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26/12/2024

New Year illuminations in front of European Shopping Mall in Moscow.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, dear friends!GDS team wish everyone success and prosperity in the new year!
25/12/2024

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, dear friends!
GDS team wish everyone success and prosperity in the new year!

NEW YEAR FIREWORKS IN ZURICH, SWITZERLAND. 🇨🇭Zurich reigns as the country’s New Year’s celebration hub. Silvesterzauber,...
15/12/2024

NEW YEAR FIREWORKS IN ZURICH, SWITZERLAND. 🇨🇭
Zurich reigns as the country’s New Year’s celebration hub. Silvesterzauber, or New Year’s Magic, has transformed Lake Zurich into a dazzling spectacle, growing from a modest gathering on Gemüsebrücke in 1988 into a vibrant celebration that now attracts around 150,000 visitors. Fireworks light up the lake, with various spots buzzing with DJs, food stalls, and drinks. The magic of the evening is palpable, whether soaking in the atmosphere along the Limmat River or indulging in the luxury of one of Zurich’s five-star hotels, like the historic Baur au Lac, which offers an unbeatable view of the fireworks.
The evening often starts with locals gathering in the city centre to hear the chimes of the Grossmünster bells – an introspective moment in contrast with the quirky custom of dropping ice cream on the ground for good luck. As midnight nears, some embrace the high-energy Neujahrsmarathon, a marathon that kicks off at midnight and pulses through the city.

New Year's Moscow is amazing! 🎅⛄🎄
11/12/2024

New Year's Moscow is amazing! 🎅⛄🎄

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GO AURORA HUNTING IN RUSSIA?1.WEATHER FORECASTThe two most important things in predicting A...
28/11/2024

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GO AURORA HUNTING IN RUSSIA?

1.WEATHER FORECAST
The two most important things in predicting Aurora are weather forecast (clouds are not good to see Aurora) as well as a forecast of geomagnetic storms. Now there are many gadget apps where you can watch it. But it does not guarantee that you will see Aurora at all!
To predict the Aurora, also can use open satellite data of the "solar wind" (flow of charged particles) and their behavior on its way to Earth. It helps to understand should you expect the Aurora in the night and how intense it will be.
Weather is of high importance, too. It's not easy to see spectacular dance of the Northern Lights through the clouds (those are quite common in Kola region). So we need to watch the cloud coverage and its dynamic within the whole region to find a place with a cloudless sky.

2. WARM CLOTHES
In Murmansk and Kirovsk, northern Russian regions, the summers are short, cool, and mostly cloudy and the winters are long, frigid, snowy, and overcast. In winter period the temperature drops to -15С -30С.
So it's very important to prepare a good worm clothes for this trip.
1. Underwear. First layer and very important is a good underwear. It's can be soft cotton T-shirt or long sleeve. It is best to buy in a special thermal underwear for cold weather. Women can wear worm tights and men special pants.Аnd dont forget about warm socks!
2. Second layer:sweater or fleece jacket & jeans or worm pants.
3. Top layer - an elongated down jacket or a jacket on a sintepon, scarf and warm cap & mittens
4. Winter bootswinter boots, warmed with fur or special insoles.
Now you are ready for edventures!
Some shops where you can buy winter clothes in Bangkok: Pratu Nam Platinum Center, Decatlon, The North Face.

Winter at Cappadocia ,Turkey 🇹🇷
24/11/2024

Winter at Cappadocia ,Turkey 🇹🇷

VELIKY USTUG - A RUSSIAN CITY WITH THE BIGGEST NEW YEAR SPIRIT!This ancient city-museum under the open sky attracts visi...
18/11/2024

VELIKY USTUG - A RUSSIAN CITY WITH THE BIGGEST NEW YEAR SPIRIT!
This ancient city-museum under the open sky attracts visitors particularly in the cold season. After all, it is the home of Grandfather Frost!
The Russian North has a large number of old towns and villages that are worthy of a visit. But, without a doubt, Veliky Ustyug in the Vologda Oblast stands out. It is located 450 km northeast of Vologda, almost on the border with Arkhangelsk Region.
The city became famous for its craftsmen. It is the birthplace of "frost on tin", northern silver niello and other unique crafts. Many crafts have survived to this day.
Veliky Ustyug is a real museum city. There are more than 150 objects of cultural heritage there, including 28 magnificent temples of the 17th-18th centuries.

