the cruise brothers

Is Cruise Brothers Legit? A Comprehensive Review

Is Cruise Brothers Legit?

Cruise Brothers is a popular online travel agency that offers a wide variety of cruises at discounted prices. But is Cruise Brothers legit? Is it a safe and reputable company to book your next cruise with?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Cruise Brothers to see if it’s a legitimate company. We’ll explore its history, its customer reviews, and its policies. We’ll also provide some tips on how to book a cruise with Cruise Brothers safely and securely.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of Cruise Brothers and whether or not it’s the right company for you.

So, is Cruise Brothers legit?

Let’s find out.

Background on Cruise Brothers

Cruise Brothers is a travel agency that specializes in booking cruises. The company was founded in 1996 by two brothers, David and Michael Mandell. Cruise Brothers is headquartered in New York City and has offices in Miami, Los Angeles, and London.

The company offers a wide variety of cruises, including cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and the Mediterranean. Cruise Brothers also offers a variety of cruise packages, including all-inclusive cruises, land and sea packages, and family cruises.

Cruise Brothers has a good reputation among consumers. The company has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes.

Is Cruise Brothers a Legitimate Company?

Cruise Brothers is a legitimate company that has been in business for over 20 years. The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating. Cruise Brothers is also a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which is the world’s largest cruise association.

Cruise Brothers is financially stable and has been profitable for many years. The company has a strong balance sheet and a history of paying its debts on time. Cruise Brothers is also a publicly traded company, which means that its financial statements are available to the public.

Cruise Brothers has a clean legal history. The company has never been involved in any major lawsuits or scandals. Cruise Brothers is also a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which has a strict code of ethics that all members must adhere to.

Cruise Brothers is a legitimate company that is a safe and reliable choice for booking your next cruise. The company has a good reputation among consumers, is financially stable, and has a clean legal history.

If you are looking for a reputable travel agency to book your next cruise, Cruise Brothers is a great option. The company offers a wide variety of cruises, packages, and deals, and its experienced agents can help you find the perfect cruise for your needs.

3. Pros and Cons of Using Cruise Brothers

There are a number of pros and cons to using Cruise Brothers.

Advantages of using Cruise Brothers

• Convenience: Cruise Brothers makes it easy to book a cruise. You can search for cruises by destination, date, and price, and then compare different options to find the best deal. Cruise Brothers also offers a variety of add-ons and extras, such as insurance, shore excursions, and transportation.
• Expertise: Cruise Brothers has a team of experienced travel agents who can help you find the perfect cruise for your needs. They can answer your questions about destinations, ships, and itineraries, and they can help you book the best possible deal.
• Value: Cruise Brothers often offers discounts on cruises, so you can save money on your vacation.
• Flexibility: Cruise Brothers allows you to book your cruise with a flexible cancellation policy. This means that you can change or cancel your cruise without incurring a fee, as long as you do so within a certain time frame.

Disadvantages of using Cruise Brothers

• Price: Cruise Brothers does not always offer the best prices on cruises. It is important to compare prices from different travel agents before booking your cruise.
• Hidden fees: Cruise Brothers may charge hidden fees, such as a booking fee or a fuel surcharge. It is important to read the fine print before booking your cruise to make sure you are aware of all of the fees involved.
• Customer service: Cruise Brothers has a mixed reputation for customer service. Some customers have reported problems with getting their questions answered or with resolving issues with their bookings.

4. Final Thoughts on Cruise Brothers

Overall, Cruise Brothers is a reputable travel agency that can help you find the perfect cruise for your needs. However, it is important to compare prices from different travel agents before booking your cruise to make sure you are getting the best possible deal.

Recommendations for using Cruise Brothers

If you are considering using Cruise Brothers, here are a few recommendations:

• Compare prices from different travel agents before booking your cruise.
• Read the fine print before booking your cruise to make sure you are aware of all of the fees involved.
• Be prepared to contact customer service if you have any questions or problems with your booking.

