Finding Great Guides in Russia
A private viewing of Peter III's small summer palace at the royal residence of Oranienbaum, near St. Petersburg, Russia, is a snap for Exeter International guides.
Photo by Dan Weisberg for Exeter International
'Tis the season for booking summer travel to Russia, apparently, because two readers have written in asking how to hire great guides and otherwise make smart arrangements in St. Petersburg and Moscow:
"Besides your article Eight Perfect Days in Russia: Moscow and St. Petersburg, have you written anything else pertaining to these two cities? I am looking for a guide/tour/hotel in both cities in June. Is there anyone you would recommend?" -- Marilyn Schiamberg
"I am planning a trip to St. Petersburg and read your article. I understand that a guide is almost a necessity to see St. Petersburg if you want to get into a lot of the sights and beat the long line-ups. You made reference to a guide by the name of Yelena Kirpitchnicova. Do you know which company she works for? I am trying to make the arrangements for this trip as soon as possible--a couple of hotels have excellent specials on now if you book a certain period in advance--but I want to make sure I get a good and trustworthy guide before doing that." -- John Carter
I have traveled in Russia twice now, both times on assignment for Conde Nast Traveler, and, because I needed the savviest guides and flawless arrangements, both times I've booked through Greg Tepper of Exeter International. Greg, who is on my list of the world's best travel planners, handpicks guides of the highest caliber -- guides who can open doors for you that others cannot and who will custom-tailor your experience to your exact needs, even as those change during the course of a day. Indeed, here's what one of his guides accomplished for me in Moscow.
Exeter is pricey but, in my opinion and that of many Conde Nast Traveler readers, well worth it. If you can't afford Greg, however, contact my other favorite Russia specialist, Natasha Tichy of Frontiers International Travel. To understand the differences between Greg and Natasha, click to read my descriptions comparing them (scroll down to "Russia").
Be sure to have Greg or Natasha book as many components of your trip as possible, especially the hotels, as they both negotiate special low rates and added-value packages that can not only save you money but also greatly enhance your overall experience.
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It's funny; my family and I were recently discussing travel plans for this summer, and Russia was one of my top destination suggestions. I had hardly considered it much before, but I have had an increasing itch to visit. Perhaps it is the season to book summer vacations to Russia!
-Karina
www.TaraAndKarinaGoOut.com
Posted by: TKGO | March 17, 2010 at 05:03 PM