Russia

[ChrisB]

No not on the bike unfortunately. In exchange for riding to Wales and Scotland this year and South of France next year (hopefully), the wife would like to see something of Russia, mainly the tourist sights and culture. Does anyone here have any ideas or advice please?

[Rusty]

My parents used to go a lot ... to see the treasures ... St Petersburg is a must I am told. Never been myself, but common sense would prevail. A vast country .. do NOT fly Aeroflot ( do they still exist ? ) .. Unless you want to die of exposure go only in the summer months, stay away from shady geezers and take plenty of brand new unused US Dollars ... they will get you a lot further than any other currency. I am sure it would be fantastic on the Gtr and learn a little Russian. Sorry it,s not much but I am sure there are others who may be able to assist.

[coman37]

No not on the bike unfortunately. In exchange for riding to Wales and Scotland this year and South of France next year (hopefully), the wife would like to see something of Russia, mainly the tourist sights and culture. Does anyone here have any ideas or advice please?

Let her go !!!

Coman

[Lonewolf]

A friend of mine from work goes every year to help out with a charity out there, it's called Love Russia and focuses on providing support for mostly children who have been sectioned, i.e. put in mental asylums simply because they have been orphaned. Its very sad. This is Russia's way of dealing with them, out if sight, out of mind. Anyway last year he did go on his Yamaha TDM 900 along with a dozen or so other bikers. He's fortunate that he does speak quite a lot of Russian so that helps considerably.

It all depends what you want out of your trip but it is by all account a very beautiful country. As he once told me though, you have to keep your opinions to yourself out there otherwise life can be made very difficult for you and you will possibly be prevented from re-entering the country.

[Boomer]

For a first trip go on an organised tour with a group. You get a translator and the security of the group.
It's not as rough as it used to be as the Mafia make sure that nobody scalps the tourists too much, but take extra precautions with your valuables and keep your passport and emergency money in a belt under your clothes.

Moscow is worth seeing but St Petersburg is way better.
These days you don't need to worry about taking any hard currency with you but it's sometimes worth it as you may get a better deal.

Other than that St Petersburg & Moscow are no worse than central London. 

[ChrisB]

Thanks all. If and when we go we will let you know.

[Rossendale Rider]

My wife and I went to Moscow a couple of years ago for a long weekend.  We still go on about it now!  It was a fantastic experience although very expensive.  The Visas were more expensive than the flights.