travel agencies construction companies

• Manufacturing & Production Staffing
• Industries & Job Types
• Labor Shortages & Skills Gaps
• Travel Contract Jobs
• Our Approach
• Executive Leadership
• Case Studies
• Testimonials

Traveling Jobs / Contract Jobs 

Why consider traveling contract work, what is a traveling contractor    .

A traveling contractor is hired to work in a specific location for a particular amount of time; typically they’re hired for 2 to 3 months minimum but projects may last for a year or more. Because the demand for skilled trades and production workers is so high, there are often labor shortages in certain areas of the country so companies hire experienced workforces from around the country that can step in, acclimate quickly, and help them get caught up on production backlogs, help during busy seasons, or bridge the gap until full-time employees are hired locally.

Will I have flexibility in choosing assignments? 

As a traveling contractor, you're in charge of your career and can pick and choose your projects offered by skilled trade staffing agencies and contract staffing firms. Just let your recruiters know your availability, project preferences, and any other details that are important to you.  

What qualities will help me succeed as a traveling tradesperson? 

A traveling skilled trades or production worker should have the following characteristics to excel in the role:

• Enjoys experiencing new cities, towns and traveling in general
• Enjoys the experience of working in new organizations
• Inquisitive and thrives on challenges and learning new things
• Is able to live a flexible lifestyle and enjoys being able to pick and choose where to work and for what type of projects and companies

What are the certifications and requirements for becoming a traveling contract worker? 

Most companies that hire these types of workforces are looking for experienced talent in whichever industry and trade they’re hiring for – not people fresh out of trade school. 

For example, certified Boiler Operators, Welders, CNC Machinists with many years of experience. Experience with traveling contract work is preferred, but not required. 

hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(313330, 'ccb9e18e-12e3-4703-9fb5-6fb244b34f2d', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"});

Three main components of contract staffing , contract staffing firm.

At MADI, we’re the contract staffing firm and it’s our company that recruits and hires contractors from across the United States. We handle the advertising, interviewing, screening, and onboarding for our client.

Client Company

Our clients hire us to place you, the contractor, into their facility or facilities.

We hire you, the contractor, directly and take care of the logistics to get you to the project site, you’re our W-2 employee and we ensure that all goes well with your placement and the experience at our client’s facility.

What Is Per Diem? 

Per diem is an allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses and varies by project location. For tax purposes, it’s recommended that you consult with a CPA familiar with contracting and per diem to determine your specific tax liabilities and deductible items.  

How Is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Handled?    

Your recruiters will be able to provide details on the PPE requirements at each facility. Generally speaking, items such as steel toe boots, metatarsal boots, welding hoods, and some machinists tools are brought by contractors. Other items such as safety glasses or hearing protection are typically provided by the client company on-site. 

If you're looking for a new pair of workbooks, take a look at our blog post Who Makes The Longest Lasting, High-Demand Work Boots to learn which people prefer. 

We also have a blog post on Who Makes The Best Safety Glasses if you're looking for some top-rated brands. 

Resume Tips for Traveling Contractors 

Most staffing firms and companies these days use Applicant Tracking Systems [ATS] for hiring workers which is why keywords are more important than ever. Without the right keywords – your resume might not make it in front of recruiters!

Applicant Tracking Systems are looking for keywords related to the job opening and industry, so make sure your resume contains the right keywords. It’s also suggested to submit your resume as a Word document and not a PDF because sometimes computer systems have a hard time reading resumes in PDF format.

For traveling contract jobs specifically, you’ll want to make sure that your most recent project is at the top of your resume, that each project has start and end dates and that your licenses and certifications are clearly written at the top of your resume. For more suggestions, check out our 7 Resume Tips For Skilled Trades Workers.

How To Find Traveling Jobs 

As with most job searches, the internet is your friend; use digital tools and job boards to your advantage. We could write forever about different options and different job boards for specific industries, so instead, we’ll keep it simple to get you started.

Rather than visit separate job boards, you can use free job board aggregators such as Google and Indeed to search for jobs, create job alert emails as well as upload your resume.

To search for travel jobs specifically, do not include a location when searching. Search for terms such as: 

Machinist Travel Per Diem

Welders Travel Per Diem 

Traveling Millwright Per Diem 

Assembler Travel Per Diem 

Google For Jobs

Being the largest search engine in the world, it makes sense that Google step into the job search game – and that is exactly what they did in 2017 when they launched their new search engine tool Google For Jobs.

This is not a job board, but an aggregator of job openings that are already published on the internet. You can narrow down search results by title, location, date posted, type, company, type, and employer. You can save jobs you’re interested in as well as set up email alerts to have new jobs sent to your inbox instantly, daily or weekly!

Indeed For Job Seekers

Indeed is another job search engine aggregator pulling from thousands of job boards, however, it also has the ability for employers to post jobs directly to the site. According to their website, 70% of US Job seekers online use Indeed to look for jobs.

As an employer, we also have great success hiring traveling contract workers through Indeed so it’s worth checking out if you’re not familiar with it.

RoadDogJobs - Jobs In The Trades

RoadDogJobs.com is specifically for connecting skilled trades and employers looking for traveling contract work. There is also a Facebook group  to join as well where people post job opportunities and you can network with other traveling skilled tradespeople. 

Roadtechs - Nuclear, Technical, Professional and Power Industry Jobs

Another specific site for finding traveling contract jobs that pay per diem is Roadtechs . There are a variety of contract jobs posted there and include jobs in petrochemical, construction, shipyard/marine, aerospace, and Manufacturing to name a few. 

Facebook Groups 

Traveling Contract Jobs

This is a networking group for those looking for traveling contract jobs throughout the United States. Industries include, but aren’t limited to skilled trades, craftsmen/craftswomen, nursing, construction, etc.

RoadDogJobs About: This is a group for job postings only. We DO NOT hire, only post jobs-related information.  On the Road Again About: We are a group of heavy industrial construction workers that travel job to job. Non-union and union. We work in refineries, nuke plants, power plants, trash burners, paper mills, oil fields, and shipyards.

Tips for job seekers from experienced traveling contractors .

Save contact information from all of the people you see posting about travel jobs -- a contact is a contact. The company may have posted an ad and by the time you call, they may NOT be hiring anymore. However, who's to say that a new req may not have come in 30 minutes later? Stay diligent. Keep trying. New reqs sometimes come in every hour of every day. 

Stock up on food and snacks at dollar stores before traveling because truck stops are expensive. 

To help pad your resume, take the OSHA 10 or even the OSHA 30 hr course, available online. Knowledge of safety looks great to an employer, especially when you're lacking in experience on the job. 

Traveling contract work provides you with a lot of job flexibility. You can travel a lot and see various parts of the country, and you will never be bored because you will be working on diverse projects. Also, it is a great way to make good money.

A traveling contractor is usually hired for 2-3 months, but in the case of bigger projects, it can even be a year or so. They provide help during the busiest times and make it possible for companies to catch up on their production backlogs.

Typically, staffing companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to search for candidates nowadays, so make sure to include proper keywords in your resume. They need to be related to the industry and job openings. 

Also, submit it as a Word document instead of a PDF because, in this way, it may be easier to read by the system. 

Apart from that, it’s recommended to place the most recent project you worked on at the top, followed by your licenses and certifications.

Of course! When you become a traveling contractor, you will be able to select the projects you like from the ones staffing agencies will suggest to you. To maximize the probability of getting suitable offers, please make sure to specify your project preferences, availability, and other vital information.

You can be sure your recruiter will share the PPE requirements for the facility with you. Usually, contractors bring such equipment as welding hoods or steel toe boots, while hearing and eye protection tools are typically offered on-site by the client company.

Speak to our recruiters today!

Our recruiters are available to answer your questions Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00 to 5:00 Eastern time. Call (888) 243-7202.

Contact Details

Madicorp.com, blog categories.

• Manufacturing (9)
• Workforce (9)
• Labor Relations (7)
• Recruiting (6)
• Automotive (5)
• Contingency Planning (2)
• Retention (2)

Follow MADI on:

©2017 MADICORP™.      Privacy Policy     Terms of Use    Sitemap Featured logos are trademarks of their respective owners. Third party trademarks, logos and trade names appearing on the site are the property of their respective owners ©2017 MADICORP™

• Industrial Travelers

Top pay. Great employers. Exciting projects.

Your Success Is Our Priority

Finding great jobs should be easy – but skilled craftsmen and tradesmen know it isn’t always simple. At Industrial Trade Services, we put your needs first. With two decades in the industry, our team is focused on quality, service and satisfaction. Our number-one goal is to put skilled professionals to work quickly in local and traveling skilled trade jobs with top employers.

Craftsmen We Hire

Our Commitment to You

• Great employers: We vet every contractor and construction company we work with, so we are confident the job will meet your expectations and you will be treated fairly.
• Top pay: You deserve to be paid well. ITS only works with employers who value your skills and pay top dollar.
• Efficiency: Our service process for tradesmen is thorough but efficient, so you can get to work quickly.
• Service: We ensure you will work in safe environments, get paid on time and as agreed. Your ITS recruiter is available 24/7 if you have any concern whatsoever on the job.
• Consistency: We value our tradesmen and want to keep you working as often as you’d like. When a job is over, we can quickly match you to another great contractor.

Industrial Travel Opportunities for Craftsmen

Commercial and industrial contractors across the country need craftsmen every day. Construction travel jobs are great ways to earn more, work on exciting projects and see new places. We offer traveling industrial jobs in fields like petrochemical, automotive, solar, wind turbine, food processing, paper and pulp, ethanol and more. Typical travel projects include:

• New construction
• Refinery turnarounds
• Plant relocations

In your own backyard, or across the country, ITS will put you to work at a great job, fast.

Apply Today

Featured Jobs

I would recommend ITS to all contractors who need nationwide workers at a moment’s notice.… Read More » Contractor, Avery J., Indiana

ITS has been the most consistent and reliable staffing company I have worked with.… Read More » Contractor, Mike F., Illinois

View All Testimonials

Latest News

Industrial Construction: Heavy vs. Light – Differences, Examples, Advantages & Equipment

Streamline Your Construction Shutdown Season

A Guide to Different Types of Crane Operators and their Certifications

View All News

Find Your Job

Search our database for exciting jobs and projects across the country.

• Search Jobs

Request Craftsmen

ITS employees are tooled up and ready to get to work.

Request Tradesmen

See how ITS is redefining commercial and industrial staffing.

Our Approach

Talk to its.

Reach out to our experts to learn how our skilled trades staffing company can help you today.

