Patty's Places - Russia Cruise 2009

July 29 to August 12, 2009

MORE INFO AND PRICE TO BE AVAILABLE IN DECEMBER

A "grand" cruise through the heart of Russia along the colorful and historic waterways. First explore bustling Moscow, then cruise north and visits the enchanting Golden Ring cities of Uglick and Yaroslavl. Continue along the waterways through Europe's largest two lakes, Onega and Lagoda, arriving in glorious St. Petersburg, one oft he world's most beautiful cities over 1001 islands and canals. Fully escorted with optional return. See all that is included at end of the itinerary!

Tentative Itinerary:

JULY 29,
Day 1 Depart the USA. Select your flight thru our travel agent or thru your own.

JULY 30,
Day 2 ARRIVE IN MOSCOW, RUSSIA. Transfer from airport to the ship MS Tolstoy. See info regarding this ship in our other literature. Move into your stateroom, explore the ship and meet others at a welcome cocktail reception. Shipboard, D - MOSCOW

JULY 31,
Day 3 After breakfast, we will visit this beautiful capital city, founded in 1147. Included are Red Square, St. Basil Cathedral, the Lenin Hills, the Tverskaya, Tverskaya Square (KGB Building) and Arbat Street. After lunch, we'll discover the Moscow Metro, then take a coach to visit the Tverskaya Art Museum. MOSCOW B-L-D

AUG 1,
Day 4 Your tour within the walls of the Kremlin introduces you to the former royal residence of the Czars and main center of the Russian Orthodox faith. On to Russia's oldest museum, the Armory Museum, housing the formal royal collection of treasures, including jewels, crowns, armor, royal carriages and the world famous Faberge' Eggs. Afternoon on your own, perhaps with other members of the cruise, to discover on your own. MOSCOW B-L-D

AUG 2,
Day 5 At last, a full free day to explore the city. There will be lots of help for you as you decide what is your best use of time. You could return to the Kremlin for a more comprehensive tour or join an optional excursion, possibly try a traditional bathhouse, a deeply entrenched Russian relaxation tradition. (And there is always the world famous Gumm Dept. Store!) MOSCOW B-L-D

AUG 3,
Day 6 Moving along the banks of the Volga River, we will see Uglich ahead. Founded by merchant in 1148, here is a town rich in history with some of Russia's most beautiful churches and cathedrals. On our tour, we will see Transfiguration Cathedral and the magnificent Church of Dimitry on the Blood, with its tragic story of dedication to Ivan the Terrible's son. MOSCOW B-L-D

AUG 4,
Day 7 We take a side trip along the Volga to visit Yaroslavi, founded in 1010 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise. As one of Russia's oldest cities it goes back to Viking days. We will explore the city's rich history through its architecture including the fortified 12th cent. Monastery and Church of Elijah, the Prophet, home to many beautiful icons. CRUISING B-L-D

AUG 5,
Day 8 Beside all the religious buildings, etc. seen so far, be assured that you will have lectures by cruise personnel, time to walk the streets of quaint villages, hear the traditional music, etc... a good blend of all things dear and traditional in Russia.
Here's an example: today the peaceful, farming town of Goritsky and a typical Russian village. Tour includes of course, the Monastery of St. Cyril on White Lake and the Museum of Icons with time to stroll, enjoy and photograph the village life. CRUISING B-L-D

AUG 6,
Day 9 The unforgettable town of Kizhi is located at the north end of Lake Onega and home to the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia which are forever linked to the Norvgorod the Great, and reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764, without using a single nail, the locals built their Church of Intersession with towering walls and 22 domes! There is also a very interesting walking tour which includes the Museum of Wooden Architecture. CRUISING B-L-D

AUG 7,
Day 10 Only 100 miles from St. Petersburg, the small village of Svirstroy has only 1,000 inhabitants. A thorough unspoiled village, your will be fascinated by all you see. I must admit that this is the best souvenir shopping of handmade items you will find before reaching St. Petersburg. CRUISING B-L-D

AUG 8,
Day 11 Now, at last, we come into the fabulous St. Petersburg, former capital which rivals other European cities like Paris, Venice for it's romantic image. It was build to the exact specifications of Peter the Great at the beginning of the 18th century. You will find many museums, galleries, palaces, impressive squares, streets and shopping. A sightseeing tour will introduce you to the Nevsky Prospect Palace Square, St. Isaacs Cathedral and even the battle cruiser Aurora. Then the highlight we have been waiting for, tour of the Hermitage Museum, former Palace of the Czars, housing the royal art collection with over 3 million works of art making it one of the largest and most impressive art museums in the world. And Patty adds her "amen" - she studied at the museum for two weeks after taking this same cruise and is delighted to return! ST. PETERSBURG, B-L-D

AUG 9,
Day 12 Today, another outstanding tour of St. Petersburg's famous & spectacular Peterhof Castle on the Gulf of Finland, Build by Peter the Great initially as a resting place in route to the Imperial Naval base. The Czar was quick to see the attractiveness of the area and masterminded a vast estate intended to rival the famous gardens of Versailles. In the evening you might like to attend an optional folklore show or check out other possibilities. ST PETERSBURG, B-L-D

AUG 10,
Day 13 Today is free so you can take a canal ride, visit the beautiful Church of the Holy Blood with a fascinating market nearby filled with Russian crafts, There will be an optional excursion to Pushkin and a visit to the Palace of Catherine the Great. Included tonight is a ballet performance at the Hermitage Theatre. ST PETERSBURG, B-L-D

AUG 11,
Day 14 If you are ready to go home, there will be a transfer from cruise ship to the airport. However, some of us would like to stay a few days more. If interested in joining us, let Patty know and we will keep you informed. The cost will be for the extra nights plus any tours we decide are worthwhile and you will pay for your own food, etc. Keeps it simple.

LET US KNOW OF YOUR INTEREST & WE WILL KEEP YOU INFORMED OF ALL UPCOMING DETAILS

INCLUDED:

12 night cruise, accommodation in outside stateroom

Cocktail reception & welcome dinner

Family home visit with meal in Uglich

All meals on board, early riser coffee

Unlimited win or juice with every dinner

Bottled water in cabin

All local taxes

All inclusive daily sightseeing programs as outlined in the itinerary

Guest lectures on Russia history, culture, art politics and economy

Onboard music performance plus Russian language class

Ballet performance at Heritage Theater

Physician inboard

Not included:

● Airfare ● Airport Taxes ● Passport costs ● Lunches ● Balance of dinners ● Porterage when available ● Liquor, soft drinks ● Laundry ● Extra “thank you” tips ● Items not specifically listed ● Opportunity for special Irish music shows.

Please note: We reserve the right to change the tour if circumstances dictate or if it is better for your enjoyment.