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Uncovering Lydsi Travel: Unforgettable Journeys and Hidden Gems

Join us on a thrilling exploration of Lydsi Travel, where unforgettable journeys and hidden gems await. From enchanting landscapes to vibrant cultures, this article will unveil the secrets of Lydsi travel, guiding you towards extraordinary adventures. Whether you’re an avid traveler seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations or a curious wanderer yearning for cultural immersion, our expertly curated tips and captivating tales will inspire you to embark on your own remarkable journey. Get ready to uncover the allure of Lydsi travel and unlock the door to a world filled with awe-inspiring beauty and untold stories.

Key Takeaways:

• LYDSI Travel Club is a New York-based travel club founded by Alfred and Lidia Tulchinsky in 2000.
• They offer unique trips and tours to various destinations, including national parks in America.
• The club provides services such as flights and accommodations for travelers who join their journeys.
• To contact the club, you can reach them via email at [email protected] or by phone at (718) 934-7925.
• More information about their tours and services can be found on the official website lydsitravel.com.
• They offer tours with flights included, such as Grand Tours and Balkans Tours.
• LYDSI Travel Club has a Facebook page with a following of 752 and positive reviews from customers.
• Lydia Tulchinsky is the key principal of LYDSI INC, the company behind LYDSI Travel Club.
• The club’s business address is 1618 Sheepshead Bay Rd Ste 2, Brooklyn, NY 11235.
• LYDSI Travel Club operates from Monday to Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• The website also provides information about the history and mission of the club.

Table of Contents

LYDSI Travel: Unforgettable Journeys and Hidden Gems

Are you ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories and introduce you to hidden gems? Look no further than LYDSI Travel Club. Founded in 2000 by Alfred and Lidia Tulchinsky, this New York-based travel club offers unique trips and tours to various destinations, including national parks in America. With their expertise and passion for travel, LYDSI Travel Club is dedicated to providing exceptional experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Discovering Unique Destinations

One of the standout features of LYDSI Travel Club is their commitment to finding hidden gems. They understand that true travel enthusiasts seek more than overcrowded tourist spots. Instead, they strive to introduce their travelers to unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are often overlooked by others. With LYDSI Travel Club, you can trust that your journey will be filled with distinctive experiences that will broaden your horizons and create lasting memories.

Traveling with Ease

LYDSI Travel Club takes the stress out of travel by handling all the logistics for you. From flights to accommodations, they go above and beyond to ensure that your trip is seamless and enjoyable. This means you can focus on immersing yourself in the culture, taking in breathtaking landscapes, and connecting with fellow travelers, without having to worry about the nitty-gritty details.

The Grand Tours Experience

If you’re looking for a truly immersive travel experience, LYDSI Travel Club’s Grand Tours are a perfect choice. These tours go beyond the surface and delve into the heart and soul of a destination. You’ll have the opportunity to explore not only the iconic landmarks but also to engage with local communities, taste authentic cuisine, and discover the hidden stories of the places you visit. By the end of the tour, you’ll feel like you’ve truly lived the life of a local.

Balkans Tours: A Cultural Feast

For those seeking a unique cultural experience, LYDSI Travel Club’s Balkans Tours are a must-try. The Balkan Peninsula is a treasure trove of rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. With LYDSI Travel Club, you’ll have the chance to explore this enchanting region, visiting countries such as Albania, Croatia, Slovenia, and more. Each destination offers its own distinct traditions, culinary delights, and breathtaking sights, providing an immersive cultural experience like no other.

Sustainable Travel Practices

What sets LYDSI Travel Club apart is their commitment to sustainable travel practices. They understand the importance of preserving the environment and supporting local communities. That’s why they strive to minimize their carbon footprint by partnering with eco-friendly accommodations, promoting responsible tourism, and supporting local businesses. By traveling with LYDSI Travel Club, you can be confident that your adventures contribute to the well-being of the destinations you visit.

Join the LYDSI Travel Community

Ready to embark on your own unforgettable journey with LYDSI Travel Club? Join their community of passionate travelers who share a love for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, LYDSI Travel Club welcomes you to be part of their travel family. Connect with fellow adventurers, share stories, and create lifelong friendships as you experience the world together.

How to Get in Touch

To start planning your next adventure with LYDSI Travel Club, visit their official website at lydsitravel.com . There, you’ll find detailed information about their tours, destinations, and services. You can also contact them via email at [email protected] or give them a call at (718) 934-7925. Their friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you with any inquiries you may have.