By following these recommendations, you can increase your chances of having a positive experience with Cruise Brothers.

Cruise Brothers is a legitimate travel agency that has been in business for over 20 years. The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating. Cruise Brothers offers a wide variety of cruises from a variety of different cruise lines. The company also offers a variety of travel packages, including airfare, hotel accommodations, and car rentals.

What are some of the benefits of booking a cruise with Cruise Brothers?

There are many benefits to booking a cruise with Cruise Brothers, including:

• Expert advice: Cruise Brothers has a team of experienced travel agents who can help you find the perfect cruise for your needs. They can also help you with everything from booking your flights and hotels to planning your shore excursions.
• Great deals: Cruise Brothers offers a variety of discounts on cruises, including early booking discounts, last-minute deals, and multi-cruise discounts.
• Convenient booking process: Cruise Brothers makes it easy to book your cruise online. You can easily compare different cruises and find the best deals. You can also book your cruise with a credit card or PayPal.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Cruise Brothers offers a flexible cancellation policy, so you can book your cruise with confidence.

What are some of the most popular cruises offered by Cruise Brothers?

Some of the most popular cruises offered by Cruise Brothers include:

• Caribbean cruises: Caribbean cruises are a popular choice for first-time cruisers. The Caribbean offers a variety of beautiful destinations, including white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests.
• Alaska cruises: Alaska cruises are a great way to see the natural beauty of the Last Frontier. Alaska offers a variety of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
• Europe cruises: Europe cruises are a great way to see some of the world’s most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and the Acropolis.
• World cruises: World cruises are a great way to see the world in one trip. World cruises typically visit a variety of destinations on all seven continents.

How do I book a cruise with Cruise Brothers?

You can book a cruise with Cruise Brothers online, by phone, or in person at one of their travel offices. To book a cruise online, simply visit the Cruise Brothers website and enter your desired cruise dates, destination, and budget. You can also use the website to compare different cruises and find the best deals. To book a cruise by phone, call Cruise Brothers at 1-800-377-9383. To book a cruise in person, visit one of Cruise Brothers’ travel offices.

What is Cruise Brothers’ cancellation policy?

Cruise Brothers offers a flexible cancellation policy. You can cancel your cruise up to 45 days before departure for a full refund. If you cancel your cruise within 45 days of departure, you will receive a 75% refund. If you cancel your cruise within 24 hours of departure, you will not receive a refund.

How can I contact Cruise Brothers?

You can contact Cruise Brothers by phone, email, or social media. To contact Cruise Brothers by phone, call 1-800-377-9383. To contact Cruise Brothers by email, send an email to [email protected] . To contact Cruise Brothers on social media, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Cruise Brothers is a legitimate cruise booking agency that has been in business for over 20 years. They offer a wide variety of cruises at competitive prices, and they have a good reputation for customer service. However, it is important to note that they are not a travel agent, so they do not offer any additional services such as insurance or cancellation protection. If you are looking for a reputable cruise booking agency, Cruise Brothers is a good option. However, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking your cruise.

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Contact Cruise Brothers

Already booked on a cruise? We will be happy to answer any questions about your upcoming cruise.  [email protected]

Just returned from your cruise? We would love to hear about it.  [email protected]

Would you like to book a cruise or land vacation package? Don't get soaked on your next cruise! Email us at [email protected] or call us.

VISIT US IN WARWICK - WE ARE OPEN

Superstore hours Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Saturday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Sunday by appointment

Call us We are happy to talk with you. Our toll-free number is (800) 827-7779. If you're in our area, call (401) 941-3999.

We welcome your comments and suggestions. Tell us what you think about our web site or anything else that comes to mind. 

CRUISE BROTHERS 820 Bald Hill Road Warwick, RI 02886 Phone: 401.941.3999

About The Cruise Brothers

Cruise Brothers is one of the largest family owned cruise travel agencies in the United States. We were established in 1972, and while we are the “Cruise Brothers,” we have worked diligently to establish our brand, not only as cruise experts, but as experts at land vacations as well. Over the years, we have helped nearly a million people plan their dream vacations and their special, once-in-a-lifetime adventures!