• ITS Difference
• Specialties

Call Us Today! (309) 921-9122

Industrial trade services.

• © 2024 Industrial Trade Services

ITS Is Hiring Craftsmen.

Apply Today!

Search Travel Market Report

• Packaged Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Destinations
• Retail Strategies
• Niche & Luxury
• Training & Resources
• Brian Israel
• Briana Bonfiglio
• Dan McCarthy
• Dori Saltzman
• Jennifer Arango
• Kelly Fontenelle
• Keri-Anne Slevin
• Louis Intreglia
• Sarah Milner
• Tom McCarthy

How to Find a Great Independent Contractor for Your Travel Agency

Finding and having a team of good indepdendent contractors (ICs) can help travel agencies succeed. Photo: Shutterstock.com.

Finding the perfect person to represent your company is not an easy task. But for Witte Travel, hiring an IC was easy as pie. Melissa Feenstra was an employee in their brick-and-mortar office in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and she wanted to go out on her own.

With more than 20 years of industry experience and consistent sales of over $1 million a year, Feenstra started thinking about building her own brand about five years ago. Eighteen months ago, she took the leap.

Feenstra Travel uses Witte’s IATA number and splits the commission; in a typical contract, the host keeps 10%-20% in return for marketing and IT support, E&O insurance, and higher commissions than a single agent operating alone could get.

For Feenstra, being an IC “allows me flexibility in my schedule; I can sell what I want to sell; I can be more unique and I can choose my customers. I feel like I’m not an order taker, I’m an expert planner, and I like that very much.”

And what makes a good host agency? “Staying current with the times; this is an ever-changing industry, so you have to have a good web presence; be up to speed with technology; and just be open for conversation, be a good listener to your independent contractor,” she said. “If you are not working for and with your IC, she will leave and go somewhere else.”

Use social media to find candidates Jeni Chaffer, owner of Journeys Travel Inc., found a dozen potential ICs through a Facebook ad — and then developed her own training program for them. She expects “probably half” to turn out to be good, and will start the best three in the program this month.

In the past, training was more hit-or-miss and took an inordinate amount of time; the new program covers topics like how to implement a group, how to work with suppliers, and how to market effectively. There are weekly calls for three months and homework assignments “to let me see if they can think through the process,” Chafer said.

You might say that Kevin Cabe’s newest IC was heaven-sent. He noticed a lot of social-media posts about Disney by a friend he knew from church. With four young children, she is active in youth sports and in the community, and people were asking her for advice in planning their Disney trips, “so I asked her if she would like to get paid to do that.” She sold two spring break trips to Disney in her first week, and a $50,000 Disney multigeneration cruise in her second.

Jennifer Walker, meanwhile, finds that ICS come to her rather than the other way around. “It’s not unusual for an existing client, or someone who follows my Facebook business page, to reach out and inquire about working for my agency and what it takes to become a travel advisor. I guess I make it look like fun by posting pictures and blurbs from all of my trips!” 

At Cary Travel Express in Cary, Illinois, Neelie Kruse agreed that for a large and well-known agency like hers, with 19 employees and ICs and a reputation for being a great place to work, finding good ICs is easy. Her agents spread the word and candidates appear; she signed up two ICs last year to help handle the agency’s $11 million in volume. And Tricia Horick Kelly met her star IC on a fam trip, representing AAA Travel; months later, ready to go out on her own, she called Kelly to sign up.

David Holman finds the best ICs for his host agency, Bridge & Holman Worldwide Travel, from consumer-facing Facebook groups. “You can really see who has both the knowledge and passion to sell travel. A little more investigation reveals their employment status and prior experience in sales/customer service. Then, it's a simple matter to message them with, ‘Hey, have you ever considered being a travel agent? I run a host agency, and can help you set up your own business and get the training you need to succeed.’”

But Geoff Millar, of Ultimate All Inclusive Travel Inc., likes to hire ICs with a formal sales background. “One of our top ICs ever was an existing client who was a top salesperson in toxic waste disposal. Within two years, she was selling $1 million-plus. We feel we can teach someone an industry or a product, but being a top salesperson is very hard to teach.”

In the end, he said, “we turn down more requests than we accept. We would rather have a handful of good producing ICs rather than 400 ICs where only 10% are producing anything. We have a great, very small group of ICs that really help and produce for our agency.”

Be clear about your vision Like all business decisions, the search for a great IC should start with a solid plan. “It’s really important to be super-clear on your vision for the business and your motivation for bringing on ICs,” said Jen Cochrane, co-founder and COO of host agency Gifted Travel Network. Then, it’s about picking the right person.” Often when things go wrong, it’s because the advisor has an established brand, but the IC sells in a way that’s not consistent with the brand. Issues may arise if your message and site are luxury-focused, for example, but your IC wants to do a lot of mass-market business; or your focus is families and your IC wants to sell wine-oriented river cruises. That “can become really confusing for the customers.”

If you are an established agency with a good reputation for ICs, finding someone should not be difficult. “When you are very clear about your vision and how ICs fit into that, and have a compelling brand they can articulate, the right ICs will find you.” Even if this is your first foray into the world of ICs, “if you already have a platform and are out there in the community and have a robust newsletter list and a platform, often all it takes is an announcement that you are growing and accepting ICs to get interest.”

More tips from the experts Here are more tips that Cochrane suggested: Get your paperwork in order. Build a checklist of what you will need and follow it. Consider including a signed agreement, a way to track and pay commissions, the ability to issue 1099s, insurance that covers the ICs, first-level sellers of travel licenses if applicable, a shared drive for documents and templates, a virtual phone number with extensions, a marketing policy that outlines which pieces of your branding ICs will share and what they can develop under their own brand.

Do a national background check. Always.

Find the right personality. Great ICs are unique in what they do; an outgoing personality or a background in travel or sales is helpful, but not necessary. More important is a love of travel, organizational skills and an attention to detail. Look for someone who can pick up different software systems quickly, and has a professional and articulate demeanor.

Make sure they have skin in the game. Of course, you hope your ICs will add to your revenue — but first they will be a cost center, in terms of your time and your money. Understand the value you are providing in terms of a successful brand and guidance in building their business; it’s absolutely reasonable to charge for that — and a fee will weed out those who are not really committed.

MOST VIEWED

• Lufthansa Strike Update for Monday
• Testing the Waters with Dori: The NCL Stranded Passenger "Fiasco"
• Margaritaville at Sea Offers Advisor-Only Pricing
• Royal Caribbean Reverses Course, Cancels Labadee Cruise Calls
• Another Lufthansa Strike Will Impact Travel on Thursday
• Alaska Airlines Will No Longer Print Boarding Passes at Airport Kiosks
• Here's What Each River Cruise Line Includes
• Delta Air Lines Is Changing the Way It Boards Flights
• Labadee Cruise Calls Unaffected by Haiti Violence, But Excursions Canceled
• Taiwan Earthquake Update: Train Services Resume, Flights Operating Near Schedule
• Chargebacks: The Scourge of the Travel Advisor Business
• Amex GBT Agrees to Acquire Carlson Wagonlit Travel for $570 Million

Secrets to Selling Multi-Stop European Travel This Season

"It’s become much more common for a two-week European trip to have five or six different stops, sometimes in multiple countries.”

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage, analysis of industry news, trends and issues that affect how you do business. Subscribe now for free.

Subscribe to TMR

However, there are some signs that a slowdown could be coming.

When Kelly Loder decided to step out on her own and start a business, she did so fearlessly and confidently.

For four years running, Toronto sisters Lisa and Nancy Zupancic have made the Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist List. 

Skyscanner’s Travel Insight Data identifies new Canadian traveler trends.

Founder and CEO of Direct Travel Ed Adams plans to retire.

A journalist on The Daily podcast said travel advisors make travel more expensive. 

• Travel management Toggle submenu Egencia Overview Travel management solutions Amex GBT Neo1 Amex GBT Select Amex GBT Ovation Amex GBT Lawyers Travel Manage your corporate travel program Corporate travel policy Travel risk management Travel expense management Reporting Travel management consulting Industry Solutions Transportation & Logistics

Egencia reviews

See how Egencia works

• Customer center Toggle submenu Travelers Help center Business traveler center Download the app Travel arrangers Help center Travel arranger center Training resources Travel managers Connect community Product updates Customer training
• Watch a demo
• Request a demo
• About Egencia

Construction Travel & Gaining Competitive Edge with Digital Solutions

5 ways to gain a competitive edge in construction by digitizing travel.

The construction industry has faced unique challenges with the pandemic, since so much of the work must be done in person or on site. Yet even though construction is positioned to reap greater benefits than other industries when digitizing travel, it’s been one of the slowest to adopt the change.

To help companies who are curious about switching to a digital travel solution, Egencia spoke with experts in the industry to put together a Construction Travel Playbook. Download the playbook to hear from those who have made the shift and learn how to make it happen for your company.

Here are 5 key takeaways pulled from the playbook to give you an idea of what to expect when making a shift to a digital travel solution:

1. Better cost control

Because of the unpredictable nature of construction projects, travel needs to be flexible and adaptable. But short booking windows, long stays, and last-minute changes can add up. Data shows that U.S.-based construction travelers spend 20% more per trip than any other type of business traveler. It can also lead to a vast amount of unused tickets and travel credits.

“We’ve seen construction companies struggle to deal with large influxes of unused ticket credits with specific airlines,” says Chris LeFevre, corporate account manager for Egencia. “Unless you have a digital solution that brings it all together, that’s really hard to do.”

Since January 2020, Egencia customers have redeemed over 100,000 airline credits worth $50 million from the Egencia platform in North America. Smart technology minimizes costs even more behind the scenes. Egencia Savings Finder, for instance, continues to look for lower rates after booking, saving customers an average of 7% on air and 14% on hotel.

Takeaway: With the right digital travel solution, savings add up instead of costs.

2. Spend transparency

With so many moving parts to construction projects, tracking overall spend and spend per contractor and client is a big deal. But when travelers book through a manual process – or on personal credit cards – getting those details can be arduous, if not impossible.

The director of accounting for a large insulation contractor, says it used to take her two to three months to look back and determine what was spent on a particular trip, before switching to a digital travel solution.

An executive administration manager at a home renovation and remodelling company, faced a similar frustration when she found that employees were booking high-end cars and hotels because there were no procedures in place to prevent them from doing so, or to identify when it happened.

