aegean yacht retreat

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Aegean Euphoria: An all-inclusive 7-day trip into Wellness

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Aegean Euphoria: A 7-day trip into Wellness

Embark on an  all-inclusive  wellness & fitness floating retreat. forget your worries aboard can't remember - your next transformative journey of self-discovery & rejuvenation starts here.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves, the warm Mediterranean sun caressing your skin and a  full rejuvenating fitness and wellness program  awaiting you aboard our stunning motor yacht  Can't Remember . If this sounds like a dream come true, then the  7-day wellness experience  aboard the magnificent  Can't Remember  in the Aegean Sea is the ultimate escape for you. This extraordinary journey promises not only breathtaking views and luxurious accommodations but also a comprehensive fitness and wellness curriculum curated by a dedicated on-board trainer, ensuring you return home not only relaxed but also revitalized.

Set Sail & Set Intentions

As you step aboard the  Can't Remember , the anticipation of the week ahead fills the air.  Can't Remember  offers state-of-the-art amenities and lavish accommodations, ensuring your comfort is a top priority. With spacious suites, panoramic views, and deluxe lounging areas, every moment on the yacht is a  feast for the senses . Meet our dedicated 24/7  on-board trainer , who is not just a fitness expert but a wellness guide. Wellness advisor:  Dorothea Tsimliaraki  - PE specialist, wellness coach.

Nutritious Med-Inspired Culinary Delights

Dorothea will be following a meticulously planned Mediterranean Diet with carefully sourced products and perfectly prepared meals aiming to provide an  amazing experience  for the senses with  health and rejuvenation  in mind. The aromas and flavors of the islands and the Greek sea will be strongly present.

Unwind and Recharge 

Beyond the fitness activities,  Can't Remember  offers an oasis of tranquility. Endless alfresco options, indulge in spa treatments or simply soak in the sun as you absorb the therapeutic energy of the sea. Elevate Your Well-Being Aboard  Can't Remember .
This 7-day fitness and wellness voyage is designed to renew your body, mind and spirit. With expert guidance, luxurious surroundings, and an array of activities, you'll return home not just relaxed, but revitalized. Rediscover your inner balance amidst the Aegean's stunning vistas.

Watersports & Diving : Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a selection of exhilarating watersports, from paddle boarding and snorkeling to thrilling diving adventures all under the expert guidance of our experienced crew. Walking Tours : Explore the charming coastal villages and hidden gems of the Aegean islands through guided walking tours that provide a delightful blend of exercise and cultural enrichment.

Discover Inner Harmony with Pilates

Enhance your core strength, balance, and mental clarity with invigorating Pilates sessions. Guided by our expert trainer, these sessions will help you achieve a harmonious connection between your body and mind.

Sunset Stretching & Relaxation : Wind down each day with sunset relaxation sessions, a perfect way to reflect and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. From sunrise workouts to cultural explorations and underwater discoveries, each day offers a new dimension of well-being. With a dedicated trainer by your side, you'll receive personalized guidance and support, ensuring you make the most of this unique opportunity. As you disembark, you carry not only the beauty of the Aegean Sea in your heart but also a refreshed body, mind and soul.

Daily Fitness & Wellness Program

Each day on  Can't Remember  is a blend of carefully curated activities designed to cater to all fitness levels and preferences:

