With the dissolution of the Soviet Union visitors have a fresh opportunity
to explore a vast array of exciting and ancient cultures, from the
glittering imperial Russia of St. Petersburg to the timeless village life
of Siberia and Irkutsk. One of the most notable features of present day
Russia is a renewed celebration of the wealth of its past and its
potential for the future. Throwing off the blanket of communist
uniformity, Russia today is a nation of enormous diversity and tremendous
vitality. It is as if the cultural traditions of a century ago have
re-awakened with a newfound strength - ancient cathedrals are being
rebuilt and restored, colorful markets hum with activity once again and
literature and the arts are quickly regaining the creative renown they
enjoyed decades ago. A new Russia is now in full bloom.
For most westerners, Russia is associated with its European
cities--Moscow, St. Petersburg and Murmansk. This is the heartland of
Imperial Russia, and these great and ancient cities often become the focus
for most tourists. However there is much more to Russia, a country that
spans eleven time zones and two continents, ending less than 50 miles from
North America. Within this vast expanse lie the largest freshwater lake in
the world, rivers and forests teeming with fish and wildlife, awe
inspiring volcanos, and towering mountains. Russia is the largest country
on earth, with enormous tracts of land that have been opened to travellers
only in the last few years.
Just as Russia's rich cultural heritage has once more come to life, its
natural heritage too is a new country waiting to be discovered.