“To realize we weren’t tracking that was a shock to my system,” she says. “We weren’t fully seeing the amount we were spending on travel.” That changed when the company switched to Egencia. “Working with a digital travel management company gave us one standard place for all employees to go and book – and for me to see our overall spend in one place.”

With dashboards and reports driven by consolidated booking data, managers can pull cost reports by job number, employee, office location, trip length, hotel, and more with a just a few clicks.

Takeaway: Consolidated data and user-friendly dashboards and reports makes for better budgeting.

3. Enhanced flexibility

In the construction industry more than just about any other, change is the one reliable constant. Old-school manual booking makes it extremely cumbersome for those in the field to make on-the-go updates to their itineraries. And without a unified digital solution, “empowering employees” to take care of their own travel means giving them carte blanche to spend as they see fit.

A digital solution, on the other hand, empowers travel arrangers, project managers, and travelers. The executive administration manager recognized the need for a solution as the home renovation and remodelling company began to grow. “I knew I was not going to be able to book every single person’s travel, and I also knew I didn’t have time to sit and train everyone to do it on their own.”

With a digital travel solution, the Executive Administration Manager is able to book trips for entire groups or for different classifications of individual travelers all with a few clicks. She can also set up policy guidelines that are integrated right into the booking process, so visual flags alert both travelers and travel managers of non-compliance before the booking is even made.

It’s also important for travelers themselves to feel comfortable and confident through every stage when managing their travel. Egencia customers, for reference, have an average online adoption rate of 87 percent, in large part because of a consumer-like experience that’s consistent across all devices.

( Click here to find out why an IDC MarketScape report on cloud-enabled corporate travel booking applications named Egencia a leader in tech-based business travel solutions )

Travelers can make and change air, hotel, car, and train reservations; contact their hotel; receive alerts of flight changes and cancelations; find the best ground transportation options; and get in-person help 24-7 – all at the touch of a button on their smart phone, or any other device.

Takeaway: It’s possible to empower travelers while significantly increasing compliance to travel policy, in a way that makes it easier for everyone.

4. Ability to track travelers

Duty of care – being able to identify where travelers are at any given moment – became top priority when the pandemic hit, and it’s likely to remain so well into the future. In construction, with so many travelers in the field, duty of care can be especially daunting.

A digital travel solution solves that problem with centralized booking data and technology like Egencia’s Traveler Tracker. LeFevre explains, “You can quickly get an accurate view of where your travelers are at any point and contact them in case of mass cancelations, natural disasters, or COVID-19 policy changes in a specific location.”

Before switching to Egencia, the director of accounting for a large insulation contractor, would have to make calls to local sites in hopes of locating a particular traveler. Now, with Traveler Tracker, “I can open a map that tells me how many employees I have in each region and narrow it down to who’s where,” she says. “I brag to everyone I know about how awesome it is to be able to track your travelers.”

Takeaway: The right digital travel solution makes it effortless to track your travelers.

5. Increased efficiency

It’s not surprising that a digital travel solution can increase efficiency. But seeing just how much may come as a shock. Forrester research found that between travelers, approvers, auditors, and accountants, it takes an average of 13.6 hours to book a trip (and process associated expenses) manually.

Contrast that with the average time it takes for Egencia customers to book their trips – four minutes for hotel and five minutes for air, car, and train. Even with complex itineraries, that’s exponential time savings.

“Contractors want to remain competitive in the market,” says LeFevre, “and one of the ways they can do that is by improving internal processes and making them more efficient.” When employees are freed from the burden of manual or disjointed booking, they can spend their time and energy on activities that generate revenue for the company and keep current customers happy.

Takeaway: In the competitive construction industry, the right digital travel solution can be a key component in increasing efficiency and gaining a competitive advantage.

The road ahead

Where this all leads is a competitive advantage and higher ROI. The first step is to make the shift from thinking of travel as a line-item cost to thinking of it as a strategic investment. The second step is to make the change to a digital travel solution that can support the unique needs of your company.

Download the full playbook ‘ Taking Business Travel Digital: How Construction Companies Benefit ’ to learn what to look for when evaluating a digital travel management company.

Looking for better business travel solutions? Get in touch with us.

Recommended for you.

Why Managed Travel is a Must for Construction Leaders

The demand is high for skilled construction workers that are willing to travel for projects. In fact, the GBTA highlights that in 2017, project-based business travel spending reached $45.4 billion, and the most project-travel intense sector by a wide margin is the construction industry. For this industry segment, project travel comprises 20 percent of total business travel spending.

So why the high spend on project-based travel? Well, the U.S. is facing a shortage of talented construction professionals. As of June 2019, the construction industry had approximately 300,000 vacancies, and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, that number is expected to rise with an anticipated need for 747,000 more employees by 2026. As a result, companies are increasing travel spend to get skilled employees to competitive markets where they have a backlog of projects.

Managing Your Bottomline: Booking, Expenses, and Compliance

To support employees on the road while still managing the bottomline, construction leaders are turning to travel management companies (TMC) to provide a system for booking, expense management, and policy compliance.

“The average spend per business trip was significantly higher for trips taken for project-based purposes ($679) than for other business trips ($533) taken over the same period,” states the GBTA . “The higher spending is driven by longer average stays and higher trip budgets. Project -based business travelers spent a total of $15.9 billion on lodging, $14.6 billion on air transportation, $7.0 billion on food & beverage, $1.8 billion on entertainment, $4.2 billion on ground transportation and $1.9 billion on retail.” That’s a lot of money!

Construction work is grueling to say the least and it is important for workers to have comfortable lodgings to return to after a long day on the job site—but also stay within budget. In addition to travel revolving around a project with a start and end date, to be considered project-based travel, the trip must last at least four nights. From a business perspective, longer lodging means a considerable expense.

Construction firms that enlist the support of a managed travel company can ensure that their workers have all the comforts of home, with the bonus of negotiated savings. Employees will also like that they can manage their bookings directly from an app and have 24/7 support if they need to adjust their trip dates for any reason.

Eliminating Unexpected Expenses

A good TMC can also support expense management and provide good analytics to help construction companies see how their project budgets are tracking with unexpected expenses like a run to Home Depot when a delivery doesn’t arrive on time.

On the employee side, imagine returning home after spending weeks onsite for a project. You’re excited to kick back, relax, see loved ones, and enjoy being in a familiar place and space. But first, you need to sift through a mountain of receipts, think back to which members of the crew were present at the lunch two weeks ago, itemize purchases from the hardware store, track mileage, and more. Talk about a welcome home headache–that also leaves significant room for human error.

For scenarios like this, expense management tools like the TravelBank mobile app really come to the rescue. Our app enables employees to capture receipts on-the-go as they occur. It’s as simple as taking a photo of the receipt or forwarding it via email. The receipts can all be pulled into a single expense report and allocated to the appropriate category, whether it is a meal, project-related purchase, or fuel. Employees are overjoyed to have a simpler process and finance departments rest easier knowing that technology is managing the process.

Conquering Travel Policy Compliance

A corporate travel policy serves to provide clear guidelines for booking, expense reporting, and to outline reimbursement procedures to ensure employees receive out-of-pocket expenditures in a timely manner. As managed travel experts, we can’t stress enough the importance of consulting your road warriors, making sure your travel policy is reflective of the needs and culture of your organization, and realizing that the guardrails can be amended and updated as your business grows and changes.

Once you’ve built your policy, it is crucial to share it across teams and work to attain compliance. For industries with a distributed workforce, construction being a prime example, technology is an absolute essential to ensure compliance. With TravelBank, workers will have access to clearly defined policies and booking and expense rules are built directly into the app. Further, admins are able to set advanced rules and integrate the policy through automated booking and approval notifications.

Want to learn more? Check out our Flexible Travel Policies Guide .

Construction is Competitive, Stand-out from the Pack

To ensure a steady stream of jobs, construction leaders realize they must employ top talent. With the shortage of skilled workers, it is now more important than ever to have a competitive differentiator to offer new employees and keep existing staff. A technology-enabled managed travel program is a great way to stand-out, retain and attract top employees, and have insights into project budgets and correlating expenses. If you’re ready to get started, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a demo .

Your California Privacy Choices

We use technologies, such as cookies, that gather information on our website. That information is used for a variety of purposes, such as to understand how visitors interact with our websites, or to serve advertisements on our websites or on other websites. The use of technologies, such as cookies, constitutes a ‘share’ or ‘sale’ of personal information under the California Privacy Rights Act. You can stop the use of certain third-party tracking technologies that are not considered our service providers by clicking on “Opt-Out” below or by broadcasting the global privacy control signal.

Note that due to technological limitations, if you visit our website from a different computer or device, or clear cookies on your browser that store your preferences, you will need to return to this screen to opt-out and/or rebroadcast the signal. You can find a description of the types of tracking technologies, and your options with respect to those technologies, by clicking “Learn more” below.

You have successfully opted-out.

Before you go, be sure you know:

This link takes you to an external website or app, which may have different privacy and security policies than TravelBank. We don't own or control the products, services or content found there.

April 22, 2022 Workforce Housing

Workforce Housing for Traveling Construction Workers

The job of a traveling construction worker requires a hardworking individual with a unique skill set. When you find an employee who fits that role, it’s vital that you take care of them while they’re on the road.

Salary and benefits will attract jobseekers to construction worker jobs. Once hired, how you show them that you care about their well-being in other ways is what keeps them loyal.

Nothing speaks louder than the housing you choose for your team of construction workers when they’re away from their own homes.

Some employers opt for the cheapest lodging options, whether it’s suitable for the person staying there or not.

You, on the other hand, want the best you can get while still sticking to your budget, so you are looking into your options.

You’ll find that workforce housing meets needs better than limited space hotels and gives your workers more opportunities to live a happier, healthier lifestyle. That can translate into higher performance and better quality work.

When you find the right flexible lodging, it’s both convenient for your crew and more budget-conscious for you.

1. Adaptive Changes in Workforce Housing

Society in general, and business in particular, has always been a matter of supply and demand. The largest shift in this economic principle in our living history happened with the COVID-19 pandemic .

A surge in traveling workers from healthcare to construction laborers meant a massive change in nomadic workforce housing was necessary — and the new lodging norm was born.

A Better Workforce Housing Solution

If you’re unsure what’s out there, you’ve probably been defaulting to hotels with long-term stay policies or vacation rentals for your corporate lodging needs. This tends to be expensive and limited to big cities and metropolitan areas, which isn’t always convenient.

Worse, it makes it difficult to keep employee morale up when the team members have to deal with poor lodging solutions.