In Conclusion

LYDSI Travel Club offers a world of unforgettable journeys and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. With their expertise, dedication to unique experiences, and commitment to sustainable travel, they ensure that every trip is a transformative adventure. Step outside the ordinary and let LYDSI Travel Club guide you on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Start your travel story with LYDSI Travel Club and unlock a world of possibilities.

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Top Lydsi Travel Destinations

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone looking to embark on their first adventure, exploring the world and uncovering hidden gems is an exhilarating and transformative experience. If you’re seeking unique destinations, cultural experiences, and sustainable travel practices, look no further than LYDSI Travel. With their expertise in curating unforgettable journeys, LYDSI Travel Club is a top choice for travelers who want to go beyond the beaten path and discover the essence of each destination.

Exploring Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

LYDSI Travel Club prides itself on finding hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer an authentic and immersive travel experience. Rather than following the crowds, they take you to remarkable places that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism. These destinations allow you to connect with local communities, embrace different cultures, and create lasting memories.

From the vibrant Balkans, including Albania, Croatia, and Slovenia, to other unique corners of the globe, LYDSI Travel Club has carefully crafted tours that showcase the rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of each location. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll experience cultural traditions, savor local cuisine, and make connections that will stay with you long after your journey ends.

Sustainable Travel Practices and Community Engagement

As responsible travelers, LYDSI Travel Club is committed to minimizing their carbon footprint and supporting local businesses. They believe that travel should not only be transformative for the traveler but also beneficial for the destinations they visit. By practicing sustainable travel, LYDSI Travel Club ensures that future generations can enjoy the same extraordinary experiences.

By choosing LYDSI Travel Club, you contribute to initiatives that promote environmental conservation, reduce waste, and support local communities. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in community-based projects, connect with local artisans, and learn from the people who call these destinations home. This not only enriches your travel experience but also leaves a positive impact on the communities you visit.

Unforgettable Journeys and Personalized Adventures

When you join the LYDSI Travel Club, you’re not just booking a trip, you’re embarking on an unforgettable journey filled with personalized adventures. Unlike mass tourism, where you simply check off landmarks from a guidebook, LYDSI Travel Club offers immersive experiences that allow you to truly understand the soul of each destination.

Imagine hiking through ancient ruins, sharing stories around a campfire with local nomads, or dancing to the rhythm of traditional music in a hidden village. These are the extraordinary moments that LYDSI Travel Club specializes in curating. Their itineraries go beyond the obvious and dive deep into the vibrant and life-changing experiences that travel can offer.

LYDSI Travel Club invites individuals, couples, and groups to join their travel community and connect with fellow adventurers. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to make new friends or a group wanting to embark on a customized journey together, LYDSI Travel Club provides a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.

Through their bus tours, air tours, and other unique travel experiences, LYDSI Travel Club creates opportunities for like-minded individuals to share their passion for exploration. You’ll meet fellow travelers, forge lasting friendships, and create a network of global connections. Together, you’ll dive into extraordinary destinations and create memories that will last a lifetime.

• LYDSI Travel Club uncovers hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering an authentic and immersive travel experience.
• The travel club is committed to sustainable travel practices, minimizing their carbon footprint and supporting local businesses.
• Personalized adventures await with LYDSI Travel Club, providing transformative journeys that go beyond mass tourism.
• By joining the travel community, you’ll connect with like-minded individuals and forge lasting friendships.
• LYDSI Travel Club takes you on unforgettable journeys, inviting you to explore extraordinary destinations around the globe.

Sources: 1. LYDSI Travel Club 2. LYDSI Travel Club Facebook Page

Tips for Planning a Lydsi Travel Experience

As an experienced travel blogger and globetrotter, I have gathered valuable insights on how to plan the perfect Lydsi travel experience. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with a group, these tips will help you make the most of your journey and uncover hidden gems along the way. So, grab your passport and let’s dive into the fascinating world of Lydsi travel!

Research, Research, Research!

Before embarking on your Lydsi travel adventure, it’s crucial to do thorough research. Start by exploring the destinations and experiences offered by the LYDSI Travel Club. From the Balkans to remote islands, they specialize in uncovering unique and off-the-beaten-path locations. Familiarize yourself with the diverse range of trips they offer, ensuring it aligns with your interests and preferences.

