robert rose travel

Raw Travel TV Blog

My summer in ukraine announced.

• Post author By Rob
• Post date January 17, 2024

RAW TRAVEL’S “MY SUMMER IN UKRAINE” SERIES TO PREMIERE IN APRI

Four-Part Docuseries to Premiere on Broadcast TV Before Hitting Film Festival Circuit 

NEW YORK, NY: January 18, 2024 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV) , producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show,  Raw Travel,  announced plans to premiere a four-part docuseries entitled “ My Summer in Ukraine ”  beginning  April 27 for four weeks through May 19, 2024,  on broadcast syndication. Later, a film version will tour a film festival circuit. 

Based on Raw Travel Producer and Host Robert G. Rose’s travels in Ukraine in the summer of 2023, the film explores what it’s like to travel in a war zone as Rose profiles various humanitarians, filmmakers, soldiers, and inspirational Ukrainians.

Rose traveled to several hotspots such as  Odesa, Mykolaiv ,  Kharkiv,  and a harrowing trip to  Kherson City , where he and his cohorts came under mortar fire from Russian munitions. 

The trip coincidentally timed during some key moments, including arriving just days after the Russian explosion of Ukraine’s  Kakhovka Dam , which flooded numerous farms and villages, killing dozens and displacing tens of thousands of Ukrainians. Rose and his friends were also just a few miles from the Russian border when Wagner head  Yevgeny Prigozhin  made his ill-fated coup attempt against Russian dictator  Vladimir Putin . 

Rose and his crew were able to film evidence of Russian war crimes and atrocities, as well as garner rare access to an early version of a Ukrainian Kamikaze Drone School and a top-secret military hospital where recent amputee soldiers were undergoing therapy. They spoke to numerous individuals held captive by Russian troops or with traumatic tales of survival. 

However, “My Summer in Ukraine” is far from a sprawling tragedy. Rose filmed heartwarming scenes at orphanages and humanitarian centers, and a particularly moving moment when Raw Travel Ukrainian refugee videographer Anastasia Zui reconnected with her father in Kharkiv after he’d spent many harrowing and dangerous weeks fighting in Bakhmut. 

A trailer is at  MySummerInUkraine.com , and a newly launched website,  RawTravelUkraine.com,  features content, tips, and information on ways to take action to help Ukraine while learning crucial history and facts. The site will also be a portal for booking media interviews or engagements of vetted experts with unique stories to share. 

“Opinion polls and social media likes don’t inform my morals. Assisting Ukraine in its fight for freedom is the honor of my lifetime so far,” Rose said. “They have sacrificed so much. I’ll never abandon them, and we will help them with their fight for victory and rebuilding for as long as it takes. Ukraine must and will win, and the US and the rest of the civilized world must continue our support and never normalize Putin’s brutal tyranny and horrific war crimes,” Rose continued.

ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves together themes of eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) with underground music and authentic culture uniquely. Since 2013, the show has raised funds and highlighted dozens of non-profit organizations helping the unhoused, orphaned children, people with disabilities, displaced refugees, etc., as well as encouraging earth stewardship, sustainable living, and travel with a purpose. 

Each weekend the show is broadcast in 185 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…). It can also be found on several major airlines. AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit  RawTravel.tv  for more information. 

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has produced and distributed positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit  AIMTVGroup.com  for more information.

ABOUT ROBERT G. ROSE

Robert G. Rose is an independent media entrepreneur and travel journalist. During his travel journalism career, Rose has traveled to dozens of challenging, politically charged destinations to film, including Haiti, Cuba, China, and Vietnam (all while undercover), Colombia, Georgia (including Russian-occupied territories), as well as Russia (2010) and Ukraine before and during Russia’s full invasion. Rose spent a month in the summer of 2023 filming in Ukraine, documenting his experience traveling with volunteers, interviewing soldiers and civilians, some while subject to Russian bombs and munitions. 

ABOUT “MY SUMMER IN UKRAINE”

“My Summer in Ukraine”  is a four-part documentary series filmed during Robert G. Rose’s travel to Ukraine in the summer of 2023 with Anastasia Zui, a Ukrainian-based cinematographer, as they traveled through various parts of Ukraine, such as Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Irpin, Bucha and more with humanitarians, soldiers and more.  The documentary seeks to show a unique side of war that most are not aware. Tragedy, resilience, sorrow, and exceeding joy. “ My Summer in Ukraine”  will premiere on April 27 ,  through May 19, 2024, on broadcast TV before hitting the film festival circuit. 

Short History of Ukraine PDF

• Post date January 15, 2024

ROBERT ROSE TO BE FEATURED AT WARM UP UKRAINE

• Post date October 5, 2023

  – Travel Producer & Host to Speak at Fall 2023 Fundraiser for Ukraine in San Francisco –

NEW YORK, NY: October 5th, 2023 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV) , the producers of the internationally syndicated television series Raw Travel® , announced that Robert G. Rose , the Executive Producer and Host of the series will be a featured presenter at Warm Up Ukraine: Fall , a multimedia fundraising event to showcase Ukrainian culture through music, art, talks, and activities.

The event will occur on Saturday, October 14 th, from 11 AM until 8 PM at the Midway in San Francisco. From 11 AM until 3 PM , the event willfeature talks on “Transformations for Good” from Ukrainian and American veterans, doctors, documentarians, volunteers, tech entrepreneurs, and more.   

During his talk, Rose will premiere the official trailer of “ My Summer in Ukraine” from the forthcoming travel documentary series to debut via Raw Travel in 2024 and photos and inspiring anecdotes from his travel to Ukraine in the summer of 2023 during an intense time of war.

“I’m honored to be able to share my life-changing experience traveling through Ukraine this summer to help raise awareness and funds for such a great cause,” said Rose. “I went to Ukraine to give something of myself, but I received so much more in return. Good people of good conscience cannot stand idly by while others suffer needlessly. I hope we can inspire more people to help a country and people who need our support and assistance, now as much, or more than ever,” Rose Continued.

Warm Up Ukraine’s mission is to raise funds for urgent causes and create a positive influence in Ukraine and among the community in the Bay Area. The funds raised from ticket sales and donations will help provide critical supplies to battlefield medics in Ukraine and bring innovative professional education to Ukrainian veterans.

In addition to TED-style talks and presentations, attendees can enjoy live performances by renowned Ukrainian and international musicians and DJs, discover and acquire authentic Ukrainian artworks, taste delicious Ukrainian-inspired food and drinks, and attend a series of classes for adults and children.

Other presenters include Evgeniy Maloletka , Pulitzer prize-winning Ukrainian journalist and photographer, who will discuss documenting war crimes, and Yuliia Matvieieva , a therapist, discussing communicating with war-scarred veterans. Also presenting are T.J. Collins and Lesya Kalynska from the documentary film “ A Rising Fury,” speakers and companies working with people with physical impairments and PTSD, representatives from the End Violence Partnership, and many more.

Among the artists whose prints will be for sale include Iryna Babanina, Maryna Maliarenko, Slava Babanin, Tetiana Kopytova , and Vidro (Andrii Bunyak) and the music program will feature the Fima Chupakhin Trio and more.

Warm Up Ukraine: Fall is organized by and will benefit Leleka Foundation and New Horizons Hub , 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Ticket sales and donations are tax-deductible. For tickets and more information, please visit www.warmupukraine.org .

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) themes uniquely with underground music and authentic culture. Since 2013, the show has raised funds and highlighted dozens of non-profit organizations helping the unhoused, orphaned children, people with disabilities, displaced refugees, etc., as well as encouraging earth stewardship, sustainable living, and travel with a purpose.

The show is broadcast in 185 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…) each weekend. It can also be found on several major airlines.

AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit  RawTravel.tv  for more information. 

ABOUT LELEKA FOUNDATION & NEW HORIZONS HUB

Leleka Foundation is a non-profit that supports Ukrainian military medics with equipment and supplies. Since 2014, Leleka has raised over $8 million and provided thousands of first aid kits, backpacks, medical evacuation vehicles, and hospital supplies. With Leleka Ukraine, we work with front-line medics and are recognized as one of the most trusted and effective organizations in this area. Funds from Warm Up Ukraine: Fall will be used for equipment and supplies for field medics. Visit https://www.leleka.care/ for more information.

