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A futuristic space bubble at the top of the Ritz-Carlton sporting white furnishings and colourful shapes suspended beneath a glass dome ceiling.

The O2 Lounge is surrounded by a tremendous wrap-around patio/terrace with large, cozy chairs and tables for eating and enjoying cocktails and the sweeping panoramic views of Red Square, Manezh Square and the Kremlin.

O2 Lounge is an upscale casual destination for live seafood, sushi and caviar coupled with innovative award-winning cocktails and a selective wine list. Stunning lighting, music and events set the stage for an upbeat and lively day, evening and late-night experience. Between November and March, the Winter Bar made of glass on the terrace will offer a unique and cozy environment for a refined experience or for exclusive private events.

As written about in the World's Best bar guide: 'Modern Moscow is not a place of understatement. Case in point: the 11th floor O2 Lounge at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. Located within sight of the Kremlin, Modern Moscow is not a place of understatement. Case in point: the 11th floor O2 Lounge at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. Located within sight of the Kremlin, the hotel itself has an air of 18th century Tsarist opulence. An elevator whisks people to the rooftop bar, with its dramatic glass dome and panoramic views of the city. The Lounge boasts a vodka sommelier and some 400 varieties of the stuff. The sushi is to die for. The prices are best not talked about."

The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow Tverskaya str., 3 Moscow, Russia, 125009 Seven days a week 12:00 p.m - 2:00 a.m.

The 21 best lounges in Moscow

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Best Nightlife in Moscow

Local recommendations from our my guide moscow team.

They say ‘Moscow never sleeps’. Having seen Moscow’s night scene only once, you are sure this saying is absolutely rightful. Best night clubs with world-known DJs tune up the capital’s audience every night; lounge bars with high-quality hookah and professional staff create relaxed and cozy atmosphere all night long; and, of course, clubs for men, where stunning and gorgeous ladies take you away from routine and busy life of metropolis.   Exciting, modern, crazy...it's Moscow. Read more about nightlife in Moscow.

One more beer and wine

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Night Flight

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A newcomer on Moscow's restaurant scene, Gastro Pub Chelsea brings a fresh breath to the city's pub culture. Named after London's elite Chelsea neighborhood, this exquisi

Let's Rock Bar

Let's Rock Bar opens its doors to those who are forever young! Here, at Kuznetsky Most 4/3, you will meet positive people, see hot events and enjoy everything you'd love

At the bare mention of Macho club's name, the associations of sophisticated taste, astringent flavor, and warming afterglow are triggered. Visiting the Private Club Macho

Legendary karaoke has seen a revival and found its place on famous Tverskaya Street in the very heart of Moscow, in luxurious and mysterious mansion. Cozy atmosphere and

16 Tons Club

16 Tons is in the centre of Moscow and successfully combines 3 different kinds of entertainment: clubbing, boozing up in a pub and satisfying your gourmet taste at a rest

There is one adjective that is grossly overused in Moscow when it comes to describing restaurants. The concept, the food, the ambience, the atmosphere, the interior, the

Shishka lounge

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Artel Bessonnica

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Digestif cafe

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SVOY is a new clubhouse in the very heart of Moscow for true connoisseurs of relaxed and private atmosphere. Inspired by loft-styled London clubs, the owner created a pla

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Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and, most importantly, feel relaxed and immersed in the Russian culture at all times. Wondering what the ideal way to see the best of Moscow is? Well, with a private tour to Moscow, of course! We will listen to your travel preferences and prepare a custom Moscow itinerary just for you. Let's start talking about your upcoming vacation to the gorgeous capital city of Russia.

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Moscow Nightlife • A Complete Guide

Moscow is the capital of Russia and is one of the most populated cities in the country. Apart from traditional architecture, the city has been modernized to keep up with time. The nightlife of Moscow is exceptionally vibrant. You can find several casinos, nightclubs, and bars in the city. If you were planning a trip to Moscow and were confused about what during the night, don’t worry! Here are some of the best night-time experiences that you must try in Moscow!

When can you experience the nightlife in Moscow?

Although the bars and nightclubs are open daily, it is most vibrant on Saturdays and Fridays. Moscow residents like to work hard, and only on these days, they let their guard down. You can party for 12 hours straight on these days. There is almost no crowd on the other days of the week. Usually, the nightlife of Moscow begins at 11 am. You can catch your dinner early to prepare for all the partying. Most of the parties in clubs go on till 3 am. But the fun doesn’t end there. You can look for after-party clubs after that. 

Best bars in Moscow

Moscow bars are extremely lively. From beautiful women to authentic drinks – the bars in Moscow have a lot to offer. In recent times, several establishments have popped up. If you are a tourist, it can be difficult for you to pick out the right one. To clear your confusion, you can refer to the below-mentioned list of bars for your night-out in this city: 

This joint is not extremely glamorous and yet, is one of the most popular bars in Moscow. Kamchatka is a beer bar that has a vintage Soviet feel to it. The décor of this bar makes it look like a cafeteria and adds a dash of old-world charm to it. It is one of the most affordable bars in Moscow. Most locals tend to hang out here. The menu is simple yet hearty. If you want to avoid noisy places and enjoy a drink in peace, this is where you need to be in Moscow.

• I Like Wine

The bar is appropriately named, as you can get an extensive collection of wine at this joint. Wines are collected from all parts of the world and delivered to the customers at this bar. You can even get a couple of cocktails on the menu. But mostly wine lovers visit this pub. This wine bar also has a good food menu. The prices are extremely pocket-friendly, and you can eat on a budget at this place.

• Solyanka Bar

It is one of the indie bars in Moscow. The party atmosphere of this bar is infectious. Located in an old mansion, it serves fusion cuisine during the daytime. But at night, it becomes the hippest joint in town. The drinks are expensive but worth it. The DJs play the latest hits to keep up the spirits of the partygoers. The place lives up to its indie bar reputation as the décor is extremely rustic. The brick walls, exposed bulbs, and second-hand furniture make it a go-to spot for all the hipsters in Moscow.

You can always find students in Strelka as it is one of the popular bars in the city. The view from this bar is breathtaking as it overlooks the Moscow River. The 70s inspire the décor. It is aesthetic and yet comfortable. Moreover, the cocktail menu at this bar is fantastic. The concoctions are prepared by using local ingredients. Perhaps this is the reason why bar hoppers prefer this bar over others. If you are lucky, you will be able to witness one of the weekly concerts and events held here. 

If you want to experience something vintage, this is the place you should visit. Terma Bar is one of the oldest bars in the city. You can find over 150 alcoholic beverages at this bar. The bartenders are incredibly skilled and put up a show with fire while they prepare your drinks. There is an adventurous food menu at the club which serves Uzbek cuisine. Moreover, the bar is open 24/7, so you can drop by at any time.

Do you hate bars where the music is so loud that you cannot talk to anyone else? If you do, you can visit ‘Noor.’ This electro bar is located on Tverskaya street. It is incredibly cozy, and the music’s volume levels are kept in check to promote conversations. On weekends, you will be able to attend live music events of national and international artists. The décor of this club is chic and is an ideal place to grab a couple of drinks with family and friends.

• City Space Bar and Lounge

The City Space Bar and Club provides a stunning view of Moscow. This bar is located on the 34 th floor of a hotel. It is highly exclusive, and only those who can afford to spend big bucks visit this bar. The drinks and food are not cheap at City Space Bar and Lounge. However, it is worth it!

• Mendeleev Bar

This bar might be hard to locate as it is built behind a Chinese Shop. But you should put into finding the bar as if it is worth the experience. As soon as you enter this place, you will be able to see a dark cellar. You can find a long list of alcoholic beverages at this place. Moreover, if you are lucky, you will be able to witness the occasional jazz concerts hosted in this secret bar.