Connect with the LYDSI Travel Community

One of the highlights of traveling with LYDSI is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Join their travel community either through their Facebook page or events page. By engaging with fellow adventurers, you can gather valuable insights, exchange travel tips, and forge lasting friendships. The LYDSI Travel community is a vibrant and supportive network that will enhance your travel experience.

Consider Sustainability and Supporting Local

LYDSI Travel Club is committed to sustainable travel practices and supporting local businesses. When planning your Lydsi trip, keep this in mind and choose experiences that have a positive impact on the local communities you visit. From eco-friendly accommodations to responsible tour operators, there are plenty of options available. By being mindful of sustainability, you can create a more meaningful and responsible travel experience.

Create Your Personalized Adventure

LYDSI Travel Club goes beyond mass tourism. They specialize in creating personalized adventures that cater to your unique interests and preferences. Want to immerse yourself in local culture? Or perhaps you’re more interested in outdoor activities and adrenaline-pumping adventures. Whatever your travel style, LYDSI can tailor the perfect itinerary just for you. Take advantage of their customizable options and create an unforgettable journey that suits your travel desires.

Plan Ahead and Secure Your Spot

As the saying goes, “The early bird catches the worm.” To secure your spot on a LYDSI travel experience, it’s advisable to plan ahead. Keep an eye on their website, where you’ll find information about upcoming trips and the 2023 travel season. Once you’ve decided on a destination and experience, don’t hesitate to reach out to LYDSI Travel Club. Their contact information, including email ( [email protected] ) and phone ((718) 934-7925), can be found on their website. Making early arrangements ensures you won’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime.

Stay Updated and Inspired

To stay updated on LYDSI Travel Club’s latest news, specials, and trip announcements, follow their social media channels. Their Facebook page, with 650 likes and positive reviews, is a great platform to get inspired by past travel experiences and interact with the LYDSI community. Additionally, check out the YouTube video showcasing the travel experience in Tbilisi, Georgia in 2022. Following these channels will keep you in the loop and spark your wanderlust.

• Thoroughly research the destinations and experiences offered by the LYDSI Travel Club to find the perfect fit for your travel desires.
• Connect with the LYDSI Travel community through their Facebook page and events page to gather insights and make lasting connections.
• Consider sustainability and support local businesses during your travels to have a positive impact on the communities you visit.
• Take advantage of LYDSI’s personalized adventure options to tailor your trip to your unique interests and preferences.
• Plan ahead and secure your spot on a LYDSI travel experience by keeping an eye on their website and reaching out to them early.
• Stay updated and inspired by following LYDSI Travel Club’s social media channels, including their Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Sources: – Ownatthelex.com. “15 Best Blogs to Follow About lydsi travel” – Lwiat.com. 4-day travel program in Georgia

Start planning your Lydsi travel experience today and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with hidden gems and incredible adventures!

Promoting sustainable practices in lydsi travel

• Sustainable practices are becoming increasingly important in the travel industry, as consumers are becoming more selective in choosing brands that offer sustainable options.
• Accommodation should be the new focus of sustainable tourism, as sustainable travel options improve credibility through transparency and certification.
• Eco-friendly accommodations and sustainable transportation options are growing trends in sustainable travel, along with a focus on sustainable food and gastronomy.
• Circular economy tourism aims to create a closed-loop system in travel and tourism, while reducing travel distance and using alternative transportation methods can be effective ways to travel sustainably.
• Employing environmentally friendly practices and protecting cultural and natural heritage are also important aspects of sustainable tourism.

Lydsi Travel and Sustainability

Lydsi Travel Club is committed to promoting sustainable practices in travel, aiming to minimize their carbon footprint and support local businesses. By aligning with the increasing importance of sustainability in the travel industry, Lydsi Travel Club offers unique trips and tours that focus on uncovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, while also prioritizing sustainable practices.

The Importance of Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable practices in the travel industry are not only important for preserving the environment but also for meeting the changing demands of consumers. Travelers are increasingly seeking out brands that offer sustainable options, making it crucial for travel companies to prioritize sustainability. Sustainable tourism involves greater sustainability in travel accommodation, making it an important aspect of promoting sustainable practices in Lydsi Travel.

