labrador sport travel subsidy

Athletes from northern Labrador try out for Canada Games thanks to help from travel subsidy

High travel costs make it hard for northern communities to showcase their talent, says advocate.

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Five volleyball players from northern Labrador are one step closer to competing in the 2025 Canada Games during a tryout session held by the provincial volleyball association in St. John's over the weekend.

While the cost of travel usually makes competing at a high-level an unattainable goal for many in the north, the group was able to use funding and subsidies to get to the island.

Ian Dicker is one of the athletes, and the only one who travelled all the way from Nain.

"[It] feels good to come from Nain," said Dicker. "Volleyball brings a lot of pride to me, making everyone back home proud, showing off my talent and skills."

He said volleyball is important for teenagers like himself in northern communities.

"Everybody plays. We got nothing else to do in Nain, just volleyball all the time," he said. "If I didn't have volleyball, I wouldn't have anything."

Dicker hopes to be selected for Team N.L.

"I've been playing good. I had talked to a few coaches. They just gave me good feedback," he said. "There's a lot of talent here, no doubt about that."

The tryouts held by the Newfoundland and Labrador Volleyball Association were the first chance for athletes born in 2007 and 2008 to make the cut and be chosen for a training pool. While invitations will be sent out to 24 players over the coming weeks, that group will be further reduced to 14. Those players will then compete for the province in the Canada Cup this summer. Then, in the fall, a second cycle will start, which gives the players who didn't get selected a second chance at competing in the Canada Games.

Getting the best Canada Games volleyball team — and not letting geography stand in the way

Dicker and his fellow players from northern Labrador were able to showcase their talent in this first selection round thanks to the advocacy of Susan Onalik.

Onalik, also from northern Labrador, knows about the financial barriers families face when trying to send their children to competitions on the island. Travel alone costs more than $2,000, she said, to which accommodation, transportation to venues and meals have to be added.

Onalik approached St. John's-based Indigenous organization First Light about helping the athletes with a travel subsidy.

"A lot of parents, community members, scrambled to make sure that their children had equal opportunity. And coming from Inuit communities, we always kind of band together, and try and help each other out," she said.

"A lot of the youth there are just natural born players and they have such a love of the game. And I know from speaking with them, their passion drives from, not only just the love of the game, they love representing their community."

In addition to First Light's subsidy, the athletes received support from Mokami Travel, which helped secure flights ahead of a storm, and the Labrador Sport Travel Subsidy by the provincial government, which covered 75 per cent of the travel cost.

Yet, Onalik believes athletes from northern Labrador should be given equal opportunity to compete in high-level tournaments, like the Canada Games, by holding tryouts across the province.

"They're so deserving of these opportunities. And those opportunities unfortunately are not dispersed equally in our province because when you look at the higher elite levels, those often happen here in St. John's," she said.

"So, a lot of our youth aren't provided the same opportunities."

Male volleyball head coach for the 2025 Canada Games, Nathan Wareham, agrees that giving athletes from across the province a chance to compete is crucial.

Yet, said Wareham, offering tryouts in remote regions is a big financial task.

"The ultimate goal is to be able to travel the province, especially to remote areas. To do that right now, fiscally it's been a challenge. And quite honestly, I'm not really too sure what the budget is going to be yet for our program," he said.

"Hopefully, funding comes through and the government will provide us with enough funding to allow us to get to these areas. … I think, like anything, if you come up with a positive plan and some solutions that you can reach everyone."

• This young volleyball star is one step closer to taking her talents global
• Facing major work and a ticking clock, Canada Games committee confident St. John's will be ready for 2025

It's also Onalik's hope that teenagers in northern Labrador can be reached and provided with the opportunity to compete for the province.

"They're all really great kids. And I know that their parents and communities are proud. They should be. They have a lot to be proud of," she said.

Download our  free CBC News app  to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador.  Click here to visit our landing page .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Henrike Wilhelm is a journalist working with CBC's bureau in St. John's.

With files from William Ping

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The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House to highlight how our government is helping Labrador youth, Special Olympians and sports teams travel to other areas of the province to participate in provincial competitions, development camps and try-outs.

The Department of Labrador Affairs is increasing financial assistance through enhancements in the Labrador Sport Travel Subsidy program. The changes include increasing the subsidy to offset the higher cost of team airfare, improving the mileage claim process, and enhancing travel for Labrador athletes who qualify for provincial teams.