Individual vacationers, family members, and friends account for the majority of our business. However, we have also built a thriving business that focuses on groups - - - class reunions, destination weddings, music and other theme cruises, seminars at sea, fundraisers, and corporate meetings and incentives.

As an affiliate of Travel Leaders Network, the $21 billion a year travel industry giant, and a consistent top producer with the world’s leading cruise lines and tour operators, Cruise Brothers has established the buying power that ensures that our clients receive the travel industry’s very best pricing and a generous array of travel amenities.

Whether your interest is in a cruise, an all-inclusive resort, or a land tour; whether it’s the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Hawaii, or the World, Cruise Brothers’ team of seasoned travel professionals is committed to providing you with expert, professional advice; award-winning service; the best travel values, and memories that last a lifetime!

Cruise Brothers

Location & Hours

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100 Boyd Ave

East Providence, RI 02914

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About the Business

Business owner information

Business Owner

The Cruise Brothers is one of the largest family owned cruise agencies in the country. We've been in business since 1972 - that's 41 years of experience as cruise brokers - specializing in all aspects of cruising, making us YOUR experts on the cruise lines, the ships, and the destinations. Our success stems from our well-trained international network of expert cruise agents and our award winning customer service department. With our experience and our expert staff, we are confident we can answer any questions you may have when planning your next adventure. As cruise brokers, we stand behind every booking and our family name and values are the foundation of your confidence in us. …

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Overall rating

The 2 excursions I booked with Cruise Brothers was cancelled. The last one was 2 days prior to the excursion and no other options were offered. I will not utiluze them again. Neither cancellation was weather related.

I am a former agent and was with Cruise Brothers for a few years. I had booked a large group cruise with a cruise line and Cruise Brothers would not help me with technical difficulties with the cruise line. I am a seasoned travel agent and rarely need help. Due to lack of assistance from Cruise Brothers, I left and went to another host agency. They owe my hundreds of dollars in commissions, and I get vague answers from the team leader. Ie. "Haven't heard back from management". This company is hard to deal with, and doesn't appreciate it's agents. I need to get paid.

I have had more aggravation with Cruise Brothers and the Travel Agent Sheryl Weissbach. Lets start with the lying, not giving you the whole story when booking a trip. Never taking responsibilty for anything. If I wanted to do everything nyself then I would have booked the trips and not used a travel expert...... I have lost more money using this company for my travel needs. I would run with my life, do not use them. They never take responsibilty for anything they do or any mistakes they make. Ginny

This travel agency is absolutely horrendous!!! My Aunt convinced us to go through Cruise Brothers to book our upcoming cruise rather than doing it ourselves (like we've done for our last 5), and it has been nothing short of a pain in our backside! We had been asking questions for over a month before our agent finally sent an email to our group of 20 with scarcely any details at all. All the email basically said was "call this 800 number and pay your bill by X date"... there was no total due, no explanation of our room, NOTHING USEFUL! She also asked us to choose late or early dining, but didn't tell us what times "late" or "early" meant. I emailed her personally to follow up for clarification and specifically told her to put us down for early... she put us down for late! I also think it's completely unacceptable for a company working in this day and age to not allow online payment. I have called them three times now and had no one pick up! I've wasted SO MUCH TIME dealing with these people, and the last time I finally got someone on the phone, she didn't change my email address, phone number, or billing address like I instructed her, and my CC got declined. Since she didn't update my info, they called another member of my cruising party and asked them to get a hold of me and have me call them back about it. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!? HORRIBLE way to run a business!!!! I really wish I could fire them and cruise on our own, but I would lose my deposit and the rate to book now would be much higher than when we started booking last April. DO NOT USE THIS AWFUL COMPANY!!!!