• Chinese Pilot Jao Dao (Kitaysky Lyotchk Dzhao-Da)

If you want to avoid the glitz and glamour, Kitaysky Lyotchk Dzhao-Da is the perfect place for you. The décor of this bar is extremely rustic. The youth of Moscow mostly visits it because it is incredibly affordable. You can always find new artists and musicians hang out here. On almost all days of the week, you will be able to witness live music performances at Kitaysky Lyotchk Dzhao-Da. From Punk Rock to Afro beats – different kinds of artists like to perform at this joint. Moreover, you can find some of the most affordable yet best Russian wines and beers. If you feel hungry, you can try out their Russian cuisine consisting of traditional Russian soups, blinis, and salads.

Located in the former Krasny Okytyabr Factory building, Gypsy is a brightly lit, colorful bar in Moscow. There is an indoor as well as an outdoor sitting arrangement. You can sit on the terrace on the deck chairs and enjoy the beautiful view of the Moscow River. There are over 300 disco balls used to light up this place. The drinks are affordable, and you will have a good time at this place.

Go on a night tour in Moscow

Moscow is a city that is rich in terms of culture and heritage. If you are not a party person, you can ditch the usual options and book yourself a seat in one of the Moscow tour events. Several companies offer different night-time tour packages for tourists in Moscow. But why should you depend on a guide when you can roam around on your own? A food tour will help you to discover the unconventional spots in the city as well. It can be difficult for a tourist to find out about Khitrovka and Kitay Gorod on his/her own.  Try to look for tours which take you to ‘Annushka’ – the infamous former restaurant on rails in this city.

Best nightclubs in Moscow

After you have had a drink or two, you can head over to the latest dance club. There are several options for dance clubs in Moscow. People usually party till the wee hours of w night on weekends. Here are some of the best ones:

It is a highly spacious dance club that allows you to dance freely. It is built using several levels. The audio system of this club is top-notch, which is perhaps why top Russian Bands perform at this joint. The drinks are excellent as the bartender has access to some of the best alcohol in the country. Moreover, you can get good finger food to complement your drinks as well.

• Vermeil Club

As soon as you reach the club, you will be greeted by the bright lights at the entrance. Vermeil Club is located right across the river and is near Kremlin. The club has a very friendly atmosphere, and the service is top-notch. If you like to try different kinds of alcohol, this is the right place for you. You will get tons of options when it comes to beers, cocktails, and wines.

Moreover, the food is cooked perfectly and presented elegantly at Vermel Club. Since it is a dance club, you will find some of the best DJs in Moscow play at this joint. It is the perfect place to party in this city.

A lot of international as well as Russian artists play at ’16 Tons’. Located in Presnenskiy Val, it is one of the best places to dance all night long. There is a fully functional brewery at this place, and hence, you need to try out their assorted beer collection. Named after a Merle Travis song, this place is ideal for all the music lovers who like to party.

• Looking Rooms

Want to dance till the wee hours of the night in Moscow? Look no further! Looking Room is the place for you. All the regular party goers in Moscow visit this place. This club is open till midnight on every other working day. But on Fridays and Saturdays, it remains open for its customers till 6 am. The place is extremely spacious and can host around 800 people at the same time. You can find the DJs at this joint play the best House music in Moscow during one of the epic parties of ‘Looking Room.’

• Night Flight

If you are looking for something exclusive, this is the place you should be. It is not easy to get entry to this fancy nightclub in Moscow. You need to be extremely wealthy to gain access to this club. Why? Because it was built for VIPs. Located on Tverskaya Street, it is a place if you want to experience something extravagant in Moscow.

• London Night Club

Located in Prospekt Vernadskogo, the London Night club is visited by both tourists as well as locals. The staff does not discriminate between the tourists and the Russians. As long as you are ready to spend, you will get good service. The cocktails at this joint are one of the best in the city. The bar is filled with good-looking men and women. Hence, your chances of meeting someone new are quite high at London Night Club. 

This place is always bustling with energy. The Soho Rooms have been in the business for years. It was closed down in 2017 for renovations. But it is back with a bang. The club is sprawled across three floors. There is a pool as well as a bar at this club. The parties hosted by Soho Rooms go on till at least 4 am. If you like commercial music and lively places, you should pay a visit to this club.

The only word that will come to your mind when you see this club is ‘posh.’ Club Oblaka is one of Moscow’s extravagant, high-end nightclubs. Mostly the club plays Russian Pop. Unlike any other club, the party doesn’t only occur on Fridays and Saturdays. Only the rich can afford to visit this club, and they like to party on all the days of the week. The VIP service available at this club is top-notch, and you should visit this club if you can spend a lot.

LGBTQIA bar and clubs in Moscow

Although none of the bars can discriminate against the LGBTQIA community, there are a few unique hangout spots for the community. You can meet new people as well as enjoy yourself with your old buddies at:

The Boyz club is a popular LGBTQIA nightclub in Moscow. Mostly the youth of the city visit this highly energetic joint. The place is extremely spacious. It has around three bars, one lounge bar, and two dance floors. If you do not enjoy dancing, you can start using karaoke equipment instead. The parties at this place are to die for. Boyz Club stays open till 10 am on weekends. The parties that are hosted at this place are wild. You can find several music events as well as drag shows at Boyz Club regularly. 

It is probably the most famous and oldest LGBTQIA bar in Moscow. Propaganda opened its doors for its customers back in the year 1997. It functions as a café in the morning where you can get the best cuisines in town. But at night, the whole look of this place changes. The LGBTQIA night events are hosted mostly on Saturdays. It is a place where everyone feels accepted. The staff is extremely friendly and quick with orders. 

If you want to witness cabaret shows, this place should be on your itinerary.  The energy of this club is infectious. Despite the decors being changed almost every year, the bar has held onto its authenticity. The warm and comfortable atmosphere can make anyone feel at home. The travesty shows are held on every Friday and Saturday. These shows begin at 1.30 am and go on all night long. 

• Central Station

Central Station is another decent LGBTQIA club in the city. There are about two dance floors with very different kinds of vibes. You can call your entire gang to their karaoke club and have a gala time. During the summer, you can hang around on the terrace. Drag shows are a regular event at Central Station. The prices are reasonable, and the staff is extremely efficient at this place. 

Located in Pokrovsky Boulevard, Mono Bar is a famous hangout spot for people from the LGBTQIA community. The club was started in 2014 and, since then, has gained a lot of regular customers. Mostly you will be able to hear European as well as Russian music at this club. There is a balcony which is the smoking area. If you want to meet more people, it is ideal for visiting this place after midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. 

After-party clubs in Moscow

The Russians like to party hard, and hence, the party goes on till dawn. After the party ends around 1-3 am in certain clubs, you can head over to a couple of after-party venues to have fun. Here are some of the best ones in Moscow:

People who party at high-end clubs tend to visit Miks for the after-party. There is plenty of alcohol for you to get wasted. The DJs at this joint mostly like to play Tech and House. Do not worry about the price, as the cover charge is minimal at Miks. The place is dimly lit and is the perfect place to end the night.

Gazgolder offers a more Berlin like after-party atmosphere to its guests. The cover charge is a bit more than the other clubs, but it is worth it. The décor of this place is trendy and creative. The place is huge, and you can sit in the outdoor area during the summer months. On some days, the after-party might continue till the next afternoon. All in all, if you want to party like an animal, this is the place you should visit. 