06:30  -  Group Morning Stretch : Start your day with a gentle group stretch on the yacht's deck, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the sea. 07:00  -  Light Breakfast : Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast to energize your body for the day ahead. 07:30  -  Hiking Trails/Walking Tour : Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Aegean coastline with guided hiking trails or walking tours on the picturesque islands. 08:30  -  Snack : Enjoy a wholesome snack to keep your energy levels up. 09:00  -  Pilates : Engage your core and strengthen your body through a Pilates session, led by our expert trainer. 10:00  -  Swimming : Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea for a refreshing swim, a perfect way to cool down and work on your cardiovascular fitness. 12:30  -  Free Time/Rest : Recharge in your private cabin or bask in the sun on the deck. 13:00  -  Lunch : Delight in a nutritious and delicious lunch that caters to your dietary needs. 14:00  -  Free Time/Rest : Continue your relaxation journey in your preferred way. 17:00  -  Water Sport : Unleash your adventurous spirit with an array of water sports, from kayaking to paddleboarding and more. 18:00  -  Snack : Enjoy a post-activity snack to refuel. 18:15  -  Interval Training Exercise : Challenge yourself with interval training sessions that push your limits and boost your metabolism. 19:00  -  Sunset Stretching  (Yoga Based): Wind down with a serene yoga-based stretching session as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. 19:30  -  Dinner : Indulge in a delectable dinner that combines nourishment and flavor, prepared by our onboard chef. 20:30  -  Lights Out : Reflect on your day and get a good night's sleep in your cozy cabin, ready to embrace the adventures of the following day.

Optional Amenities: IDNA : DNA analysis and lifestyle recommendations /  PSYCHOLOGY ASSESSMENT : 4-hour group Life coaching & Communication Skills session

Reserve your spot now and let the Aegean breeze guide you toward a healthier, more balanced you.

Inquiries :  contact us  |  Explore   Μ/Υ Can't Remember  |  Download   Aegean Euphoria program

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AEGEAN SEA YACHT CHARTERS

IDEAL TIME TO CHARTER: June – October

The Aegean sea is dotted with numerous islands, including 11 main islands in Greece. By definition, it is the region of the Mediterranean Sea between Greece and Turkey. Here are some islands for you to consider in a private yacht charter your itinerary. Some sound familiar, and all are described below: Thasos, Samothraki, Limnos, Agios, Efstratios, Lesbos, Chios, Oinouses, Psara, Samos, Icaria, and Fournoi.

The most northerly of all the islands is Thasos, with its lofty pines. South of Thrace is Samothraki, the island where the famous Winged Victory was found and now displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris.  Further south are Limnos and the island of Hephaestus, the Aegean’s eighth largest island.  Here you will find a petrified forest, a castle, tame deer, traditional villages that resemble amazing paintings, rich history, vibrant nightlife, sites that are lost in the mists of time, and over 100 beaches.

An Aegean voyage is an immersion in idyllic waters, visiting a culture immersed in history.  Chartering a private yacht brings you up-close with the people, food and atmosphere of unique each island.

Health related Travel Information updates for:  Greece

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

For best results, tell your desired travel dates and itinerary ideas and let our complimentary planning service do the rest. 

AGIOS EFSTRATIOS

Agios Efstratios is a small island located in the middle of the Aegean Sea between Limnos, Skyros and Lesbos. The Mycenaean ruins of the ancient town of Neai, built on an elevation, shows that the island was inhabited in antiquity.

Lesbos is the third largest island in Greece and near the Turkish Coast. The fragrance of pine and olive tree fragrances waft through a gentle mountain ridge. The island was first inhabited around 3000 BC. It is famed for the production of olive oil, cheese and also for it’s ouzo, the preferred drink in Greece.

Chios maybe known for the mastic flavoring from the bushy evergreen tree, it’s Greek Easter competitive church celebrations but the medieval villages of Olymbos and Mesta still remain mostly untouched by time. Chios lies just off the coast of the Turkish coast between Samos and Lesbos.

Oinousses is a small island with Oinousses sailors gathering in the summer months to relax with few tourists.

Psara a barren island with a population of 460. It is a tranquil island with beautiful shorelines.

Samos is a large Aegean island covered with pure white sand beaches, picturesque villages and fishing harbors. It is only 2 km from Turkey. A visit to the Archaeological and Byzantine Museums along with the only remaining column of the Temple of Hera (site of Heraion) will satisfy history buffs.

Icaria is famous for its therapeutic springs, but the landscape is dramatic to cure anyone! The mountain is covered in wild, almost primitive vegetation and as far as the eye can see before you, is the sea gleaming below under the blazing sun. This is the Icarian Sea into which mythical Icarus fell and drowned when the sun melted his wax wings.

