Publisher's Synopsis
-EXPANDED COVERAGE: This guide tracks Russia as it continues to trade in red star for four star. The pendulum has swung from sceptre to sickle and back again to sceptre---with a vengeance. The Alexander Palace in St. Petersburg is just the latest palace to be renovated; snowmobile tours now take you down the paths once traveled by the tsars in troikas; and many hotel rooms in Moscow now go for $400 and up. But enough of Russia champagneskoye: the guide is also packed with bargain-hunter and insider finds, including those in our expanded Moscow hotel chapter. -NEW COLOR SECTION: In a new color insert at the start of the guide, eight pages of gorgeous photos highlight the Top Experiences in Moscow and St. Petersburg. -SPECIAL FEATURES: An array of in-depth features helps travelers experience the cities, including step-by-step walks through Moscow's and St. Petersburg's historic centers, and guides to the ins and outs of vodka drinking, food, and the famous banyas (baths). -EXPANDED LANGUAGE CONVERSIONS: All sight and property names are now given with Cyrillic characters and transliterations, as well as the English translation. -INDISPENSABLE TRIP PLANNING TOOLS: New to this edition are "Welcome to...." orientation spreads for each of the four Exploring chapters: Moscow; Side Trips and the Golden Ring; St. Petersburg; Side Trips from St. Petersburg. Complete with maps, highlight lists, and Getting Around tips, these are great aids for travelers. -DISCERNING RECOMMENDATIONS: Fodor's Moscow and St. Petersburg offers savvy advice and recommendations from local writers to help travelers make the most of their time. Fodor's Choice designates our best picks, from hotels to nightlife. "Word of Mouth" quotes from fellow travelers provide valuable insights. -ABOUT FODOR'S AUTHORS: Each Fodor's Travel Guide is researched and written by local experts.
