I had always wanted to take a Viking Cruise and see Moscow and St. Petersburg. It met every expectation! Viking has a great itinerary - I signed up for just about everything!! Moscow and St. Petersburg are absolutely beautiful cities! All the palaces are beyond belief. The days that weren't so packed were a welcome relief to just relax on our veranda and enjoy the scenery and go through the locks. The Russian people were so friendly - don't be afraid to go - and don't stereotype them. The Visa application is worth it. The Viking staff were wonderful - the room was great - and the food was good. All of our transportation vehicles were clean and comfortable. Our most fun excursions were the home visits and the school visit that Viking arranges. My husband did the "banya" experience and had some great stories to tell when we got back. Kizhi Island is also very beautiful. Remember to do the vodka tasting on the ship :) Had the best time. Don't hesitate to go or let your friends try and talk you out of it.
Our cabin had plenty of room for no longer than we were in it. We especially enjoyed to veranda. Our personal cabin steward was no where to be seen - but every time we came back, our room was immaculate!! It has a little fridge to put our water in and a little safe for things you don't want to leave out.
Rode the metro - lots of walking - Alexander Gardens - so much to see!
The Treasury is very interesting - especially the wardrobes and carriages!!!
Lots of walking that day - St. Basel's Cathedral is beautiful. Wish we could have stayed longer in the Square, but they were having a Military Tattoo at the time. Also wished we had more time in the GUM Department Store.
The lights at night were beautiful - especially overlooking the soccer stadium - got a special treat at the end.....Red October chocolate!
Hard to believe it was all amber!
We have seen a lot of castles and palaces - hands down - this is the best!
We just saw the exterior - lots of details!
Lots of walking again! Did a home Kommonulka Home Visit - VERY interesting!
We were able to get in earlier with Viking before all the crowds got there! Very nice!
Enjoyed the fountains!
Saw it within the Hermitage Museum - Very enjoyable.
Was just near the ship! After a day of active activity - so glad it was near! Loved seeing the men do their squats!