New Horizons Hub is a non-profit organization that supports veterans in rebuilding their lives by providing them with the education and essential skills needed to pursue a rewarding career in the tech industry. Visit https://www.horizonshub.org/ for more information.

• Tags aim tv group , bay area , california , eastern europe , fundraiser , press release , raw travel , raw travel tv , robert g. rose , robert rose , russia invasion , san francisco , ukraine , voluntourism , war , war crimes , war in ukraine , warm up ukraine

RARE ACCESS TO UKRAINE DRONE SCHOOL

• Post date June 30, 2023

Just when I think things can’t get any more surreal in Ukraine, the next day one-ups the previous. We were allowed rare access to a drone-flying school where we hung out with soldiers of various platoons for a full day, some fresh from the front and returning there the next day. This realization put me in a solemn mood.

It was final exam day, and the students had all passed with flying colors and received diplomas at the end of the day.

We took part in some of the drone-flying games out in the field. It occurred to me I was a legitimate Russian military target now. Still, if past history predicted future actions, the Russians were more likely to bomb a restaurant, hospital, daycare center, or playground than a military target.

It was a beautiful spring-like day. I could hear roosters crowing, mixing in with gunfire from a practice range a few miles away. Whenever the joy of the day’s beauty hit me, I was reminded of destruction, misery, and war. I was up and down all day.

One field exercise included hitting a target, kamikaze style. There were no bombs on these, as that would eat up too many drones during practice. But the drones had been souped up, built from scratch, and could scream through the air at incredible speeds. In the first round, I was taken to the practice field in a brand-new fancy Audi car, unsuitable for the barely-there dirt path and bumpy and muddy terrain. On the second, it was a junker that the soldiers and I could barely fit into, and the trunk kept popping open every time we hit a bump. It was apparent these were civilian cars being used for military purposes. These guys need more trucks.

Whether in a car or on foot, we stuck to the same route each time. The instructor informed me that we wanted to be careful not to veer off the path in case there were any unexploded ordinances, as we were on land that Russians once occupied.

The instructor knows what he speaks. He is from the Donbas region, which Russia invaded with the assistance of separatists in 2014. He recounted that he was captured by the Russians when he was just 17 years old and a minor, so they let him go… in the middle of a minefield.

At the time, apparently, the Russian military at least pretended to care about war crimes and didn’t want to kill a minor, so they hoped a minefield would do the job for them, giving them deniable plausibility. He disappointed them and somehow made it across the field in one piece. Now they’ve created a mighty enemy. I was reminded that this “special military operation” of Putin’s has been happening for almost ten years. But it’s even older, as Russia has attempted to destroy the Ukrainian people, culture, and language for centuries.

Later that day, the instructor who relayed this information to me found out one of his peers, a fellow instructor at another school and a good friend, had his right hand blown off by an unexploded ordinance and needed blood. He sent me a photo of the poor kid (very young looking) in a hospital bed, smiling… it was the anesthesia talking. Maimed Ukrainians will be just part of the Russian legacy and a long-time reminder of the shame that we should never allow them and their supporters to forget.

Next, we were shown a demonstration of drone flying skills on the homemade indoor course. It demonstrated the precision with which these machines are flown and the skill of Ukrainian drone pilots.

Drones are an inexpensive and efficient way to save lives. Soldiers’ lives are saved by allowing the pilot to be further away from the action. But there are challenges, not the least that the primary maker of drones, DJI, a Chinese company, has stopped manufacturing and importation to Ukraine and severely restricted neighboring countries’ importations.

Officially, the same policy from DJI applies to Russia. However, unofficially, according to Ukrainians, DJI supports Russia. I believe this is true. Anastasia purchased a brand new DJI Steadicam, and she could not download the software and app to use it for more than the 24-hour trial period simply because she is Ukrainian. Thankfully, I was with her and could download it on my phone in order to use her new gear.

The Chinese government doesn’t seem to care about morality, the systematic and state-sponsored murder of innocent children, or right or wrong, but only about money and geopolitics. While some may argue the same applies to the United States of America, and while the US history of intervention isn’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination, I don’t buy it here.

The “what about” and “both sides-isms” is just a way for weak-minded people unable to distinguish nuance and feel better about supporting what deep down they know is evil. Again, 1,000 plus Ukrainian children were killed versus zero Russian children. I could list dozens more facts like this but isn’t that all you really need to know. Arguments stop there. There is no justifying the unjustifiable.

And the Russian people are not totally innocent in these atrocities. One other journalist on location, a Ukrainian photojournalist, recounted an all too familiar story of a family torn apart by the war. His father lives in Moscow and believes Russia is correct in invading Ukraine. It’s common to write off this widespread belief that everyday Russians do not have accurate information on the war, BUT his son lives in Ukraine. He knows the facts of civilian carnage and the killing of innocent children and the elderly (presumably pensioners like the father).

He’s been told of the maiming, orphaning, and kidnapping of Ukrainian children by Russia, and he CHOOSES to believe what Putin has to say. Indeed, some in the USA believe that we should “listen to what Putin has to say” (Rock Musician turned Country Artist Loon, Aaron Lewis of the 2000s band Staind, Tucker Carlson, formerly with FNC, a variety of right-wing politicians, and their ignorant and ill-informed followers).

Anastasia’s Ukrainian soldier boyfriend has a cousin who lives in Russia and believes Russia should kill Ukrainians until Ukraine “comes to its senses.” You can’t reason with people with such beliefs; you can only defeat them.

As the students received their diplomas, I noticed the cheerful atmosphere. It dawned on me that most of these men hadn’t even known each other 11 days prior (school is only 10 days long) and now were jocular and jovial with each other and me. They shared a bond of war, sadness, and now of drone school and joy.

I, however, had to struggle with my emotions, understanding that some of these men I’d grown to admire over the past few hours might not make it back in one piece.

But eventually, at the ad hoc barbeque celebration that evening, I let go of my somber mood. For a moment, I was in high school again, back home in Tennessee, hanging with my buddies by a bonfire. Indeed, many of these men could have passed for avid hunters down south with their beards, bowie knives, and humor… I felt completely at home though only a couple (former IT or businesspeople in civilian life) spoke any English.

As the evening wore on, it got windy, chilly, and cold. Someone loaned me a hoodie to keep me warm. They ensured my plate and my glass was filled, even though I was a visitor, not accounted for when they bought the provisions.

A couple had eyed me slightly suspiciously all day, probably because they were wary of having their image taken by a foreign journalist. That can be dangerous here, for them if captured, or their families live in occupied territory. I, of course, was very conscientious of this fact. Still, ALL warmed up to me that evening.

As they recounted stories from the battlefield, comrades and family members lost, with translations made for my sole benefit, I tried to keep it together. They were stoic and strong, So I must try. I felt a kinship with these men, along with a deep admiration. I said so in my toast, which Anastasia translated for me. But I couldn’t find the words in English, much less translate them to Ukrainian to fully express my feelings. Still can’t. War absolutely sucks, but witnessing Ukraine’s fight for freedom is THE noblest cause I have ever been a part of. I feel so blessed and humbled to have played even a small role.

PLEASE NOTE: Though I have permission to post photos, out of an abundance of caution, I’ve decided not to include faces or landmarks that might give away ANY sensitive information.

• Tags drone school , help ukraine , raw travel , robert g. rose , russia , slava ukraine , ukraine

Helping the Flooded Villages in Kherson Ukraine

• Post date June 21, 2023

JULY 19th, 2023 – Driving from Kyiv to the Southern parts of Ukraine, I can see that farmland is everywhere and that Ukraine is the world’s breadbasket. Wheat is ripening. Fruit is in season. Farms, as far as their eyes can see, make the flooding brought on by the Russian destruction of the Kakhovka Dam so unspeakably harmful.

Yesterday Mark & Hymie arranged for us to embed with the Red Cross offices of Kharkiv and Mykolaiv to help them assess and help the victims of the flooding of their neighbors in Kherson Oblast (Oblast is like a state in the U.S.) caused by the June 6th eco-terrorism event from the Russians destroying the Kakhovka dam.

After a briefing, some coffee, and some getting lost, we finally made our way from Mykolaiv to a small community where a local school now serves as a relief site where distressed locals can pick up food, clothing, water, etc. The children’s playground was full of lovely little kids playing under the watchful eyes of their mums. (Yes, I’m talking a bit British these days, thanks to a few days in the van with Hymie, who hails from London).