Long drives to the construction site are draining, especially after a day of hard labor. Fast food dining, as the most affordable and conveniently located option, impacts physical and mental health over time.

Add the feeling of a cold, sterile atmosphere for “guests,” and you get workers who want to get done and get back home fast.

Luckily, general labor contractors and other project managers now have access to opportunities for their crews that were few and far between in the past.

With the help of expert organizations like Travelers Haven , traveling construction workers can live in temporary lodging that feels like a home away from home.

Related: 5 Tips to Navigate Temporary Housing for Workers

2. What Today’s Workforce Housing Looks Like

Those in the traveling construction industry have distinctive needs that a project manager must juggle.

Finding workforce housing for crews and construction management isn’t a simple process. It involves solving challenges like finding accommodations near construction sites and ensuring that the same property can handle big truck and equipment parking.

Today’s workforce housing solutions fill the gaps that a hotel or vacation rental can’t handle.

If your workers need lodging, but the time frame isn’t set in stone, or you’re looking for a customizable living space for multiple people to save funds, it’s not a needle in a haystack search. Now you can get what you need with workforce housing on-demand .

Workforce Housing-On-Demand

The global travel worker industry boom meant a workforce housing-on-demand solution was vital.

Nomadic specialists like construction workers need things that typical renters don’t, and rental companies are willing to compromise if you’re in their network.

Workforce housing on-demand takes the pressure off of you as the project manager and puts the work in the hands of a skilled full-service representative. You provide a list of requests for your team, and the specialists search for a matching solution from a virtual inventory.

The final result puts your part-time and full-time construction crew in lodging that meets their individual needs.

3. Benefits for Construction Workers

Traveling construction labor jobs aren’t for everyone. It takes a particular type of person to handle the long hours, hard physical labor, and time away from their homes.

Yet, finding housing for staffing when they’re on the road usually falls to someone like the ops manager or an assistant (a task that likely wasn’t in their original job description). The default mode for those untrained in specialty workforce housing is usually to search for a hotel or scroll postings on Airbnb.

When they find lodging “near” the worksites in question, they go ahead and book the place — without considering the construction crew’s opinions. It’s not because the person making the booking doesn’t care, but rather because they don’t realize they have other options.

Specialists Focus on More Than the Basics

Pulling in workforce housing specialists removes this extra stress from the plate of the travel organizer.

What could have taken hours of otherwise productive time on other tasks becomes finished quickly. Expenses that are unnecessary disappear, and the construction crew gets housing that makes them feel welcome and satisfied.

What Your Laborers Will Notice With Workforce Housing

A hot shower and comfortable bed are the essentials.

Why stick with the basics, though, when on-demand housing gives you the chance to include personalized amenities?

With a better variety of housing options, your workers can enjoy a furnished living space complete with the big and little touches, like a full kitchen, housewares, and extra pillows.

Does your team like to stay in shape off the job?

Add “fitness center,” “jacuzzi,” or “heated pool” to your request.

Does anyone in the construction company have a dog they bring with them to job sites?

Pet-friendly homes are available.

Construction work usually involves hiring people who can handle the use of equipment like power tools. However, your equal-opportunity job search could also bring in people with special needs. On-demand workforce housing includes options for accessibility.

Your team will notice that you put in the resources to give their temporary home the touches that make life on the road a little easier.

Discover: What to Look For in Furnished Short Term Rentals

4. Workforce Housing Advantages for Project Managers

Whether it was in your original job description or not, the fact is that the task of finding suitable homes for your team is now in your lap.

Finding long-term hotels in big cities like Nashville and Los Angeles is a breeze. Looking for something decent and affordable in the backwoods of upstate New York takes more diligent searching. That is unless you hire a workforce housing team to do the work for you.

The advantages of this type of housing service extend to project managers like you in ways that simplify your role.

A typical workforce housing booking consists of time-saving features like:

• Bundled billing that includes all utilities and billing processes for each team member in one expense
• Group lodging beyond the hotel room — in one large house or multiple bedroom apartments in a single apartment complex for 1–9 months
• Corporate leases help to ensure you’re not stuck in a lease or paying for unnecessary costs
• Affordable lodging on and off the beaten path

Workforce housing aims to help the worker and the manager find convenient, upscale lodging without the headache.

See also: What Is A Corporate Lease [Explained]?

5. Use Travelers Haven for the Ultimate Workforce Housing

Finding a short-term or flexible lease can be a frustrating endeavor. It’s usually dependent on the real estate market, particularly in small towns.

Single-family living spaces are the most demanded type of rental and purchase property. Like the proverbial needle in the haystack, it can take a lot of effort and a stroke of luck to find one for your workers.

Workforce housing takes the work and the luck out of this task. The key is to use a company specializing in creating customized lodging experiences, like Travelers Haven.

Why Travelers Haven is the Solution to Your Workforce Housing Needs

Most of us don’t mind the anonymity of a computer screen checklist. We prefer it because we can fill out the questions and handle the basics on our schedule.

However, once the initial contact is complete, the relationship with your housing specialist should become more personal. The team working to fill your lodging requests connects with you to answer your questions and streamline the process.

Besides the personal touch, Travelers Haven offers solutions to problems like:

Simplified Budgeting

The point of hiring a company to handle the lodging is to take the work out of your hands. A company that requires you to set up utilities and handle the billing arrangements is not doing its job.

Travelers Haven simplifies your budgeting issues. Bundled billing puts all expenses into one payment. Utilities are set up and disconnected for you.

If you’re working with a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) or a per diem capped amount, your specialist will find the best available housing within that limit.

Great Value

When you hire someone to do a job, you shouldn’t have to look over their shoulder to ensure it’s getting done right or do the work for them. That’s what makes the resources you spend worth it.

The right workforce housing company’s value is apparent immediately after hiring them. They’re cost-effective, they’ll free up your time, and you’ll have less work.

How does bringing in an outside company save you money?

With Travelers Haven, the homes in our network are fully furnished and come with the necessities, like a washer and dryer. This reduces your moving costs significantly.

Travelers Haven handles the utility deposits and payments inside your bundled billing package. The hassle of putting deposits down for every rental and getting them back when the contract is up is gone.

If you’ve handled lodging arrangements for your construction crew in the past, you’ll notice the difference instantly.

Partnering with a professional workforce housing solution like Travelers Haven is a game-changer. You’ll never want to go back to setting up lodging for your crew in-house again.

Customizable Homes

When was the last time a hotel let you customize the room beyond choices like bed size and smoking/non-smoking?

Your crew’s lodging is personal, and it should have personalized touches.

Travelers Haven’s database of lodging options is extensive. The virtual inventory includes furniture vendors, broadband providers, utility companies, and other vital facets of home living. This network of partners allows us to find a home that starts as a “shell” and then fill it with your worker’s preferences.

Are you trying to find a home in a specific neighborhood? On a certain street? With a particular interior design style?

It’s not impossible with Travelers Haven.

Since the service draws from on-demand inventory, we can often get you reduced corporate housing rates, heavily discounted from standard costs. Our rates, homes, and living amenities are as individual as your construction team is.

When you want the best workforce housing results, you must have the ultimate team on your side. Travelers Haven specializes in nomadic lodging solutions for construction crews and more.

Learn more: Travelers Haven & Furnished Finder Partner to Address Workforce Housing Gap

Construction projects are complex. They don’t always start and end on schedule, and there are thousands of intricately moving parts to juggle.

You’re already handling enough tough stuff.

Let Travelers Haven find your crew customizable housing near the project site so you can free up your time to do the work that you do best.

Author: Travelers Haven April 22, 2022 Workforce Housing

Thank you for your request

A member of our team is dealing with your request and will be in contact shortly. You will receive a call from a 720 area code.

• Submit Request
• Speak With an Expert
• Review Options
• Accept Option

Want immediate help? Give us a call at 866-285-0993

Forgotten your password?

Aenean sodales non metus ornare viverra. Duis mollis lorem at varius elementum.

*All fields are required for us to best assist you.

Member sign-in

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.

In case of sale of your personal information, you may opt out by using the link Do not sell my personal information .

Privacy Overview

Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.

Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.

Travel Alert: "Hurricane Michael has made landfall.If you need assistance finding best lodging options during this time, please contact us at (844)722-0597 or email us at [email protected]"

Accommodation solutions for the Construction Business Travel

Construction Project Travel Accommodation

Watch this one minute video on how WWStay works with you.

Sending your team on the road? We bring the best accommodation solution for a short and long-term stay.

Managing construction projects on the road can be difficult as the job site changes daily producing last minute changes that require a fast response to your temporary housing needs. Your crews travel far from home for weeks or months at a time. By providing them a “home away from home”, the environment that offers the comforts of home and a location close to the job site you reap the rewards of a productive crew. Our location makes it easy for construction crews to use public or private transportation to construction sites.

Fully Equipped Kitchen 

Short and long-term housing options with full kitchen onsite laundry facilities.

Free Wi-fi 

Free high-speed wi-fi to keep you in touch with everyone back at home or the office.

Convenient Location 

• Grocery Store

Centralized Invoicing 

You can enjoy the ease of billing and a real-time dashboard that tracks your employees globally.

FIND YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME WITH US

Tell us where you have your temporary housing requirements and we'll find and bring the best solutions to you.

or Call us today at +18776599405

• Saint Petersburg
• Golden Ring
• Tour Packages

Saint Basil's Cathedral Russia

Baikal lake, northern lights, the palace bridge, saint basil's cathedral, tour packages to russia, two hearts of russia, golden moscow, golden ring.

Grand Russia is DMC Travel Agency that offers full range of travel services in the entire country such as visa support letters (tourist invitation letter), transport services – from private vehicles up to 60 pax tourist coaches, professional tour guide assistance, domestic railway and airline tickets, hotel booking services, meals (of any preferences and rare food habits), tailor-made itinerary’s and exclusive excursions. Our main aim of the company is to help our guests understand Russian culture and history as well as make sure that all of their needs will be fulfilled and no matter what nation or culture they come from to make them feel like home.

Our Services

Visa support.

If you need a visa support we provide an invitation letter and a voucher for getting a tourist visa in the embassy of Russia. The documents may be sent by e-mail or by post if the original documents are required (the mailing fee in this case is paid by the customer). This service is absolutely free for our guests.

It is a great way of combining business and leisure.

We will organize a unique itinerary that will make your group members enjoy business related part of the trip with sightseeing of all major city highlights and unforgettable evening events.

Tailor Made Packages

Up on your request we can make your itinerary very special , depending only on your needs and preferences. Can be made for groups or individuals on request.

