4 Sightseeing Highlights Not To Miss – Moscow Russia – 2009
- Larry J Haubner
- September 12, 2020
- 12:51 pm
In 2009 I had the opportunity to visit Moscow, Russia for a business trade expo. It was an exciting experience to go visit the place where for most of my life has been forbidden in my mind. Being a child in the 1970’s – 1980’s we were taught that Russia was the primary enemy of the United States. My father favored war and spy movies that at this time mostly featured the the KGB as the most sinister organization in the world.
Having literally traveled almost 2,000,000 miles via air so far this was my most apprehensive trip to date.
I can remember starting my trip in Cincinnati flying to JFK (New York City) for my transfer to Moscow.
As I boarded the plan it was like going back to the 1980’s. The plane was very antiquated and had a funny smell to it. I found my way to my set and when I sat down it was like sitting on plywood with some cloth over it. On this trip I have the luxury of sitting in the exit isle which gives you a bit more leg room. As we were flying I heard a whistling noise from the air moving across the outside of the fuselage of the airplane. I noticed a gap in two part or the airplane that you can see light thought. Not a crack, just a gap between two parts of the fuselage of the air plane. Needless to say this made my anxiousness about this trip grow a bit more immediately.
Arriving into Moscow was like arriving in many European cities. At the the airport there we many police carrying sub machine guns and signs that where I could not read the native language and depended on the English subtitles near by. I arrived in to the arrivals area to be picked up by two people that have been sent to pick me us. Alex and Sergei were employees of the company I was working with while in Moscow. Alex spoke good English and Sergei spoke little. We moved the car quickly and Alex spent time talking small talk. Both were about my same age. We got into the car and made our way toward the hotel where I would be staying for my week in Moscow. Once we made our way outside it reminded me of what it Russia looked like in the spy movies we used to watch in the 1980’s. Being in December it was cold and gray outside. Everyone had on thick trench coats and thick Russian winter hats.
In coming to Russia for the first time I thought it would be best to stay in a place that I thought would be familiar to me. The Crowne Plaza Trade Centre Moscow would be my home for the week. The hotel was located within walking distance the the ExpoCentre where I would be working each day and have stores and restaurants close by if needed. My room was about 15 floors up with a beautiful view of the Moskva river which weaved it way the the entire city of Moscow.
During the travel planning of my trip to Moscow my host recommended me stay in a hotel that was on a boat on the river. I have the room booked until speaking with my boss. He said that you are going to a interesting place and your you could be spending alot of time in your hotel / hotel room. This is what made me think again about staying in an American hotel. Coincidentally, the Hotel Boat that was recommended to me was in clear sight from my hotel room. Nice enough looking and maybe I will try in on my next trip to Moscow.
As with most business trips abroad I arrived on Sunday morning to be ready to work first thing on Monday. My two Russian friends were willing to take me to do some sight seeing. The first stop was one of the most know places on earth, The Kremlin.
The Kremlin is a fortified Complex in the center of Moscow overlooking the Moskva River. It houses the Russian Government buildings and the Grand Kremlin Palace. It is surounded by several colorful cathedrals.
St Basil Cathedral
Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier
The Tomb is located at the Kremlin Wall in the Alexander Garden in Moscow. The remains of the unknown soldiers killed in the Battle of Moscow in 1941 were initially buried in a mass grave of the Shtyki Memorial at the 40th km of the Leningrad highway at the city of Zelenograd. This was the location of the closest approach of the German armies to Moscow during the war. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the battle, in December 1966 these remains were relocated to the Kremlin Wall. (Wikipedia)
During the week I spent most of my time working but did have time to explore a bit in the evenings. Most evenings being a visitor from the USA we enjoyed authentic Russia and Ukrainian meals. One thing learned very quickly is that Russian do like to drink vodka. Lots of vodka. With meals, without meals and during the work day. I did not try to keep up with them as I would be asleep around noon each day.
Subway Art
The subway system in Moscow is decorated with the most beautiful painting. This is something to not miss if you find your self in Moscow.
Top 8 Places to Visit When In Moscow
Red Square: The heart of Moscow, Red Square is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as St. Basil’s Cathedral, the State Historical Museum, and the Kremlin.
The Kremlin: Moscow’s ancient fortress and palace complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Russia’s president, as well as several stunning cathedrals and museums.
St. Basil’s Cathedral: This 16th-century Orthodox cathedral is one of Moscow’s most famous landmarks, renowned for its vibrant, multi-colored onion domes.
The Bolshoi Theatre: This historic theatre has been the home to Russia’s most famous ballet and opera companies for over two centuries.
The Moscow Metro: With its ornate stations and intricate mosaics, Moscow’s underground transit network is considered one of the world’s most beautiful.
GUM Department Store: This lavish shopping center showcases Imperial Russia’s opulent architecture and design, with an impressive selection of luxury boutiques.
Izmailovo Market: This vibrant outdoor market offers a wide variety of authentic Russian souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional foods.
Victory Park: A vast memorial complex dedicated to the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during World War II, Victory Park is home to several monuments, museums, and memorials honoring fallen soldiers.