"В России две беды: дураки и дороги | In Russia there are two problems: fools and roads"
About:
Russia's history begins with the East Slavs in the 9th century, evolving into the Kievan Rus' state. Mongol domination occurred in the 13th century, followed by the rise of Moscow. The 16th-century Tsardom of Russia gave way to the Russian Empire in 1721. The 1917 Russian Revolution established the Soviet Union, which dissolved in 1991, leading to the current Russian Federation. Russia's history has been marked by its vast size, diverse cultures, and significant global influence.
When to visit:
Visiting Russia on a holiday can be a delightful experience, with each season offering unique attractions. The summer months of June to August are popular among tourists as the weather is warm and daylight hours are long, making it ideal for exploring the country's vibrant cities and picturesque countryside. Winter, from December to February, is another magical time to visit Russia, especially for those interested in experiencing the country's famous winter festivities and activities like ice skating on Red Square. Spring and autumn, from March to May and September to November respectively, offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to enjoy cultural events and the changing landscapes of Russia. Ultimately, the best time to visit Russia on a holiday depends on your personal preferences and interests, as each season has its own unique charm to offer.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Russia during the peak of winter, particularly in December and January, is generally considered the worst time for a holiday visit. The country experiences extremely cold temperatures, with Moscow and St. Petersburg often dropping well below freezing. The days are short, with limited daylight hours, and snowfall can disrupt transportation and sightseeing plans. Additionally, many attractions and outdoor activities may be limited or closed during this time, making it a less than ideal period for travelers seeking a vibrant cultural experience.
"Winter (Dec-Feb)"
Winter in Russia, particularly from December to February, is the coldest part of the year. Temperatures can plummet to -30°C in Moscow, while Siberia can reach -50°C. Snowfall is heavy and frequent, blanketing the cities in white. Days are short with only a few hours of sunlight, while cloud cover is dense, often blocking any glimpses of the sun. An average day for a visitor would involve bundling up in multiple layers and braving the icy winds, with indoor activities being preferable.
"Russian Summer (June-August)"
In Russia, the warmest part of the year occurs from late June to early September, with the peak of summer typically being in July. The average temperatures during this period can range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), depending on the region. However, in southern regions like Sochi, temperatures can even reach up to 35°C (95°F).
Rainfall varies across the country, but summer is generally the wettest season, especially in the western part of the country. Thunderstorms are common during this period but they tend to be brief. The average rainfall in Moscow, for example, is around 85mm in July.
During summer, Russia experiences long daylight hours due to its high latitude. In fact, in places like St. Petersburg, there's a phenomenon known as the "White Nights" where the sun barely sets. This results in almost 24 hours of daylight.
Humidity tends to be moderate in summer, but it can get quite high after rain showers. As for cloudiness, summer days are usually partly cloudy, with more clear days than in other seasons.
For a visitor, a typical summer day in Russia would feel warm and long, with plenty of sunlight for sightseeing. There might be occasional rain showers or thunderstorms, but they usually don't last long. The humidity can be a bit uncomfortable after rain, but overall, the weather is quite pleasant for outdoor activities.
Language:
Russian is the official and most widely spoken language in Russia. It belongs to the East Slavic group of the Indo-European family of languages. Minority languages spoken include Tatar and Ukrainian, among others. In addition, English is taught as a second language in many schools.