‘Sobornoye Dvorishche’ is the heart of the city, which is impossible to pass by unnoticed. It is a temple complex (17th-18th cc.) consisting of the Assumption Cathedral with a bell tower, the Cathedral of Prokopy the Righteous and the Church of John the Righteous, as well as several other household buildings.
The cathedrals stand on the embankment overlooking the opposite bank of the Sukhona River and the Dymkovskaya Sloboda with its ancient churches.
Today, Veliky Ustyug is also one of the most popular places in Russia for winter tourism, because there are two residences of ‘Ded Moroz’ there. In the city center is his first residence, which occupies a 19th-century merchant's house.
And his country house, where he hosts guests, is nearby Veliky Ustyug. During the winter vacations, special tourist trains run to the Veliky Ustyug railway station.
The first mention of it dates back to the year 1147. This date makes it the same age as Moscow. In fact, people lived there even earlier. Slavs settled on these northern outskirts, because of the favorable trade position: two rivers – Sukhona and Yug (‘Ust-Yug’ literally means “mouth of the river Yug”) – merge there, by which one can quickly reach the Northern Dvina and, further, the White Sea. And from there, it’s an easy path to both Europe and Asia.

TOP SHOPPING MALLS AND LOCAL MARKETS IN MOSCOW.1.GUM ON RED SQUAREGUM is the largest and most iconic department store in...
13/11/2024

TOP SHOPPING MALLS AND LOCAL MARKETS IN MOSCOW.

1.GUM ON RED SQUARE
GUM is the largest and most iconic department store in Russia, situated on Red Square. A symbol of Russian capitalism throughout the ages, it is not just a shop but a landmark that has been intertwined with the upheavals of Russian history. In GUM, you can experience the grandeur of Imperial Russia, enjoy the entertainment of Soviet Russia, and browse the luxury shops lining its grand arcades.
GUM is home to 135 shops, arranged along three 200-metre long arcades and set over three floors. Staying true to its roots, the ground floor arcade closest to Red Square is lined with luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Dior, Prada, Cartier, Gucci, Chanel and Burberry. These designer stores are famed for their elaborate window displays which are updated seasonally. Among the other shops in GUM, there are a large number of accessories, shoes and jewellery shops, as well as thirty different souvenir stores.

2.ARBAT STREET
Spend many happy hours browsing Arbat's eclectic selection of shops. This area positions itself as Moscow's main shopping district and includes one of the capital's most famous tourist spots - Arbat Street. Whether you're craving a russian souvenir or looking for unique antiques and expensive Russian handicrafts, this is the place to be.
A special pleasure from walking along the street, most of which is pedestrian, is visiting craft workshops. Their shelves are filled with traditional goods such as Russian dolls, hand-embroidered tablecloths, shawls and boxes depicting Russian fairy tales. When you feel hungry, stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants.

3. IZMAYLOVO MARKET
The Izmaylovo Market is a special place in Moscow, where a flea market and many folk art stalls run by private artists exist today.
In the wooden Izmaylovo Kremlin that was creaed there are streets doing a brisk trade: you will find a wide range of typically Russian crafts and keepsakes. Here, people buy knitted gloves, scarves, sweaters, fur hats, items from wood and stone.

4. OUTLET VILLAGE BELAYA DACHA
Outlet Village Belaya Dacha hosts successful International and local brands, from luxury, fashion, sport, kids, accessories and jewelry. It is a very pleasant open air village, only 19 km from Moscow city center, and 4 km from the MKAD.Some of the most leading and prestigious brands worldwide now offer at Outlet Village Belaya Dacha.

5. EVROPEYSKY SHOPPING MALL
This atypical triangular-shaped shopping mall nestled between the Kiev Railway station and Dorogomilov in Moscow. This 19,37,503 square foot (1,80,000 square meters) is a landmark building due to its unusual design and architecture inspired by famous structural marvels from around the globe. The mall features more than 500 high-end establishments ranging from home appliance stores to upscale restaurants.
Quality restaurants and bars, saunas and health treatments and all the European brand shops that gave the centre its very name. The perfect hideout when you're in need of that injection of Western culture.

