Another 30 degree day, so I took off for a walk early. First to visit a stalwart of the city’s bookshops, Dom Knigi (“House of the Book”), is housed in part of the wonderful, whimsical Singer building, one of the … Continue reading →

The “Stars of the White Nights Music Festival” is being held between May and July. I booked a ticket to see “Pagliacci” at the Mariinsky Theatre. The history of the Mariinsky Opera Company dates back to 1783 when Empress Catherine II issued a decree on … Continue reading →

What a day to visit the Lower Gardens of the Peterhof Palace estate – sunshine and 20 degrees. Took the 30 min hydrofoil from Lion Pier straight to the gardens. The fountains were sparkling brilliantly and hundreds of people were … Continue reading →