Voda is an ultra-hip joint where you can head over for the after-party. It is a small yet vibrant place where you can get good cocktails. The décor of this club is incredibly quirky. You have to ring the doorbell to get inside the club. The walls are made up of exposed concrete. The main venue downstairs is properly lit. Lime-stone staircase, wooden beams, and bar stools give the place a vintage vibe. The DJs mostly play Electronic music at this pub. One of the most exciting features of this club is that there are no menus. It would be best to inform the bartender what you want to drink, and he will serve it to you. Do not worry, as all the mixologists can converse in English. 

This after-party venue makes you feel like you have been transported to Berlin. The interiors of this place have an industrial feel to them. During the day, this acts as a bike repair shop. But at night, you can party at Entuziast till late at night. Mostly the hipsters tend to party at this place. The bar is made up of metal, and you can see racing flags all over the place. You can get a wide array of choices when it comes to beers and cider. Craft beer is extremely popular at this joint.  During the summers, you can sit outside on the beach chairs arranged on the deck. The snacks are light and ideal for eating with a pint of beer. 

There are so many different things to do in Moscow during the night. Whether you want to grab a couple of drinks or dance into the night with your friends – you will find a spot for yourself in this city. It is advisable to try out almost all the places mentioned above when you are visiting Moscow. The Russian party life is different from any other culture. They believe in working hard and partying even harder. They mostly like to party when they are done with their work for the week. If you want to experience that culture, you must prepare yourself to party till the sun comes up. It will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

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Golden Ring Tours

An opportunity to travel in time and experience the medieval towns of the Russian province

Home / Russia travel Destinations / Golden Ring Tours

Golden Ring Tours Immerse in Russian heritage, architectural masterpieces & stunning landscapes.

Golden ring tours overview.

Our Golden Ring Tours take place close to Russia's capital Moscow, yet seemingly a world away, adventuring to the beautifully preserved ancient cities of the Golden Ring route is a must. The cities of the Golden Ring are perfect destinations for travellers seeking the idyllic, provincial Mother Russia of old. A must short detour when Visiting Moscow. Scattered across a rural landscape of rolling hills, flower blanketed meadows, rivers and streams. The cities of the Golden Ring were considered political backwaters by the time Soviet industrialisation took hold, escaping much of the urban progress that rapidly engulfed Moscow and its surroundings. Consequently, many locals to the Golden Ring still lead a largely traditional existence, living in tight-knit communities where the ancestral izba (wooden farmhouse) is the centre of daily life.

 Golden Ring Russia, Travel Highlights:

• Regarded as open-air museums, be enthralled by many of the Golden Ring’s ancient settlements and architectural masterpieces . These include the UNESCO-listed monasteries and onion-dome cathedrals in Yaroslavl, the white stone monuments of Vladimir (the Golden Gates, the church of Boris and Gleb), and the medieval wooden houses and windmills in Suzdal.
• Our Golden Ring Tours facilitate immersion in the colourful culture of provincial Russia. Towns such as Ivanovo and Kostroma still maintain a largely traditional way of life. When you visit the Golden ring, be sure to try the delicious traditional Russian cuisine, admire time-honoured handicrafts and unearth ancient relics of the Soviet times.
• Discover the sacred places of the orthodox religion at their many cathedrals, churches and historical monuments like the Trinity Lavra of Saint Sergius, the Holy Assumption Cathedral and the Cathedral of Transformation.
• Uncover the age-old allure of Russia by delving into the rich history and legends of the Golden Ring. From Russian princes and knights to the early Tsars and Mongol invasions, you will experience something straight out of a fairytale.
• Admire the stunning natural landscapes of the Golden Ring dominated by rippling meadows, lush green forests and winding rivers used to link fortified towns in the middle ages.

Many Golden Ring cities date back to at least the 10th century, and played a vital role in Medieval history, associated with the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church, the reign of Tsars and the Mongol Invasions. When you go on a Golden Ring tour, you will notice that virtually every town is a living museum, made up of ancient forts, towering monasteries, imposing palaces and magnificent cathedrals. Recognised for their artistic merit as an important place in history, four sites on the Golden Ring circuit have gained UNESCO World Heritage Site status, including the 1,000-year-old city of Yaroslavl.

Explore Golden Ring Tours

Golden Ring at a Glance

Take a short detour from Moscow to discover the age-old allure of Russia. Travelling from the capital to the countryside, where golden spires and the onion-shaped domes of colourful monasteries dot the horizon, explore the historic and enchanting towns of Suzdal, Vladimir and Sergiev Posad.

Golden Ring - Reflections of Russian Heritage

The tour will take you to the eight cities of the Golden Ring, starting from Vladimir. The 'classical' route will take you to the fascinating sites of ancient cities. Get to see calm, slow, peaceful life in rural Russia and enjoy its architectural gems, culture and history.

Moscow, St Petersburg and Golden Ring Rendezvous

This tour of Moscow, St. Petersburg and the Golden Ring explores the places that shaped Russia’s history – past, present and future. Uncover Moscow’s ongoing revolutionary spirit, before journeying back in time to rural, medieval Russia. End in St Petersburg, a city of royal splendour and undeniable romance.

A custom tour made to order

We understand sometimes our set departure dates do not align with your ability to travel at that time, or you just want to travel bespoke. We got you covered.

Go custom — gives you the choice & flexibility of creating your own bespoke itinerary, using our tours for inspiration.

Related Posts

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For the unfamiliar, the thought of Russia might conjure up images of vodka-swilling men in fur hats, or KGB spies from a Hollywood movie. But look ...

A Traveller’s Guide to Russia’s Golden Ring Region

The perfect retreat from million-miles-an-hour Moscow, the medieval cities of Russia's Golden Ring are nestled amid green hills and floral meadows, ...

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• Trans-Siberian Express

Our 8 Best Trans-Siberian Rail Tours of 2022

Come with us on truly... The Journey of a Lifetime along the world’s longest railway. See how the landscape and culture changes as you head West to East. See Moscow, Siberia, China and more. Our Trans-Siberian Railway tours are all customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular packages are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Trans Siberian rail tours using the form on the page. Feel free to also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists. Many travelers have found this to be the best way to together, create an unforgettable customized tour for you.

Trans-Siberian by Imperial Russia Train

Besides the below tours, we also offer a luxurious tour by a private train

Trans-Siberian 3 in 1

This is our shortest version of our Trans Siberian railroad tours but it covers some of the most interesting cities. The trip begins in Moscow, the capital of Russia, then continues on to Yekaterinburg, located in the Ural Mountains and at the edge of Siberia. The tour ends on the shores of Lake Baikal.

• Schedule Tour can be started on any day
• Route Moscow - Yekaterinburg - Irkutsk
• Languages English-speaking guide is guaranteed. Other languages are on request.
• Accommodation The following hotel options are available: 3 stars
• PRIVATE TOUR This is a private tour, there won't be other people in your group

Great Russia by Train

This tour will take you along the full route of the Trans-Siberian railway to 3 of Russia's most interesting cities - Moscow with stunning Red Square, the Kremlin and Cathedrals, Irkutsk located in the heart of Siberia and home to the great Lake Baikal and Vladivostok - the King of the East with its harbor of the Golden Horn and Amursky Bay on the Pacific Ocean.

• Route Moscow - Irkutsk - Vladivostok

Trans-Sib - four cities

On this great Eurasian journey from West to East you will cover the entire route of the Trans-Siberian Railway, visiting four major cities along the way: Russia's capital Moscow, Yekaterinburg in the Ural Mountains, Irkutsk including incredible Lake Baikal, and finally Vladivostok on the Pacific Ocean, at the very edge of Russia.

• Route Moscow - Yekaterinburg - Irkutsk - Vladivostok

Highlights on the Trans-Sib

This tour is a great choice for seeing the highlights of Russia, Mongolia and China. From Golden-Domed Moscow you will continue on to Irkutsk and visit beautiful Lake Baikal. Mongolia will greet you with its endless steppes and the Gobi Desert. Finally, you will reach China and visit the magnificent Great Wall, Ming Tombs and Forbidden city.