I used this agency a few years ago for a cruise, and had a fairly positive experience. Based on that, I decided to use them for an upcoming trip to New York to visit our son and grandson. We booked a hotel, and round-trip air. About 3 weeks before we were to leave, my wife had a fall and fractured her wrist and hip. The wrist required immediate surgery, and the hip, while not requiring surgery, was extremely painful, and required my wife to walk with a cane. I called our travel agent, and told her that we must cancel our trip, and requested a refund. I learned that our agent had booked our trip through Expedia! I received a full refund of the hotel, but not for the airfare. I was told that the tickets were not refundable, but that airlines often make exceptions for medical emergencies. I obtained a signed letter from my wife's doctor, and told our agent that I had it. She told me to contact the airline, which I did. The airline was very sympathetic, but explained that they could do nothing, since the tickets were purchased through a 3rd party. I contacted the agent, and told her of this. She AGAIN referred me back to the airline. She is now not responding to my messages, and I am out over $600 because of an accident that was out of our control. DO NOT USE THIS AGENCY FOR ANYTHING!

I have taken many trips thru Cruise Brothers. Always great customer service I have never had any issues with them!. If you like to talk to travel agents face to face, this is the place to go. They also have plenty of parking. I stick to RI companies and this is family owned and based in RI so for me this a plus!

I have taken many trips thru Cruise Brothers. Always great customer service I have never had any issues with them!. If you like to talk to travel agents face to face, this is the place to go. They also have plenty of parking.

Found a great agent to work with!! Sorry to hear about the reviews about the other ones. They always have the best perks. Message me if you want to connect with someone more reliable.

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Cruise Brothers

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Company details.

• Founded 1972
• Host Type Hybrid (Host & Travel Agency)
• Currently Accepting Beginner Agents, Experienced Agents
• Accepts Agents in USA, Canada
• # of Contractors 3,500
• Annual Sales $100 million
• Languages Spoken English, Spanish
• Business Attributes —
• Profile Updated 03/23/2024
• GDS Not Offered
• Consortia Travel Leaders Network
• Accreditations CLIA, IATA
• Members of ASTA, CLIA
• Seller of Travel California, Florida, Hawaii
• E&O Insurance Included
• Focuses Cruise, Disney, Groups, Leisure, Luxury, Ethnic, FITs

Program Details

• Ticketing Service for non-GDS Agents
• Minimum Sales Requirement —
• Lead Program
• Education Program Employee Training, IC Education, In-person, On-demand
• Allows Sub-agents

Pricing & Commission

• Military/Veteran discounts
• Start Up Fee $0
• Location requirement Storefront, Home-based
• Annual Fee $0
• Commission Split Range 50% to 70%
• Frequency of Commission Payments Weekly
• Method of Payment Check, Direct Deposit

Technology & Tools

• Marketing Programs Direct Mail, Website Program, E-mail Marketing, Social Media Tools
• Leisure Tools —
• Corporate Tools —

About Cruise Brothers

Cruising Free was founded in 2010 and is the host agency division of the well-known Cruise Brothers Travel Agency founded in 1972, created on the belief that travelers can become travel agents.

Cruising Free is completely free to join because we seek those with a passion for leisure travel and cruising, are the "go to" for their family, friends or organization and want to learn how to create a home-based business easily whether keeping it simple or creating large groups or family reunions AND getting paid for it.

We've designed a proprietary intranet and education program led by a team of coaches or "Team Leaders" who are your personal guides from the day you begin. We do this because we know people joining us are new and want to do this part-time to earn money, save on travel and potentially earn free travel and cruises for the planning they are already doing. Of course we find that for some their passion turns into a full-time business and all this at no cost to you!

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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2 river flood warnings in effect for brantley and columbia counties, entertainment, allman brothers band co-founder and legendary guitarist dickey betts dies at 80.

Steven Wine And Russ Bynum

Associated Press

Guitar legend Dickey Betts, who co-founded the Allman Brothers Band and wrote their biggest hit, “Ramblin’ Man,” has died. He was 80.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer died at his home in Osprey, Florida, David Spero, Betts’ manager of 20 years, confirmed. Betts had been battling cancer for more than a year and had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Spero said.