Through Budget 2023, Labrador Affairs also increased funding to School Sports Newfoundland and Labrador by $100,000. This boost in funding is expanding opportunities for student athletes from Labrador and laying the groundwork for the development of Indigenous-themed games. Total spending on both programs now amounts to $830,000. Full details are available on the Labrador Affairs website.

Encouraging and promoting physical activity at an early age improves self-esteem and mental and physical well-being. Young athletes across Labrador have proven they have the ability to compete at a high level. In order to tap into this incredible potential, it’s essential they have opportunities to grow, develop and mature.

As a Government, we recognized the need to do more and we are delivering to support young athletes from Labrador.

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Labrador Based Athletes and School Sports Teams to see Increase in Financial Aid

The Department of Labrador Affairs is increasing financial assistance to Labrador-based school sports teams, and Labrador athletes who qualify for provincial teams to help with travel costs.

Minister of Labrador Affairs Lisa Dempster says they’ve also increased funding to School Sports NL for the introduction of a variety of Indigenous games into the school sport curriculum.

She says the boost in funding is expanding the opportunities of student athletes in Labrador, while laying the groundwork for the development of Indigenous themed games

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Labrador Athletes Benefit from Increased Travel Subsidy

During an event held in Happy Valley-Goose Bay earlier today, the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, released the details of the Provincial Government’s Labrador Travel Subsidy Program, enabling approximately 1,500 athletes, teams and individuals in Labrador to travel to the island portion of the province each year to participate in athletic competitions and training camps. The program received an increase of $200,000 in Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador. With this year’s increase, the total annual investment in the program is $750,000.

“Enhancing athletic excellence and broadening access are key directions of the Provincial Government’s recreation and sport strategy, Active, Healthy, Newfoundland and Labrador ,” said Minister French. “This increase will enable eligible sport teams to receive more money to offset the cost of team and athlete air travel. Sport is a very important aspect of our society and young residents of Newfoundland and Labrador should receive the opportunity to participate and compete equally without the impediment of high travel costs.”

In addition to offsetting the high cost of travel for Labrador athletes and teams, the Labrador Travel Subsidy Program includes a hosting grant for provincial championships within Labrador to help with the cost of teams coming from the island to Labrador to compete in provincial competitions.

As a result of this year’s increased investment and the continuing support for coaching advancement, a 75 per cent travel subsidy is now available for coaches and officials who are looking for the opportunity to attend recognized sport coaching development programs.

“Increased funding to the Labrador Travel Subsidy is a stated commitment in the Northern Strategic Plan ,” said the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs. “This substantial increase to $750,000 annually will see more Labrador athletes than ever before provided with the opportunity to pursue excellence in athletic competition. This investment also supports the plan’s goal of accessible and effective programs and services that reflect the unique challenges facing Labrador communities.”

In addition, Minister French announced $8, 800 in funding for the Birch Brook Nordic Ski Club in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, through the Provincial Government’s Capital Grant Program. The funding will be used to assist with the costs associated with upgrading the ski trail.

“Provincial Government funding for this popular community ski club will help improve the facility and support their efforts to increase participation and physical activity for all area residents,” added Minister French.

For more information about the Labrador Travel Subsidy or the Capital Grant Program, visit: www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/sports/index.html . 

Budget 2011 provides $11.5 million to support recreation and sport in the province.  Since the launch of the Provincial Government’s recreation and sport strategy, Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador (2007), more than $70 million has been committed to recreational and sport infrastructure, programming, and athlete development throughout the province.

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• Apr 9, 2023

Sport and Recreation Budgets in Canada

Updated: Aug 23, 2023

Since starting the Sports for Social Impact podcast I have often highlighted different aspects of budgets from different levels of governments and organisations. I have said that budgets reflect our values. So, for the 2023 season I have outlined below all 10 provincial budgets and Canada’s federal budget. This is an expansion of the podcast episode.

In this article we explore all new spending announced for sport and recreation. This can include funding to organisations, capital spending (often infrastructure and one time announcements rather than recurring), investing in parks, building active transport. It explores how different governments across Canada are investing, or not investing, in building active communities.