6. AVIAPARK SHOPPING MALL
Aviapark is a six-storey shopping centre in the Khoroshyovsky District of Moscow, Russia. With a total area of 390,000 square metres and 230,000 square metres of leasable space, it is the largest shopping mall in Europe. It opened in November 2014 with more than 500 shops and a four-story aquarium that extends to the ceiling of the retail section. The aquarium was recognised by Guinness World Records as the tallest cylindrical aquarium in the world at 22.31 metres.

7. OKHOTNY RYAD
Okhotny Ryad was opened in 1997 and is located underground. The shopping mall can be entered through Alexander’s Garden, from the Manegh side, as well as from “Ohotny Riad” subway station and through the connecting passage paved from the underground parking. Each underground level is decorated in the styles of different eras: 18th century, classicism and modern. The roof is decorated in the style of the 19th century. At the top of the main decoration is the dome-fountain "Clock of Peace". The ground part is decorated with numerous lanterns, sculptures by Zurab Tsereteli and 12 fountains. The TAX FREE system operates in retail stores of the Okhotny Ryad shopping center. Okhotny Ryad - shop TAX FREE.
Okhotny Ryad shopping mall hosts over 160 stores on its 3 floors, as well as grocery supermarket and food court.
Advisable to admire the northern hemisphere clock dome in the ceiling of the central part of the shopping mall. The only thing is that the towns names are upside down since you are looking at it from below.

8. CENTRAL CHILDREN'S STORE
The Central Children's Store on Lubyanka Square has been the country's major department store for kids since 1957. You are sure to find what you need in one of the almost 100 stores featuring Russian and foreign brands of toys, goods for newborns, clothes and shoes for children, teenagers and expectant mothers, accessories, cosmetics, medicines, fabrics for your nursery, books, stationery, equipment for hobbies, sweets, snacks and electronics as well.
If you count the basement, the building has seven floors. On the bottom and the top two floors you can find entertainment and catering venues. The roof of the Central Children’s Store serves as a viewing platform from which you can enjoy a panorama of the capital.
The interior decoration of the Central Children’s Store, and the decoration of the shop windows, that look like works of art, help to create a fairy-tale atmosphere. It’s particularly effective in the winter months when Christmas cheer abounds.

9. DANILOVSKY MARKET
Many centuries ago there was a Danilovsky market in the square neighbored by the Danilov monastery, the first and oldest monastery in Moscow that was founded in 1282 by a son of Alexander Nevsky.
Now it is a huge area where seasonal fairs and gastronomic festivals are held. Here you can buy fresh produce from Russian regions and have a great lunch at one of the numerous restaurants from more than 30 categories described by the motto “Around the world in 80 minutes”. Thanks to the complex and costly re-development project that employed some cutting-edge high-tech solutions, including a top-notch sound system by Biamp, the Danilovsky market has become a new point of attraction and a favorite rendezvous place for Moscow inhabitants and tourists.

WINTER ACTIVITIES ON FROZEN BAIKAL LAKELake Baikal is the deepest and oldest lake on Earth. 25-30 million years old and ...
05/11/2024

WINTER ACTIVITIES ON FROZEN BAIKAL LAKE
Lake Baikal is the deepest and oldest lake on Earth. 25-30 million years old and over 5000 feet deep (over 1500 meters), in the winter, it freezes over and becomes a beautful ice-cracked canvas. Wth ice over six feet (two meters) thick, it seems almost alive as it cracks underfoot. With temperatures rising and falling, air gets into these cracks and paints monochrome bubble designs on Baikal’s frosty surface.
The formation of cracks is accompanied by a loud cracking sound, reminiscent of thunder or gunshots.
Also, Baikal ice is very clear.
During freeze-up (usually from the beginning of January till early May) Lake Baikal freezes completely, except for a small area of ​​15-20 km length located in the source of the Angara River.
By the end of winter, ice thickness on the lake reaches 1 m, and in bays – 1.5-2 m. During severe frosts, cracks break ice on separate fields. The length of cracks is about 10-30 km, the width – 2-3 m.

February is the best month for exploration on Lake Baikal. Midwinter is too cold and too dark, and come March, temperatures are rising, so you miss out on the deep winter experience. April and May are dangerous because the ice starts to melt and crack open. February temperatures are in the -15°C to -20°C (-4℉ to -5℉) range, which is bearable. The weather is pretty reliable and it’s standard to expect crisp, but sunny days.