Conference & Event

Participation in any conferences, exhibitions, seminars and other events can be also arranged by our team. Please send your enquires to our managers and we will get back to you shortly.

Train Tickets

If you want to experience a trip by bullet trains or enjoy the views of the country from the Trans-Siberian train, we will be glad to help you. Purchase of train tickets for local or international destinations is one of the services which is offered by our company.

Air Tickets

As a part of your package to Russia we will be glad to assist you with a purchase of international and domestic airline tickets to make your trip planning easier.

Multilingual Guide & Interprineur

In case if you require a guide or an interpreter during your stay send us a request and we will offer you a professional in a short time.

We arrange a lease of any type of the land transport in case if you require it. Buses or minivans, sedan or Jeep, ATV or snowmobile.

Why is it Prudent to Hire a Russian Travel Agency for your Trip to Russia?

From historical cities to the idyllic countryside to architectural marvels, the diversified landscapes and culture of Russia attract tourists and travellers from all over the world. Whether you’re a culture…

• Golden Moscow
• Two Hearts of Russia

Quick Links

• About Grand Russia
• Address: Svetlaya street, 9-100 Krasnogorsk, Moscow Russia 143409
• Tel: +7 905 772 00 73
• Email: [email protected]
• Email: [email protected]

© 2024 Grand Russia.

• Trip Planner
• Private Tours
• Small Group Tours
• Two Capitals
• City Breaks
• Trans-Siberian
• River Cruises
• Russia & Beyond

4-star edition of the private 9-day tour of the Russian capitals

5-star edition fo the private 9-day tour of Moscow & St. Petersburg

13-day in-depth discovery of Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg

7-day tour designed to harness the best of the Venice of the North

11-day private discovery of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring

Your Russia Getaway

Fill out the short trip survey to receive a personalized itinerary from a destination expert.

• Travel guide
• Before you go
• What to see

Russia Trip Planner

Learn about the dos and the don'ts for your amazing trip to Russia

• Our Partners
• Reservation Policies

Rated 9/10 on the Trustpilot review platform

• My itineraries
• Chat with us
• Trip survey

Groups & Agents

• For Suppliers

+1 (888) 744-6056

• North America : +1 (888) 744-6056
• Oceania and Australia : +61261888118

You are here

Moscow escorted tours.

• Tips & Highlights

Tour Reviews

• Other Destinations
• Related Posts

• Reset filters

Moscow Vacation Packages

Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and, most importantly, feel relaxed and immersed in the Russian culture at all times. Wondering what the ideal way to see the best of Moscow is? Well, with a private tour to Moscow, of course! We will listen to your travel preferences and prepare a custom Moscow itinerary just for you. Let's start talking about your upcoming vacation to the gorgeous capital city of Russia.

Moscow Tour Highlights

Explore the capital of the largest country in the world, Russia.

Learn about the most visited sights in Moscow that are worth adding to your Russian itinerary. Create a fantastic tour to Moscow with a destination, choosing your wished activities.

• Moscow walking tour
• The Red Square
• St Basil's Cathedral
• Moscow Subway ride
• Tretyakov Gallery
• The Red Square in Moscow
• The Bolshoi Theater
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Moscow's Kremlin exploration
• 'Seven Sisters' Skyscrapers

Tips for Moscow Travel

Take a look at the good-to-know tips before visiting Moscow and have a fantastic time in the capital.

What to pack

Make sure to check the weather prognosis before your trip and pack accordingly.

When to travel

Moscow is beautiful all around the year. Choose traveling time according to preferred activities.

We suggest to always have some cash with you. You will need Rubles (RUB) for Russia.

How much to tip

Tipping is not required in Russia, but it's considered good etiquette, tip 10%-15% of your bill.

The average summer temperature is approx 18°C (64°F), and winter is around -6°C (22°F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Moscow are caviar, Krasnaya Moska perfume.

Best Moscow Sights

One of the highest points in Moscow and one of its most breathtaking places - the Sparrow Hills.

See the 344-feet Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the tallest Orthodox church in the world.

Enjoy masterpieces of Russian opera and ballet in Moscow's legendary Bolshoi Theater.

Being the most recognizable symbol of Russia in the world, Red Square is an absolute must see when in Moscow. 

The famous GUM is a large department store in the Kitai-gorod part of Moscow facing Red Square.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is Moscow’s most famous artistic work of architecture set in the romantic Red Square.

History and luxury is revealed inside the Kremlin as the Armoury Chamber displays treasures like Faberge Eggs.

The symbol of Moscow and entire Russia, the Kremlin is often described as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Moscow Metro is like a whole underground city that holds the world's largest collection of Stalinist Art.

I am very satisfied.

I have been using the Firebirds (Travel All Russia) services for a while. I am very satisfied.

WOW. From the choice of hotels to...

WOW. From the choice of hotels, an itinerary that ran to plan, the amazing Guides and drivers, and of course the stunning cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. No long queues for entry to museums, churches, and palaces.  I would gladly recommend using Firebird Tours (Travel All Russia) to anyone.

THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

I must say from the day I started to book my tip till the day I got home I had one GREAT trip and experience I always felt safe and cared for help was seconds away not that I needed any I will defiantly highly recommend your company to any traveler to Russia WELL DONE to the Whole team THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

We enjoyed the whole trip a lot

Overall we enjoyed the whole trip a lot. Moscow is beautiful and clean. Thank you very much for your patience and excellent organization of this tour. Everything ran very smoothly and according to schedule. The guides met us on time at hotels or at our train carriage on arrival. They all spoke good English, had a good local knowledge and were very kind and helpful.

The tour lived up to all expectations

I’m most pleased with Travel All Russia in arranging our ‘Volga Dream’ Russia tour, I would recommend using your services again as every aspect of our tour went off without a hitch. The communication between our tour representative was excellent as we required additional days on both ends of our tour. The visa process and the logistics were flawlessly implemented.

We had a great time in Moscow!

Everything was perfect and we are very satisfied with services and accommodations.

Loved my time in Russia

The trip was great. Especially want to mention the guides I had on the extra days were exceptional. Both guides and drivers worked out well. Thanks again for all your help and attention. Loved my time in Russia, and still haven’t stopped talking about it.

Exploring Magnificent Russian Capitals, June 2017

Just want to say that our guide in St Petersburg was really outstanding. You really felt like someone was looking after you. Very observant - knowledgeable. We really enjoyed time spent with her.

Exploring Vibrant Moscow, June 2017

The experience was great!!! We had an excellent guide. The hotel was fabulous.

Thank you for your help !!! was an unforgettable trip.

Related destinations

More about moscow.

• Call us now
• Request a call
• Chat on WhatsApp
• Start Live chat
• Contact via email

Moscow & St. Petersburg Small Group Tours Private Tour Packages Trans-Siberian Trips Russian River Cruises Moscow Tour Packages St. Petersburg Tours All Russia Tours

Why Travel to Russia Best Time to Visit Russia Russian Visa Information Tips Before Traveling Tips on Arrival Russian Currency Moscow Travel Guide Read More in Our Blog

Hermitage Museum Church of the Savior on Blood The Kremlin Sergiev Posad, Golden Ring Kizhi Island The Red Square Siberia Lake Baikal

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST39939 All Rights Reserved © 2024 About Us | Testimonials  | Our Blog  |  Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

Moscow International Business Center (Moscow City)

• Guide to Russia

What can you do at Moscow City?

• Dine in style: Moscow City is home to 100+ cafes and restaurants, including Europe’s highest restaurant and ice-cream shop
• See Moscow like never before: Ascend to one of Moscow City’s observation decks for an unparalleled panorama of Moscow
• Admire world-class architecture: Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers has distinctive architecture and design
• Learn something new: Visit the Museum of High-Rise Architecture in Moscow or the Metro Museum

Moscow City is a multifunctional complex in the west of Moscow, which has come to represent the booming business of Russia’s capital. Its skyscrapers enrich Moscow’s skyline, contrasting the medieval cupolas and Stalinist high-rises. Visitors to Moscow City can enjoy entertainment high in the sky, as the complex is home not just to offices, but to restaurants, cinemas, viewing platforms, and museums.

Photo by Alex Zarubi on Unsplash

History of Moscow City

Moscow City was first conceived in 1991 by honoured Soviet architect Boris Tkhor, who proposed to construct a business center in Moscow. It would be complete with gleaming skyscrapers rivalling those of New York and London, to reflect the new life and growing ambitions of post-Soviet Russia.

The chosen site was a stone quarry and disused industrial zone in western Moscow, in between the Third Ring Road and Moskva River. Initially, the territory was divided into 20 sections arranged in a horseshoe shape around a central zone. The skyscrapers would increase in height as they spiralled around the central section, with shorter structures built on the waterfront to give the taller buildings behind a view of the river. 

Architect Gennady Sirota, who contributed to iconic projects such as the Olympic Sports Complex on Prospekt Mira, was selected as the chief architect, and many other world-famous architects were attracted to Moscow to realise their visions in Moscow City.

What can you see and do at Moscow City?

Where Moscow’s cityscape was once dominated by Stalin’s Seven Sisters skyscrapers , this is no more. Moscow City is home to eight of Russia’s ten tallest buildings, six of which exceed 300 metres in height. More buildings are still under construction there today, including the One Tower (which will be Europe’s second-tallest building). Once completed, Moscow City will comprise more than 20 innovative structures.

Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers was designed by its own architect, lending the cluster of skyscrapers a unique appearance. Aside from being a site of architectural wonder, Moscow City is a place for leisure and entertainment with over 100 cafes and restaurants, exhibition spaces, cinemas, viewing platforms, and more.

Photo by Nikita Karimov on Unsplash

Federation Tower

• East Tower: 374m, 97 floors; West Tower: 243m, 63 floors
• Completed in 2017
• Architects: Sergey Tchoban and Peter Schweger

The East Federation Tower is the tallest building in Moscow, and the second-tallest building in Europe after the Lakhta Centre in St Petersburg. Visitors can enjoy a luxurious meal of seafood, truffles or steak at restaurant ‘Sixty’ on the 62nd floor of the West Tower, or visit Europe’s highest observation deck, ‘Panorama 360’, on the 89th floor of the East Tower.

Did you know? The ice cream and chocolate shop on the 360 observation deck are the highest in the world!