We start with the federal budget and then move from west to east across Canada for provincial governments. Each province faces different challenges in their budgets, some provinces are more rural and some are more urban. Providing equal access to sport and recreation to rural communities is often more difficult (one example can be seen in the Newfoundland and Labrador budget where they have to subsidise athlete travel from Labrador to competitions.) Some provinces are making more investments than others in active transport, sport, parks and recreation. All provinces can do more to invest in Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

Canada - ​​ https://www.budget.canada.ca/2023/home-accueil-en.html#downloads

The federal budget has two announcements about sport:

They are putting $13.8 Million over three years to enhance accountability and support efforts to build a safe and accountable sport system (this started in 2022/23)

Providing $10 million over two years, starting in 2023-24, towards the ParticipACTION Let's Get Moving Initiative, which will continue supporting national programming that aims to increase daily physical activity among Canadians.

There is very little new spending happening at the federal level to invest in sport and recreation across Canada.

British Columbia - https://www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2023/pdf/2023_Budget_and_Fiscal_Plan.pdf

On Canada’s west coast, the government of British Columbia mostly invested in BC Parks to expand access to outdoor recreation across the province. It also included the first active transport specific fund outlined in the provincial budget.

$100 Million over the next three years in active transport

$70 Million in operating funding to BC Parks

$31 Million in Capital Funding to BC Parks

No mention of physical activity, very few mentions of sport and recreation. (Really only when referencing the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport)

The budget also outlined some of the labour market statistics for the province. In 2022 BC saw the creation of 17,6000 jobs in information, culture and recreation. Showing strong growth in this sector.

Alberta - https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/fe2a75b5-571b-4b44-8b04-66a6d81aaba4/resource/7f532f18-4416-4b40-b387-e7d03b43d6dd/download/budget-2023-fiscal-plan-2023-26.pdf

https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/3c46f857-aa60-430f-ba52-f9ec96fc8ccf/resource/1334605b-8411-426f-9479-8d5dafba793b/download/budget-2023-capital-plan-details-by-ministry-2023-26.pdf

In Alberta the provincial government focused mostly on capital spending on infrastructure to build up capacity for sport and recreation across the province. There was no mention of active transport and very little mention of sport and recreation.

$352 Million in Capital spending for Sports and Recreation, this is only 2% of their Capital Plan over the next three years. $213 Million goes more specifically to sport:

$150 Million for three years ($50 Million/year) to increase the Community Facility Enhancement Program. This Program funds non-profits to upgrade, fix, etc sports, recreational, cultural or other facilities

$14 Million over 3 years to allow development of land trails

$15 Million over 3 years to Canmore Nordic Centre for upgrades

$15 Million over 3 years to MNP Community Sport Centre

$8 Million to Winsport Day Lodge for renovation

$11 Million “other sport and recreation programs” over three years

Saskatchewan - https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/budget-planning-and-reporting/budget-2023-24/budget-documents

The government of Saskatchewan budget has very little focus on sport and recreation and mostly focuses on building some new spending on Parks.

$14.0 million will fund construction of a group pavilion at Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park for large or multi-group gatherings and a new Visitor Reception Centre at Crooked Lake Provincial Park to enhance customer service and visitor information.

12.3 million for capital improvements throughout the parks system.

Manitoba - https://www.manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2023/budget-2023.pdf

The province of Manitoba had several sport related items in their budget. Budget 2023 builds on investments in nature and heritage spaces, tourism, arts and culture. The government is investing $100-million for the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund, with $50-million available in 2023/24.

The budget also provides $10-million to support the new provincial parks capital plan and operating requirements;

Budget 2023 will maintain funding of $250,000 to prioritise the welfare, safety and rights of every Manitoban taking part in sports.

Building Sustainable Communities Program provides a grant contribution of 50 per cent for eligible project costs up to $75,000 and up to $300,000 for large capital projects.

Ontario - https://budget.ontario.ca/2023/contents.html

Ontario is Canada’s most populous province. The budget has very few highlights on sport and recreation. They are taking steps to open the first new, full service, operating provincial park in 40 years. It will offer four-season facilities and recreational activities including swimming, hiking and cross‐country skiing. The location of the park and its facilities is in the process of being finalised.

Quebec - http://www.finances.gouv.qc.ca/Budget_and_update/budget/documents/Budget2324_BudgetPlan.pdf#page=38

Out of all budgets examined, Quebec has the most extensive sport related items in their budget. They are investing $789.3 Million towards improving student retention and success. Through this they are promoting educational success and equal opportunity. They will also enable more youth to participate in sports, arts and science programs. The Quebec government wants all public schools to offer at least one special project (arts, science, sports). They are using sport as a specific tool to retain students in schools and increase the graduation rate.