Just across the street was a destroyed building with a man selling fruit next door. I have mostly stopped taking photos or videos of demolished buildings as it is becoming redundant and a common site. But it was not lost on me that it was directly across the street from a school. I posted something on Instagram (you can follow at Instagram.com/RawTravelTV ) about taking a risk jogging by a Russian military target, a playground recently because so many Ukrainian children have been killed or maimed on them by the Russians, who seem not to value anyone’s life or humanity. I digress.

The Soviet-style playground for the school was like a look back into the 1970s or 80s at the height of the cold war, today all painted blue and yellow, Ukrainian colors, which would not have been allowed back then. Of course, I toured the outdoor toilet. Too bad “Don’t Skip the Loo” is already in “the can,” as it would have been good footage. At the school, we loaded a big water bladder capable of holding 10K liters of water to act as a water tank for two villages. This would be a test run; if successful, more would roll out.

In all, we visited two villages with the Red Cross. The smells in the villages where the water had now receded were intense, where the flood water had receded. The first village was unique in that when the Russians once occupied it, the village head did not flip to the Russians to save his skin but stayed loyal to Ukraine.

The seemingly tight-knit community gathered around to collect water and gossip. The town is luckier than most because electricity has been restored, though some are afraid to turn it on because many of the homes are still wet.

Hymie donated one of her brand-new laptops, courtesy of the Royal Bank of Montreal, to the “mayor” and the administrative center.

The next village was far away over some bumpy roads and not a very pleasant ride in the backseat of a cargo van. As we rolled up, it was apparent it had been completely devastated by the flood and the adjoining farmland, on which I assume the village once depended.

We dropped off the water bladder and toured a couple of the homes. The first home I toured had a giant collapsed sinkhole right next to the house.

Valentina is the sweetest grandmother, and she immediately grabbed me and started talking to me as she pulled me into her home, speaking in Ukrainian the entire time. I got the feeling she wanted me to witness her pain and what the Russians had done to her home as she encouraged me to film.

When Hymie walked in, she continued but broke into tears, with Hymie comforting her and me fighting back my own (something I’m getting used to as well) as I continued to film.

Artem, one our Kharkiv Red Cross bi-lingual contacts, translated for us. Valentina had been in this house for 54 years and raised a family with her husband. Some of her children had become medical professionals, but most were teachers. It was all gone within just 12 hours as the water rose and destroyed their home along with their garden upon which they depended.

You could see carefully saved items out in the front yard and on the upper reaches of the house, out of reach from the flood waters, containing beautiful religious imagery and lovely chandeliers. This was once a lovely home put together and was tended with tender loving care by its owners, who likely weren’t even remotely wealthy as they were subsistence farmers. Still, it was obvious that they took excellent care of what they had been blessed with.

A family photo album was drying in the sun out front, which was particularly upsetting. Luckily the photos seemed in good shape.

Valentina’s adult daughter, Natalia, came in and spoke a little English. I toured the home with both of them and picked up some words here and there. Somewhere in the conversation, I tried to ask if they spoke Ukrainian or Russian so I could figure out if it was better to say “Dyakuyu” (“thank you” in Ukrainian) or “Spasiba” (“thank you” in Russian) since we were in Southern Ukraine where Russian was also spoken. (Russian was the only language taught in schools during Soviet times as the Soviet government tried mightily to stamp out the Ukrainian language and all signs of Ukrainian culture and identity).

I couldn’t verbalize it properly, so I did what I always do when I run into an awkward silence with folks and let out a “Slava Ukraini” (Glory to Ukraine), to which they both brightened, smiled, and even laughed as they let out the response “Heroyam Slava” which means “Glory to the heroes.” When we left Valentina’s uninhabitable home to tour other homes, Valentina was far from defeated. She was a bit defiant. Talking about how the Russians would never win and that they would rebuild as soon as she got the materials in hand.

I tried to give them a little money, but they staunchly and vehemently refused. I can’t understand much of Ukrainian, but I understood that they just want the building materials and will rebuild themselves. While inspiring, I’m not sure how true that may be because the farmland all around the village, on which they rely for a living, has been ruined for decades. The smell alone was toxic, and I was unsure when the air would be safe.

With the village leaders (a woman this time), we toured around the rest of the village, where I saw a boat sitting in the middle of the street and a ruined honeybee colony. The next house was in much worse shape than Valentina’s and was well beyond repair, so they had yet to bother with any cleanup.

The air was so dank and horrific I used my shirt to cover my nose and mouth and watched carefully where I stepped. There was very little salvaged from the house, but a well-fed dog whined as I passed by. I felt the same way. The smell became overwhelming, and I realized I might be breathing in toxic chemicals, not to mention walking around in it, so we left off touring the flooded homes to do something to actually help these folks and install the water tank.

It reminded me a bit of the public works projects I often see, where it appears a couple of folks are doing all the work. Everyone else is standing around, but I have a new perspective now. Everyone had a role in driving, manual labor, or engineering. And everyone did their part when it was time. Village members made their way over to offer their help or just opinions. It was a relaxed atmosphere. I filmed everyone getting some big stones to serve as the roadblock to keep anyone from driving over the flaccid bladder of the water tank lying on the pavement, waiting to be filled with H2O. We had a little world-central kitchen food the Red Cross folks had brought in, which was welcomed (support those guys if you can). We were on high ground, away from the flooded area and toxic air.

All was peaceful and tranquil when we heard what sounded like thunder. I know by now that it was not thunder. Mark, our group’s retired marine and military expert, commented that it must have been a big blast to carry all that way.

A few minutes later, I wandered off to a field to record a video diary and noticed plumes of smoke on the horizon. They grew bigger and whiter as the day wore on, and Mark was afraid the Russians may have bombed a Ukrainian ammunition dump. Turns out, it may have been the other way around, as I read later. I hope so.

Either way, the realization that most likely people (be it Ukrainian or Russian, it’s a tragedy in my eyes) died when I heard that first thunderous boom sobered me even more.

On this day, in this small village tour with the Red Cross, we were told we didn’t need our body armor, and I think that was a correct call. Though visible and within hearing distance, the bombing was far away and was likely a targeted missile. However, we read in reports that a 27-year-old man had been killed in his home in Kherson, the town we visited the day before. I’m not 100% sure of the odds, but it feels a bit like getting struck by lightning. Your odds of getting hit are stronger in a raging thunderstorm, and the thunderstorm rages constantly in Kherson and near the front. The further you are away from the front, the less likely you are to get struck.

I’m torn between showing war and devastation or the normalcy we feel most of the time in most of the country. Both are true, and both are realities. I don’t want to glibly pretend that life is pleasant in Ukraine or that it’s constant fear and danger here. I simply wish to show the reality as I experience it, not on the front lines, but as a DIY travel journalist embedded with volunteers.

As we drove to Mykolai to spend the night before returning to Kyiv the next day, I reflected on the last three days and how I’d changed.

I was no longer nervous or afraid… now I was just profoundly sad yet somehow content… and an odd mix that adds a new perspective to the cliche of “mixed feelings.”

And I wondered how it would have been such a great road trip if only no war had been raging.

KHERSON OBLAST – Is a “state” in Southern Ukraine, partially controlled by Ukraine and partially Russian Occupied. The city of “Kherson” is fully controlled by Ukraine after several months of Russian occupation in 2022 and is about five miles from the “front.”

• Tags flooding , Kakhovka , kherson , mykolaiv , russian occupation , Russian terrorism , ukraine

Return to Przmesyl, Poland

June 9th, 2023 – Day two of my trip, I was so tired that I spent 15 minutes thinking I was locked IN my apartment share because I was pushing a pull door. I was JUST about to call the apartment owner when I figured it out. Thank goodness. The language barrier is terrible enough without her thinking I’m just plain dense. So don’t expect this written account to be anything one would write home about.

Still, making my way from Krakow (Crack-of for the pronunciation police) to Przemyśl almost a year after our filming here was moving. Leaving Krakow by train was NOT easy. I got yelled at twice at the Krakow train station, once by the ticket agent and another by the security guard. They were angry I spoke English and didn’t know where I was going. I suppose. Touristy places always have a resentful local or two, and I get it; I’m the same way in NYC. Still, I don’t yell at people who ask me a question. I wonder if they realize how much their salary depends on travelers like me.