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“He was surrounded by his whole family and he passed peacefully. They didn’t think he was in any pain,” Spero said by phone.

Betts shared lead guitar duties with Duane Allman in the original Allman Brothers Band to help give the group its distinctive sound and create a new genre: Southern rock. Acts including Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kid Rock, Phish and Jason Isbell — among many others — were influenced by the Allmans’ music, which combined the blues, country, R&B and jazz with ‘60s rock.

“My first concert was Dickey Betts at Coleman’s in Rome, New York in 1983,” blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa said in an Instagram post Thursday, crediting Betts with inspiring his favorite electric guitar model. “Blew my mind and made me want a Les Paul.”

Founded in 1969, the Allmans were a pioneering jam band, trampling the traditional notion of three-minute pop songs by performing lengthy compositions in concert and on record. The band was also notable as a biracial group from the Deep South.

Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident in 1971, and founding member Berry Oakley was killed in a motorcycle crash a year later. That left Betts and Allman’s younger brother Gregg as the band’s leaders, but they frequently clashed, and substance abuse caused further dysfunction. The band broke up at least twice before reforming, and has had more than a dozen lineups.

The Allman Brothers Band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and earned a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award in 2012. Betts left the group for good in 2000, and also played solo and with his own band Great Southern, which included his son, guitarist Duane Betts.

Forrest Richard Betts was born Dec. 12, 1943, and was raised in the Bradenton, Florida, area, near the highway 41 he sang about in “Ramblin’ Man.” His family had lived in the area since the mid-19th century.

Betts grew up listening to country, bluegrass and Western swing, and played the ukulele and banjo before focusing on the electric guitar because it impressed girls. At 16 he left home for his first road trip, joining the circus to play in a band.

He returned home, and with bassist Oakley joined a group that became the Jacksonville, Florida-based band Second Coming. One night in 1969 Betts and Oakley jammed with Duane Allman, already a successful session musician, and his younger brother, and together they formed the Allman Brothers Band.

The group moved to Macon, Georgia, and released a self-titled debut album in 1969. A year later came the album “Idlewild South,” highlighted by Betts’ instrumental composition “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed,” which soon became a concert staple.

The 1971 double album “At Fillmore East,” now considered among the greatest live albums of the classic rock era, was the Allmans’ commercial breakthrough and cemented their performing reputation by showcasing the unique guitar interplay between Allman and Betts. Their styles contrasted, with Allman playing bluesy slide guitar, while Betts’ solos and singing tugged the band toward country. When layered in harmony, their playing was especially distinctive.

The group also had two drummers: “Jaimoe” Johanson, who is Black, and Butch Trucks.

Duane Allman died four days after “Fillmore” was certified as a gold record, but the band carried on and crowds continued to grow. The 1973 album “Brothers and Sisters” rose to No. 1 on the charts and featured “Ramblin' Man,” with Betts singing the lead and bringing twang to the Top 40. The song reached No. 2 on the singles charts and was kept out of the No. 1 spot by "Half Breed" by Cher, who later married Gregg Allman.

The soaring sound of Betts’ guitar on “Ramblin’ Man” reverberated in neighborhood bars around the country for decades, and the song underscored his knack for melodic hooks. “Ramblin’ Man” was the Allmans’ only Top Ten hit, but Betts’ catchy 7 1/2-minute instrumental composition “Jessica,” recorded in 1972, became an FM radio staple.

Betts also wrote or co-wrote some of the band’s other best-loved songs, including “Blue Sky” and “Southbound.” In later years the group remained a successful touring act with Betts and Warren Haynes on guitar. Gregg Allman and Butch Trucks died in 2017.

After leaving the Allmans for good, Betts continued to play with his own group and lived in the Bradenton area with his wife, Donna.