• Schedule Tour can be started on any Monday
• Route Moscow - Irkutsk - Ulan Bator - Beijing

The Great Journey - East to West

This trip lasts for 2 weeks and passes through 6 fascinating cities. Starting in Vladivostok with its harbour of the Golden Horn and passing through the Buddhist city of Ulan-Ude, then to Irkutsk - home of magnificent Lake Baikal and onto Novosibirsk and Yekaterinburg - very dynamic Siberian cities, and finally ending in golden-domed Moscow.

• Route Vladivostok - Ulan-Ude - Irkutsk - Novosibirsk - Yekaterinburg - Moscow

5 stars - East to West

This tour covers the highlights of the Trans-Siberian Railway - including all 5 major cities along its route. You will admire cultural masterpieces in Beijing, learn about nomadic life in Mongolia, see amazing Lake Baikal in Irkutsk, learn about the fate of the Last Tsar in Yekaterinburg, and visit Russia's energetic capital Moscow.

• Schedule Tour can be started on any Thursday.
• Route Beijing - Ulaanbaatar - Irkutsk - Yekaterinburg - Moscow

Trans-Sib through Russia - Mongolia - China

This exciting Trans-Siberian tour takes you to three countries - Russia, Mongolia and China. From Moscow you will proceed to the Siberian cities of Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Irkutsk, close to Lake Baikal. Then you will cross Mongolia with its endless steppes and the Goby Desert, and finally arrive in China with the Great Wall and more.

• Schedule Tour can be started on any Saturday
• Route Moscow - Yekaterinburg - Novosibirsk - Irkutsk - Ulaanbaatar - Beijing

Journey of a Lifetime

The tour is a great opportunity to visit three countries on one trip. You will be delighted with the capital of Russia, see the border of Europe and Asia in Yekaterinburg, admire beautiful nature in Krasnoyarsk, see the world's largest lake Baikal, steppes of Mongolia and China's cultural heritage.

• Route Moscow - Yekaterinburg - Krasnoyarsk - Irkutsk - Ulaanbaatar - Beijing

My wife & I have just completed the Journey of a Lifetime 16 day 15 night Trip as organised by Express to Russia. We also had a tour of St Petersburg & Moscow as well. The planning & execution of both trips was well above our expectations. The guides we had in all of our destinations were exceptional & the meet & greet & return to the stations went as smooth as clockwork. We had one minor hitch but that was through no fault of Express to Russia..a quick email from our Ipad had the problem resolved immediately We did have some misgivings at the start about doing the booking online ourselves but Elena was wonderful & answered all of our questions promptly & to our satisfaction. We felt comfortable with the whole process.The train trip is wonderful with Mongolia being a "special " place for us! We highly recommend Elena & her company. I am happy to answer any questions any body may wish to ask.

Thank you so very much for organizing our trip. Everything went wonderfully, and we really enjoyed our time in Russia. Moscow was beautiful, Lake Baikal was very cold, yet very fun to swim in, and the DPR Koreans that I met and made friends with in Vladivostok was beyond priceless. The guides you got for us did an exceptional job, and the drivers helped us out a lot as well. The hotels you got for us were great, and the room you got for us in the Vladivostok really made the long stay comfortable. The trains were also very enjoyable as was the Russian hospitality, although we really weren´t expecting people to be so generous or helpful. Overall, the trip was wonderful, and you arranged it magnificently. You really went out of your way to accommodate my schedule and help me with my schoolwork, so I really appreciate it; I couldn´t have done it without you. So once again, thank you for all of your efforts, and hopefully in the future you will be able to help us out again. Take care, and thank you for everything.

The Trans-Siberian Express is the longest train journey in the world. The route takes you from ancient Russian cities through deep forests and breathtaking mountains to Siberian outposts and into Asia. You will visit Buddhist temples , Lake Baikal , the Ural Mountains , Vladivostok or Beijing . Express to Russia is a specialist in travel for individuals and small groups along the route. We will make sure that you have an unforgettable journey on this incredible adventure. Choose basic packages below or contact us to arrange your own custom travel.

Our Russian tours are offered as land only where you arrange your own airfare and we meet you at the airport and handle everything else. You can easily book the discount tickets yourself through our own discount internet ticket office . Please browse our discount air tickets section to learn more.

Trans-Siberian Train

The main route of the Trans-Siberian Railway begins in Moscow and heads east to Vladivostok passing through Yekaterinburg, Chelyabinsk, Omsk, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk, Ulan Ude, Chita, Blagoveshchensk and Khabarovsk. The length of the route is 9259 km or 5753 miles. The train travels through 7 time zones and takes 8 days to complete without making overnight stops. The Trans-Siberian splits off into a few other fascinating directions as well:

Trans-Mongolian Train

The Trans-Mongolian Line was built from 1940 to 1956 between Ulan-Ude at Lake Baikal’s eastern shore and the Chinese capital Beijing. From Ulan-Ude the tracks go south towards Mongolia, crossing the great Gobi Desert and finally ending up in Beijing. This route is a mere 7867 kilometers long (Moscow - Beijing).

Trans-Manchurian Train

The Trans-Manchurian Line runs on the same route as the Trans-Siberian as far as Tarskaya, which is a few hundred miles east of Baikal. From Tarskaya, the line runs southeast into China near Zabaikalsk and makes its way down to Beijing. This route is a 9001 kilometres long (Moscow - Beijing).

Click to learn more about the history of the Trans-Siberian Railway .

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

Where does the trans-siberian railway start and where does it end.

The Trans-Siberian Railway starts in Moscow and extends all the way to Vladivostok on the Pacific Ocean. This route connects the European part of Russia, the Ural region, Siberia and the Russian Far East.

Are Beijing and Ulan Bator stops along the Trans-Siberian railway?

Beijing and Ulan Bator are parts of Trans-Mongolian railway - an offshoot of the main Trans-Siberian Railway. There are many options to arrange your travel: to visit Ulan Bator and or follow the Trans-Siberian railway to or from Vladivostok. 

Can I use the hop-on hop-off principle when traveling by Trans-Siberian train?

Unfortunately, that is not possible. Train tickets in Russia are not open, so you will need a separate ticket with a particular date for each leg of your trip - for example, you may go all the way from Moscow to Vladivostok, but you will only be able to leave the train for short stops at the railway stations. In case if you would like to explore different cities on the way, you will need separate tickets, for example Moscow – Yekaterinburg, Yekaterinburg – Irkutsk, Irkutsk - Vladivostok. We offer carefully planned private tours that will allow you to visit several cities on your way.

Are there showers aboard Trans-Siberian trains?

Most of the Trans-Siberian trains do not have showers, and there are two WCs per each carriage. Please consider it while planning your trip. We recommend to choose shorter distances (that is, to plan more overnight stops in the cities along the way) to avoid the inconvenience of not showering. Another option is to choose the trip on board a more luxurious train which has all the on-board amenities that one might need.

Are meals included on the board of Trans-Siberian express train?

When traveling with RZD regular trains meals are not included. You can easily buy your meals in the restaurant car.  Another option is to buy local specialties from “babushkas” (grandmothers, or simply Russian old ladies) on the short train stops along the way. This is a very authentic way of getting your meals.

What is the most comfortable way to travel on the Trans-Siberian railroad?

There are luxurious trains on the Trans-Siberian railway that are quite different from regular RZD trains and can be described as 5* hotels on wheels. We offer this type of accommodation on the Imperial Russia train where you can enjoy a full board menu, a shower and a comfortable compartment.