They are putting $88.4 million to get Quebecers moving by 2027-28.

$72.7 M to improve access and participation in recreation, sports and Physical activity

$13 M to strengthen protection and integrity in sports & rec

$2.7 M to continue developing the National Trail in Quebec (cycling)

A further $300 M is being provided in the 2023-2033 Quebec Infrastructure Plan to fund development and maintenance of sport, rec and outdoor infrastructure.

The Quebec government is also making investments to help the active ageing of seniors. They are providing $106 M to consolidate measures to promote this.

They are making strides to promote active transport in the province with:

15 M to active mobility in Quebec City (in addition to the 2.7M already outlined for the National Trail)

They are making investments to get Quebers outside:

16.5 M to the diversification of the outdoor recreational infrastructure to offer access to greater number of natural environments

50.3 M to Quebec Parks system

4.6 M for electric bikes to offer year round access to the summit of Parc National du Mont- Megantic

Quebec is making strategic investments in their province to get Quebecers up and active unlike other provinces across Canada.

New Brunswick - https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/fin/pdf/Budget/2023-2024/main-estimates-2023-2024-budget-principal.pdf

https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/services/services_renderer.201310.Sport_-_Go_NB_(Grant).html

https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/fin/pdf/Budget/2023-2024/2023-2024-capital-estimates-budget-de-capital-2023-2024.pdf

One of Canada’s smallest provinces, New Brunswick is trying to increase some access to sport and recreation with targeted programs:

GO NB - taking action through sport $300,000

Sport Development Trust Fund $100,000

They are also providing capital funding to increase access:

$1 million to help rural districts to assist rural communities purchase emergency equipment, construction and repair fire halls as well as repairs to community centres and recreation facilities

$5.1 million to carry out improvements to provincial parks, attractions and heritage sites

Nova Scotia - https://beta.novascotia.ca/documents/budget-documents-2023-2024

The pandemic saw a huge number of Canadians moving from larger provinces (mainly Ontario) to smaller provinces. With the rise of telework and more flexibility, Canadians moved across the country in search of a better place to live, work and play. Nova Scotia was one such province where many Canadians moved. This increase in population should have meant that the provincial government should be making strategic investments in the province to make it more liveable. However, there were no specific measures outlined in the budget for sport and recreation.

The budget highlighted that the service employment growth was particularly strong in information, culture and recreation, real estate and rental and leasing, and professional, scientific and technical services. Showing the benefits of sport on the economy.

The 2023–24 Capital Plan is the largest single-year capital funding program in the province’s history. The Province’s capital spending will advance healthcare projects more quickly and also provide Nova Scotians modern schools, safer highways, renewed provincial parks, and improved local roads and other infrastructure. I could not find a breakdown in how much was going towards each of these items.

The budget did commit to continuing work to develop active transportation networks and promote active transportation as a safe, accessible option to move within communities, however no dollar value was given.

Prince Edward Island

[Placeholder - currently in election period]

Newfoundland and Labrador https://www.gov.nl.ca/budget/2023/

The budget for the government of Newfoundland and Labrador does make physical activity a priority. Budget 2023 includes:

Close to $7 million to support recreation, physical activity, and athlete and sport development.

$800,000 increase for the Active NL Fund.

Increased the Labrador Sport Travel Subsidy to $830,000 – a 14 per cent increase (this helps build the capacity for athletes from Labrador to travel for competitions.)

Budget 2023 includes $500,000 for upgrades to our provincial park facilities ensuring opportunities for visitors to explore and embrace nature.

This budget puts $25 Million towards the Regional Recreation Centre in the City of Corner Brook. This is the construction of a recreation centre on the Grenfell Campus, complete with swimming pool and aquatic features, daycare centre and fitness centre.

Newfoundland and Labrador is the next host of the Canada Summer Games. This budget invests $40 Million in the Canada Games Sporting Facility in the City of St. John’s. This is the construction of a sporting facility, a Centre of Excellence with athletic training space, teaching space, locker rooms and storage.