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Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts dies at age 80

Dickey Betts of the Allman Brothers passed away at 80. (Rick Diamond/Getty Images)

The Allman Brothers Band guitarist and founding member Dickey Betts has died, Fox News Digital can confirm. The musician was 80 years old when he passed away on Thursday, April 18.

"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Betts family announce the peaceful passing of Forrest Richard 'Dickey' Betts," Betts' manager David Spero said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch was at his home in Osprey, FL., surrounded by his family. Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt world-wide," the statement continued.

ALLMAN BROTHERS STAR DICKEY BETTS' BRAIN SURGERY DEEMED A SUCCESS

"At this difficult time, the family asks for prayers and respect for their privacy in the coming days. More information will be forthcoming at the appropriate time," he added.

Spero told Rolling Stone that Betts died from cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease .

The Allman Brothers Band perform in 1981. (Gary Gershoff/Getty Images)

Formed out of Jacksonville, Florida, in 1969, the Allman Brothers Band were a popular rock band with hits like "Ramblin' Man" and " Blue Sky ." The original members included brothers Duane and Gregg Allman, as well as Berry Oakley, Butch Trucks Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johnson and Betts. 

Johnson, 79, is the only surviving founder. 

Following the death of Duane in 1971, Betts assumed the role of lead vocalist. The group ultimately disbanded in 1976, only to reunite years later without all the original members. 

Over the years, Betts’ involvement with the group faced challenges, with him missing many of the band's tours in the 1990s.

American rock and blues group The Allman Brothers Band perform onstage, Chicago, Illinois, May 24, 1979. Pictured is guitarist Dickey Betts. (Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images)

His final performance with the band came in 2000, the same year he was officially kicked out of the group. The departure was reportedly due to Betts’ alcohol and drug use.

In Sept. 2018, Betts was hospitalized following a freak accident in his Florida home. According to his website, Betts went out into his backyard with the family dog, "slipped and cracked his head, causing bleeding from the brain."

The announcement explained that Betts was to undergo surgery to relieve the swelling in his brain. Still actively performing, Betts had suffered from a "mild stroke" the previous month.

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Photos: Dickey Betts through the years

Through the years MACON, GA - MAY 5: Rock group The Allman Brothers (L-R) Duane Allman, Dickey Betts, Gregg Allman, Jai Johanny Johanson, Berry Oakley and Butch Trucks sit on some rairoad tracks on May 5, 1969 outside of Macon, Georgia. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images) (Michael Ochs Archives)

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The Marley Brothers announce tour to honor father's legacy

This will be the brothers' first performance together in two decades.

Bob Marley's legacy will live on in a big way this year.

The Marley Brothers -- Ziggy , Stephen, Julian, Ky-Mani and Damian Marley -- have announced a 22-date tour kicking off this September in a reunion run for the children of Bob Marley.

"The Marley Brothers: The Legacy Tour" will kick off on Sept. 5 in Vancouver, British Columbia, and span a full month before ending on Oct. 5 in Miami, according to a release from Live Nation announcing the tour.

MORE:Lashana Lynch: 'You feel something' in new film 'Bob Marley: One Love'

The tour will include individual hits from Bob Marley's children, as well as their father's classics, according to Live Nation. Combined, Marley's children account for several Grammys individually, including Julian Marley's best reggae album win at the 2024 ceremony.

Several of Bob Marley's children were members of a group called Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, founded in 1979, which saw several years of success before the children forged their own solo careers.

The tour will precede what would have been Bob Marley's 80th birthday in 2025, celebrating the reggae innovator and his global success spreading messages of unity and peace. The tour will mark the brothers' first time playing together in two decades.

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The presale will start on Tuesday with general on-sale occurring Friday, April 19, on MarleyBrothers.com .

The release also noted that "Bob Marley: One Love," a biographical drama chronicling Marley's life, will start expanded screenings on Saturday, April 20.

Earlier this year, Ziggy Marley wrote in a letter published by People that he misses everything about his father, who was only 36 when he died of cancer in May 1981.

