Please remember to bring your Tickets, Russian visa and Passport, as well as Xerox copies of all travel documents.

Russian Visa Processing: In order for us to successfully assist you with Russian visa processing, please forward the following items to us at least 45 days before your departure:

• Filled out, signed and dated Russian visa application form
• One passport size photo, black & white or color
  (please do not glue the photo to the form)
• Your valid passport (please make sure the passport is signed before you mail it to us)
• Processing fee (check or money order) payable to
  St. Petersburg Travel, Inc.

To receive a blank Russian visa application form please contact us, and we will mail/fax/e-mail a copy to you, along with an example on how to fill it out. Visa processing fees vary based on the number of business days in which your visa is to be processed (excluding time in the mail):

* 3 weeks - $160.00 per person

Visas can be processed the same or next day (higher rates apply), if necessary. These non-refundable fees cover handling costs, postage and consular services. Visa processing fees are established by the Consulate General of the Russian Federation, and subject to change. Once you receive your visa, please carefully check it for errors. St. Petersburg Travel, Inc. will not bear any responsibility for visa errors which were not brought to our attention at least 10 days before your departure. Please contact us for current rates and processing time, as well as for information on visas to Ukraine, & other former Soviet Republics.

Flight Information: Please contact your airline for luggage allowance information. We suggest you use your carry-on bag for important documents (passport, etc.), and some things you might use on the flight (books, magazines, clothing, medications, cosmetics, etc.). Russian airports "film-safe" x-rays may damage your film. Develop film before leaving the country in one of the several one-hour Kodak outlets, or carry undeveloped film in your pocket for hand inspection at the airport.

What to bring with you: Medications in their original containers, cosmetics you use regularly, film (however, you can always buy some at your hotel), everything you need for personal hygiene, special items (extra pair of contact lenses, etc.)/personal dietary preferences (instant coffee, low fat breakfast cereal, sugar substitutes, etc.); Consider bringing the following items: vitamins, munchies, energy bars, Band-Aids, antiseptic, insects repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen. If you visit Russia during summer months, temperatures might range from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so bring some warm clothing, as well as outfits for hot weather. A light rain coat or an umbrella will also be helpful. Your shoes should be very comfortable and well broken-in. We suggest you bring at least two (2) pairs of shoes. Please note that no dressy clothing is required, and it is up to you if you want to dress up for dinner or a trip to the theater. Most electrical sockets in Russian hotels supply 220 Volts, and require a round, continental-type, plug or adapter which can be purchased in any travel supply store. Bring a student-style backpack to carry camera equipment, Kleenex, bottled water, etc. On your return, it can either be folded into your suitcase or used if the suitcases are filled.

Health Recommendations: Do not drink tap water. Use bottled water, even for brushing teeth. On the street, stick to bottles or cans. Bottled water can be purchased in your hotel. Avoid purchasing alcohol from kiosks. Name-brand bottles may have been emptied of their original contents and refilled with home-brew. Wash hands often with soap and water. Eat only thoroughly cooked food or fruits and vegetables that have been washed and/or peeled by you. Do not eat food purchased from street vendors. To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot. Do not drink beverages with ice. Do not handle animals. No vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Russia, however, immunization against diphtheria is recommended.

Tipping: is not required in Russia, so do not feel obligated. It is, however, a great way to show appreciation for a well performed service and has become widely accepted. An appropriate tip amount should be between 10% and 15%.