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Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow

Stay in palatial style on the Moskva River

• Dear guests: Please note that only children above 14 years old are permitted in the fitness center, swimming pool, and spa. FAQs (RU) , FAQs (EN) .
• Please note that our swimming pool, whirlpool, spa, and hammam will be closed for maintenance from July 13 - August 3, 2024. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Restaurants & Bar

Nearby attractions.

• Fitness & Wellness

Welcome to our striking hotel with modern amenities in Moscow

Discover Moscow from one of its most iconic architectural symbols nestled along the banks of the Moskva River. Inside the landmark property, grandeur and opulence reign: from beautifully appointed rooms, suites, and serviced apartments to impressive amenities such as the 19 elegant restaurants, innovative sports and wellness facilities, and a panoramic bar on the 31st floor. Palatial surroundings, an excellent location, and exclusive services await.

Centrally located, the Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow offers excellent transportation links to the four surrounding airports and top attractions. The hotel also commands a flotilla of ten yachts, offering year-round river cruises for a unique perspective of city landmarks.

Individual Room

• 1 twin

Collection Superior Room

• 1 child (0-11)
• 2 twin or 1 double or 1 queen or 1 king

Collection Superior Room - City View

Collection Superior Room - White House View

• 1 double

Collection Premium Room

• 2 twin or 1 king

Collection Executive Room

• 1 king

Collection Suite

• 2 children (0-11)

Executive Suite

Romantic Suite

Grand Residential Suite

• 2 king

Presidential Suite

One Bedroom Apartment

Our Moscow hotel offers ample venue options for customized events. Host a meeting in our unique library venue or plan a reception in the Banquet Hall. A dedicated Meetings & Events team will help you select from our versatile meeting rooms, halls, and other unique venues to plan the perfect gathering.

Cots available

Cots available upon request

Dry cleaning

Dry cleaning services

Express check-out

Fitness center

Fitness Center

Luggage storage

Meeting facilities

Meeting facilities/social space

Running trails

Customized running trails around the hotel

Safety deposit box

Hybrid meeting

Hybrid Meeting

The restaurants and bar at our hotel combine delightful menus with convenient locations. Veranda, our breakfast restaurant, serves up a delicious breakfast buffet every morning to give you a healthy start to the day. The Lobby Bar, open round the clock for the convenience of our guests, is an ideal pit stop whenever hunger pangs strike. Stop by any time during the day or night for a drink, snack, or meal. The Club restaurant is our Executive Lounge restaurant and is open for all meals of the day.

Bolshoi Theatre

Spend an unforgettable evening at this legendary theatre - the oldest in the city - with its world-leading resident opera and ballet troupes.

Moscow Kremlin

Snap a selfie outside Moscow's most famous historical and political landmark: an impressive walled complex of cathedrals, palaces and state offices.

Fall in love with the residents of Russia's largest zoo, now a huge scientific, educational, and conservation institution.

How to get to the Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow

From vnukovo international airport, by public transport:, from sheremetyevo international airport, from domodedovo moscow airport, from kiyevsky railway station, frequently asked questions, what are the check-in times and check-out times at radisson collection hotel, moscow, what is the address of radisson collection hotel, moscow, is radisson collection hotel, moscow a smoke-free hotel, can i store my luggage at radisson collection hotel, moscow, does radisson collection hotel, moscow have cleanliness and sanitization measures in place, are there any special offers at radisson collection hotel, moscow, parking informaton, is parking available at radisson collection hotel, moscow, is there a cost for parking at radisson collection hotel, moscow, how many parking spots are available at radisson collection hotel, moscow, can parking spots be booked in advance at radisson collection hotel, moscow, can non-guests use the parking at radisson collection hotel, moscow, does radisson collection hotel, moscow's parking area have any security measures, are there any electrical vehicle charging points at radisson collection hotel, moscow, is breakfast served at radisson collection hotel, moscow, what type of breakfast is offered at radisson collection hotel, moscow, what is included in the take-away breakfast at radisson collection hotel, moscow.

At Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow, the take-away breakfast includes the following and has a cost of RUB 3950. 

If the guest has an early checkout and breakfast is included in the room rate, the guest can order a lunch box in advance. Products included in the lunch box: Butter, Jam, Pastry and bread, Fresh fruit: apple/pear, Plain or fruit yogurt, 1 glass bottle of water, 1 glass bottle of juice, Sandwich with cheese or meet. At the request of the guest, we can also prepare a hot drink tea or coffee.

What time is breakfast served at Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow?

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Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

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Trip reviews, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

See all Moscow reviews

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

The Chagall Business Lounge, Moscow Airport

The Chagall Business Lounge, Moscow Contemporary Airport Building Design, Russian Architecture Images

The Chagall Business Lounge in Moscow

22 Feb 2022

Design: M+R interior architecture

Location: Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow, Russian Federation

Photos by Herman de Winter

The Chagall Lounge, Russia

M+R interior architecture won the assignment for the lounge design after an international competition. The Chagall Business Lounge is about 1.900 square meters and has a capacity of 385 seats and is located in the new extension of the terminal C on Sheremetyevo International Airport Moscow.

For the design of the business lounge, we are inspired by the wave movements in the life of Chagall residences between Russia; France the USA and his art movements as a theme; using the Volga river as metaphor.

The flowing movement of the river basin has defined the islands with seating areas in the lounge and the walls are built up in geological layers created by the wear of the water that flows through the river, started by source, the water fountain in the entrance. The islands are raised floors so that the seating areas give visitors a good overview in the lounge, ‘the visitor is on stage’.

The walls are randomly shaped and wave through the space, each layer has its own color and structure. The layers are accentuated with indirect light lines for a dramatic effect. The architectural columns show images of paintings by Chagall, executed in glass mosaic. The lounge is visually divided with three accent colors from paintings by Chagall and also translated into the upholstery of the furniture. Behind the reception is a big stained-glass wall indirect lit based upon the works of Chagall wall with adjustable glass parts.

The sustainable lighting concept is with different layers of special durable board and acoustic ceilings with indirect led lighting that changes during daytime. The floorcovering is made of sustainable cradle to cradle materials. The walls are specially shaped panels with vinyl wall papers in different textures. The columns and also the restrooms are parts of paintings from Chagall.

The specially shaped sofas with high backrests made of quilted fabric ensure intimacy and acoustic quality. A green plant wall and the water fountain provide a natural ambiance. The lounge has a serene appearance with restrained lighting and colors that contribute to the feeling of peace and relaxation, with highlights like the impressive glass mosaic walls in the restrooms and showers. The reception desk and water fountain are made from solid surface white marble and brass detailing.

M+R has won the A’ design bronze award 2020 with the design of the Chagall Lounge

The Chagall Business Lounge in Moscow, Russia – Building Information

Architect’ Firm: M+R interior architecture – https://www.mplusr.nl/nl

Project size: 1 m2 Completion date: 2020 Building levels: 1

Photo credits: Herman de Winter

The Chagall Business Lounge, Moscow Airport information / images received 180222 from M+R interior architecture

Location: Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow , Russia

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A New Bucktown Cocktail Bar Makes Magical Malort Shots and More

Tour Truce, which continues the welcome trend of owner-operated bars with ambitious cocktails

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Authentic dive bars, not merely the spaces that have adopted the aesthetic — those pretenders are filled with vintage neon signs and serve marked-up cans of domestic beer — are plentiful in Chicago. There’s a dedicated cohort of independent tavern owners who take pride in keeping these shot and beer spots alive.

On the other hand, the city’s cocktail bars have been dominated by larger hospitality groups. While customers can see semblances of DIY culture in many of those bars, some can be more glitz than substance. In recent times, Chicago’s bar scene has experienced a revolution, with taverns like Lemon and West Town and Moonflower in Portage Park showing drinkers that not all independents need to have sticky floors like a dive.