• South Tower: 354m, 85 floors; North Tower: 254m, 49 floors
• Completed in 2015
• Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP

The South OKO Tower is the third-tallest building in Russia and Europe. Here, you can visit ‘Ruski’ to dine on hearty Russian cuisine cooked on a real Russian stove, and have a drink in the ice bar. Alternatively, visit restaurant, nightclub and performance space ‘Birds’; the restaurant is the highest in Europe, situated on the 86th floor roof terrace alongside an observation deck. The OKO Towers are also home to karaoke club ‘City Voice’.

Did you know? Underneath OKO Towers is the largest underground parking in Europe, with 16 levels and 3,400 parking spaces.

Mercury Tower

• 339m tall, 75 floors
• Architects : Mikhail Posokhin, Frank Williams, Gennady Sirota

Another multifunctional skyscraper, which was designed as the first truly ‘green’ building in Moscow. The Mercury Tower has a distinct geometric shape and copper-coloured glazing, and was the tallest building in Europe upon completion. Visit ‘More i myaso’ (Sea and meat) on the first floor of the tower to enjoy European and Mediterranean cuisine whilst surrounded by greenery. On the 2nd and 40th floors a modern art gallery, the ‘ILONA-K artspace’, has just opened.

City of Capitals

• Moscow Tower: 302m, 76 floors; St Petersburg Tower: 257m, 65 floors
• Completed in 2009
• Architect: Bureau NBBJ

The unique geometric design of the City of Capitals towers resembles stacks of rotating blocks, and is rooted in Constructivism of the early Soviet period (many Soviet Constructivist buildings can be found in Moscow). Visitors to the Moscow Tower can enjoy a range of cuisines – traditional Italian dishes on the summer terrace of ‘Tutto Bene’, Panasian cuisine in the tropical luxury of the ‘Bamboo Bar’ on the 1st floor’, and poke or smoothie bowls at ‘Soul in the Bowl’ cafe on the 80th floor.

Tower on the Embankment

• Tower A: 84m; Tower B:127m; Tower C: 268m, 61 floors
• Completed in 2007
• Architects: Vehbi Inan and Olcay Erturk

After completion, the Tower on the Embankment was the tallest building in Europe, and is now the 13th tallest. It houses the headquarters of several large Russian and international  companies, including IBM and KPMG. There are two cafes located on the 1st floor of Tower C – self-service café ‘Obed Bufet’ (Lunch Buffet) and Bakery Chain ‘Khleb Nasushchny’ (Daily Bread).

Evolution Tower

• 255m tall, 54 floors
• Architects: Philip Nikandrov and RMJM Scotland Ltd

Evolution is Moscow City’s most recognisable tower, and the 11th tallest building in Russia. Its façade is a true architectural marvel, comprising continuous strips of curved glazing spiralling high into  the sky. According to the architect, Philip Nikandrov, the spiral shape of the tower honours centuries of architectural design in Russia, from the onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral to Vladimir Shukhov’s Tatlin Tower, a masterpiece of Constructivist design. Outside the Evolution tower is a landscaped terrace and pedestrian zone descending to the Presnenskaya Embankment, which was also designed by Nikandrov.

Did you know? Moscow’s largest wedding palace was supposed to be built on the site of the Evolution tower, though the project was abandoned.

• 239m tall, 60 floors
• Completed in 2011

Imperia’s interesting design has a curved roof and an arched glass façade. Inside the tower are various cafes including ‘City Friends’ for all-day breakfasts and light lunches, ‘Mama in the City’ for simple meals of Russian cuisine, and ‘abc kitchen’ for European and Indian-inspired dishes. Alternatively, visit ‘High Bar’ on the 56th floor for cocktails with a view. In Imperia you’ll also find the Museum of High-Rise Construction in Moscow (suitably located on the 56th floor), and the Camera Immersive Theatre.

Did you know? Inside Vystavochnaya metro station is the Metro Museum , dedicated to the history of the beautiful Moscow Metro!

• 130m tall, 26 floors
• Completed in 2001
• Architect: Boris Tkhor

Tower 2000 was Moscow City’s first tower. It stands on the opposite bank of the Moskva River, and houses a viewing platform from which visitors can admire an unparalleled panorama of Moscow City. The Bagration Bridge reaches across the river from the tower to Moscow City, and underneath are piers from where you can take boat trips.

Photo by Alexander Popov on Unsplash

Afimall is Moscow’s largest entertainment and shopping complex, home to 450 shops, cafes and restaurants, a cinema, and a virtual-reality game park. The shopping centre is located in the central section of Moscow City, and a cinema and concert hall are currently under construction there.

What’s nearby?

Sechenov Botanical Gardens: The botanical gardens of the First Moscow State Medical University was created for students’ training and research in 1946. Today it is open for free visits, and is home to a large arboretum.

Park Krasnaya Presnya: This park belonged to the Studenets estate of the Gagarin princes. It is a monument of 18th and 19th century landscaping, with Dutch ponds, ornate bridges, and tree-lined alleys. There are also sports facilities, sports equipment rental, and cafes.

Photo by Akkit  on Wikipedia

Essential information for visitors

Website: https://www.citymoscow.ru/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +7 (495) 730-23-33

Nearest metro: Mezhdunarodnaya (closest to the skyscrapers), Delovoy Tsentr (underneath Afimall), Vystavochnaya (closest to Expocentre)

Related Tours

Moscow - St. Petersburg 3-star cruise by Vodohod

This is our most popular cruise covering Moscow and St. Petersburg and all of the significant towns between these 2 cities. Besides the Two Capitals, you will visit the ancient towns of Uglich, Yaroslavl and Goritsy, the island of Kizhi, and Mandrogui village.

Cruise Ship

Two Capitals and the Golden Ring

This tour covers the best sights of Moscow and St. Petersburg along with a trip to the Golden Ring - a group of medieval towns to the northeast of Moscow. Ancient Kremlins, onion-shaped domes and wooden architecture is just a small part of what awaits you on this amazing tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

Corporate Travel Companies Are Bulking Up: ‘Getting Bigger Is Critical’

Justin Bachman, Skift

April 10th, 2024 at 10:06 AM EDT

Pressure from travel suppliers who want better merchandising tools and lower costs are compelling travel management companies to consolidate.

The big players in the world of managing corporate travel are gearing up to get bigger: Amex GBT’s $570 million bid for CWT and the sale of Direct Travel to an investor consortium are two of the latest examples of the race to bulk up through mergers. 

The trend is driven largely by two factors: Travel suppliers – primarily airlines – seeking greater efficiencies in their distribution channels and the enormous capital required to invest in the technology to sell to and service travelers around the world.

“I think fundamentally customer needs are driving consolidation in the industry,” Amex GBT CEO Paul Abbott told Skift. “I think supplier needs are also changing. Suppliers want their distribution channels to deliver a modern retailing experience,” he said.

For example, airlines are moving a growing share of their fares from the traditional global distribution system model to a direct NDC (New Distribution Capability) platform. And agencies are under pressure to adopt it. 

CWT merging into Amex GBT is “a perfect example of how it’s really only the big players that have the capital to do it,” Mike McCormick, a travel consultant and former head of the Global Business Travel Association, said on April 1 on the Travel Again podcast.

The largest corporate firms, such as Amex GBT, BCD Travel and Navan, have been forced “to really make big investments in technology and continued investments” given the aggressive push by American and others, McCormick noted. 

Navan, for example, last month touted its deeper integration with United Airlines to support that carrier’s pricing strategy for fares, along with other self-serve tools and more personalization for travelers.

“Getting bigger is critical in terms of  a lot of the airline changes and negotiation, and always pressure on earnings and commissions and business in general,” McCormick said.

Investing For the Next-Generation of Travel

Investor Steve Singh, the founder and former CEO of Concur, is managing director of Madrona, the Seattle-based venture capital firm that is among the four investment firms that acquired Direct Travel Inc. on April 2. 

Singh told Skift the investor group is keen to create a “next-generation” travel management company that would offer a seamless connected trip in which all of a traveler’s airline, hotel, meeting, ground transport, and appointment bookings would be integrated, allowing for far simpler itinerary changes. For now, it’s an aspirational goal, one the industry has long wanted but that has proven tough to attain. 

Travel management companies sell multiple technology platforms to serve customers and “the result is that it is very expensive to build and run a TMC,” Singh wrote in a blog post explaining the investor group’s view of how the managed-travel industry should evolve. 

“The fact that these legacy solutions are built on GDS platforms that are not open and not extensible makes the goal of delivering an incredible client experience at a better value proposition even more challenging.”

“As someone who has logged tens of millions of flight miles, I would love a system that allows me to reserve a hotel from the time I arrive in a town to the time I need to leave, not from 3 p.m. to noon,” Singh wrote in his post.

What’s Next for Travelers

Amex GBT customers may see a greater focus on particular industry verticals, such as energy, U.S. government, mining and marine industries for CWT. Those areas tend to present greater complexity and transaction value, along with higher customer retention rates, Amex GBT told investors March 25 explaining the CWT deal.

Abbott said successful travel-management companies will increasingly need both software and services — not just one — that are married effectively.

“You have to have the best technology and the best people, you have to integrate it better than anyone else, and you have to deliver that consistently on a global basis,” he said. “And that’s hard and it requires significant investment and significant expertise.”

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: airlines , amex gbt , business travel , concur , corporate travel , cwt , navan

Business | Boscov’s travel agency celebrates 50 years in…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)

Daily e-Edition

Evening e-Edition

• Real Estate

SUBSCRIBER ONLY

Business | boscov’s travel agency celebrates 50 years in business, the company is offering several special promotions to commemorate its anniversary..

Business | Lehigh Valley Top Workplaces 2024 revealed: See the complete winner’s list

Business | How immigrant workers in US have helped boost job growth and stave off a recession

Business | United Way of Greater Lehigh Valley announces record fundraising

Sellers get ready for Trump rally in Schnecksville | PHOTOS

10 Best Russia Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best russia tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Russia, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Have you been thinking about an exciting trip to amazing Russia? Are you interested in enjoying a memorable tour in Russia ? Does the idea of visiting Russia with the top tour company sound great to you?

Russia, the world’s largest country, boasts a diverse landscape with castles, mountains, and frozen lands, complemented by exceptional cuisine. Whether in St Petersburg, Moscow, or Siberia, Russia offers opportunities to explore the Tundra and witness the Northern Lights. Enjoy skiing, visit volcanoes, palaces, and castles, and indulge in a vodka production tour.

Choosing the right tour company is crucial for a memorable trip to Russia. With numerous options available, investing in a top-rated company can save you time and money, ensuring a fun, safe, and regret-free adventure.

