnic backgrounds.

Black Sea Cruises

The Black Sea is connected to the Aegean and Mediterranean seas via the narrow Bosphorus. Cruises along Russia's Black Sea coast could also take in resorts in other Black Sea countries, including the Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey. As an almost inland sea, it is very calm, making for smooth cruising. Russia's Black Sea coast has long been its playground, with the country's wealthy making their way there now as they have done for generations. Temperatures stay warm from around June to October.

The city of Sochi is known to many as the Russian summer capital. The city has changed considerably in recent years, as Russia has developed. It is modern and glitzy, a little like a Russian Marbella. It has good shopping and a lively nightlife, and while the coast is rocky, sand is being imported to create beaches. Anaya is a gentler and more relaxed destination, with several long sandy beaches. Other smaller resorts dot the coast, many of them home to spas, which take advantage of the area's thermal mineral springs.

Siberian Cruises

Siberia has a fearsome reputation. In the past, it was home to infamous labour camps in which political prisoners toiled in terrible conditions. Today, it is one of the world's best kept secrets. The Lena River takes you through some stunning scenery. The Lena Pillars are an incredible rock formation, with the red-brown rock eroded into delicate columns which reach up to 150 m high. The Siberian countryside is home to local tribal people, who have survived in the harsh Siberian environment for thousands of years by hunting and fishing. Along the river, they have created small settlements which cruises often visit, allowing their guests to get to know the local culture. As it flows into the Arctic Ocean, the Lena breaks up into numerous small channels which flow around islands.

Russia is a place of both mystery and modernity, with a rich history Its waterways are a wonderful and relaxing way to get to know it.

Top 10 places to visit in Russia (with pictures). Interesting Tourist Attractions in Moscow and St. Petersburg

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:11:00 +0000

Russia, more commonly known as the Russian Federation, is a country that’s filled with its rich history and culture. There are several beautiful, amazing, cool, interesting places to visit in Russia and it’s tough to choose the best. Whether you are visiting Russia with friends, spouse or family, this great country has a lot to offer to tourists and locals. Listed below are the top 10 places that you must visit on your trip to Russia

Gorky Park

It’s the most famous in the entire Moscow where you can enjoy the rides in theme park and leisurely walks along the charming pond of the park. In winters you can enjoy ice sculpting and skiing across the frozen pond.

Hermitage Museum

Located in Saint Petersburg, this is one of the main attractions of the city. Its home to some of the best world famous paintings including those of Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Rembrandt!

Red Square of Moscow

If you’re visiting Russia, you can’t just miss a visit to the Red Square. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Mausoleum of Lenin and State History Museum are the major attractions. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia.

Old Arbat Street

Old Arbat Street is a must visit for all those who are fond of souvenirs. There are a plenty of shops in Old Arbat Street where you can buy all your souvenirs. You can also sit back in some restaurant or cafe, if your stomach gives an instant call for something delicious.

New Arbat Street

New Arbat Street is on the walking distance from the Old Arbat Street. After visiting this place, you can conclude that this is far more modern and trendier than the Old Arbat Street. For the well-off Russians this is an ideal place to shop and eat since it not only contains expensive stores but also the expensive restaurants. Don’t forget to party in one of the nightclubs here – you’ll certainly enjoy its party life!

Tretyakov Gallery

You’ll mostly get to see the Russian artworks by famous Russian artists in Tretyakov Gallery. It’s one of the best museums of the world. After having a look at the art that this gallery has to offer, you’ll certainly be fond of this place.

Lenin Mausoleum

Visit this place to see the embalmed body of the Great Lenin. There are certain precautions and rules that you must follow while visiting this place. Cell phones, photography, and bags are not allowed inside. Although, you can leave your bags in the baggage office of the Mausoleum!

The Kremlin

A visit to Russia is incomplete without a visit to Kremlin where you’ll get to see the Diamond collection. Seeing a ballet performance in the Conference center will be an experience of a lifetime.

Peter and Paul Fortress

This is a place for the lovers and admirers of Romanovs. Church is yet another tourist attraction of this place.

Tverskaya Street

It’s the popular fashionable street of Russia where you’ll find expensive boutiques, restaurants, cafes, expensive hotels, theatres and more. Enjoy the leisurely walk in the streets of Russia where you can see the beautiful buildings and witness the busy lives of Russians.

Russia is one of the most worthy choices for travel destination. With 9 time zones and 160 ethnic groups, Russia stands to be the largest country of the world. Visit Russia to see what it has to offer in terms of history, culture and natural beauty! You’ll have an amazing and memorable experience!

About the Author:

The above article is composed and edited by Rosette Summers. She is associated with many fashion and holidays communities as their freelance writer and adviser. In her free time she writes articles related to stag parties, party weekends abroad, fashion accessories, etc

Jump from The Peter and Paul Fortress. Russian extreme sports

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 20:09:00 +0000

The Peter and Paul Fortress can be a good place for sightseeing, but it can be also a great place for extreme sports. Click here to watch the video You may save big on your Russia tour by booking Cheap airline tickets online.

St. Isaac's Cathedral (Isaakievskiy Sobor) during the Siege of Leningrad

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:46:00 +0000

During the Siege of Leningrad, St. Isaac's Cathedral (Isaakievskiy Sobor), was the tallest building and very visible from all sides of Leningrad, and remained intact and untouched. In the beginning of the war, the threat to Leningrad and its suburbs became apparent. The conversation of how to evacuate the art treasures of the palaces began to Pavlovsk, Peterhof, Pushkin, and other inland locations.

However, not all art treasures managed to get out. The question arose where to find reliable storage for all items. Options were rejected one by one, until a former artillery officer, who has offered to create storage in the basement of St. Isaac's Cathedral. The venture was risky, but there is a simple explanation for that - when shelling the city begin, the Germans would use the dome as a checking point and will try to preserve this point for further attack. His proposal was accepted. So, all 872 days of the blockade museum treasures wasn't not removed and lay in the safe place and it has never been a direct artillery fire.

And yet, the dome of St. Isaac's Cathedral was closed gray camouflage fabric during the siege. With reference was lost for plane, and the probability of falling bombs was small.

Successful test launch for Russia's intercontinental ballistic missile Bulava

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 09:19:00 +0000

An intercontinental ballistic missile Bulava was launched from the submerged Yuri Dolgoruky nuclear submarine in the White Sea today.

The Bulava (Russian: Булава, lit. "mace"; designation RSM-56, NATO reporting name SS-NX-30, GRAU index 3M30) is a submarine-launched ballistic missile under development for the Russian Navy and to be deployed on the new Borei class of ballistic missile nuclear submarines. It is intended as the future cornerstone of Russia's nuclear triad, and is the most expensive weapons project in the country.[5] The weapon takes its name from bulava, a Russian word for mace.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RSM-56_Bulava

Moscow Birthday 2011 Laser 4D Show

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 15:17:00 +0000

About 2.5 million Muscovites and guests of the capital took in the Moscow City Day celebration. Finale celebration was a great show on the Sparrow Hills. Using the latest computer technology skyscraper MSU (Lomonosov Moscow State University) turned it into the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids of Egypt, in St. Basil's Cathedral, and even a giant cake. The event should enter the Guinness World Record as the largest in the history of video projection - its area is over 25 thousand square meters.