A case in point is Truce , an intimate drinking den that debuted before Memorial Day at 1935 N. Damen Avenue in Bucktown. The opening was pushed back a few times , but the final product is worth it. Stepping into the narrow space along Damen Avenue visitors will find a unique warmth rarely seen at a bar open for only a few weeks. The staff is friendly, the menu offers many options without feeling like a dense atlas, and nothing feels out of place — including the customers; there’s a welcoming and accepting vibe.

Two couples run and own the spot: David Mor and Matthew Hunnel, plus Rami Ezzat and Sarah Kmiec. Their hospitality experience runs the gamut, including from Robert et Fils , Bavette’s, and Cindy’s.

Mor is behind the drink list. He’s associated with Zubair Mohajir, the chef behind the casual Lilac Tiger and the Indian tasting menu restaurant the Coach House, both in Wicker Park. Mor is also a partner in Mohajir’s upcoming Mexican-Indian restaurant, Mirra — opening this summer around the corner from Truce. He’s using Mohajir’s masala chai recipe in his triple chai daiquiri, a viscous concoction made with Mount Gay rum. Mor put serious thought to the fancy drinks on the menu, but his bartenders quietly suggest more folks drink the simple strawberry vermouth and sparkling water. Truce celebrates various cocktail cultures, including Chicago’s. That explains a shot — RBF, which is made with cacao, Aperol, lemon, and Jeppson’s Malört. For folks who stay away from the famously bitter spirit, RBF does the unthinkable — it delivers a bright and sweet flavor while retaining a hint of that famously bitter flavor. Making Malört would strip the spirit of its essence,

Truce is also open in the mornings with coffee from Valparaiso, Indiana-based Yaggy Road Roasting Company. It’s the base for several “latte-like” drinks, which are also available later in the day for folks who don’t want to drink alcohol. There are small bites like bagels and overnight oats, too.

Walk through the space below. Truce is now open.

Truce , 1935 N. Damen Avenue, open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, and 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. from Thursday to Monday

Foxtrot Will Rise Again — Sort of: Here’s What You Need to Know [Updated]

A roomy coffee shop unfurls along the chicago river near goose island, explore the fascinating histories between mexican and indian cuisine in bucktown.

Great Jones Distilling

Updated by business owner over 3 months ago

Review Highlights

“ I came with a group of 4 for the Distillery Tour and Tasting and had a great time with our guide, Jonathan. ” in 14 reviews

“ After the tour we went to the bar upstairs where they served unique cocktails using their very own bourbon . ” in 26 reviews

“ The tour guide gave great information about whiskeys and an educational background of how they come about. ” in 22 reviews

Location & Hours

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686 Broadway

New York, NY 10012

Great Jones St & 3rd St

NoHo, Greenwich Village

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About the Business

Distillery tours, cocktail classes, and pairing courses at our art deco-style whiskey distillery and cocktail lounge. …

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Can you do a tasting without the tour?

Yes! They have a bar upstairs and I saw people taking some tastings there

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Overall rating

139 reviews

One of the best food deals in town is their $25 hamburger & Old-Fashioned combo (mid-week only). The burger is big, and comes with bacon, your choice of cheddar or bleu cheese, and lettuce, tomato, pickle, and fries or salad. The Old-Fashioned is made from in-house distilled whiskey, and I found it delicious, although there was no cherry. Sat by the window in the second-floor Bar, for a bird's-eye view of Broadway. A delightful way to spend some time.

I hosted my company offsite here and WOW. The service was amazing, the food was delicious and my entire team had fun learning about bourbon (even the ones who don't drink)! We had a happy hour in the bar afterwards and the prices were really reasonable-- where else in Manhattan can you get a well-crafted prohibition era cocktail for $11??!? I bought a bottle of the rye in the ground floor shop on my way out and not only does it look chic as hell on my bar cart, it's a lovely sipper that I will likely return to buy again. (Also important to note that (while not on happy hour and consequently not cheap) Great Jones Distillery serves one of the best old fashioneds I've ever had.)

Went here for a quick happy hour! Probably one of the best rye Manhattans I've ever had! I recommend to come in on a week day for happy hour. Service was friendly, and I'd love to take the tour some day soon!

I enjoyed my tour at Great Jones. I forgot my tour guides name, but he was really funny (and informative of course). The space itself is super neat and the bar is a beaut. I did enjoy all the bourbons/rye. They also have a speakeasy that they plan to do events in. I'd I had more time, I would have grabbed a drink at the bar and/or gotten dinner at the restaurant.

See all photos from Nikki J. for Great Jones Distilling

I was happy and excited to learn about Great Jones Distillery when I first began working in the city. I enjoy whiskeys and bourbons as my first choice when enjoying an adult beverage. I saw on their website that the bar is open from 330pm and the restaurant opens at 5pm. This schedule works out great for me. So a coworker and I headed over and we were blown away by the decor , the staff, the food and most of the Whiskey. I highly recommend Great Jones in its entirety for obviously all your adult beverage and foodie needs. The service and staff were above and beyond stunning - round of applause to all. The drinks were excellently made and the bourbons a must try. Have dessert !! Have dinner !! Have apps. ! Loved it all.

See all photos from AnnMarie N. for Great Jones Distilling

Came here with some friends for happy hour. We sat at the bar and the bartenders were super attentive, friendly and very nice. My water glass was constantly refilled. They also made some amazing negronis. We ordered the duck croquettes on happy hour and they were a little small but very delicious. We also ended up getting the $1 oysters, which were massive, but wish there was cocktail sauce with them. It is everyday from 3:30 to 6pm. It has $11 drinks, and $1 oysters. Definitely would come back here! Awesome place!

I came here for a tour on the weekend and was thoroughly impressed with the experience! Upon entry into the building there a beautiful deconstructed mini still acting as a centerpiece in the gorgeous and well-appointed entryway/gift shop. Continuing straight to the service desk I was directed to ascend the spiral staircase featuring beautiful art and photos of NYC. At the top I found myself at an even more impressive cocktail bar that offered a full range of signature cocktails and food from the restaurant located downstairs. I had arrived rather early and knew there would be a tasting so I didn't want to start drinking prior, but the bartender was very kind and brought over water and made small talk with some other patrons seated at the bar. Once the tour was set to begin I entered the small waiting room just off the bar to gather with the others awaiting the tour guide's arrival. I got very lucky having Drew as my tour guide. He was charismatic and was very knowledgeable, but kept everything fun and interesting. I feel like I came away from the tour with a much better understanding of what would be in my glass during the tasting. Entering the tasting room was unreal, it felt like a secret speakeasy as you take the freight elevator down to the basement and enter through a decorated set of doors. Everything was laid out and ready for each person on the tour to take a seat as our tour guide turned on some soothing music and started telling us all the details of how to have the perfect tasting. Drew was a fabulous guide and was always open to questions and came around to clink glasses with each person at the end. After the tour we were ushered into another secret speakeasy room that will eventually open as it's own venue, but we were told in the meantime the cozy space and all other areas of the building are available for private parties and events. The group was quite large so we followed our guide up the service stairwell and emerged once again into the entryway/gift shop area where we were able to purchase a bottle and some other small goods. Overall my visit here was amazing thanks to the wonderful staff and spectacular your experience! I'll absolutely be back with some more friends to marvel at it all again.