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Labrador Athletes Benefit from Increased Travel Subsidy

by NationTalk on August 2, 2011 1038 Views

Tourism, Culture and Recreation Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs August 1, 2011

During an event held in Happy Valley-Goose Bay earlier today, the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, released the details of the Provincial Government’s Labrador Travel Subsidy Program, enabling approximately 1,500 athletes, teams and individuals in Labrador to travel to the island portion of the province each year to participate in athletic competitions and training camps. The program received an increase of $200,000 in Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador. With this year’s increase, the total annual investment in the program is $750,000.“Enhancing athletic excellence and broadening access are key directions of the Provincial Government’s recreation and sport strategy, Active, Healthy, Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Minister French. “This increase will enable eligible sport teams to receive more money to offset the cost of team and athlete air travel. Sport is a very important aspect of our society and young residents of Newfoundland and Labrador should receive the opportunity to participate and compete equally without the impediment of high travel costs.”

In addition to offsetting the high cost of travel for Labrador athletes and teams, the Labrador Travel Subsidy Program includes a hosting grant for provincial championships within Labrador to help with the cost of teams coming from the island to Labrador to compete in provincial competitions.

As a result of this year’s increased investment and the continuing support for coaching advancement, a 75 per cent travel subsidy is now available for coaches and officials who are looking for the opportunity to attend recognized sport coaching development programs.

“Increased funding to the Labrador Travel Subsidy is a stated commitment in the Northern Strategic Plan,” said the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs. “This substantial increase to $750,000 annually will see more Labrador athletes than ever before provided with the opportunity to pursue excellence in athletic competition. This investment also supports the plan’s goal of accessible and effective programs and services that reflect the unique challenges facing Labrador communities.”

In addition, Minister French announced $8, 800 in funding for the Birch Brook Nordic Ski Club in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, through the Provincial Government’s Capital Grant Program. The funding will be used to assist with the costs associated with upgrading the ski trail.

“Provincial Government funding for this popular community ski club will help improve the facility and support their efforts to increase participation and physical activity for all area residents,” added Minister French.

For more information about the Labrador Travel Subsidy or the Capital Grant Program, visit: www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/sports/index.html.

Budget 2011 provides $11.5 million to support recreation and sport in the province. Since the launch of the Provincial Government’s recreation and sport strategy, Active, Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador (2007), more than $70 million has been committed to recreational and sport infrastructure, programming, and athlete development throughout the province.

– 30 –

Media contacts:

Diana Quinton Director of Communications Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation 709-729-0928, 631-8155 [email protected]

John Tompkins Director of Communications Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs 709-729-1674, 728-7762 [email protected]

This article comes from NationTalk: https://nationtalk.ca

The permalink for this story is: https://nationtalk.ca/story/labrador-athletes-benefit-from-increased-travel-subsidy

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New Canada Carbon Rebate estimator tells you how much you may get back in payments starting April 15

From: Environment and Climate Change Canada

News release

Putting a price on carbon pollution is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the greenhouse gas pollution that is causing climate change

April 10, 2024 – Gatineau, Quebec

Putting a price on carbon pollution is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the greenhouse gas pollution that is causing climate change. Just as importantly, the federal carbon pricing system is designed to keep life affordable by putting money back into families’ pockets.

The Canada Carbon Rebate returns fuel charge proceeds to Canadians through direct deposit or cheque every three months in jurisdictions where the federal fuel charge applies, with the next quarterly payments starting to arrive in Canadian bank accounts and mailboxes as of April 15.

Today, the Government of Canada is launching a new Canada Carbon Rebate estimator tool to help families find out their potential rebate amount, based on their unique circumstances. No background information is needed: answer four simple questions to find out how much you could receive.

• Canada Carbon Rebate estimator

Eight out of 10 households get more money back from the Canada Carbon Rebate than they spend on carbon pricing from the fuel charge, with lower-income households benefiting the most. Rural Canadian residents will also receive a top-up of 20 percent once relevant legislation passes through Parliament. This is an increase from the current 10 percent top-up for rural residents, in recognition of their higher energy needs and more limited access to cleaner transportation options.

As of April 15, 2024, a family of four may receive the following quarterly payments in base Canada Carbon Rebate amounts:

• $450 in Alberta
• $300 in Manitoba
• $280 in Ontario
• $376 in Saskatchewan
• $190 in New Brunswick
• $206 in Nova Scotia
• $220 in Prince Edward Island
• $298 in Newfoundland and Labrador

Canada’s price on carbon pollution is working. Canada’s emissions in 2021 would have been about 18 million tonnes higher in the absence of Canada’s carbon pricing plan. A national price on pollution creates the predictability for clean investments that Canada needs to prosper in a changing world.