Baikal is located in Siberia so there is a proper winter here with invigorating frost and blue skies. And so of course a whole range of winter activities are on offer to meet all tastes:

-Ice skating on Baikal ice
-Dog-sleighing through the Siberian taiga.
-Snowmobile rides along the famous Circum-Baikal Railway and across the ice to Pechanaya Bay – one of the most scenic places on the lake.
-A visit to thermal springs where the temperatures remain around 40C.
-Ice fishing – there are more than 50 species of fish in Baikal and fishing championships are held here.

IGLOO HOTELS IN MURMANSK REGIONRecently, hunting for the Northern Lights in the Murmansk region has acquired a new forma...
29/10/2024

IGLOO HOTELS IN MURMANSK REGION
Recently, hunting for the Northern Lights in the Murmansk region has acquired a new format. Now it is not necessary to go far from the city in search of the best place to watch the sky blazing with green fire. No need to freeze in deep snow and waste time waiting.
The Kola Peninsula offers tourists comfortable domed igloos and houses with mirrored walls.
Having settled down with the greatest comfort, you can watch the northern lights at any time. Some options even give the opportunity to gaze at the starry sky right from the bathroom!
Usually such hotels are located in the suburbs of Murmansk or on the road from Murmansk to Teriberka. These are quiet and calm places in ecologically clean areas, located on the edge of the forest or on the river bank.
Here you can fully enjoy the beauty of northern nature, clean air and try all the entertainment that such hotels offer, from snowmobiling to outdoor spa treatments.

BORJOMI AND SURROUNDINGS, GEORGIA Borjomi is a hydrothermal health spa resort in the southern region of Samskhe-Javakhet...
21/10/2024

BORJOMI AND SURROUNDINGS, GEORGIA

Borjomi is a hydrothermal health spa resort in the southern region of Samskhe-Javakheti in Georgia. This picturesque valley of 10,500 residents lies within the Agura River gorge at an altitude of 800 m. Borjomi has an international reputation for its geothermal spring mineral water resources. Its accessible location in the beautiful Lesser Caucasus Mountains attracts tourists in search of nature, escape and enlightenment tourism opportunities year round.
Borjomi mineral water has become a well known brand and a calling card for Georgia. The sulfuric water’s healing properties are proven to be directly beneficial to the digestive system and metabolism.

BORJOMI CENTRAL PARK was renovated and reopened in 2005. The park has an ecological theme and features children’s amusement rides, a swimming pool and cinema. There is also a cable car leading up to a scenic overlook.
Another attraction in the park is the peculiar statue of Prometheus which stands at the base of a small waterfall. Onlookers are often amused, if not perplexed, by this seemingly syncretic representation of the titan deviant.

SAINT GEORGE MONASTERY
Known as the ‘Green Monastery’ due to its home among the trees of a distinctive green, as well as the greenish tint on its walls, the official name of the monastery located in the Borjomi Municipality is the Chitakhevi St. George Monastery. The Green Monastery has beautiful views and a lovely garden. Therefore, it is a nice place to picnic and spend some time enjoying the outdoors.

AKHALTSIKHE was founded at the beginning of the XII century, and since the XIV century for two centuries it has served as the cultural and political center of Meskhetia.
The medieval FORTRESS OF RABATis the hallmark of the city. The fort consists of two levels separated by a stone wall. The lower part of the fortress is publicly accessible. Tourist infrastructure facilities are located here: Rabat Hotel, shops, wine shop, tourism information center.

VARDZIA is a spectacular monastic complex carved out of the side of a steep cliff face, still inhabited by monks. Vardzia is a popular cave monastery dating back to the latter 12th century. The caves extend along the cliff for at least 500 meters, and go up to 19 layers. Enter the Church of the Dormition and admire a significant series of wall paintings from the golden age of Georgia.

BORJOMI -KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK is located on the edge of Borjomi proper and extends to the village of Kharagauli. This massive expanse of coniferous forest takes up roughly 1% of Georgia’s total land area. The park is divided into 6 areas, each with well kept trails through pristine forest containing endemic flora and fauna and unique ecosystem diversity.