Tasting flight

Copper Still

We came across Great Jones during one of our walks through the city, and figured it'd be a great place to stop in to get out of the rain! Once inside we meet with the hostess who registered us for their next distillery tour which ran us about $35/per person. I kind of balked at it at first but after going through the tour I felt like we got our money's worth. While waiting for our time slot we went upstairs to their lounge area and order some drinks. The Gold Soul was the favored of the two drinks for both us, but the Autumn's Edge was great too. Probably not for everyone if you're not a fan of a more earthy taste. The atmosphere itself was already classy yet laid back, and even more so due to it being pretty quiet during the day. Our bartender talked to us about the speakeasy that they were running a Christmas pop up out of 3 days a week and made sure we got to see it before leaving. The tour was pretty in depth. The guide went over the basics of bourbon, and then highlighted what separated them from other distilleries. I am always fascinated by the brewing and distilling process so I was eating up all the information given we even got to smell part of a charred barrel! Once the tour was done we went down to the basement and did a testing of bourbons and learned how to change the flavor of them from one sip to another. At the end we got to try a special bourbon and toured the Christmas speakeasy! It was such a cool experience and the team there is so passionate about their craft, which made the experience that much better!

See all photos from Christina C. for Great Jones Distilling

I have to give huge props to Drew for our fantastic distillery tour and to Austin for making the most out of a tough situation. Our visit was screwed up by someone who was not part of the restaurant and Austin made it right anyway. Kudos to all! The various Great Jones bourbons and whiskeys were very pleasant, from a straight bourbon to a more complex four grain bourbon. Our tour guide, Drew, was also a distiller and really knew distilling - we had a knowledgeable crowd and Drew was solid. The flight experience really shows off their different choices, each with its own complexity and backstory. We had dinner after the distillery tour and the food is off-the-hook great. We had, for appetizers, oysters, ribs, tuna over tempura rice, and croquettes. For the mains, we had rack of lamb, duck, and a burger. Everything was perfect. The cocktails were also excellent and I suggest asking for Great Jones spirits in them. I highly recommend the Gold Sour and the Applewood smoked old fashioned. Service was incredibly friendly, timely and accurate. Remember to tip well.

See all photos from Cory N. for Great Jones Distilling

This place is awesome. We had an amazing tour by Jonathan. We were the only ones in the tour, but that didn't stop us from having a grand time. I've been on plenty of bourbon tours all over Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, and this tour and facility was top notch. The place is amazing too. It's in NoHo. It's art deco and everything looks great. The bar upstairs is super sleek. They have a speakeasy downstairs. Everyone was very helpful and nice. Check it out!

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Cyndi Lauper Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour

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Air's Moon Safari is an era-defining French album worth celebrating, 25 years on

There's no telling how many special moments have been soundtracked by Moon Safari, the acclaimed 1998 debut album from French duo Air.

An era-defining record of pristine, space-age lounge music delivered with cinematic atmosphere and a distinctively French je ne se quios , Moon Safari was a universal critical and commercial success upon release.

The lush easy-listening music was perfectly suited to post-club comedowns, hip cafes, and make-out sessions: smooth and dreamy enough to be played in the background, but singular and masterfully crafted enough to reward close listening.

It proved highly influential, too. But the wave of mellow, down tempo imitators and 'chill out' CD compilations it spawned struggled to surpass Air's chic, exquisitely woozy beauty.

'It was not meant to be played live'

Jean-Benoît Dunckel, one half of Air alongside Nicolas Godin, never expected Moon Safari's enduring success.

"We never imagined this album could work that way worldwide," he tells Karen Leng on Double J Lunch. 

"It took time, it took decades, [but] the success is not by us, the audience made [it]."

This year, the duo has been playing Moon Safari in full around the world on their first tour in seven years, including Australia.

"It was not made to be played live," says Dunckel. 

"We had to adapt it for the live [setting]. That is what the people want to get — this special feeling they heard the first time… to live again these feelings."

Having played two nights at the Sydney Opera House as part of Vivid Live , Air will live-stream their show at London's Royal Albert Hall this weekend.

"It's a beautiful venue," says Dunckel, who is keen to preserve a pristine performance of the album online for future access.

"It's really important to do that because… people can also discover the band live. Some people appreciate the live versions more than the recorded versions."

Performing as a trio, alongside drummer Louis Delorme, Air play inside an oblong box adorned with dazzling lights and visuals, which morph from swathes of minimalist colour to the perspective of a spaceship enjoying interstellar travel.

"We play in a box of light. It looks a bit like the studio on the cover of 10 000 Hz Legend," says Dunckel, referencing the band's second studio album — a weirder, wilder reaction to Moon Safari.

"It could be a home, it could be our world, our head, our architectural concept. It helps for people to enter into a world… people like [that] intimacy."

Dunckel says people often ask: "Are you not bored to play these songs you play for 20 years now?"

"Sometimes I struggle — because you have to concentrate, and you have to play. But I'm never bored. It's always a pleasure."

Moon Safari is a product of its era, but it's also aged beautifully.

It's an evocative listening experience, from the moment lengthy opener 'La femme d'argent' ushers you in with the sounds of water and slinky bassline, through to the weightless pop and robot-voiced melodies of 'Kelly Watch The Stars' and 'New Star in the Sky'.

In 1998, its retro-futuristic arrangements already sounded timeless. 25 years later, its ability to transport your mind and imagination elsewhere hasn't dated one iota.

"It could be a journey, a love story," remarks Dunckel. "That's why we're really attached to it. I think the audience is searching for that, too.

"It helps human relationships in every way," adds Dunckel. Over the years, Air fans have shared "so many stories" of what the album means to them.

"Most of the time it's for love. It's always, 'I met my girlfriend or wife this time'."

Back in 1998, Dunckel told triple j that while hiking in Iceland, his guide revealed Moon Safari was his love-making soundtrack.

There's "probably" plenty of babies in the world with some of the album's DNA in them since, Dunckel estimates of a new generation discovering Air for the first time.

"As we are getting old now, it's becoming that people say, 'oh yeah, my parents were listening to Moon Safari when we were travelling in a car; this family time'."

Sexy Boy, the surprising queer anthem

For many, debut single 'Sexy Boy' was their first introduction to Air. A seductive slice of synth-pop that brought vocoder back to the pop charts and sung in both French and English.

It's a seemingly simple song but Dunckel notes there's "a lot of tolerance and freedom" embedded in it.

"Sexy Boy, first of all, is a strange title because it breaks a certain taboo. The taboo is that heterosexual boys can check out other boys," he explains.

"Also, it became a gay slogan in a way. A gay anthem."

The song took on a new meaning in late 90s Paris when the electronic music scene's wider acceptance of the LGTBQI+ community led to more club and techno nights dedicated to queer punters and DJs emerging.

"There was a lot of gay parties," says Dunckel. "Homosexuality is everywhere in the world, and it's always existed, always there. So, it was important to liberate this movement."

Originally, the song's titular phrase was inspired by Parisian fashion culture.

"People are checking each other out all the time… In Paris, when a couple is meeting another couple, the girl is not going to check out the boy. She's going to check out the other girl: analyse what she wears, how she behaves, what is the fashion or type of the boyfriend.

"Sexy Boy is speaking about that. The fact a man wants to be a pretty man and he is checking [out] other boys."

A popular soundtrack choice, featured in teen rom-com 10 Things I Hate About You and noughties TV drama Queer As Folk, 'Sexy Boy' is also a testament to youth.

The French verses are "celebrating that golden age of being young," Dunckel explains.

"When you're young you don't realise you're at the top of your life. You have a lot of power, actually… because you're beautiful. Your skin, hair, you feel great, you have a lot of energy."

The makings of a classic

Despite its iconic status, Moon Safari was actually the last roll of the dice for Dunckel and Godin.

Raised in the conservative suburb of Versailles, the pair began making music together after meeting at school. But after having their demo tapes rejected by every record label they approached, they quit music and instead focused on their studies.

Each had established careers — Godin in architecture, Dunckel in mathematics — when an opportunity presented itself in a close friend landing a role with Virgin Records imprint Source.