Climate change is not the only challenge facing Canadians today. It can be tempting to put off action for the future in favour of other short-term goals and needs. However, this is a false choice. Choosing the ‘easy’ path of less action now just means paying more later, by letting climate change get much worse. And because of the Canada Carbon Rebate, the Government of Canada can take real action to slow down climate change and still protect households from increased costs that climate change will mean for insurance, infrastructure repairs, health care, and more.

“Pricing pollution works. It keeps us on track to meet our climate goals, and the Canada Carbon Rebates help low- and middle-income Canadians the most—not those with yachts and four-car garages. Climate-related impacts are costing average Canadian households $720 per year and are likely to rise to $2,000 per year by 2050 without significant additional action to reduce emissions. We need to listen to scientists, youth, our communities, and our businesses. Pollution pricing is the most effective and cost-efficient tool we have to create a better climate future for our kids and grandkids.” – The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Quick facts

Each year, Canada Carbon Rebate amounts are adjusted in line with the price on carbon, ensuring the rebate continues to reflect the projected proceeds in each province where the rebate applies. The Canada Carbon Rebate returns the majority of proceeds directly to the residents of that province.

The Canada Carbon Rebate amounts also reflect the proposed doubling of the rural supplement from 10 percent to 20 percent of the base rebate amount, which would be delivered following Royal Assent of Bill C-59.

The first of four quarterly Canada Carbon Rebate payments for the new benefit year will be issued starting in April 2024, with subsequent quarterly payments delivered in July, October, and January 2025.

To receive your Canada Carbon Rebate on April 15, 2024, you must have electronically filed your income tax and benefit return on or before March 15, 2024. If your tax return is filed after this date, generally, you can expect to get your Canada Carbon Rebate payment 6–8 weeks after your tax return has been assessed.

The Canadian Climate Institute estimates the expected costs of climate change to mount to $25 billion from Canada’s gross domestic product by 2025.

This year’s Canada Carbon Rebate amounts reflect the  temporary pause of the fuel charge on deliveries of home heating oil that came into effect on November 9, 2023 . In Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador—where households more often rely on expensive home heating oil—rebate amounts have been adjusted to reflect expected fuel charge proceeds in 2024–2025, compared to 2023–2024. In all other provinces where the federal fuel charge applies (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and New Brunswick), Canada Carbon Rebate amounts have increased.

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Kaitlin Power Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change 819-230-1557 [email protected]

Media Relations Environment and Climate Change Canada 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free) [email protected]

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Health & Beauty in Moscow

Moscow health & beauty guide, fitness centers.

There are literally hundreds of gyms and fitness centers available to take care of health & beauty of expats in Moscow. The majority are extremely well-equipped, most including a swimming pool, extensive class schedule, open courts for many sports, and also saunas, beauty salons, and tanning facilities. Expect to pay about 28,000 – 62,000 RUR for an annual subscription (in cash, upfront).

These Moscow fitness centers provide information in English and may have some English-speaking staff:

• Gold’s Gym http://www.goldsgym.ru http://www.goldsgym.com/ The international chain – if you have a membership from your home country, you may have guest privileges here. There are two locations:Dinamo (a favorite with expatriates) Offers a fully equipped gym and cardio area, extensive schedule of aerobics classes, designated courts for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis and squash area, swimming pool, beauty salon, massage, and tanning services. Body revolution programs twice annually. Leningradsky Prosp. 31/30 Closest metro: Dinamo +7 (495) 931 96 16 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 23:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00Lefort Has all imaginable cardio equipment, free weights, more than 25 regularly scheduled group classes (including yoga and pilates), spinning equipment, designated courts for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, a table tennis area, sauna, and massage room. Elektrozavodskaya Ul. 27/3 Closest metro: Eletrozavodskaya or Preobrazhenskaya Ploshad +7 (495) 662-46 53 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 23:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00
• Planet Fitness http://www.fitness.ru/ A more affordable option among Moscow’s fitness centers. Annual memberships start at 29,000 RUR. There are 15 locations in Moscow, most of which offer free weights, cardio equipment, a swimming pool, aerobics and dance classes, and boxing. Many also have massage and tanning. Typical opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 24:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00 (may vary by location)
• World Class http://www.worldclass.ru/ With 16 locations in Moscow, you’re sure to find one nearby. The biggest and best offer a full range of fitness and cardiovascular equipment, group classes in everything from aerobics to martial arts, personal training, swimming pool, kid zones, and spa and solarium. Typical opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 24:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 24:00 (may vary by location)