MORE:Toddler jams to Bob Marley after being fitted with hearing aids

"I miss everything [about you], but mainly your presence," Ziggy Marley wrote. "I listen to you. Your songs are always playing -- when I go to my mother [Rita's] house, music is on. Bob is on. Music is always around. You were so young, but you did more than me could ever do."

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ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

• child abandoned

Mom left her 6- and 8-year-old kids alone at their Memorial home to go on a cruise, records state

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A west Houston mother has been arrested on charges she allegedly left her 8-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter home alone so that she could go on a cruise.

Lakesha Woods Williams, 29, is charged with abandoning a child with intent to return. ABC13 was at the jail Thursday evening as she was brought in for processing.

According to court records, neighbors at Williams' luxury high-rise apartment building in the Memorial area sounded the alarm. They said they saw the mother of two children leave with luggage and bags last Thursday, April 4, and she never returned.

STORY UPDATE: 29-year-old mother who left children alone while on a cruise has done it before, court records show

On Tuesday, deputy constables with Harris County Precinct 5 Constable Ted Heap's Office responded to a welfare check at her apartment. They found the brother and sister home alone. The unit smelled of urine, records state, and was in disarray with trash and left-over food strewn about. The children told the deputies their mother left to vacation on a cruise.

"These children were left unattended for many days and put in harm's way," Keegan Childers, the chief prosecutor of the 209th District Court, said. "For them to provide for themselves, feed themselves, take care of themselves, as well as what if somebody breaks in? What if there's a bad neighbor? Any number of horror, nightmare scenarios that could come up."

Deputies reported finding a web camera and cell phone that the children said their mother used to check in on them.

Firefighters determined them to be in good health. Child Protective released them to their aunt, who declined to comment to ABC13 when reached by phone.

Precinct 5 said Williams flew to Miami last week to get on the cruise to Puerto Rico. The office said she returned home Wednesday night and initially lied about her identity.

For more on this story, follow Jessica Willey on Facebook , X and Instagram .

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Suri Cruise chats with friends in NYC days before her 18th birthday

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Suri Cruise was all smiles while out and about in New York City with friends ahead of her 18th birthday.

Crusie looked the spitting image of mom Katie Holmes while spending Sunday alongside a gaggle of her girlfriends in Soho.

The teenager, whose birthday is April 18, dressed casually cool in a red sweater with white vertical stripes, a white silk skirt and brown sandals.

She kept her dark brown hair down in loose waves, pinning her front pieces back with two hair clips.

The group seemingly stopped at a couple of shops and cafes as they embraced one of NYC’s first sunny spring days.

While it’s unclear how the teen will be spending her big birthday, it likely won’t be with her famous father, Tom Cruise.

Page Six revealed last year that Suri has been estranged  from the “Mission Impossible” star for years.

While a source told us at the time that Tom has played “no part” in his daughter’s life, another Hollywood insider told us this week that the father-daughter duo haven’t seen each other since 2012.

“Katie has safeguarded Suri and she’s a devoted mom,” the source said. “This is a girl who is a private citizen. She hasn’t lived her life in public.”

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Suri has lived a low-key lifestyle with her mother in New York ever since the “Dawson’s Creek” alum filed for divorce from Tom in 2012 — allegedly due to his involvement with Scientology.

Despite being raised in the public eye — even appearing on Vanity Fair as an infant — Holmes has since shielded her daughter from the spotlight.

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“I’m very grateful to be a parent, to be her parent. She’s an incredible person. She’s my heart,” Holmes told  Glamour  magazine in 2023.

The mother of one explained that feels the need to “protect” Suri from the limelight “because she was so visible at a young age.”

Although the teen has distanced herself from her dad, she is seemingly getting into the family business.

Page Six revealed in December 2023 that Suri inherited her parents’ acting chops, starring as the lead in her high school play.

“She was amazing,” one impressed audience member said of her portrayal of Morticia Addams in “The Addams Family: A New Musical.” 

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