They landed a deal with the label but ditching their jobs for a full-time career in music to support their burgeoning families was a gamble.

"We were 26 years old. We were not sure we come be musicians for the rest of our life," remembers Dunckel. "I was already working [as] a physics teacher… I had a baby."

Thankfully, their risk was rewarded when their debut album became a breakout international hit. Air was swiftly lumped alongside a fresh wave of Parisian artists reinventing the electronic music scene in the late 90s.

Dubbed French touch, the movement included Cassius, St. Germain, Étienne de Crécy, and Daft Punk, who recorded their breakout 1997 album Homework down the street from where Air made Moon Safari.

"There was a kind of energy circulating all over Paris," recalls Dunckel. "Paris is kind of small; all the media, artists and business part of it [were] working all together."

The worlds of music, fashion, contemporary art, cinema — "everything was mixed," Dunckel says.

"At this time, new generations of young people coming from the suburbs are even inside Paris and mixing all these rich, futuristic concepts together with new machines, samplers, computer programs to make music."

A fond farewell to youth

Despite being poster boys for the future of French music, Moon Safari was an evocative, nostalgia-drenched ode to Dunckel and Godin's past.

"In a way it was the end of my youth… That's why the songs [on Moon Safari], there are a lot of regrets and it's a goodbye to our youth and the innocence of it.

"It's full of vibrations from teenage times."

Although labelled an electronic act, Air's music wasn't rooted in beats and house music. Instead, they armed themselves with analogue Moog and Korg synthesizers, vintage drum machines, vocoders and the trusty Rhodes piano.

The resulting compositions bore the esprit of Serge Gainsbourg, electronic pioneers like Jean-Michel Jarre, and the 1970s film and TV soundtracks of Dunckel's childhood.

There's a fondness for the psychedelic grandeur of Pink Floyd and ELO. But also, Burt Bacharach arrangements, particularly in the wistful French horn topline of ''Ce matin là' (This morning) and the easy-going 'You Make It Easy' and 'All I Need', both featuring the lyrics and vocals of Godin's then-neighbour, Beth Hirsch.

From its lush, otherworldly sounds right down to its title, Moon Safari gives rise to cosmic ideas and conducive to escapism. That spirit is central to Air's entire ethos.

"I think music exists in paradise and you can feel this [album] is in a strange interface between our world and something else."

Such ephemeral expressions might be surprising coming from a former physics teacher, but Dunckel says "both sides of your brain help" when it comes to making emotive art.

"There is a mathematic aspect of music, that analyses and helps you perform and conceive music. But there is something else happening, your heart is talking.

"As a musician you're organising the vibrations of your heart and the feelings into music… vibrations travelling into space and air."

"When I do a song, it's all about 'what do I feel?'" Dunckel concludes.

"For me, good means it affects me. No good means I don't feel anything… if it affects me, it's going to affect others, too. They're going to feel the feelings I do, too."

Air live-stream their performance at London's Royal Albert Hall on Saturday 1 June. Details here .

Hear Karen Leng hosting  Lunch on Double J from midday Monday to Thursday.

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What to know about Russia’s growing influence in Africa

DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Russia’s top diplomat pledged help and military assistance while on a whirlwind tour of several countries in Africa’s sub-Saharan region of Sahel this week, as Moscow seeks to grow its influence in the restive, mineral-rich section of the continent.

Russia is emerging as the security partner of choice for a growing number of African governments in the region, displacing traditional allies like France and the United States. Sergey Lavrov, who has made several trips to Africa in recent years, this week stopped in Guinea, the Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso and Chad.

READ MORE: U.S. military defends Africa strategy in light of coups and a drift toward Russia

Moscow has aggressively expanded its military cooperation with African nations by using the private security company Wagner and its likely successor, Africa Corps, with Russian mercenaries taking up roles from protecting African leaders to helping states fight extremists.

The Polish Institute of International Affairs said in a study this month that in “creating the Africa Corps, Russia took an assertive approach to expand its military presence in Africa.

Moscow is also seeking political support, or at least neutrality, from many of Africa’s 54 countries over its invasion of Ukraine. African nations make up the largest voting bloc at the United Nations and have been more divided than any other group on General Assembly resolutions criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

Russia-linked entities also spread disinformation to undermine ties between African states and the West, the Africa Center For Strategic Studies, an academic institution within the U.S. Department of Defense, wrote in a March report. Moscow has been “sponsoring 80 documented campaigns, targeting more than 22 countries,” it said.

Here’s a look at how Russia is expanding its influence in Africa.

Why are African nations turning to Russia?

Russia has taken advantage of political unrest and discontent in coup-hit nations, capitalizing on popular frustration and anger with former colonial power France. Military coups have ousted governments seen close to France and the West and doing little to alleviate grinding poverty, unemployment and other hardships.

Russia offers security assistance without interfering in politics, making it an appealing partner in places like Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, all ruled by military juntas that seized power in recent years. In return, Moscow seeks access to minerals and other contracts.

Violence linked to extremists allied with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group has been on the rise in Sahel for years, despite efforts by France, the U.S. and other Western allies to help fight the jihadi groups there. In 2013, France launched a near decade long operation in Mali to help fight militants, which expanded to Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad. The operation ended nine years later but the conflict did not, contributing to anger with the West.

The U.S. has further lost its footing with key allies for forcing issues — including democracy or human rights — that many African states see as hypocrisy, given Washington’s close ties to some autocratic leaders elsewhere.

While the West may pressure African coup leaders over democracy and other issues, Russia doesn’t meddle in domestic affairs, Rida Lyammouri, a senior fellow at the Policy Center for the New South, told The Associated Press.

What is Russia’s interest in African countries?

Africa is rich in minerals, oil and other resources, which come with political and legal challenges. Its resources are increasingly central to economic and national security, such as cobalt, which is used in electronics like mobile phones, or lithium, which is used in batteries.

Russia has thrived in countries where governance is limited, and has signing mining deals through companies it controls. An EU parliament study showed that Russia secured access to gold and diamonds in the Central African Republic, cobalt in Congo, gold and oil in Sudan, chromite in Madagascar, platinum and diamonds in Zimbabwe, and uranium in Namibia.

The U.S. based non-profit Democracy 21 group said in an analysis last December that Wagner and Russia may have made about $2.5 billion through the African gold trade alone since invading Ukraine in February 2022.

Though Russia is increasingly a partner to African countries in the oil and mining sector, it lags far behind as an overall trading partner. For example, data by the International Monetary shows less than 1% of Africa’s exports go to Russia, compared with 33% to the European Union.

Where do Russian contractors operate in Africa?

The first reports of Wagner mercenaries in Africa emerged in late 2017, when the group was deployed to Sudan to provide support to then-President Omar al-Bashir, in exchange for gold mining concessions. Wagner’s presence soon expanded to other African countries.

In 2018, Russian contractors showed up to back powerful commander Khalifa Hifter in eastern Libya who was battling militants. They also helped Hifter in his failed attempt to seize the capital of Tripoli a year later.

In the Central African Republic, Russian mercenaries have been providing security since in 2018 and in return have gained access to some of the country’s gold and diamond mines.

Coups in Mali in 2020 and 2021, in Burkina Faso in 2022 and in Niger in 2023, brought military juntas critical of the West to power. All three eventually ordered French and other Western forces out, and instead turned to Russia for military support.

Niger ordered the U.S. to withdraw its troops and close its multimillion dollar flagship investment in a sprawling military and spy base in Agadez earlier this year, after a meeting with a U.S. delegation ended poorly. The decision has upended U.S. counterinsurgency operations in Africa’s Sahel.

Weeks later, Russian trainers arrived in Niger with new defense equipment.

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