But Valentina came in to save the day. Valentina (Pictured with me) is 1/2 Polish and 1/2 Italian. She was traveling to visit her grandparents for the summer, something she’s done summer after summer for many years. She also spoke good English, helped translate for me, and ensured I got on the correct train because the information was sparse. We were in the same car coincidentally, so I paid her back by helping her with the luggage.

But boarding the train at Krakow was the biggest disorganized circus I have EVERY seen. And so unnecessary too! Everyone has an assigned seat; what’s with the stupid chaos? Is this a roller derby match or an MMA event?

I have a nice shin injury from a roller suitcase slamming me during the scrum. People filed onto our car from both ends, meeting in the middle in a too-narrow aisle that would not allow either to pass the other with luggage. We were at a standstill for a good five to ten minutes with no one willing to back down before I jumped in, in English, and began ordering people around. They listened to me?! and thanked me! I couldn’t believe it. Then they asked ME where to get off for THEIR stop, and I was like, “Whoa, that’s enough now… this is my first time taking a train from Krakow to Przmesyl. And maybe my last.

Also on the train were two very sweet Ukrainian refugee women (sisters or maybe a YOUNG grandmother and daughter) with a young baby in tow. Unlike the Polish ticket agent and Security Guard, they were exceedingly helpful in getting me on the right train. They said they were worried they had “lost me” when they saw me on board afterward.

So by the time the train was halfway to Przemyśl, I felt I knew 1/2 the car, though hardly anyone spoke English, and just an hour earlier, I knew NO ONE. That’s travel. That’s why I love it.

The World Central Kitchen Volunteers are gone at the Przemyśl train station. In fact, I didn’t see a single volunteer of ANY organization welcome the exhausted and on-edge refugees who were on the train from Krakow and, like me, heading back to Ukraine. There is a war still going on, you know? In fact, it’s worse than before in my observations thus far. People are STRESSED to the limit.

Elderly women and ladies with tired children dragging their massive suitcases up and down flights of stairs disheartened me. I saw two disturbing bouts of distress, one from an elderly lady upset about something with her, I assume, adult daughter… and another young girl, 8 or 9, I’d say, also scarily upset and causing a scene and evidently super stressed with her family about something. The psychological toll of this horror show has yet to be played out, but I saw a sneak preview today, and it was NOT good.

I missed Anastasia’s language skills several times today, not just on getting from Point A to Point B but also on more practical matters. I had to buy dental floss at the Pharmacy and test my charade skills. Deodorant was fun too. Thankfully…. all stocked up on toilet paper, but I’ve got the perfect charade move ready to go should I need to get some.

Walking to the San River, I met a colorful “anti-war” protestor on the bridge. Unfortunately, I couldn’t understand precisely how the war might be ended (since Russia is 100% in charge of that situation) as his English was minor and my Polish was nil. Not suitable for such a complex subject.

If Mr. Ant-War Protester has any good ideas on how to end this madness and ensure that this NEVER happens again (we know that won’t happen if Putin wins), I’m all ears because witnessing people mentally breaking down is not fun to watch; not to mention the physical toll I’m ABOUT to see first-hand.

Still reminiscing in Przemyśl (Shey-mish for the pronunciation police) has been fulfilling. I wish I could stay longer, but I hope to see it again on the return trip in a few weeks.

Tomorrow, I’m off to cross the border back to L’viv for a few days before continuing into Kyiv. Nervous and excited, of course. I have some plans. It will be very different this trip. More on that later.

Sorry for the stream of consciousness, but I don’t have time to write correctly. I have more push doors to try to pull open.

• Tags aim tv group , periogies , poland , przmesyl , raw travel , raw travel tv , return to poland , robert g. rose , robert rose , russia , stop putin , stop war , ukraine , voluntourism , war

Raw Travel Wins Two Telly Awards for Steadfast in Ukraine

• Post date May 31, 2023

RAW TRAVEL WINS TWO TELLIES FOR “STEADFAST IN UKRAINE” – For Ten Seasons I resisted nominating Raw Travel for any awards, for a variety of reasons I won’t get into. However, I felt it was finally time to allow the people who worked on the very special “Steadfast in Ukraine” to garner some well-deserved recognition. Some shows may be titled “Solo in…” but they are anything but. Television is a collaborative medium, and thankfully so, as I enjoy nothing more than working with fellow creators to hopefully create something of value.

Congratulations to Creador Pictures (Editing), BtOVEN Music (Sound Design), Chaliwa Music + Sound (Audio Mix), Anastasia Zui (Videographer) Julia Avramenko (Consulting Producer), for winning the Silver in “TV – Travel & Tourism” and the Bronze for “TV – Video Journalism.”

Also, a shout out to fellow Telly Award winner Mickela Mallozzi of “Barefeet with Mickela” who convinced me to apply, proving she’s broad-minded and big-hearted enough to know it’s all about “coopertition”, not competition. Press Release Below:

RAW TRAVEL’S “STEADFAST IN UKRAINE” WINS AWARDS Visit to Ukraine During Wartime Wins Two Telly Awards in Two Categories NEW YORK, NY: May 31st, 2023– AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel®, announced their episode “Steadfast in Ukraine,” featuring a visit to wartime Ukraine garnered two Telly Awards. The episode won a Silver Telly in the Television, Travel and Tourism category and a Bronze Telly in the category of Television, Video Journalism. The special episode featured Executive Producer, Writer, and Host Robert G. Rose as he and Ukrainian refugee videographer Anastasia Zui traveled from Poland to film in Western Ukraine. Anastasia, a talented cinematographer and regular member of the Raw Travel crew, is a twice-displaced refugee from the Donbas region. In the episode, she continues from Lviv to Kyiv to reunite with her mother for the first time since fleeing the country with her young brother. At the same time, her father serves in the military. The episode also documents the difficulty and misery of crossing borders during wartime and an impromptu “off-camera” interview with an anonymous escapee from then-Russian-occupied Melitopol. There is also a life-affirming on-camera exchange with a recently injured Ukrainian soldier and an emotional visit to the ever-expanding Lychakiv Cemetery, where recently killed soldiers are buried. All set among the unpredictability, suspense, and drama of air-raid sirens as Russia fires missiles into Ukraine. But the show’s primary theme is the Ukrainian people’s steadfast, optimistic, and hopeful spirit as they bravely fight for survival and freedom.

In addition to Anastasia and Robert providing videography and direction, the episode was edited by Renzo Devia, Executive Producer at New York City-based Creador Pictures, and sound designed by New York City-based BtOVEN Music. The episode was audio mixed by Chaliwa Music + Sound in Miami, Florida. Julia Avramenko, a Ukrainian television professional living in New York City, provided Consulting Production services. “Winning awards is never our objective, especially in this case,” says Robert G. Rose, Producer and Host. “However, I felt it was important for the creatives on this special episode to be recognized for their work and professionalism, especially under the circumstances. I’m grateful for the Tellys for recognizing their achievements,” Rose continued. Raw Travel is currently in its Tenth Season of broadcast syndication and can be viewed in 180 U.S. cities in over 96% of US TV homes. Viewers have thus far helped raise over $20,000 to support grassroots organizations such as Care4Ukraine.org and Keep the Kids Learning, two organizations led by Joseph Nichols, an American logistics professional living in Ukraine. Viewers may visit RawTravelGiveBack.com to learn more and donate. ###

• Tags aim tv group , anastasia zui , bronze telly , btoven music , chaliwa music + sound , julia avramenko , press release , raw travel , raw travel tv , renzo devia , robert g. rose , silver telly , steadfast in ukraine , Telly award , travel and tourism , video journalism

TEN WAYS TO HELP UKRAINE

• Post date January 17, 2023

This site was put up rapidly in 2022 to respond quickly to the Russian full invasion of Ukraine. RawTravelUkraine.com is currently re-designing for a longer-term expansion, with the new site set to debut in December 2023, so please stay tuned.

The new site will feature a repository of our extensive and growing content emanating from and dedicated to Ukraine, research, resources, and various ways you can help, from monetary to volunteering, to militarily and politically.

In the meantime, here are TEN tangible ways you can help now!

1) TRAILER: View and share the “My Summer in Ukraine” trailer.