We strongly believe that without comprehensive and analytical research, you may end up spending a lot of money and time on a company that does not have your best interest. With our help, you will find well-researched and analyzed information about the top 10 tour companies in Russia to help make a solid and informed decision.

Continue reading to explore the top 10 highly rated tour companies in Russia and their best travel packages.

Table update Jan 19, 2024

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company

As one of the Russia’s oldest tour operators, Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company has been providing travel-related services since 1991. The key focus of their tour is the city of Volgograd itself. This leading tour operator offers day-tours, excursions and even virtual tours of Volgograd and its surrounding areas. The company is led by a team of dedicated and friendly tour guides that will help you make the most of your visit throughout your stay. They believe in receiving their foreign guests with a positive attitude and thus, invite you on a tour of Volgograd.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Best Russia Tour Packages

This company organizes many different activities for you to be a part of in their tour packages. Honor Soviet war heroes in their historic 3 Day Stalingrad Battlefield Tour . You will visit different sights along the Volga and Don rivers and see places of historical importance in this tour.

Don’t miss out on their sightseeing tour of Hero-City Volgograd . See major sights from the WW II era like the Alley of Heroes, Peace Street, Eternal Flame and many more.

The company also offers a unique tour of Rossoshka where you can observe German and Soviet cemeteries. The central attraction of this tour is a famous sculpture named the “Mourning Mother”.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Reviews

Volgograd Sputnik’s long-standing history is marked by praises and appreciation from the many tourists they have served. This Russian travel company has 326 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked as #1 of 17 Tours & Activities in Volgograd. A past customer of theirs wrote:

Went on the big tour of Stalingrad this morning was out for about 5 hours with my man Mikhail. A bit pricey but a good engaging overview chauffeured and one on one… Alexander

Read all reviews of Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company on TripAdvisor .

Explore the diverse landscapes of Hungary by joining one of the 10 Best Hungary Tour Operators , guaranteeing an immersive and enjoyable trip.

Flotilla Radisson Royal

If you are looking for a luxurious cruise experience in Moscow then look no further than Flotilla Radisson Royal ! This top-reviewed Russian travel operator provides excellent tours on the Moscow River where you can enjoy the best views of Moscow. They have a fleet of 10 ice-class yachts that are fully serviced for sightseeing tours as well as large private gatherings. The team at Flotilla Radisson Royal is highly specialized in bringing you the comfort you seek on your trip to Russia.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Best Russia Tour Packages

Flotilla Radisson Royal provides a large array of tour packages on their first-class luxury yachts.

The company offers one of the most unique yacht cruises through the display of theatre! Book their Dinner with a Classic boat tour where you will watch an Italian drama performance. Enjoy the bewitching sights of Moscow city while fine-dining on special Italian dishes.

Their services also extend to themed cruises on their yachts. You can call ahead and book a customizable cruise. They offer sightseeing, romantic, theatrical, literary, family and gastronomic tours in this package.

You can also go on regular yacht cruises according to their yacht schedule. They will take you on a round-trip of Russia’s popular attractions.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Reviews

This tour company in Russia provides an interesting mix of exciting and luxurious boat trips that all customers seem to like. They have 1,127 reviews on TripAdvisor, out of which most are 5-star ratings. They are ranked as #2 of 96 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Moscow. A satisfied customer wrote:

This was a surprise for me by my partner and daughter. Getting onto the boat was very orderly, and our table was gratefully in a good position so Moscow at night could be appreciated… Pete17 Read all reviews of Flotilla Radisson Royal on TripAdvisor

ExploRussia

ExploRussia is a leading Russian tour operator that specializes in creating exceptional tours for global travelers seeking an authentic and local perspective in Russia. The agency is one of the best when it comes to showcasing Russia’s historical landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and contemporary culture. The company was first established in 2012 with the aim of responsible tourism in mind. Comprising a team of passionate and young entrepreneurs, the company is dedicated to bring you a fantastic vacation in Russia with personalized attention and off-the-beaten-track exploration.

ExploRussia Best Russia Tour Packages

The team at ExploRussia goes the extra mile with their tour packages to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience in their country.

You can choose to go on their Moscow Off the Beaten Path Tour where you will experience the local culture of Moscow without being in crowded streets. Explore the Orthodox Church, taste different Russian food and discover the major sights like Kremlin, Red Square and Bolshoi Theatre.

 You can also explore traditional markets with your own local tour guide on their Moscow Food Tour . You will discover enchanting Russian cuisine and taste different kinds of food items that are remnants of the USSR.

For an adventurous journey, travel to the mountains of Altai near Moscow. In this 6 day tour of the Altai Mountains, you will be in close contact with nature while camping and horse-riding around local villages.

ExploRussia Reviews

As the pioneers of responsible tourism in Russia, ExploRussia has set a great example to other local and international tour companies. This Russian tour operator has 595 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked at the top as #1 of 1,116 Shopping in Central Russia. A recent customer of theirs wrote:

When I reached out to Olga from ExploRussia , she was already invested in my request , asking the right questions and pointing out the possibilities… Hassan M

Read all reviews of ExploRussia on TripAdvisor .

 Explore the cultural treasures of Turkey by choosing one of the 10 Best Turkey Tour Operators , providing expert guidance.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours

St. Petersburg Guided Tours , founded in 2005, is a locally owned travel company in Russia. The company is founded by Valeria Grigoryeva, a licensed and qualified tour guide. They operate private and customized free tours. Their services include walking adventures, cultural, and historical tours. The guides are highly qualified professionals passionate about Russia’s history with extensive experience in the local and international travel industry. With this company, you will certainly have a memorable time traveling through the Russian countryside.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

For more than 15 years, St. Petersburg Guided Tours has improved and perfected fun, authentic, and luxury Russian tours to select from .

If you are looking to spend quality time with your partner, you can choose their  Romantic Getaway Tour . On this excursion, you will visit the Empress Alexandra residence built in 1829.

You can also join the  2-Day comfort Tour  carefully planned for you to see many city sights of St. Petersburg without waiting or standing in line.

They also have a popular  1-Day Private Tour  that will give you value for your money by taking you for a day tour in St. Petersburg. After visiting famous museums, you will be introduced to traditional foods and vodka tasting.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Reviews

This local tour operator in Russia has no shortage of great reviews and satisfied clients. They are ranked as #2 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg and have 156 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer that toured with them recently wrote:

Everything was very well organised by Valeria, from helping us with choosing the right accommodation, preparation of visas and including the right places to visit… Dmitri L

Read all reviews of St. Petersburg Guided Tours on TripAdvisor .

Archer Tour

Archer Tour is a local Russian travel agency that provides group and individual tours of major sights in Russia. Their aim is not to give you a lot of tours but to make each tour worthy and memorable. They also offer tailor-made and custom tours that you can plan according to your requirements. As a company, Archer Tour is continuously improving their services and trying to be one of the best tour companies in Russia. Your vacation to Russia will be worthwhile and entertaining with Archer Tour at your side!

Archer Tour Best Russia Tour Packages

From private and corporate escorts to boat trips, paragliding and flights, the range of tour packages that Archer Tour provides is absolutely immense.

Take their Sightseeing Tour of Kaliningrad and discover a unique blend of German and Soviet architecture. You can see museums, churches and military fortifications in this diverse tour package.

Also, their Baltiysk and Yantarny Tour provide historical background into Russia’s important monuments. In this trip, you can take a ferry to Vistula Spit as well as visit an amber factory and see amber production up close!

Archer Tour also provides VIP tours upon customers’ request. You will get the best luxury services, the highest level on comfort and a visit to the top locations and restaurants in their tailor-made VIP tours.

Ahtilahti Best Russia Tour Packages

Ahtilahti’s quality of service regarding their tours and tour packages are unmatched and they’ll ensure that you have the best vacation of your life in Russia.

Plan ahead and go on a Kayaking Tour of the Oredezh River . This trip is perfect for beginner rafters since there are no challenging rapids. You will get to enjoy the tranquil nature while having an exciting experience.

For a winter tour, you can opt for their phenomenal Skating Tour on Lake Baikal . As the oldest lake on Earth, Lake Baikal has a special wonder to it. Your guide will accompany you as you skate, have fun and enjoy the Siberian landscape in this amazing journey.

Explore their hometown of Kaliningrad on a road-trip . In this 7 day tour, Ahtilahti will take you a thrilling journey that covers all of Kaliningrad’s major as well as non-trivial attractions for a truly immersive experience.

Ahtilahti Reviews

Considered one of the most unique travel agencies in Russia, few companies can accomplish what Ahtilahti has accomplished through their tours. They have 171 reviews on TripAdvisor and are ranked as #2 of 157 Boat Tours & Water Sports in St. Petersburg. This is what a satisfied customer said about them:

Excellent experience with SUPsurfing starting from narrow channel in SpB center and going to Neva river. Surfing is safe, supervised by both guiedes Asja and Dmitry… Dr D

Read all reviews of Ahtilahti on TripAdvisor .

As a fully licensed tour company in Russia, Alla Tours proudly offers the best tour and travel services in Russia. Established in 2005, the company is renowned for its top-notch tour guides and detailed itineraries. Their top priority is offering fulfilling, safe, and authentic tours for travelers worldwide. Based in St. Petersburg, Alla Tours has also developed tour excursions across Europe and the Baltic region. With personalized service in mind, Alla Tours will take you on a trip across Russia that will be imprinted in your memory for a lifetime!

Alla Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

With years of service in the tourism industry, Alla Tours offers an extensive array of tour packages in Russia to choose from. You can join their  1-day St. Petersburg Intro Tour  and visit many spectacular venues, including the Peterhof Fountains and Garden and the Hermitage Museum. On this guided private walking tour of St. Petersburg, Russia, you will be able to see the city through the eyes of the locals.

If you have more time, you can take the  2-day St. Petersburg Royal Tour  and combine top-ranked sights with a shore excursion. The tour is perfect for discovering Russia’s modern art, architecture, canals, and rivers.

Comfort is an essential factor during a vacation trip so the  2-Day St. Petersburg Comfort Tour  combines top attractions, including the Church of the Spilled Blood, Hermitage Museum, and Peterhof Fountain Park.

Alla Tours Reviews

Alla Tours is a Russian tour operator that is well-respected by international as well as local tour companies. Their 4,798 reviews on TripAdvisor are a evidence to their top-notch service. They are ranked as #8 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past client of theirs wrote:

A full 2 day tour picked up from our cruise ship. Gives a great taste of all the major attractions. Not cheap but fully worth the cost. Cannot recommend highly enough… Mark_Dornoch

Read all reviews of Alla Tours on TripAdvisor .