THINGS TO DO IN RUSSIA TO IMMERSE  IN RUSSIAN CULTURE1.TRY MATRYOSHKA PAINTING MASTER CLASSMatryoshka is a famous Russia...
12/10/2024

THINGS TO DO IN RUSSIA TO IMMERSE IN RUSSIAN CULTURE

1.TRY MATRYOSHKA PAINTING MASTER CLASS
Matryoshka is a famous Russian nesting doll. It is a popular souvenir and is associated with Russia as well as balalaika, samovar or vodka. That is why Matryoshka is generally believed to have an age-long history. A mistake! Matryoshka is only about one hundred years young.
It is not quite clear when and where exactly the doll was born. It seems to be a mixture between a traditional Slavic painted egg and a Japanese deity.
The legend says that at the end of the 19th century a Russian painter Sergey Malyutin made a sketch of a doll and asked a wood turner Vasiliy Zvyozdotchkin to shape it. Then Malyutin painted the doll and gave birth to a sweet country girl wearing Russian national costume and a headscarf. She had a black c**k in her arms. Seven siblings were hidden inside the doll. Boys and girls came in turns out of their sister until finally a baby appeared. The toy was meant for kids and should demonstrate the idea of fertileness, motherhood and family in a simple way.
You will learn the history of the souvenir symbol of Russia. About the different painting styles of the classic nesting dolls. What materials do the master need? At a minimum, this is a wooden blank, paints, brushes. But there is still something. You will go through all the stages of the painting process in person, then to take the actual manufactured product with you as a souvenir.

2. COOK AND TEST RUSSIAN CUISINE
Russian Cuisine is considered quite healthy and i. The most famous courses include Borscht (a beetroot soup), Oukha (fish soup) and Solyanka (a thick soup with an assortment of meats and sausages) for soups; Pelmeni (a sort of dumplings), Bliny (Russian pancakes), Boiled potatoes with pickled vegetables, and Pirogi (pies) for the main course; Mors (berry beverage) and Kvas(alcohol-free beverage made from bread) for beverages; and, of course, Vodka and Caviar!
You will be provided with a wonderful opportunity to get familiar with the traditional Russian Cuisine. A Russian Cuisine restaurant chef will tell you about the history and the cooking secrets of Russian national courses, which you may be sure to cook by yourself and taste afterwards.

3. VISIT RUSSIAN SPA" BANYA"
The banya is the traditional Russian spa and it constitutes one of the most important activities in Russia, not only because it is a site of relaxation, health and well-being, but also because it is a place to socialize with friends or family. The Sanduny Baths in Moscow are the most famous in Russia.
The Russians say that you haven’t really been in Russia if you didn’t take a good bath in a typical Russian banya, which includes sauna, massage and relaxation therapies, more or less comparable to modern day spas.
The banya remains one of the most important weekly activities for many Russians, since it is deeply rooted in Russian culture, born in the old Viking settlement of Veliky Novgorod (southeast of St. Petersburg).
For the Russians, it is a place not only to relax but also to eat and drink with friends and to “cleanse the soul and heal the body of any disease”. Needless to say, Russia is a country where it is very cold.

From observation deck on the roof of the Central Children's Store in Moscow undoubtedly opens one of the best views of t...
08/10/2024

From observation deck on the roof of the Central Children's Store in Moscow undoubtedly opens one of the best views of the city!

Cable car Luzhniki stadium - Sparrow Hills view point in Moscow.
08/10/2024

Cable car Luzhniki stadium - Sparrow Hills view point in Moscow.

GOLDEN RING OF RUSSIA: SERGIEV POSAD-VLADIMIR-SUZDALExplore three charming cities of the Golden Ring of Russia: Sergiev ...
30/09/2024

GOLDEN RING OF RUSSIA: SERGIEV POSAD-VLADIMIR-SUZDAL

Explore three charming cities of the Golden Ring of Russia: Sergiev Posad, Suzdal and Vladimir.
The Golden Ring is the name given to a popular tourist route that connects a network of ancient towns north-east of Moscow. This 2-day Golden Ring tour will take you on a quest for unique architectural constructions dating from the 12th to the 17th centuries. During this short detour from Moscow, you will discover the age-old allure of Mother Russia from generations past.

Travel from the capital to the countryside, where golden spires and the onion-shaped domes of colourful monasteries dot the horizon. Explore enchanting towns and fairy tale villages, set against the picturesque backdrop of rural Russia as you learn about the war and peacetime history, religion, and culture of a part of Russia that still holds fast to time-honoured traditions and a leisurely, provincial way of life.