2) VIEW OTHER UKRAINE VIDEOS: Videos produced before and after the full invasion HERE:

3) SEE PHOTOS : See photos from “My Summer in Ukraine” HERE.

4) READ BLOG 2023: “My Summer in Ukraine” 2023 HERE .

5) READ BLOG 2022: Summer of 2022 travel to Ukraine HERE

6) TAKE ACTION POLITICALLY: Please tell our politicians to continue to support Ukraine. You can visit this link for an easy way to do this. It takes less than two-minutes and is very effective (and needed). https://www.votervoice.net/RAZOMFORUKRAINE/Campaigns/107413/Respond

7) BUY MERCH : Empathy = Strength, Let Freedom Ring shirts and merch save lives. Order your Official Raw Travel “Empathy = Strength” Shirts and Mugs HERE

Order the Empathy = Strength T-shirt that Rob wears on the show, and $10 of every order will support our efforts to help those in Ukraine directly, including our videographer, Anastasia’s father’s troop, who desperately need essential supplies.

Your “Empathy = Strength” T-shirt, Sweatshirt or Hoodie will literally save lives.

Or check our new Coffee Mugs as well. Same deal. All profits (approximately $10) will go to help our pals at Care4Ukraine.org and Keep the Kids Learning.

Order your shirt and Mugs HERE

8) DONATE DIRECTLY: If you prefer to donate directly, you may do so at our GoFundMe page at the link below: https://gofund.me/ad765274

9) MORAL SUPPORT: Like & Follow on Social Media. Don’t forget to follow us on Social Media for more frequent updates @RawTravelTV on Facebook , Twitter Instagram and Threads

10) SPREAD THE WORD: Help us reach more people by spreading the link RawTravelUkraine.com on your social media.

• Tags aim tv group , care4ukraine , eastern europe , Empathy , empathy equals strength , help ukraine , how to help ukraine , joseph nichols , keep the kids learning , putin , raw travel , raw travel helps ukraine , raw travel tv , robert g. rose , robert rose , russian war , shirt , Strength , t-shirt , voluntourism

Raw Travel Presents – Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine!

• Post date May 31, 2022

RAW TRAVEL TV TO HELP FREEDOM RING IN UKRAINE!

Multifaceted Media Campaign Poised to Help Ukraine for the “Long Haul” –

NEW YORK, NY: June 1 st , 2022  –  AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV) , producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show,  Raw Travel®,  announced  “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine”  to help Ukrainian refugees. The multi-platform and multi-faceted initiative will provide grassroots, long-term financial, and tangible assistance to externally and internally displaced Ukrainian refugees and citizens affected by the Russian invasion. 

In June, producer, and host,  Robert G. Rose  will be filming in Paris, France, and then at the border of Poland and Ukraine with Raw Travel videographer and displaced Ukrainian refugee  Anastasia Zui . Conditions permitting, they hope to go into Ukraine embedded with  “Keep the Kids Learning”  and “ Help 4 Ukraine,”  two small, independent organizations founded by American logistics engineer  Joseph Nichols,  living in Ukraine, and other Expatriates. The grassroots organizations are dedicated to helping keep Ukrainian refugee children and teachers in school and moving needed medicines and medical supplies from the US and Europe into Ukraine. 

On  July 2nd and 3rd,   2022 just before USA Independence Day, Raw Travel will premiere a special episode entitled “ Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine.”  The special will feature updated, relevant Ukrainian segments that showcase the country before the 2022 invasion, along with updated narration and ways viewers can help. The episode will re-air  on August 27th-28th. 

“Raw Travel offered valuable context to viewers when filming in Ukraine and the border areas of Russian-occupied Georgia in 2019,” said  Robert G. Rose, Executive Producer and Host  of the series. “Given our past coverage of Russian aggression’s consequences in both Georgia and Ukraine, we feel we can offer a unique perspective,” Rose continued. “I think we can show a different, potentially more uplifting angle of this tragedy that may inspire people to help the many good folks and organizations helping Ukraine on the ground, long after the raw emotion of Russia’s 2022 invasion has subsided, but the need persists.”

The  “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine”  effort has already begun in a limited capacity

with on-air billboards and social media posts encouraging viewers to visit 

RawTravelGiveBack.com . The special web page is a constantly evolving, dedicated entry point for concerned viewers. There, they can get updates about Ukrainians featured in the show and donate directly to vetted organizations or buy specially designed Raw Travel “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” merchandise (shirts, mugs, glasses, etc.) benefitting the efforts of these organizations. 

Raw Travel’s milestone Season 10 begins September 19th, 2022. A trailer of Raw Travel’s Let Freedom Ring episode can be viewed https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl88AHSCsGo

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves together themes of eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) with underground music and authentic culture in a unique way. Each weekend the show is seen in 174 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…). It can also be found on several major airlines. AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit  RawTravel.tv  for more information. 

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has been producing and distributing positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit  AIMTVGroup.com  for more information.

ABOUT KEEP THE KIDS LEARNING AND CARE 4 UKRAINE

Joseph Nichols is a US Citizen and logistics expert that has lived and worked in Ukraine since 2014. He and other US Expatriates are raising money for medical supplies and medicines distributed to Internally Displaced People (IDPs – Ukrainians displaced within Ukraine). They are also purchasing computers, books, and supplies to set up learning centers in Lviv, Ukraine, for children that the conflict has displaced. They have established transport lines across the Ukrainian/Polish border into most areas of the country and have received donations of supplies, equipment, and medicines. They are also offering space on trucks to other aid groups. Visit  https://gofund.me/13be73ab  and  https://gofund.me/06fa1840  for more information on Keep The Kids Learning and Care 4 Ukraine. 

• Tags aim tv group , eastern europe , help ukraine , let freedom ring , press release , putin , raw travel , raw travel tv , robert g. rose , russian war , tv special , tv to help ukraine , ukraine , voluntourism , war crimes , war in ukraine

Let Freedom Ring Coffee Mugs

• Post date April 28, 2022

Thanks everyone for your donations and for buying the exclusive Raw Travel designed “Let Freedom Ring” T-Shirts and Pint Glasses based on my photo of Freedom Square in Kyiv that I took in 2019.

You can order yours at our special merch page

or if you prefer, you may also donate at our GoFundMe Page

I’m including below the latest update from Joseph there, who is planning a trip back to the USA to gather medical supplies, etc. to take back. I hope to catch up with him in person or by zoom. My trip to Ukraine has been delayed a bit until early June, but it’s still on.

Thank you for all your support once again!

Here’s the latest update from Joseph at Care4Ukraine / Keeps Kids Learning.

As you might know, the areas we are starting these “pop-up” classrooms are located in the western region of Ukraine. Not only have IDP’s relocated from where the intense fighting is concentrated to cities like Lviv, Ternopil, and Uhzgorod, but also to the smaller villages. Recent attacks in the west have knocked out power in many places and our sister-site on GoFundMe – “Care4Ukraine” is beginning to address needs of IDP’s in these areas. Many refugees are returning to Ukraine as the war drags on. Issues like the higher cost of living and separation from family takes it toll, and the choice to return begins to look better than being a refugee in a foreign country. It is now estimated that there are eight million IDPs in Ukraine, economic output is down more than 50%, and the conflict is growing more intense each day.

Thank you for your help. Joseph

UPDATE May 2nd, 2022 –

ROB INTERVIEWS JOSEPH NICHOLS OF “KEEP THE KIDS LEARNING” FROM UKRAINE – Rob caught up with Joseph via zoom, while Joseph was making a quick trip to Chicago to pick up some medical supplies to take back to Ukraine.

• Tags help ukraine , help4ukraine , kyiv , let freedom ring , medical supplies , nato , putin , raw travel , refugee education , refugees , russian invasion , stop putin , tragedy , ukraine , war , war crimes

Robert G. Rose is a social and television entrepreneur and travel journalist focused on developing business models that target underserved audiences while producing content and media “that matter.” Since 2000, Rose has produced over 500 original episodes of television while negotiating partnerships with major marketers and media outlets worldwide.

Rose’s love of travel surfaced when he moved from his native Tennessee to New York City to work for Univision, the nation’s largest Spanish-language TV network. It was there that Rose met people from exotic locales such as Guatemala, Colombia, Ecuador, and even the Bronx.

