We can't find a resonably priced escorted trip to Russia in Spring/Fall 2009/2010. Not interested in ship trip, as we want to spend all of our time in Moscow and St. Petersburg (with a few local side trips to palaces). We've done a lot of online research, without any luck. Any recommendations? Thanks!
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
Keep in mind that Moscow and St. Petersburg are two of the most expensive cities in the world. Thus, a trip to Russia is going to be expensive; you may have to splurge a bit. There is a two tier pricing structure for most everything in Russia: one price for the locals and another price for us "rich" westerners. Russia isn't affordable like the rest of Eastern Europe is.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
I'll point out the although lodging in Russia is expensive, everything else is still rather cheap, including food and transportation. And although tourist pay a surcharge for admission to any cultural monument or event, the prices are still reasonable. I found a night at the Mariinsky theater, even with the foreign surcharge, was still about half the price of an opera in the West.
I didn't use a escorted trip, but I used a travel agency to arrange the logistics- which are considerable for traveling to Russia:
http://www.wnights.com
If you have an interest, this company can also arrange a homestay, which is a very cheap and satisfying option.
Posted by
Newburyport, MA
683 posts
We are planning a trip to Russia for next year. Sites I've found that may help are Way to Russia,White Nights and All-Rusia Travel Service. If you use any of these, let us know of any helps or hindrances
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
I used gotorussia.com for my visa/hotel invitivation and to hire a car from the the airport to my hotel. The mafia controls the taxis at the airports in Moscow and St Petersburg. Unless you hire a car ahead of time, fares will start at 100euros! Fortunately you don't have to worry about this going TO the the airports; but you will have to negotiate a fare; they don't use meters.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
I didn't know about the taxis- all the more reason to use a reputable travel agency when visiting Russia. BTW, public transportation in Russian cities is pretty extensive and reliable. Just watch your valuables!
Posted by
Dallas, TX
5 posts
We are flying to Moscow after a RS tour. We are meeting a Russian citizen. Given the "two tier" Russian pricing, should I have my Russian friend book the hotel, airline, etc? Any additional Russian points appreciated.