Fournoi is a quiet rest and not for the restless. No cars only fish-tavernas and fishermen to converse with in the evenings.

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Restaurant-Yacht Chaika

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

Pleasantly surprised, service is good so is the food. Great selection of Fusion food, a mixture of Italian, Japanese, European, Asian etc. A pleasantly nice dining experience, highly recommended, a must try!

Thank you for your feedback and invite you to have lunch or dinner again aboard the ship in an atmosphere of high standards of yacht hospitality.

everything was perfect - the food, the service, the desserts were the best, nice atmosphere and the location - magical

Best food, best view in Moscow. absolutely faultless from arrival to finish. Best risotto i had for many years absolutely perfectly cooked. The view on Ukrainian hotel and the white house by night is amazing

Had to wait for the food for 1.5 hours and then another 20 minutes for the check. Finally called for the manager and he offered... a 10% discount as a compensation. Simply pathetic! The food is mediocre at best. Not bad per se, but one... would expect something better considering the prices. There are many places to eat in area that are much better. Avoid this one at all costs. More

Hello, Alexander Your comment is extremely important for us, thank you a lot for it. We are terribly sorry for your time that you`ve spent waiting your order and we have already taken actions to improve quality of our service and it would be realy... More

Food is very expensive,very pretentious, doesn't worth that money. Portions are very small. We ordered ravioli and there were 4! Four raviolis! For almost 15 euros. Then we asked to bring us dessert menu but nothing, they didn't even bothered, so we payed and left... without dessert. Very poor service for that price. More

This is a very good restaurant. The food is really good, maybe the best in Moscow. The service is also good. The view from the restaurant is great. The prices are very high.

I often visit this restaurant and must say it’s one of the best in Moscow in terms of quality and service. Staff really try hard to make sure that you are happy and satisfied. Customer service is a huge problem in Moscow but Chaika sets... a great example for others in the industry! Food is delicious and the menu has lots of options for everyone! Atmosphere is great and view is beautiful on the embankment. Special thanks to German & Oleg! More

Thank you for your feedback! Again aboard the yacht restaurant "Chaika" in accordance with the high standards of yacht hospitality.

Highly recommended, great location in the city center of Moscow with a superb atmosphere. Too many menu choices, though all delicious!

Thx a lot for your review! We are looking forward to see you in our restaurants.

Visited this lovely restaurant with a friend of mine. It was relaxingly warm August evening - so the place on the river seemed like a good idea. We came quite early and the restaurant was not full. The hostesses kindly offered several places to sit... and we chose to sit on the sofas. We had some wine, which was good. We struggled a bit when deciding about the food as few options (scallops) were not available. Fish on ice on display did not look very fresh. To be honest it was an unusually hot August and it is probably understandable that some see food options were not available. However, we did manage to order something and sat waiting and looking onto the river. My long-legged friend struggled sitting at the low sofa and the manager noticed that, offering as a very good, proper table beside the open window. It was nice touch and I was very pleased by their polite observations and immediate reaction to solve the problem. Food was quite good and presentation was perfect. Perhaps I can something about the food, but 1 visit is not enough to criticize or make a definitive opinion. Overall, quality place, which of course, does not come cheap. I would recommend this restaurant without hesitation. More

Good afternoon! Thank you for your detailed feedback! We are looking forward to seeing you again, we are sure that you will be delighted with our dishes!

I've been here several times during two business trip in Moscow. The overall quality for both service and food is absolutely top-notch, plus the location is very unique.

Hello! Thank you for your feedback! We are looking forward to visiting again!

Located on a boat at Krasnopresenskaya River Bank this 5 Star Restaurant transforms into a party location due to multiple groups hosting events. Impressive wine selection, Asian and European kitchen...

Thx a lot! We are waiting for you!