SERGIEV POSAD (ZAGORSK)
Sergiev Posad is a vibrant spiritual and craft center. Sergiev Posad is located just in 70 kilometers to the north of Moscow. Sergiev Posad's main attraction is the monastery called The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius. It is a Unesco World Heritage site. It has been an important religious site throughout almost seven centuries.

VLADIMIR
Vladimir’s 1000-year-old history is evident on every step throughout the city and is one of the jewels of Russia’s Golden Ring. The highest concentration of 12th-century buildings in all of Russia can be found in Vladimir and the surrounding region.

SUZDAL
Suzdal was first mentioned in the annals in 1024, but some historians believe it was founded even earlier, in 982 by Prince Vladimir, the baptizer of Rus, who later founded neighboring Vladimir. The city’s name is most likely associated with the verb sozidat (“create”), which in Old Russian meant “build” or “fashion from clay.”

GEORGIAN MILITARY HIGHWAY🇬🇪The Georgian Military Road, part of the E117 road, is a highlight of any trip to Georgia and ...
23/09/2024

GEORGIAN MILITARY HIGHWAY
🇬🇪
The Georgian Military Road, part of the E117 road, is a highlight of any trip to Georgia and one of the South Caucasus' most scenic roads, steeped in trade, wars, and legends. This ancient passage from Georgia to Russia is a spectacular adventure.
The Georgian Military Highway is a 212km stretch of road that connects the Georgian capital of Tbilisi with Russia. The route is steeped in history and along the way travelers can visit beautifully placed churches, explore ancient fortresses and become mesmerized by towering, snow capped mountains.
The drive offers tremendous scenery and a quick route into a very interesting region of the world. It serves as the best route via which we can enjoy the dramatic scenery, crystal-clear air, and indescribable grandeur of the mighty Caucasus Mountains. There are many viewpoints on the way, including one spot where you’ll find natural mineral (sparkling) water, very popular among locals. The landscape - formidable mountains, great defiles of gorges, and isolated valleys - inspired Tolstoy, Dumas, and Gorky to feature it in their writings.
Is the Georgian Military Highway open all year round?
Set high in the Great Caucasus Range, the road tops out at 2,395m (7,857ft) above sea level, at Jvari Pass, also known as Krestovy Pereval or Cross Pass. This part of the road is notorious for avalanches, but galleries have been built for winter traffic, and the pass stays open for all but a few days most years. Altitude sickness (associated with heights over 2,300 m) should not pose a problem on the road itself, but it may affect travelers who venture off the highway into the mountains. Always check the weather forecast before you start your journey: adverse conditions are common. The road is typically open all year round, with the occasional closure in winters due to dangerous weather conditions, heavy snowfalls, blizzards, and low visibility.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS ON THE GEORGIAN MILITARY ROAD:

1. JVARY MONASTERY
Jvari Monastery is a sixth century Georgian Orthodox monastery perched on the side of a cliff, just outside the city of Mtskheta. Jvari was the first Monastery to take on the cross shape, a design that later became commonplace and it is remarkably intact for a church of this age.
However, one of the main reasons to visit Jvari is to admire the views its position on the hillside offers over Mtskheta and the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers below.

2. ZHINVALI RESERVIOR AND ANANURI FORTRESS
The next stop along the Military road comes some 40km later at one of several viewpoints overlooking Zhinvali Reservoir. The viewpoints will become apparent as you see the heart-shaped props which seem quite popular at photogenic places these days.
The Zhinvali Reservoir was created in 1986 after the construction of a dam. Despite protests from locals wanting to protect important archaeological sites, the Soviets decided the need for water was greater and the valley was flooded.
Today the azure waters of the man-made lake offer a pretty photo stop for travellers along this well-trodden route.
Further along the reservoir you will next stop, the Ananuri Fortress. The fortress is a mish-mash of architectural styles dating back to the 17 century.

3. GUDAURI SKI RESORT
Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus, Gudauri is Georgia’s biggest Ski Resort and a great stop on your tour of the Military Highway. If you like skiing or snowboarding, then you need to dedicate at least a day here. However many people like to visit and simply ride the chairlifts to enjoy the mountain views.
Gudauri is a sprawling resort with the GMH crawling through the middle of it. It’s difficult to identify where the town centre is but a turn off the main highway will lead you into New Gudauri, which is the central hub.
Gudauri isn’t just a Winter stop though as the chairlifts also operate in the Summer months. A series of chairlifts will provide access to Sadzeli Peak. At 3628 meters high, the panoramic views from on top are seriously incredible.