Golf Courses

There are three golf course in Moscow and the Moscow area:

• Moscow City Golf Club http://www.mcgc.ru/home_en/ This 9-hole course is conveniently located in the city. Also offers a practice area, pro shop, tennis courts, spa and restaurant Ulitsa Dovzhenko 1 Closest metro: Kievskaya (then by bus) +7 (499) 147-8330
• Le Meridien Moscow Country Club This 18-hole golf course is home to the Russian Open (PGA European Tour) every summer. It is part of an exclusive private membership resort in the Moscow suburb of Nakhabino, about 40 minutes out of the city. Also has a comprehensive sports complex and excellent restaurant. +7 (495) 626-5910 e-mail:  [email protected]
• Moscow Golf Club http://www.moscowgolf.ru/eng/main/ Moscow’s newest 18-hole course opened in May 2009. Also offers tennis and a fitness center. Ostrovnaya ul., 2 Closest metro: Krilatskoe +7 (495) 234-7451

Tennis Courts

Many fitness centers in Moscow offer facilities for playing tennis, as do the golf courses. But you can also try a specialized tennis club, or the facilities are the stadiums:

• Zhukovka Tennis Centre Located 10 km beyond the MKAD in the village Zhukova, this center offers 10 indoor tennis courts; tennis school, massage room and bicycle rental. 1 Illinskoye Shosse, Zhukovo + 7 (495) 418-3701 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 – 22:00
• Luzhniki Sports Complex This popular stadium has two full-size tennis courts in addition to a great range of other facilities. Luzhnetskaya Nab. 24 Closest metro: Sportivnaya +7 (495) 637-0262 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 22:00

Swimming Pools

The great majority of fitness centers in Moscow also have swimming pools. But you can also easily find great pools and even waterparks without a gym membership.

• Olympic Sports Complex This stadium has the best swimming pool in all of Moscow. Note that you must bring a medical certificate showing you are free of skin, and other, conditions that can be transmitted through the water (can be issued at any public clinic). Olympisky Prospekt 16/18 Closest metro: Prospekt Mira +7 (495) 288-5453
• Chaika Another nice pool, located on the circle metro line. You will also need to present a medical certificate, but you can get one on the spot (valid for a month) from the swimming pool medical department (open 8:30 – 22:00) Turchaninov Per. 1/3 Closest metro: Park Kultury +7 (499) 246-1344
• Kimberlyland http://www.kimberlyland.ru/ A great waterpark with 5 pools, slides, water games, and a special kids club. Also has a large gym, mini-golf course, beauty salon, and restaurant on site. Azovskaya Ul. 24 Closest metro: Sevastopolskaya +7 (495) 310-0401

Yoga Centers

There are numerous yoga centers in Moscow, and of course many fitness centers also offer yoga classes. The following yoga center has English-speaking instructors available:

• Ashtanga Yoga Center http://www.yoga108.com/en/about/ Hatha Yoga at various levels. Instructors speak both Russian and English. One class costs 350 -500 RUR; a monthly membership is 2200 – 2700 RUR. They have four locations in Moscow:Stary Tolmachevsky Per 7 (inside “Orbita” center) Closest metro: Novokuznetskaya +7 (495) 953-6957Zoologicheskaya Ul 30 Closest metro: Mayakovskaya, Barrikadnaya +7 (495) 550-9646Ostozhenka Ul 8 (inside “Sambo” club) Closest metro: Kropotkinskaya +7 (495) 201-7209Bolshoy Vlasyevsky Per 10 Closest metro: Arbatskaya or Kropotkinskaya +7 (495) 300-4587

Football (Soccer) Fields

Many fitness centers provide facilities for football, as do most stadiums (see Entertainment > Sports Events). You may also enjoy getting involved with the following expatriate football groups:

• Expat Over 30s Football League A league of 8 teams that plays weekly at Dynamo Stadium. Games are 11-a-side with professional referees. New players age 28 and over with playing experience are recruited at the beginning of the season. http://www.moscowfootball.com/
• Women’s Football Club Open to all, and emphasizes fun over professional play. Meets Sundays from 17:00 to 19:00 near metro Aeroport. Contact: Natalie [email protected]