It was also at Univision that Rose’s entrepreneurial spirit began to emerge. Rose recognized through his interactions with young Latinos and research that the “larger half” of the Latino market (the US-born or American Latinos) was under-served. Rose combined his newfound knowledge of the US Hispanic market with his knowledge of the TV industry & began developing a new business model targeted to US-born Latinos with culturally relevant English language media.

In 2000, with a lot of ideas in his head but little money in the bank, Rose left the safety of the corporate world to strike out on his own and began Artist & Idea Management (DBA – AIM Tell-A-Vision Group®) to produce TV in English for, from & about American Latinos. Rose formed “American Latino Syndication” on a shoestring &, from 2001 through 2008, independently produced hundreds of episodes of the pioneering, nationally syndicated TV shows (“American Latino TV” & “LatiNation”).

The shows would attract over 100 broadcast affiliates, a cable network deal, millions in sponsorship dollars, and tens of millions of viewers over the years as Rose received national recognition as an expert in the U.S. Hispanic-targeted media & marketing industry.

Ready for a new challenge and craving the opportunity to indulge his love of travel, Rose negotiated the sale of American Latino Syndication to LATV Networks in 2008 and began pursuing his passion of world travel full time.

Rose lived and traveled abroad in Latin America for a year. His travels produced life-changing experiences that inspired him to develop what he felt was missing from the US commercial television landscape, an authentic and real travel show. He wanted to showcase travel that did not revolve around high-end luxury or focus on food but authentic cultural experiences in a socially aware context that anyone, regardless of income or status, could enjoy.

Rose reconnected with a small team of trusted associates. They collaborated to produce Raw Travel®, a grass roots, adventure travel show highlighting off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel (ecotourism), giving back (voluntourism), and authentic cultural experiences.

Raw Travel premiered in 2013 on broadcast TV stations in just over 60 cities. Today, Raw Travel is broadcast weekly on over 180 local TV affiliates (CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox, CW) in over 95% of the US. The show is also exhibited on major TV outlets internationally in dozens of territories. Episodes are also viewed on major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Air Canada, Finnair, and many more.

When not working on Raw Travel, Rose reads voraciously, volunteers, blogs, and runs his small digital record label, “Punk Outlaw Records.” He is often a featured speaker or panelist at various travel, media, and trade shows. He is a passionate and published writer and member of numerous television, film, journalism & travel organizations.

Five Spot: Robert Rose, Producer/Creator/Host, ‘Raw Travel’

Globetrotting entrepreneur preps season eight of ‘socially aware’ series

On Oct. 3, stations in 174 cities covering 95% of the U.S. will kick off the eighth season of Raw Travel , the syndicated adventure travel and lifestyle series created, produced by, starring, distributed — and pretty much everything else — by media entrepreneur Robert Rose. 

The former Univision sales executive, along with his independent production and distribution company, AIM TV Group, have become fixtures in first-run weekend syndication over the last 20 years, first with culture/lifestyle series American Latino (2000-2009), before launching the show Rose says “showcases socially and environmentally aware, independent travel.”  

Think of an affable, Gen X version of Anthony Bourdain, with the media-business hustle parts of Byron Allen thrown in, and you get Rose, 53.

When Multichannel News senior content producer, technology Daniel Frankel caught up to him in early August at his New York apartment, he was doing something not that unusual — packing up for a trip. Turns out he was only taking his second sojourn of the pandemic, to visit a friend in the Poconos. 

Indeed, for the Tennessee native and veteran New Yorker, who now calls whatever hammock he’s commissioned “home,” these last few months of mandated quarantine have been particularly austere. Fortunately, for these last five months, Rose has been able to sift through gobs of unaired footage from pre-lockdown sojourns to destinations including Lithuania, Ukraine, Turkey, Colombia, Indonesia, Jamaica, Ethiopia and the Republic of Georgia to craft an eighth season of Raw Travel. “Travelers miss traveling, and viewers need a dose of optimism, love, and hope,” he said.

“I’m so grateful that last year, I said ‘yes’ to so many travel opportunities. 

What was your favorite Raw Travel destination and why?  It’s impossible to have one favorite, but my trip to visit the tribes of Southern Ethiopia and the amazing city of Istanbul, Turkey last summer were mind-blowing and life-changing adventures.

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I mention the remote tribes of Southern Ethiopia because I hung out with people still living like they have for centuries. I say Istanbul, because they were so warm and hospitable. I was super bummed at the time over a personal situation and travel, as usual, came to the rescue and put things in perspective for me.

What was your least favorite?  Again, this is very tough to answer, but I’d say parts of Honduras are kind of “once is enough.” And I’ll also mention Chernobyl, Ukraine. If you’ve seen one disastrous nuclear travesty, you’ve seen them all.

How has the show been able to move forward amid COVID-19?  Luckily, I didn’t say no to any travel opportunities in 2018 or ’19. The result was a glut of content to edit. Filming and traveling is the fun part, after all. Now, my choices are easy. Write scripts and edit that glut of content. It is all that we can do right now.

Do you think COVID-19 will permanently impact travel?   Yes, and that’s not a bad thing necessarily. Traveling, whether internationally or domestically, was becoming unsustainable for many ‘over-touristed’ destinations, and the planet needs to heal. Hopefully, this will give us and the planet pause on how we move forward.

Why do you think Raw Travel has connected with its audience for so long?   I was as shocked as anyone when it did, but I just went with my gut. I knew authentic travel was grossly under- and misrepresented on TV. I wanted to address that any way that I could.

What shows are you binge-watching? Thanks to COVID-19, I’m running out of shows! Like everyone else, I binged Tiger King and The Last Dance . Also Netflix’s Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich and HBO’s Welcome to Chechnya and Draining the Swamp .

Which streaming services do you subscribe to?  Amazon Prime, Netflix, HBO and YouTube TV. 

What book(s) are you reading right now?  The Jakarta Method , Just Mercy , Chasing the Light by Oliver Stone.

What’s your favorite podcast?  I’ve been interviewed on a few, but haven’t gotten hooked on any yet.

How many times have you left the house this week? I live in a small NYC apartment, so I leave the house every day to work out, walk, run, etc. Right now, I’m in the Poconos, visiting a ‘safe’ friend’s family, but it’s the first time I’ve been anywhere outside of NYC in over two months … and only the second place I’ve been since March.

Daniel Frankel is the managing editor of Next TV, an internet publishing vertical focused on the business of video streaming. A Los Angeles-based writer and editor who has covered the media and technology industries for more than two decades, Daniel has worked on staff for publications including E! Online, Electronic Media , Mediaweek , Variety, paidContent and GigaOm. You can start living a healthier life with greater wealth and prosperity by following Daniel on Twitter today !

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Robert G. Rose

• Robert G. Rose is a social & television entrepreneur whose focus is on developing business models that target under-served audiences while producing content and media "that matter." Since 2000, Rose has produced over 400 original episodes of television & negotiated partnerships with major marketers and media outlets all over the world. Rose's love of travel surfaced when he moved from his native Tennessee to New York City to work for Univision, the nation's largest Spanish-language TV network. It was there that Rose met people from exotic locales such as Guatemala, Colombia, Ecuador, and even the Bronx. It was also at Univision that Rose's entrepreneurial spirit was revealed. Rose recognized through his interactions with young Latinos, as well as research that the "larger half" of the Latino market (the US-born or American Latinos) was under-served. Rose combined his newfound knowledge of the US Hispanic market with his knowledge of the TV industry & began developing a new business model targeted to US-born Latinos with culturally relevant English language media. In 2000, with ideas in his head but little money in the bank, Rose left the safety of the corporate world to strike out on his own and began Artist & Idea Management (AKA: AIM Tell-A-Vision Group®) to produce, TV in English for, from & about American Latinos. Rose formed "American Latino Syndication" on a shoestring & from 2001 through 2008 independently produced hundreds of episodes of the pioneering, nationally syndicated TV shows ("American Latino TV" & "LatiNation"). The shows would attract over 100 broadcast affiliates, a cable network deal, and millions in sponsorship dollars & tens of millions of viewers over the years as Rose received national recognition as an expert in Hispanic media & marketing. Fulfilled but ready for a new challenge and craving the opportunity to indulge his growing love of travel, Rose negotiated the acquisition of American Latino Syndication to LATV Networks in 2008 and began pursuing his passion of world-travel full time. Rose lived abroad in Latin America for about a year, and his travels produced life-changing experiences that inspired him to develop what he felt was also missing from the US commercial television landscape, an authentic and real travel show. He wanted to showcase travel that did not revolve around high-end luxury or focus on food, but authentic cultural experiences in a socially aware context that everyone could enjoy. Rose reconnected with a small team of trusted associates, and they collaborated to produce Raw Travel®, a fast-paced, adventure travel show highlighting off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel (ecotourism), giving back (voluntourism) and authentic cultural experiences. Raw Travel premiered in 2013 on broadcast TV stations in just over 60 cities. Today, Raw Travel is exhibited on over 170 local TV affiliates (CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox, CW) in over 95% of the US as well as major TV outlets internationally such as National Geographic People in Asia, Fox Iberia in Europe, Amazon in India and many more. Episodes from the show can also be found on major airlines such as Delta, Air Canada, Finnair, and more. When not working on Raw Travel, Rose reads voraciously, volunteers, blogs, and runs a small digital record label, "Punk Outlaw Records." He is often a featured speaker or panelist at various travel, media, and trade shows. He is a published writer & member of numerous television, film & travel organizations. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Raw Travel

