MBA Trip, RUSSIA
Frozen by Communism and the Cold War for much of the 20th century, Russia has thawed over recent years to become one of the most compelling destinations in Greater Europe.
The double-headed eagle, symbol of the Romanov Dynasty, has replaced the hammer and sickle. A kind of capitalism, led by oligarchs and other nouveau aristocrats, has taken over the Soviet economic system. Though continents remain much the same, borders seem ever-changing in these modern times. Russia has been no stranger to such changes, as her long and tempestuous past attests. This is your opportunity to explore modern-day Russia and enjoy the extraordinary monuments, art, architecture, and history of a fascinating culture.
This afternoon you arrive Moscow, Russia’s bustling capital, at 12:20 p.m., on American Airlines flight 158. Our representative, who will meet you at the airport, will assist you with all the formalities and transfer to your centrally-located hotel. The rest of day can be spent at your leisure.
Moscow, the former medieval citadel and capital of Communism, is characterized by its gold onion-domed churches that scrape the skyline alongside Stalin's gothic Seven Sisters. The Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, and St. Basil's Cathedral surround historic Red Square. Metropolitan Moscow is a work of art, with bronze statues of model citizens lit by ornate chandeliers. Stroll among the craft stalls on Arbat Street or buy Prada in the former Soviet department store, GUM.
This evening we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
This morning, our local English-speaking guide will take us on a sightseeing tour of this incredible city. First, we explore the Kremlin grounds, a fascinating complex of museums, churches, and government buildings. We then see the Palace of Facets, the oldest public building in Moscow, and the Grand Kremlin Palace. We will also visit the Armory, once a storehouse for weapons and now a museum showcasing the amazing treasures amassed by the Imperial court in centuries past. Then visit the Diamond Fund to see the spectacular coronation crowns, royal carriages, and famed Faberge Eggs.
In the afternoon, arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English-speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal.
This morning, arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal.
In the afternoon you will visit the Moscow Metro subway system with our English-speaking guide. Today you will discover that the perfect marriage of form and function—architecture and design—awaits you below ground. The subway stations of this highly efficient mass transportation system are adorned with sculptures, mosaics, chandeliers, and beautiful examples of socialist realist art. Then, for a complete change of pace, tour the State Tretyakov Gallery, a marvelous museum and the national treasury of Russian fine art, which showcases more than 130,000 works by generations of Russian artists. Your encounters with the arts today will be treasured memories of Russia’s artistic soul when you return home.
Today (morning and afternoon), arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal all day.
Day 5 |
MOSCOW / ST. PETERSBURG |
This morning, arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal this morning.
This evening, our private deluxe motor coach transfers us to the Moscow train station, where we will board our comfortable overnight train for St. Petersburg. (First class train ticket in a 2- berth cabin).
Upon arrival at St. Petersburg train station this morning, we will be met by our English-speaking guide, who will assist and transfer us to our centrally-located hotel.
After freshening up, we will be taken on a guided tour of key landmarks in St. Petersburg. It isn’t difficult to imagine that you’re in the midst of a fairytale this morning as you view the architectural treasures that sprang from the imagination and determination of Czar Peter the Great to build an entire city that would outshine Versailles. All around you, you’ll see ornate palaces, inspiring churches, and grand state buildings. The impressive Peter and Paul Fortress was originally built to defend the city but later was used as a high-security prison whose reluctant ‘guests’ have included such famous names in Russian history as Trotsky and Dostoyevsky. In the midst of the fortress stands the magnificent Peter and Paul Cathedral, the first church in the city to be built of stone. Atop its soaring spire is one of the most prominent symbols of St. Petersburg, a golden angel holding a cross. Closely linked to the city’s history and the Romanov dynasty, Peter and Paul Cathedral is the final resting place of all of Russia’s czars, beginning with Peter the Great himself.
In the afternoon, arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English-speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal this afternoon.
This morning, our English-speaking guide will take us on a sightseeing tour. Justly renowned around the world, The State Hermitage Museum is a highlight of any Russia tour. We will arrange a special early-morning visit that will avoid the crush of the crowds who appear later in the day. While once only Russian royalty could enjoy such treasures, during today’s guided tour, you’ll see the multitude of priceless art, jewels, and artifacts from the Stone Age to the 20th century that are housed in the splendid rooms and halls of this remarkable museum. You’ll marvel at the amazing golden objects from antiquity that you’ll view in the Second Chamber of the Gold Room.
Today is completely free for you to enjoy St. Petersburg on your own. Optional excursions are available from your local host.
Today (morning and afternoon) arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English- speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal all day.
In the morning, arrangements will be made for Academic or Company Presentations/Panel Discussions or Company Visits. A private deluxe bus and an English-speaking guide will be at the group’s disposal this morning.
Tonight, we will enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice local restaurant in St. Petersburg.
The group will check out from the hotel this morning.
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