Ice Skating Rinks

Ice skating is very popular in Moscow. In the winter, there are open-air rinks all around the city and at Gorky Park. There are also numerous indoor rinks:

• Umka Levoberezhnaya Ul 12/1 Closest metro: Rechnoy Vokzal +7 (495) 458-1084 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 – 21:00; Sat 19:45 – 20:45; Sun 18:30 – 19:30
• Raduzhny Chobotovskaya Ul 6 Closest metro: Prospekt Vernadskogo +7 (495) 733-0369 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 – 21:00; Sat 17:00 – 20:00; Sun 17:00 – 18:00
• Ice Palace Yuzhny Bulatnikovskaya 2 Closest metro: Prazhskaya +7 (495) 383-8738 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 22:00; Sat-Sun 21:00 – 22:00
• Ice Palace Rus Voronezhskaya Ul 13/3 Closest metro: Domodedovskaya +7 (495) 399-1327 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 24:00
• Ledovy Dvorets (Offers skating classes) Volgogradsky Prospect 46/15 Closest metro: Tekstilshchiki +7 (495) 179-3964 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 24:00

Each MEGA Mall (see Shopping) also has an ice skating rink.

Skiing and Snowboarding Slopes

• Krylatskoe Downhill skiing and snowboarding on a 400-meter slope. Krylastskaya Ul 2 Closest metro: Krylastskoye or Molodezhnaya (then take bus number 229 or 829)
• Volen Ski Park http://www.volen.ru A ski resort with hotel, restaurants, and an excellent ski school and ski rentals. North of the city. To get there, head out on Dimitrovskoe Schosse; turn left 46 km beyond the MKAD, and follow the signs. +7 (495) 993-95-40; 993-95-02 [email protected] Moscow office: Olimpiyskiy prospect, 7 ste 411/ + 7 (495) 961 00 50

Besides these two slopes, Moscow offers a wealth of possibilities for cross-country skiing, especially in parks in the outskirts of the city including Sokolniki, Bitsevskiy Park, Kuzminki, Vorobievy Gory, and Yakhroma.

Horse Riding Facilities

There are many locations for horse riding in and around Moscow. The following two have English-speaking instructors available:

• Pradar Individual horse-riding lessons with qualified English-speaking instructors. Single admission to the Club is 1750 RUR, or purchase a monthly horse-riding card for 18,000-24,000. Begovaya Ul 17 Closest metro: Begovaya +7 (495) 945 05 87 E-mail:  [email protected]
• Hippodrome Complex Individual horse-riding lessons with qualified English- and German-speaking instructors available. Begovaya Ul 22/1 Closest metro: Begovaya +7 (495) 945 50 59

Rock Climbing

The following rock climbing school offers English-language instruction:

• AlexClimb Indoor Rockclimbing http://www.alexclimb.com/en_rockschol_01.php Operates from September to May and organizes training across indoor and outdoor locations in Moscow; also organizes tours around Russia and internationally. You can purchase 8 two-hour sessions with an English-speaking instructor in a group of 4-8 people for 5,400 RUR (plus entrance to the rock climbing gym). Individual trainings also available.

The following expat club is a fun way to meet people and play rugby at the same time:

• Moscow Dragons Rugby Club http://moscowdragonsrfc.com Play rugby and get involved in many social and charitable events.

Paintball Fields

Paintball is increasingly popular with teenagers even in Moscow. The following two locations are available:

• Action Paintball Games Panfilova Ul 20-2 Closest metro: Sokol +7 (499) 796 46 46
• Paintball Sports Club A large outdoor complex,10 kilometers outside the MKAD. Horse riding is also available. +7 (495) 772 88 80, 918 45 80

Field Hockey

The following expat club is a fun way to meet people and play hockey at the same time:

• Expat Field Hockey Club A club that welcomes beginners, and both men and women. Meets Saturday from 15:00 to 16:30 at Sokolniki Football Training Center (closest metro: Sokolniki) Equipment is provided, and the sessions cost 250 RUR per person each. Contact: Vineet Arora [email protected]

Useful links

• http://www.101.ru A popular online Russian radio station.
• http://www.masterRussian.com Site where you can master Russian grammar, learn new vocabulary and practice speaking and reading Russian.
• http://www.translit.ru A transliteration site – type in Roman letters and they are automatically converted to Cyrillic.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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