Self-verified on IMDbPro

• Gender / Gender identity Male
• Los Angeles, CA - USA
• Some say New York City has become too safe, too sanitized, but fear not my friends, the garbage still stinks and pigeons and rats still loom large.
• I've learned that comfort and happiness are not the same. Often when traveling, I've been the happiest when least comfortable.
• We are all rich & poor in different ways. Embrace the humble nature of the planet's most populous people... Let their authenticity & dignity in the face of incredible obstacles inspire you to overcome your own tribulations. Go ahead, travel with heart.. I bet you'll be glad you did.

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• My Summer in Ukraine Trailer

My Summer In Ukraine

Watch the trailer for My Summer In Ukraine.  

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Raw Travel Ukraine

Opinion polls and social media likes do not inform our moral compass..

Thank you for visiting RawTravelUkraine.com. My name is Robert G. Rose.

I've been an independent media entrepreneur for most of my career. My company, AIM TV Group , prides itself on creating " media that matters ."

I began traveling several years ago, producing a blog about punk music worldwide and creating a record label from those travels. This eventually led me to produce Raw Travel TV , which is in its 11th season and has been the most-watched authentic travel show on U.S. commercial television for most of that time. Our mantra is " empathy = strength."

I've visited Ukraine five times, including two times after the full Russian invasion. My most recent visit was in the summer of 2023. I filmed "My Summer in Ukraine," a four-part documentary series that will debut on Raw Travel the weekend of April 27, 2024, through May 19, 2024 .

The series will then be reformatted as a feature-length documentary film before making the film festival circuit.

I've also visited Russia (2010), Russian Occupied South Ossetia, Georgia (2019), and several post-Soviet states where I have many friends and relationships. These travels and relationships made me curious to learn more about Ukraine's unique history and geopolitical concerns surrounding Russia.

I am still learning, but every day is a massive undertaking of absorbing content from credible sources. I wish to share this knowledge to better inform others of the geopolitical, cultural, and historical issues surrounding Ukraine. Hence, this blog.

HOW TO HELP UKRAINE

This site was initially launched as a simple blog in early 2022 after the full-scale Russian invasion to raise funds for our friends and refugees in Ukraine.

The redesigned site you are browsing now is dedicated to supporting Ukraine by sharing research, resources, and various ways to support Ukraine, from monetary to volunteering and from military to political.

We've outlined four significant ways to take action, including DONATE (not just your money but your expertise or time or simple moral support), ADVOCATE (politically and on social media), EDUCATE yourself and others (recommend books, publications, movies, etc., that are vital tools to combatting Russian propaganda and disinformation) and HIRE (resources for hiring Ukrainian talent and companies)

Even after this horrific war, there will be much to do for years. From helping refugees to amputees and the wounded to the traumatized children and adults to the clean-up of mined territory and rebuilding of bombed buildings, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, the list is long.

In other words, this site will grow and evolve over time as Ukraine's needs change, but we are here for the long haul.

Donate money to support Ukraine. Click here to learn more about how to donate money to Ukraine

Advocate for Ukraine. Click here to learn more about how to advocate for Ukraine.

Educate about Ukraine. Click here to learn more about Ukraine and how to educate others.

Hire to help Ukraine. Click here to help Ukraine by hiring.

UKRAINE CENTERED CONTENT

One primary goal is to amplify the efforts of the many people and grassroots organizations doing so much to help support Ukraine during this difficult time while educating and fighting back against Russian-sponsored disinformation and propaganda that has taken hold worldwide, but especially in the United States and infected our political discourse.

I invite you to check out the site's different content sections, including our VIDEOS channel, which will be updated with new relevant content frequently, along with some new interviews.

Please check out our Blog Section, where you can follow my blog posts and Guest Bloggers, U.S. Marine and Humanitarian Mark Cary and U.S. Expatriate humanitarian in Ukraine Joseph Nichols .

Their posts can offer essential historical records in almost real-time documentary evidence of the history of this most crucial issue of our time.

Along those lines, please visit our HALL OF FAME page, acknowledging just a few of the many people and organizations sacrificing so Ukraine can be free. It will be updated frequently.

Sadly, we find it necessary to host the HALL OF SHAME , which calls out the spineless, compromised, or confused individuals or organizations that, purposely or not, amplify Russian propaganda and lies or are helping Putin continue his campaign of murder in other ways.

BOOK A MEDIA INTERVIEW, SPEAKER, OR GUEST

If you need a speaker or presenter for your event or organization or need expertise for your media outlet, please check out our CONTACT/BOOKING page where we have a curated list of impressive and articulate speakers with unique, credible first-hand insights and expertise into Ukraine.   

I have been a featured on many media interviews as well as a featured speaker, panelist, and presenter at numerous conferences worldwide for years. To view some of our most recent media interviews, please visit our  PRESS page.

LET US HEAR YOUR VOICE!

If you have a collaboration or some other thoughts on how we can help Ukraine, or for any other reason, please visit our CONTACT page to say hello. Even simple words of encouragement are welcome and provide a needed morale boost.

One of the purposes of disinformation is to demoralize and silence those working for the greater good. We will never be silent, and there are many more good people than the relatively small number of evil but vocal few. Let us hear your voice!

Along those lines, please follow us on our social media channels with links at the bottom of the page and help us spread the word about this page by sharing it on your social media.

Together, Ukraine, peace, freedom and democracy will prevail. Slava Ukraini!

"Imagine a peaceful and beautiful world. Then go make it possible." - Robert G. Rose

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10 Things You Didn't Know about Robert G. Rose

Within the circle of social media and television content development is entrepreneur Robert G. Rose whose career focus was on assisting under-served audiences by providing socially conscious content since the year 2000. Between more than 500 television episodes and marketing partnerships , Rose has made a name for himself in the world of business and investment. As of 2021, it is reported Robert G. Rose's net worth is $1 million.

1. AIM Tell-a-Vision Group

Robert Rose's love for travel inspired him to develop Artist & Idea Management (AIM), which is now more commonly referred to as AIM TV Group . While on a shoestring budget from 2001 until 2008, Rose brought forth the American Latino Syndication, which focused on this particular cultural group in an effort to help Americans better understand their neighbors from the south. The show attracted over 1000 affiliates, as well as a cable network deal, and millions of sponsorship dollars and viewers. The more the public became aware of AIM, the more recognition he received for his involvement with the Hispanic media and marketing. He was inspired to develop AIM after previous network work introduced him to a number of Latinos that came from regions such as Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala. This was Rose's first big step away from the luxuries of the corporate world in his quest to embark on a more environmentally and socially conscious road. Through this network, he has been instrumental in helping people become more mindful of their responsibility toward the ecosystem, multiculturalism, and volunteerism.