It is a nice place to gather specially at the lounge The service and staff very good I like the river view The food is almost like all restaurants in Russia they serve different cuisine. Staring Russian appetizer till Asian dishes Presentation and taste amazing... I consider it overpriced little bit More

Good location. Nice views. Good choice of food and drinks. European and Asian menu. Nice service. Pricey enough.

Had a large group dinner here. Food was above average and service quite good. The real attraction is the view of Moscow from the river on a nice night. Great place for a larger group dinner. More

Hello, John We are really pleased by reading that you and your friends were satisfied by our service, client`s experience is the highest value for us. We will be happy to see you again, come and enjoy some new dishes from our chef and nice... More

The luxurious atmosphere of this place, the view and the location make it quite outstanding. We had dinner here with friends and the dishes were amazing, accompanied by a chilled bottle of Chablis, it really made me feel as if it was a part of... the classic Russian movie. More

RESTAURANT-YACHT CHAIKA, Moscow - Presnensky - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor

• Service: 4.5
• Atmosphere: 4.5

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The Beginning of the End: Napoleon’s Retreat from Russia

Dec 15, 2021

THE BEGINNING OF THE END: NAPOLEON’S RETREAT FROM RUSSIA

Reading time: 6 minutes

On 24 June 1812, Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte led the French Grand Army across the Neman River, invading Russia. By this point, the French Emperor had won many military victories, giving him control over most of Europe. However, his invasion of Russia would prove to be a devastating point in the Napoleonic wars and a major blow to his political and military power across Europe.

By Madison Moulton

The Napoleonic Wars

Napoleon had always seen Russia as a natural ally due to the lack of territorial conflicts with France. However, this stance quickly changed when the Russian Czar Alexander I moved against Napoleon. 

In 1810, Alexander I stopped complying with Napoleon’s trade embargo against Britain, known as the Continental System. This was due to the negative effects the embargo had on Russian trade. Over and above this, Alexander I imposed heavy taxes on French luxury items and denied Napoleon’s request to marry one of his sisters. 

The formation of the Duchy of Warsaw (also known as Napoleonic Poland) in 1807 set the stage for Russian non-compliance. The formation of Napoleonic Poland increased Russia’s concern about a French invasion. It also exacerbated Alexander I’s fears of anti-Russian sentiment in Poland. 

His fears came true in 1812 when Napoleon moved a massive army to the borders of Russia in Poland. The size of the army was between 500,000 and 700,000 men from all over Europe. It’s been described as the most diverse European force since the Crusades. 

Understanding the dangers of Russian winter, Napoleon knew his invasion needed to be quick and decisive. However, he wasn’t expecting the refusal of Russian troops to engage his army near the border, or the realities of the harsh Russian terrain. 

The Invasion 

The beginning .

Napoleon and his troops crossed the Neman River from Poland on 24 June 1812. Instead of engaging, however, Russia pulled its 200,000 men back. By 27th June, the French army had easily captured the city of Vilna. A storm swept over the city the same night, with freezing rain, hail, and sleet killing several troops and horses. Many soldiers had also already begun to desert the French army in search of food. Despite this, Napoleon marched on. 

The Russian forces continued to retreat, but they left devastation in their wake. As they abandoned the city of Vitebsk, they set fire to many military stores and a bridge. The Russian army continued burning cities every time they retreated. The scorched earth tactics were also carried out by peasants, who burned their crops to deny them to the French. 

The lives of the French troops only worsened as they became overwhelmed by typhus and dysentery. While many lives were lost during minor battles, most died from these diseases and lack of supplies. 

The Battle of Borodino 

Napoleon’s forces reached the small village of Borodino near Moscow on 7 September. They were met by the Imperial Russian Army and the bloodiest battle of the invasion ensued. It’s said to have involved more than 200,000 troops and resulted in the death of over 70,000 men.  

Both armies fought with overwhelming firepower for the age, with thousands of cannon balls and hundreds of thousands of musket balls expended. The battle ended the next day as the Russian army retreated once more, leaving the road to Moscow open. While this was another victory for Napoleon, the battle exhausted his forces. This battle was also the last offensive action fought by Napoleon in Russia, becoming a pivotal point in the campaign. 

