Russia

When Danilovsky Market allowed food stalls and tiny cafes under its roof in 2015, no one expected that it would turn into a city-wide craze. After Danilovsky’s gentrification, the same company renovated another market, Usachevsky. These venues gave Muscovites access to restaurant-quality world cuisine at reasonable prices. Today there’s at least one food market in every neighborhood in сentral Moscow. Here’s a guide to some of the key players in Moscow’s food market trend.

The names that people in Russia call St Petersburg often give visitors the wrong impression. "Venice of the North" makes it sound dainty, when around its elegant streets and mesmerising art is a chaotic city of five million people. "Window to Europe" doesn’t fit either, as its days of looking at Europe from the outside are long gone. Russians have another name for their city of beauty and commotion, history and innovation: simply "Piter". Here's how to best experience Piter in a couple of days.

The world’s largest country beguiles and fascinates with its world-class art, epic landscapes and multifaceted society. You may also find that perseverance and a sense of humour will go a long way in enriching your first-time Russian travel experience. From the things you absolutely must do before you travel to the things we recommend that you steer clear of once you're there, here are some top tips for avoiding common pitfalls when visiting Russia.