Russia

Russia...
For most westerners, Russia is most often thought of in terms of the 'European' cities of Moscow and St Petersburg, and it's true that these two beautiful cities form two extraordinary focal points in terms of sheer beauty and richness of cultural sites. Moscow's Red Square is perhaps the most enigmatic of all the city centres in the world, whilst the Kremlin is a dazzlingly spectacular fortress-palace dominated by the 70m-high Spasskaya Tower that is instantly recognisable to visitors the world over. St Petersburg was Russia's Imperial capital and home of the czars until Nicolas II was overthrown almost a century ago. If you do get the chance to explore any more of this wonderful country, you'll find some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, from colossal freshwater lakes, country-sized forests and enormous mountain ranges.