The Beginning of the End 

After a few days of rest following the devastation of the Battle of Borodino, the French army marched toward Moscow. They reached the city on 14 September, but instead of meeting resistance from Russian troops, they were faced with a burning city. 

The citizens of Moscow had been ordered to evacuate by the Russian troops. All they left behind was a little food, plenty of alcohol, and Moscow in flames. While the French troops pillaged the empty city, Napoleon waited for Alexander I to surrender. Napoleon and his forces waited in Moscow for over a month, but no offer for peace came. By 19 October, the cold had begun to set in, and Napoleon was forced to move from Moscow. 

Things continued to spiral for the French Army as they retreated through the already devastated countryside. By this point, Napoleon’s forces were reduced to a mere 100,000 men. Many more died on this journey, either from disease, small battles, or being exposed to the harsh Russian winter.

Throughout November the humiliating realities of Napoleon’s losses were exposed to the world. On 5th December, amid rumours of a potential coup, Napoleon left his devastated army. Just over a week later, what was left of Napoleon’s grand army straggled back over the Neman River. 

The Fall of Napoleon 

By the end of 1812, Austria, Prussia, and Sweden rejoined the fight to crush Napoleon. By the following year, most of Europe was against him. 

Napoleon still managed to raise a large army to fight his new enemies. However, his devastating losses in Russia meant he was short on experienced troops and cavalry. Despite this, the War of the Sixth coalition ensued.

France managed to secure a handful of victories throughout the war but was ultimately defeated. The Battle of Leipzig in October 1813 ended in Napoleon’s loss, further weakening his withering control.

Paris was ultimately captured in March 1814 and Napoleon was forced into exile on the island of Elba. He attempted to regain power once more a year later with the Battle of Waterloo but was ultimately defeated. 

Napoleon Bonaparte managed to gain control of most of Europe throughout the Napoleonic wars. But his six-month-long invasion of Russia sparked the beginning of his downfall. While his invasion was well planned, the harshness of Russia’s seasons and terrain, and clever military tactics by the Russian army would prove devastating. Napoleon’s failed invasion would encourage mutiny amongst his allies, ultimately resulting in his downfall and exile. 

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Black troops were welcome in Britain, but Jim Crow wasn’t: the race riot of one night in June 1943

August 28, 2023

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Aristocratic and mysterious, a mix of retro and modern, the Russian capital of twelve million people is one of the most lively, iconic cities in the world. Book a flight with Aegean Airlines and touch down in an amazing metropolis – one of the landmark cities of world history, culture and the arts. From its magnificent Orthodox churches and Soviet-era skyscrapers to its baroque shopping malls and iconic cultural venues, Moscow is an inexhaustible source of surprises and delightful contrasts, set on the banks of the River Moskva. Book a flight and travel to the largest city in Europe, where the heart of contemporary Russia beats to a rhythm of cosmopolitanism and continual renewal.

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Some of the most famous sights in the world are here. You only need to wander through Moscow’s huge boulevards in order to discover all the aspects of this cosmopolitan metropolis. Red Square is definitely your first stop. When you have admired the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum and Saint Basil's Cathedral, continue your walk along the pedestrian Arbat Street. Don’t forget to see the famous Bolshoi Theatre from up close. Take the metro not just to discover the city but also to admire the stations, which are works of art in their own right.