4. RUSSIAN-GEORGIAN FRIENDSHIP MONUMENT
Shortly after Gudauri you will arrive at one of the most popular and iconic stops along the Highway. From the outside the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument doesn’t look all that appealing, however the mosaics on the inside are certainly more impressive, as are the views on offer from the arched balconies.
The Monument was built by the Soviets in 1983 to commemorate relations between the two countries and mark the 200 year anniversary of the Treaty of Georgievsk. Given the often bumpy relationship between these neighbouring countries, it’s fascinating that locals and foreigners alike, still flock to this monument.

5. STEPANTSMINDA (KAZBEGI)
This small mountain town straddles both sides of the valley and is dominated by the surrounding mountains. The main attraction in this town is Gergeti Church, which perches on a hillside in the shadow of Mt Kazbek. The church sits at 2170m and still operates as a Georgian Orthodox Church.
There are two ways to visit the church, either by a half day hike or through taking a jeep ride to the top.

6. ROOMS HOTEL KAZBEGI
Finally overnight at Rooms Hotel. The hotel is famous for its landscape views from the terraces of all rooms and a cozy library. It is located in the village of Stepantsminda at the foot of one of the most beautiful peaks of the Caucasus - Mount Kazbek.
The restaurant at Rooms Kazbegi serves traditional Georgian and European cuisine. According to tourists, nowhere in Georgia is khinkali prepared as tasty as in Stepantsminda.

TOP REASONS TO VISIT RUSSIA IN WINTER.🇷🇺🔹️SNOW AND ICEMany tourists come to Russia in the summer, but recently, winter t...
19/09/2024

TOP REASONS TO VISIT RUSSIA IN WINTER.🇷🇺
🔹️SNOW AND ICE
Many tourists come to Russia in the summer, but recently, winter travel has become increasingly popular. It is great to spend the Christmas holidays in a beautiful new place, relax among the snowy nature, see the main attractions in winter dresses and much more.
There is a lots of snow, 100% white so that shining brightly, slowly falling and covering everything, and it has made winter a special time of the year. The suburbs are particularly beautiful being entirely covered by show untouched and peacefully lying on the trees.
Ice is a real wonder that makes Russia one of the best countries where one can feel the real winter. Among the undebatable proofs is the frozen lake Baikal, located in Irkutskaya Oblast. Its frozen surface that thickness may be up to 1.5 meters and is crisscrossed with millions of cracks, which merely looks surreal. Walking, driving, or even skating – pretty much everything is permitted to be done, except anything that may seriously damage this incredible beauty. Natural ice formations that might also be seen there could win all the ice sculpture competitions.

🔹️WINTER ACTIVITIES
Playing snowballs in the parks or skating on numerous skating rinks (many of those are free!) are just the beginning of the list of incredible winter activities you may get involved in. Common and well-known ones such as skiing may be enjoyed in the mountains, for example in Sochi or North Caucasus (Dombay, Cheget, and Elbrus) where the brilliant ski resorts may be found or even in the suburbs of Saint Petersburg and Moscow where all the needed infrastructure is also ensured, though on a smaller scale. As for the millions of national winter-only activities, in Russia, you may try dog sledding, have a traditional troika sleigh, or more exotic reindeer ride. Lovely husky, gorgeous horses and amazing reindeer are the best companions to discover incredible Russian landscapes and parks, and this way of entertainment (which is still used as the transportation means in Siberia and some other regions!) will amuse you and leave the best memories about the wonderful Russian winter.

🔹️RUSSIAN CULTURE
Russia is famous for its incredible cultural heritage and numerous locations and performances that are worth visiting. First, this is precisely between November and March when theatres launch new programs, and you may catch outstanding ballets like Swan Lake or the Nutcracker performed by the world-known dancers in such venues as Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg or Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. Second, in wintertime, you do not have to stay in the long queues to the Hermitage or Catherine’s Palace, winter is the best time to escape crowds in the world-known museums.
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Finally, covered with snow, Russia in winter is an entirely different country compared to its summer image. People wearing fur coats and warm jackets, warming up by drinking hot coffee, walking around the cities and snowy suburbs, participating in winter activities, and sharing positive emotions with their beloved ones, enjoying Christmas markets and New Year’s traditions… This atmosphere is truly unique, and the cities and the country as a whole look different.

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