Embark on a Scandinavian getaway in Finland. Join one of the 10 Best Finland Tour Operators , guaranteeing a memorable and relaxing vacation.

Moscow Private Tours

Moscow Private Tours , founded in 2011, is one of the highest-reviewed tour companies in Russia. They cater exclusively to private and small groups ensuring the best quality service. They are the #1 Rated Private Tours in Moscow. They have their tourists’ best interests in mind and their tours are personalized, child-friendly and have flexible timings. Their tour guides are highly trained locals that will look after you on your trip. Your trip to Russia will be made easier and hassle-free through this company’s continuous efforts.

Moscow Private Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

Catering to small and private groups, Moscow Private Tours’ various tour packages are enjoyable and all-inclusive.

Enjoy the complete Kremlin experience on their Kremlin and Armoury Tour . Visit the State Kremlin Palace, see the Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell and immerse yourself into medieval history and architecture, Soviet heritage and imperial treasures in this popular tour package.

Moscow looks the prettiest during the night. Go on their Night Moscow Tour with a private guide and see its major attractions like the Bolshoi Theatre and St Basil’s Cathedral.

Embrace the cultural swirl of Russian cuisine through their Russian Food Tour . From borscht to pancakes, eat your way through 3 different eateries and learn about traditional Russian food and their origins.

Moscow Private Tours Reviews

As one of the best-rated tour operators in Russia, Moscow Private Tours has a spectacular track record of many satisfactory clients. They are ranked as #9 of 540 Tours & Activities in all of Moscow and have over 1300 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer who visited them recently wrote:

Very nice boat tour around Moscow with good dinner and excellent tour guide (Maria). Thanks for your service. I recommend it… Seradi155

Read all reviews of Moscow Private Tours on TripAdvisor .

Discover the natural wonders of the Czech Republic by joining one of the 10 Best Czech Republic Tour Operators , promising an unforgettable and eco-friendly adventure.

Bridge to Moscow

With more than 10 years of experience in the tourism industry, Bridge to Moscow is a highly-rated tour operator in Russia. They offer original and professional private tours in Moscow. They apply a personal approach to their customers, viewing them as friends rather than tourists. The company values commitment, safety and reliability above all else. Bridge to Moscow stands out from the rest through their team of licensed multi-lingual tour guides that dedicate all their efforts to bring you an excellent vacation in Russia.

Bridge to Moscow Best Russia Tour Packages

With over 97 detailed travel itineraries, you will have a large selection of tour packages to choose from.

If you are planning a trip to visit Russian churches, you can start with their Sergiev Posad Tour . This early 14 th century monastery holds intricate architecture and soulful history. See their iconic cathedrals, watch the church choir and visit local bakeries in this tour.

For a sightseeing tour of Moscow, you can book their Moscow in 1 Day tour package. You will be able to visit Moscow’s historic center, the Red Square and the presidential and state palaces. Don’t forget to check out their Moscow Metro as well.

Also, you can choose Glimpses of Baikal tour for a nature-infused experience. This 3 day tour will have you travelling through local villages to reach Lake Baikal. Once there, you can admire the breathtaking views of the oldest lake on the planet and its surrounding areas.

Bridge to Moscow Reviews

Bridge to Moscow’s tours has gathered a lot of positive reviews from many tourists that deemed them to be satisfactory. This Russian travel agency has 454 reviews on TripAdvisor and stands as #10 of 540 Tours & Activities in Moscow. A client that recently toured with them wrote:

The metro tour was very very interesting. My son loved it. And our guide Ivan was so friendly and knowledgeable… chandrasekar r

Read all reviews of Bridge to Moscow on TripAdvisor .

White Nights Travel

White Nights Travel is a unique company that offers a wide range of professionally customized private tours in St. Petersburg. The company’s bespoke services make them a popular tour company in Russia that provides programs suitable for seniors, families, and groups with the chance to explore beautiful locations in St. Petersburg. The company caters to tourists from all walks of life and is happy to work within your budget. White Night Travel’s major goal is to give you a different yet authentic Russian experience of a lifetime.

White Nights Travel Best Russia Tour Packages

There are plenty of options you can choose from with White Nights Travel’s tour packages.

The  Walking Tour with Hermitage  is one of the most popular programs the company offers in St. Petersburg. During the trip, you will discover various art galleries, museums, and parks, and in the evening, you will walk to the city center for vodka tasting and street food.

Do not miss out on the world-class five-hour Russia  Golden Tour  that will provide an opportunity to walk to Catherine Palace, Amber Room, and Church of the Spilled Blood.

The  Jewish Heritage Tour  combines a boat ride tour and the Grans Choral Synagogue tour, which offers you a fantastic opportunity to learn Jewish history in Russia with an English-speaking guide.

White Nights Travel Reviews

Their personalized service and attention to detail has led White Nights Travel to become one of the best tour operators in Russia. With over 650 reviews on TripAdvisor, the company is ranked #10 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past customer wrote:

Maria was absolutely fabulous showing our group of 8 the beautiful sights of St. Petersburg. She was so good at moving us thru crowds, her English is spectacular… Debra D

Read all reviews of White Nights Travel on TripAdvisor .

Dive into the rich history and culture of Greece. Join one of the 10 Best Greece Tour Operators , ensuring an immersive and authentic experience.

The best time to visit Russia is during the months of May to September. Although Russia is the largest country and weather can vary vastly, the popular cities and locations in Russia will be experiencing a warm weather and long, sunny days during this time.

You can expect to spend around $60 – $80 for a solo traveler staying at a decently rated hotel. This price will cover food, transportation and other fees. For a more luxurious vacation, you will be spending anywhere from $150 – $250.

Russia has a lot of specialties attached to it. From ballet and theatre to vodka and Russian culture, there is a lot to expect. Famous landmarks include Lake Baikal, The Red Square, The Hermitage and Moscow Metro System.

Being the largest country on the planet, there is definitely a lot of area to cover in Russia. However, most of Russia is barren and uninhabitable. For popular tourist destinations, 2 weeks should be enough for a majestic experience of Russian culture, nature and food.

The most iconic Russian dishes include the Blini (Russian pancakes), Pelmeni, Beef Stroganoff, Syrniki, Kasha (porridge), Borscht and Okroshka. Russia is also famous for their world-renowned vodka.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

NASA Picks 3 Companies to Help Astronauts Drive Around the Moon

The agency’s future moon buggies will reach speeds of 9.3 miles per hour and will be capable of self-driving.

By Kenneth Chang

NASA will be renting some cool wheels to drive around the moon.

Space agency officials announced on Wednesday that they have hired three companies to come up with preliminary designs for vehicles to take NASA astronauts around the lunar south polar region in the coming years. After the astronauts return to Earth, these vehicles would be able to self-drive around as robotic explorers, similar to NASA’s rovers on Mars.

The self-driving capability would also allow the vehicle to meet the next astronaut mission at a different location.

“Where it will go, there are no roads,” Jacob Bleacher, the chief exploration scientist at NASA, said at a news conference on Wednesday. “Its mobility will fundamentally change our view of the moon.”

The companies are Intuitive Machines of Houston, which in February successfully landed a robotic spacecraft on the moon ; Lunar Outpost of Golden, Colo.; and Venturi Astrolab of Hawthorne, Calif. Only one of the three will actually build a vehicle for NASA and send it to the moon.

NASA had asked for proposals of what it called the lunar terrain vehicle, or L.T.V., that could drive at speeds up to 9.3 miles per hour, travel a dozen miles on a single charge and allow astronauts to drive around for eight hours.

The agency will work with the three companies for a year to further develop their designs. Then NASA will choose one of them for the demonstration phase.

The L.T.V. will not be ready in time for the astronauts of Artemis III, the first landing in NASA’s return-to-the-moon program , which is currently scheduled for 2026 .

The plan is for the L.T.V. to be on the lunar surface ahead of Artemis V, the third astronaut landing that is expected in 2030, said Lara Kearney, manager of the extravehicular activity and human surface mobility program at the NASA Johnson Space Center.

“If they can get there earlier, we’ll take it earlier,” Ms. Kearney said.

The L.T.V. contract will be worth up to $4.6 billion over the next 15 years — five years of development and then a decade of operations on the moon, most of it going to the winner of this competition. But Ms. Kearney said the contracts allow NASA to later finance the development of additional rovers, or allow other companies to compete in the future.

The contract follows NASA’s recent strategy of purchasing services rather than hardware.

In the past, NASA paid aerospace companies to build vehicles that it then owned and operated. That included the Saturn V rocket, the space shuttles and the lunar roving vehicles — popularly known as moon buggies — that astronauts drove on the moon during the last three Apollo missions in 1971 and 1972.

The new approach has proved successful and less expensive for the transportation of cargo and astronauts to the International Space Station. NASA now pays companies, notably Elon Musk’s SpaceX, fixed fees for those services, more akin to plane tickets or FedEx shipments.

For the company chosen to build the L.T.V., the vehicle will remain its property, and that company will be able to rent it to other customers when it is not needed by NASA.

“It’s commercially available for us as a commercial business to sell capacity on that rover,” said Steve Altemus, the chief executive of Intuitive Machines, “and do that for international partners and for other commercial companies and space agencies around the world.”

The competition created alliances between small startups and larger, more established aerospace companies, as well as car companies. The Intuitive Machines team includes Boeing, Northrop Grumman and Michelin, the tire maker. Lunar Outpost added to its team Lockheed Martin, Goodyear and General Motors, which had helped design the Apollo moon buggies.

Astrolab is working with Axiom Space of Houston, which has sent private astronauts to the space station and is building a commercial module to the International Space Station. Astrolab announced last year that it had signed an agreement to send one of its rovers to the moon on a SpaceX Starship rocket as early as 2026. That mission is independent of whether it is selected by NASA, a company spokesman said.

While Lunar Outpost is competing with Intuitive Machines on this contract, it plans to work with the company separately, sending smaller robotic rovers to the moon on the company’s lunar landers.

Kenneth Chang , a science reporter at The Times, covers NASA and the solar system, and research closer to Earth. More about Kenneth Chang

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

A new set of computer simulations, which take into account the effects of stars moving past our solar system, has effectively made it harder to predict Earth’s future and reconstruct its past.

Dante Lauretta, the planetary scientist who led the OSIRIS-REx mission to retrieve a handful of space dust , discusses his next final frontier.

A nova named T Coronae Borealis lit up the night about 80 years ago. Astronomers say it’s expected to put on another show  in the coming months.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.