Russia - Travel Guide
Description
The largest country in the world is Russia. It covers an area almost twice that of the U.S.A. and reaches from Moscow in the west, over the Ural Mountains and the vast Siberian plains, towards the sea of Okhotsk in the east. Despite its size, Russia's terrain and climate mean that parts of it lack suitable soil for agricultural use and vast distances hinder the exploitation and production of resources. Located in Northern Asia, between Europe and the North Pacific Ocean, Russia's coastline is more than 37,000km long yet most outsiders have only a hazy idea of Russia's realities.
From the vast emptiness of its arctic expanses to huge magnificent lakes, polar mountains and heart-stopping scenery, Russia has almost every kind of landscape you could ever imagine. Climatically, it ranges from continental (cold, snowy winters and warm summers) to the harsher, drier sub arctic environment on the Siberian plain.
Russia, although renowned for its magnificent size and dramatic climate, has many more interesting areas for visitors to appreciate. There are endless fabulous buildings, particularly in the larger towns and cities; beaches and majestic promenades along the Black Sea coast; fabulous lakes surrounded by woodland and lush vegetation as well as famous tourist attractions. The city of St. Petersburg houses the Tsar's village, attractive summer gardens and wonderfully ornate fountains. Red Square in the Leningrad region is well worth a visit and, if you have an interest in space travel, Star City (a cosmonaut training complex just outside Russia's capital, Moscow) is open to visitors and a very educational experience.
Endless opportunities abound throughout the country for a whole range of sports and past-times to be enjoyed, or you may want to engage in a few of the more traditional characteristics of a visit to Russia, such as a visit to the Kremlin or a sample of some of the finest vodka in the world.
Driving Guide
In Russia, traffic moves on the right hand side of the road and cars overtake on the left. It is illegal in Russia to carry unauthorized passengers or to even pick up hitchhikers. If caught, you may have to pay a heavy fine. Using the horn is not allowed at any time except in the case of extreme danger.
You must be very careful while driving during the cold winter months in Russia. Certain passes such as the ones nearer to Siberia, are not possible to cross during severe winters. Therefore snow tyres are compulsory during the cold. Always have dipped headlights on if the visibility is low and especially during the early morning fog.