Sustainable Accommodation: A New Focus

One of the key areas of sustainable tourism is the focus on sustainable accommodation. Travel companies like Lydsi Travel Club can play a significant role in promoting sustainable accommodation options to their customers. By partnering with eco-friendly accommodations and emphasizing the importance of sustainability in their tours and trips, Lydsi Travel Club can contribute to the overall sustainability efforts in the travel industry.

Trends in Sustainable Travel

Sustainable travel is an ever-evolving field, with new trends and practices emerging. Two prominent trends in sustainable travel are eco-friendly accommodations and sustainable transportation options. Eco-friendly accommodations focus on reducing their environmental impact and often have certifications to prove their sustainable practices. Likewise, sustainable transportation options encourage travelers to reduce their carbon footprint by using alternative transportation methods.

Focus on Sustainable Food and Gastronomy

Promoting sustainable practices in Lydsi Travel also extends to sustainable food and gastronomy. Sustainable food practices involve sourcing local and organic ingredients, minimizing food waste, and supporting local farmers and producers. By prioritizing sustainable food options in their tours, Lydsi Travel Club can offer unique culinary experiences while also contributing to sustainability efforts.

Circular Economy Tourism

Circular economy tourism is another concept gaining traction in sustainable travel. It aims to create a closed-loop system where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimized, and products are recycled or upcycled. By incorporating circular economy principles into their tours and trips, Lydsi Travel Club can contribute to the overall sustainability of the travel industry.

Traveling Sustainably: Reducing Distance and Protecting Heritage

In addition to focusing on accommodations, transportation, and food, sustainable travel also involves reducing travel distance and protecting cultural and natural heritage. By encouraging travelers to explore nearby destinations and choose alternative transportation methods, such as trains or buses, Lydsi Travel Club can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel. Furthermore, by promoting responsible tourism practices that respect local culture and nature, Lydsi Travel Club can contribute to the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

In conclusion, promoting sustainable practices in Lydsi Travel is essential for meeting the changing demands of consumers and contributing to the overall sustainability efforts in the travel industry. By focusing on sustainable accommodation, transportation, food, and embracing circular economy principles, Lydsi Travel Club can offer unique and unforgettable journeys while minimizing their environmental impact and supporting local communities.

Sources: 1. World Economic Forum. (2022). How can we really achieve sustainability in the travel sector . 2. National Geographic. (2022). How to travel better: a beginner’s guide to sustainable travel .

Q1: What is LYDSI Travel Club?

A1: LYDSI Travel Club is a New York-based travel club founded by Alfred and Lidia Tulchinsky. They offer unique trips and tours to various destinations, including national parks in America. They provide services such as flights and accommodations, and can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at (718) 934-7925.

Q2: Where can I find more information about LYDSI Travel Club’s tours and services?

A2: More information about LYDSI Travel Club’s tours and services can be found on their official website at lydsitravel.com. They offer tours with flights included, such as Grand Tours and Balkans Tours. They also have a Facebook page with a following of 752 and positive reviews from customers.

Q3: Who is Lydia Tulchinsky and what role does she play in LYDSI Travel Club?

A3: Lydia Tulchinsky is the key principal of LYDSI INC, the company behind LYDSI Travel Club. She is involved in the operations and management of the club. LYDSI INC’s business address is 1618 Sheepshead Bay Rd Ste 2, Brooklyn, NY 11235.

Q4: What are the opening hours of LYDSI Travel Club?

A4: LYDSI Travel Club operates from Monday to Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They have specific opening hours for assisting customers and addressing inquiries.

Q5: What is the mission of LYDSI Travel Club?

A5: The mission of LYDSI Travel Club is to provide unique and exciting trips for travelers. They aim to create personalized adventures and inspire individuals to embark on unforgettable journeys. Their emphasis on hidden gems and cultural experiences aligns with the passion of experienced globetrotters and travel enthusiasts.

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International Edition

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings

Visitors from America and Western Europe might be surprised to discover that Russia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. That’s because the Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. After the end of the Soviet Union, some Russians have begun celebrating Christmas on December 25 in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. But many Russians still observe the tradition of fasting on January 6th, breaking the fast with a large feast on Christmas Eve after the first star has appeared in the sky.

During the Soviet era, Christmas and religious traditions were banned in Russia. Santa Claus was replaced by Ded Moroz, or, Grandfather Frost, an old man with a long white beard who would bring gifts to children on New Year’s instead of Christmas. According to Russian tradition, Ded Moroz is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, the Snowmaiden, who helps him on his journey to give presents to children.