Kremlin : The most famous of all Moscow’s sights, and the historic heart of the Russian capital, the gigantic fortress city of the Kremlin is an enduring symbol of the power, wealth and majesty of the Russian nation. Behind its high, red walls lie opulent palaces, elegant churches, impressive towers, beautiful gardens and unique museums. Address: Krasnaya ploshchad, 109012 Moscow,  kreml.ru Red Square:  The sheer scale of Red Square, the historic and spiritual heart of Moscow, will take your breath away. Walk among the hordes of visitors across the black stones of the square and marvel at the imposing monuments: the Mausoleum of Lenin, the State Museum of History, the Cathedral of Saint Basil and the red walls of the Kremlin. Address: Krasnaya ploshchad, 103012 Moscow Cathedral of Saint Basil:  The most frequently photographed building in Moscow, the cathedral stands in a prominent position to the south-west of Red Square. Built in the 16th century, it has eight different churches with domes of many colours surrounding a central ninth church and creating a joyful complex of ecclesiastical buildings that defies the imagination. Equally impressive is the interior, adorned with more than 400 icons and frescoes. Address: 4 Krasnaya ploshchad, 103012 Moscow,  saintbasil.ru Tretyakov State Gallery:  This is one of the world’s most important museums, founded in 1892 by the Russian industrialist Pavel Tretyakov. The impressive collection currently includes more than 100,000 paintings, sculptures and examples of the graphic arts, the centrepiece being the superb collection of pre-revolutionary Russian art. Visitors can admire the finest collection of Russian Orthodox icons to be found anywhere in the world, and the most famous works of the pioneers of the Russian Realist movement, such as Ilya Repin. Address: Lavrushinsky pereulok 10, 119017 Moscow,  tretyakovgalley.ru Bolshoi Theatre:  The home to the most legendary ballets in the world is a superb neoclassical building, worthy of the magnificent beauty of the productions staged there. Even if you don’t plan to watch any of the performances, you should definitely go on one of the guided tours of the interior, and admire the huge red and gold auditorium with its glorious history. Address: Teatralnaya ploshchad 1, 125009 Moscow,  bolshoi.ru Gorky Park : This is the Russian equivalent of New York’s Central Park, the favourite haunt of Muscovites of all ages, with all sorts of entertainments: rollercoasters, carousels and shooting galleries, cafes, restaurants and a summer cinema. In winter the artificial lake is transformed into a giant skating rink; in summer you can take a boat out on the water. Address: Krymsky Val ulitsa 9, 119049 Moscow,  park-gorkogo.com Pushkin Museum:  This is one of Russia’s most iconic museums, founded in 1896 to house the collection of 19th century works belonging to the University of Moscow. It was renamed in 1937 in honour of the great Russian poet. The current exhibits include impressive collections of European paintings, from the Italian Renaissance (Michelangelo) to Rembrandt, and the world’s largest collection of impressionists (Monet, Renoir, Cezanne). Address: Volkhonka ulitsa 12, 119019 Moscow,  arts-museum.ru Novodevichy Convent and Cemetery:  This architecturally impressive monastic complex of the 16th century is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The focal point is the white Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk, with its exquisite frescoes. You should definitely visit the cemetery, which is the final resting place of some of the most illustrious figures in Russian arts and letters, from Gogol and Chekhov to Stanislavsky, Bulgakov and Shostokovich. Address: Novodevichy proezd 1, 119435 Moscow,  novodev.msk.ru Sanduny Baths : Constructed in 1808, this elegant and famous banya (bathhouse) has been in continuous use to the present day, enjoyed by thousands of Muscovites and visitors, including such eminent figures as Alexander Pushkin. Sample an important element in the Russian tradition: a hot steam bath followed by a therapeutic ‘flogging’ with birch twigs. Address: Neglinnaya ulitsa 3-7/14, 107031 Moscow,  sanduny.ru Moscow Metro : The Moscow Metro is the most lavishly decorated underground rail system in the world, whose stations are veritable works of art in their own right. The decoration features everything from Baroque chandeliers and fantastic sculptures to exquisite ceiling mosaics. The most remarkable of all the stations is Komsomolskaya .

