Moscow Trip - Part 1

As part of Elk Street's promotion of Henry's Russian studies, the usual suspects set off on a trip to Moscow, capital city of Russia. This was planned as a major adventure for the boys with the journey being on the overnight train, Lev Tolstoi.

The 'girls' were in first class 2-berth compartments and the 'boys' in second class 4-berth compartments, although in fact only three seats were taken, so it was not as cramped as it might have been. Your correspondent sleeps very well on trains, so he, at least, had a comfortable night.

A cup of tea brought by the wagon attendant.

Thomas fast asleep in his bunk.


Henry and his bedtime reading.

Bright and early, and pretty much on time, we arrived in Moscow Lenningradsky station and with Sesse in the lead headed off to the hotel.

Outside Lenningradsky station with one of Stalin's "Seven Sisters" in the background. (Now the not very socialist Hilton Hotel.)

Having negotiated the Moscow metro and made it to our hotel, it was time for a shower and short rest before heading out on our tourist trail. Our hotel was the Marriot Hotel on Tverskaya, and we've still no idea how Sesse managed to get such a reasonable price - it is not the kind of place that Elk's Street can normally afford.

Our first foray was to search for breakfast, although with the slow service and time difference to Finland, our breakfast at the Pyramid restaurant turned into lunch. Suitably fortified, we continued our stroll towards the Kremlin and Red Square.

Marshal Zhukov on his horse.

Tourists on Red Square.

Henry, Tiina, Thomas and Sesse by the Resurrection Gate and Iberian Chapel.

The GUM department store, where our paths crossed with that of Jeremy Clarkson of Top Gear fame. (Spotted by Tiina.)


St. Basil's Cathedral.


Henry reviewing the menu, although he only wanted ice-cream.


Thomas by the memorial to the unknown soldier.

After a hard day's sight-seeing, people were a little tired, so we went back to the hotel, where the little boys enjoyed a long bath, with plenty of bubbles, and a good night's rest.

Thomas, fast asleep again.