Although the tradition of having a Christmas tree, known as a yolka in Russian, was also banned during Soviet times, Russians got around this by having New Year’s trees from which they hung homemade decorations. Today, the restrictions of the Soviet Union have faded into history, and during the Christmas season visitors to Russia can even purchase Christmas ornaments in the shape of matryoshka dolls, or religious icons that depict nativity scenes.

Heading counterclockwise around the Golden Ring this holiday season, northeast of Moscow, your first stop will most likely be the city of Vladimir, home to some of Russia’s most striking churches and cathedrals. The Vladimir region is known for its fine crystal. Stop by the Crystal, Lacquer Miniatures, and Embroidery Museum ( 2 Bolshaya Moskovskaya ) for an overview of traditional crafts before visiting the gift shop in the museum to browse the crystal selection. Vladimir Chic ( 2 Dvoryanskaya ) also sells local glass and crystal work.

Typical souvenirs are also for sale in Vladimir’s old town, especially by the Golden Gate, a triumphal arch and defensive tower that is one of the last-remaining parts of the wall that once surrounded ancient Vladimir and a sure stop on any tour of the Golden Ring.

Just 63 kilometers from Vladimir lays the nearby city of Gus-Khrustalny , the ‘Crystal Goose,’ also home to a rich glass and crystal making tradition. You can visit the glassmaking factory in Gus-Khrustalny and buy gifts ranging from plates and vases to decanters, or visit the outlet store back in Moscow ( 4 Ilyinka ) just east of the Kremlin.

North of Vladimir, you’ll arrive in Suzdal, one of the Golden Ring route’s more tranquil towns. Suzdal boasts a number of small bazaars and stands outside the main tourist sites where visitors can purchase local honey mead, called medovukha, along with traditional crafts, like a pair valenki, or Russian woolen boots, which make an ideal Christmas gift for friends and family back home. The shopping stands outside Suzdal’s Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life ( Ul. Pushkarskaya ) are also highly recommended. Market Square ( Torgovaya Pl ) houses a number of shops where visitors can search for arts and crafts.

Following the Golden Ring north of Suzdal, many tours will stop in the city of Kostroma, a former trading outpost on the immense Volga River. One of the city’s highlights is the Museum of Linen and Birchbark ( 38 Tereshkova ), where visitors can view exhibits on traditional Russian crafts woven from flax and bark. A gift shop in the basement sells tablecloths, napkins, baskets, linen dolls, and traditional clothing typical of the region.

South from Kostroma, stop in the city of Rostov-Veliky for enamel jewelry, a craft which allows artists to produce small paintings on metal that are then fired to produce a thin glaze over the image. Rostov became famous for its tradition of enamel work. Today, visitors can purchase rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and jewelry boxes in the gift shop of the Rostov Enamel factory ( 3 Borisoglebskoye Highway ).

While you’re in Rostov, visit the House of Crafts ( 16 Vtoraya Tolstovskaya Naberezhnaya ) for local pottery and the Souvenirs shop ( 5 Ul. Kamennyi Most ) for ushanka hats—Russian fur caps with earflaps—paintings, and samovars for tea lovers.

The last two stops on a tour of the Golden Ring are the cities of Pereslavl-Zalesskiy and Sergiev Posad. Pereslavl is most famous for its embroidery work, available at the Art Salon ( 12 Ul. Sovetskaya ) along with souvenirs made of wood and stone. Nearby Sergiev Posad is considered the place where Russia’s matryoshka dolls were first invented, and was the chief production center of the dolls before Soviet times. Visit the city’s Toy Museum ( 123 Pr. Krasny Armii ) to get a better sense of the birthplace of one of Russia’s most recognizable toys, then head over to the market alongside the Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius—one of the city’s most important sites—to load up on matryoshka dolls, painted eggs, and icons before going home.

If you’ll be in the Golden Ring during New Years, the city of Vladimir hosts an impressive Christmas fair, with an iceskating rink and performances by local artists, in the main square ( Sobornaya Pl ). In most other Golden Ring cities you’ll find similar events in the center square as Christmas nears.

Most shops and markets in the Golden Ring are open year round. If you’re coming to Russia for a short period of time, whether in winter or summer, consider a trip to this stunning part of the country, and bring an extra bag if you plan to go shopping for Christmas gifts.

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