2. Raw Travel

Because of Robert Rose's love for travel, plus the success of AIM TV Group, this enabled Rose to trek around the world at a full-time level. This resulted in the birth of Raw Travel , another television production where Rose would meet and broadcast the many hidden gems not typically visited by tourists. The focus was more on ecotourism, which began to air on television as of 2013, reaching over sixty cities worldwide. Now, in 2021, Raw Travel is featured on major networks, reaching over 170 local television broadcasters. Considered as a "rock n' roll" style of travel due to its fast pace, Rose also engages in voluntourism, which pushes tourists to give back to the communities they visit in order to keep them sustainable, both for visitors and locals alike. At one point, various Latin American locations served as the home for Rose, which he credits to have been life-changing experiences. In exchange, he brings forth what he's learned through the many episodes he's aired so far. His focus has remained at the heart of off-the-beaten-path tourism as opposed to visiting world-famous tourist destinations.

3. Punk Outlaw Records

When not traveling, Robert G. Rose runs his own digital record label where his company signs up and produces punk music artists aspiring to record and release music to the audience. Formed in 2010 while Rose was doing a documentary (Punktology), gave the producer an opportunity to indulge in his appreciation for punk-related music. The first two artists his company recruited are Los Suziox of the Colombian Nation and Rudos Wilde, who is from Uruguay. The focus of Punk Outlaw Records is bringing talent that otherwise would be overlooked by various record labels to an audience who would appreciate it. In 2011, Punk Outlaw Records released their first compilation album.

4. Don't Drag Me Down

Robert G. Rose likes to share his personal experiences and opinions through his own blog site, which is titled Don't Drag me Down. Anything and everything that Rose wishes to talk about is covered here. Not the least bit shy to voice his concerns, Rose often finds himself at odds with the Nielsen television rating system, one which he repeatedly considers as biased, especially against anything that doesn't agree with their own idea of quality television.

5. Univision

Born on September 30, 1969, Robert G. Rose grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee , before moving to New York City and working with the US Spanish Network known as Univision. After spending three years with the largest Spanish-speaking network, he would create American Latino Syndication as a means to reach out to English-speaking US-born Latinos who were not being reached by the Spanish-speaking media whom he felt was letting them down. He received this reality check after meeting with younger Latinos within the Bronx area who knew very little about their Spanish heritage. This is what would contribute as a spawn to ignite Rose's entrepreneurial spirit that would ultimately lead him down a path that would have the world recognize him as a leader in bridging key social gaps that have been too often overlooked.

6. Republican

Robert G. Rose is known for his political preference for the Republican Party. This is what is indicated on his voter registration information.

7. Robert G Rose Page Facebook

Robert G Rose's influence in social media also stems from his Facebook pages , namely the one he posts the most frequently on, Raw Travel.

8. Partnerships and Sponsorships

Over the years, Robert G Rose has developed solid partnerships and sponsorships from company giants such as General Motors, McDonald's, State Farm Insurance, Verizon Wireless, and Volkswagen.

9. Business Model Targets

Through various media productions, Robert G. Rose invests a great deal of his time to boost the awareness to the (mostly) American audience of the importance of being more consciously minded with all that they do. Whether it be whatever they do during their daily lives, or embarking on their own travel excursions, the emphasis to give back is something he often brings up through the blogs he posts.

10. Robert G. Rose Famous Quotes

Robert G. Rose is known for having some interesting things to say, and he's found that there are those who enjoy quoting him . "I've learned that comfort and happiness are not the same. Often when traveling, I've been the happiest when least comfortable." "Some say New York City has become too safe, too sanitized, but fear not my friends, the garbage still stinks and pigeons and rats still loom large."

Written by  Allen Lee

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Robert Rose’s AIM Tell-A-Vision to Take Broadcast Syndication Viewers Inside the War in Ukraine with 4-Part Docuseries Starting This Weekend

Robert Rose and his AIM Tell-A-Vision Group, producer, host and distributor of socially conscious travel series including Raw Travel , has announced the first of a four-part docuseries My Summer In Ukraine, which launches into national broadcast syndication this weekend (April 27-28) .

Rose expects that by the time the four-part series concludes its run May 18-19, national clearance will reach 97% of U.S. TV homes. He also told us he expects My Summer in Ukraine to reach a cumulative audience of 3.5 - 4.5 million viewers.

Also Read: Five Spot: Robert Rose, Producer/Creator/Host, ‘Raw Travel’

“It’s an honor to be part of Ukraine's fight for freedom and survival,“ Rose said. “However, it’s an honor I would gladly forego if it meant Ukrainians didn't have to suffer through this horrific, illegal and unjust attack on their sovereignty and very existence. It feels like my life purposely led me here, so I’m committed to Ukraine until victory and beyond.”

Rose, who has previously traveled and produced Raw Travel in Ukraine , as well as other politically charged locations including Haiti, Cuba, China and Vietnam, spent a month back in Ukraine last summer, highlighting seemingly unlikely moments of joy amidst the devastation.

The trip took Rose to Kyiv, Bucha, Hostomel, Irpin, Odesa, Kharkiv and various villages in order to profile humanitarians, filmmakers, soldiers and others on the front lines of a global struggle against tyranny.

Trailers for the series can be found on the show’s website , while viewers tuning in locally can find information on Raw Travel 's regional channel guide .

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Southwest Airlines to stop flying to Houston's IAH, 3 other airports after reporting first-quarter losses

S outhwest Airlines will limit hiring and stop flying to four airports as it copes with weak financial results and delays in getting new planes from Boeing.

Both Southwest and American Airlines reported first-quarter losses Thursday. Demand for travel remains strong, including among business flyers, but airlines are dealing with higher labor costs, and delays in aircraft deliveries are limiting their ability to add more flights.

Southwest said it lost $231 million. CEO Robert Jordan said the airline was reacting quickly “to address our financial underperformance," including by slowing down hiring and asking employees to take time off.

The Dallas-based carrier said it expects to end this year with 2,000 fewer employees than it had at the start of the year.

Southwest will also stop flying to four airports: Cozumel, Mexico; Syracuse, New York; Bellingham, Washington; and George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston , where the airline’s major operation is at smaller Hobby Airport.

The closures will help the airline focus on more profitable locations and deploy a fleet of planes that will be smaller than it had planned. Southwest said it expects to get only 20 new 737 Max 8 jets from Boeing this year, down from the 46 it expected just a few weeks ago. It will offset some of the shortage by retiring fewer planes.

Boeing is struggling with slower production since a door plug blew out of an Alaska Airlines Max 9 in January, and that is frustrating its airline customers.

Dallas-based Southwest said that its loss, after excluding special items, was 36 cents per share. That was slightly worse than the loss of 34 cents per share that Wall Street expected.

Revenue rose to $6.33 billion, below analysts' forecast of $6.42 billion.

We reached out to Southwest and they sent us the following statement.

"We’ve made a tough decision to end Southwest service at four airports currently on our network as peak summer 2024 travel ends in early August. We no longer are accepting additional reservations beyond August 4, 2024, for travel in or out of Bellingham, Washington (BLI), Cozumel, Mexico (CZM), Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), and Syracuse, New York (SYR).     

This business decision centers around the best usage of our fleet in an environment requiring that we navigate around uncertainty in aircraft deliveries. We’re sharing this news now to support our Employees with other opportunities and to soften the impact of this change for Customers who had planned to travel with Southwest in or out of these airports on August 5 or beyond. We’re reaching out to all who are affected with their specific options and our heartfelt regret for the necessary change. 

  Our Planners continue the work of shaping our flight schedule to set up our network in a way that addresses demand, best utilizes our aircraft, and supports our workforce. We’re also taking steps to restore an industry-leading financial performance that enables us to best serve the millions of Customers who fly with us each week with our signature efficiency and reliability."

American Airlines also struggling

American said it lost $312 million as labor costs rose 18%, or nearly $600 million. The airline said it expects to return to profitability in the second quarter — a busier time for travel — and post earnings between $1.15 and $1.45 per share. Analysts expect $1.15 per share, according to a FactSet survey.

The first-quarter loss amounted to 34 cents per share excluding special items, which was worse than the loss of 27 cents per share forecast by analysts.

Revenue was $12.57 billion.

CEO Robert Isom said American is less impacted by Boeing's problems because the airline had already received hundreds of new planes in recent years. American has ordered Boeing Max 10s, a larger model that has not yet been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration, but those planes are not due to start showing up until 2028.

“If they don't get it together, we have also made sure that we're protected,” Isom told CNBC. He stopped short of saying American would switch Boeing orders to rival Airbus, saying only, “We'll take care of it.”

In premarket trading, Southwest shares were down 9% while American shares were up 3%.

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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