"There are only two reasons to come
here, "says one Western businessman, "to have a fun and get
rich."
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"Don't be shocked by the prices. In
many places, the whole point is to spend as much money as possible to show
what a big shot you are."
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t may come as a surprise to many to learn that Moscow is
one of the world's great cities. It certainly did to me. I think that, like
many people, I envisioned a city that was a cross between Beirut and ...
well, I don't
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know what. Having never previously visited a post-communist
city, particularly one that had the reputation for rampant crime and shoddy
Stalinist architecture enjoyed by Moscow.
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Night
Life
Moscow's
night life is of epic proportions, and people don't really start rocking
until midnight and seldom stop before sunup.
One
thing to bear in mind: Many nightclubs, casinos and bars cater mainly to the
Russian mafia. So don't go unless you're with someone who's known there; then
everything will be fine.
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Casino Royale
The city's most elegant casino and a
favorite among serious players
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Hotels
The
following hotels are mix of Moscow's best, from inexpensive to luxury. All
provide Western-style accommodations and amenities.
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Hotel Baltschug Kempinski
Few urban hotels anywhere can top the view.
Five-star European comfort and service. Rooms: $384-420.
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Making The Most Of Moscow
-Arriving: If possible,
arrange to have someone meet you with a car when you land at Sheremetivo
Airport. Upon arrival you will be handed a customs form. Do not lose this:
you'll be expected to turn it in along with a new one when you depart.
-Visas: The Russians remain
very strict about visas. Be sure that all your dates coincide with those on
your visa.
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-Getting Oriented: Moscow is one of the most confusion
cities in the world to navigate.
-Taxis: Moscow's taxi system
is a free-for-all, and out-of-towners will be taken shocking advantage of if
they don't know the score. Fares are agreed upon before you get in. The best
bet is to hire a car and driver for your stay.
-Money: Many places take
rubles instead of hard currency, but the $ is quickly becoming Russia's
unofficial currency. So it's good to carry some greenbacks.
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Restaurants
Since the Soviet Union crumbled, Moscow has
seen an explosion of restaurants purveying international cuisine. Most that
cater to Western visitors, generally the more expensive ones, are relatively
safe and clean, though quality varies.
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Golden Ostap
A traditional Georgian restaurant that
also offers a little blackjack and roulette.
McDonald's
All location of this American icon are
unbelievably popular.
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