Moscow is a cosmopolitan consumer paradise, especially for those with plenty to spend. You will see the wealthiest shoppers strolling along Tverskaya ulitsa, the most glamorous of the city’s streets with its eye-wateringly expensive boutiques and elegant stores. There is also Stoleshnikov pereulok, one of the most expensive streets on the planet, selling the world’s most iconic luxury brands. If you only have time to visit one of the malls, it should be the iconic and magnificent GUM, located opposite the Kremlin. Behind its dazzling white façade lies an extremely elegant Victorian arcade with a glass ceiling, home to very expensive boutiques stocking the work of international designers as well as jewellery and watches, perfume stores, cafes and restaurants. Even if you don’t plan to purchase anything, it’s worth a visit for its amazing atmosphere and wonderful architecture. Equally impressive is the TSUM department store. For those on a tighter budget, the ATRIUM, Evropeiskly and Metropolis malls have a huge range of goods to choose from. Souvenir hunters should visit the famous Izmaylovo Market, which is the best place to find authentic Soviet mementoes, from matryoshkas to fur hats (ushanka). You will also find all sorts of souvenirs (from samovars to print shirts) at the trendy traffic-free Arbat Street in the historic centre of the city. Gourmets will love the Dorogomilovsky and Danilovsky food markets, a paradise of Russian delicatessen foods .

In recent years the Moscow dining scene has undergone a real renaissance, with hundreds of cafes and restaurants serving cuisines from all around the world, from European and Caucasian to Japanese sushi. Yet despite this recent explosion in new eating places, food remains a very expensive business in the Russian capital. Of the local dishes you should try the famous beef Stroganoff, borsch (soup with beetroot and meat), saslik (marinated lamb on a skewer), pelmeni (a type of ravioli), ukha (fish soup), and of course piroshky and blinis (small Russian pancakes) with caviar. The best and most economical way to enjoy fresh, wholesome food is to eat canteen-style at one of the Stolovaya (a typical Russian cafeteria), where you can choose from among dozens of dishes on the comprehensive buffet. You can also take advantage of the excellent value for money of the prix-fixe business lunches served every day in many cafes and restaurants from 12 noon to 4 in the afternoon. You will find these in the Sadovoye district. Moscow is a city which never sleeps. The nightlife features everything from expensive and exclusive clubs for the elite to alternative pubs and indie bars. Most of the clubs have rigorous face control to vet their customers. For something more relaxed, try one of the cafes, which usually function as bars or dance halls in the evening. You’ll find hundreds of bars and clubs in Krasny Oktyabr, a former chocolate factory which has been converted into the most fashionable venue in Moscow nightlife .

• Russian Winter Festival:   Every winter from 25 December to 5 January Moscow holds an amazing festival to help the city enter the spirit of the harsh Russian winter. Events are centred on Izmaylovo Park, which is transformed into a winter wonderland where local people and tourists can join in a non-stop party, with dancing, singing, traditional folk customs, three-horse sleigh rides in the forest, chess on the ice, ice sculpture contests and huge quantities of vodka accompanied by blinis and caviar.
• Russian Independence Day:   The national anniversary of the end of the former Soviet Union is celebrated every year on 12 June, with a magnificent procession through Red Square.
• Moscow City Day:   The anniversary of the city’s founding (4 September) is celebrated each year on the first Saturday in September, with a huge street party extending across Theatre Square, Red Square and the glamorous Tverskaya Avenue. There are parades and various forms of entertainment from photography exhibitions to children’s theatre.
• Moscow International Film Festival : One of the world’s biggest film festivals, whose presidents have included Eisenstein and Nikita Mihalkov, the impressive programme brings to Moscow every summer some of the most famous names in world cinema.

Transport from the airport

A egean Airlines flights land at Moscow-Domodedovo International Airport, 42km to the south of the city centre. The airport has a mall with lots of duty free stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, banks, ATMs, bureaus de change and a post office. WiFi is available, for a charge, all through the airport, and there are mobile device charging points in all the restaurants, cafes and bars. The easiest and most convenient way to get into the city centre is to take the direct high-speed Aeroexpress train, running from the airport station to the Paveletsky Station in the heart of the city. The journey lasts 40-50 minutes. You can also get the ExpressBus, which departs from the airport every 30 minutes and takes you to the Domodedovskaya Metro Station (a thirty-minute non-stop journey), where you can continue on the Metro to Paveletsky Station .