Is the mosquito problem in St. Petersburg as severe as I have read? We will be there the end on June and the beginning of July.

Jane, <BR>I was there in August when it was Leningrad and yes, there were mosquitos. <BR>It wasn't terrible, but I did keep the windows closed at night. I don't think it was any worse than New England in the summer, but some repellant might be handy. <BR> <BR>

I had a terrible experience with mosquitos in St. Petersburg in early July a few years ago. Whether things have changed or not, I don't know, but do not keep your windows open at night in the hotel, and bring lots of bug repellent.

At least last year I didn't see any in late June. Next week I am off to Petersburg and from what others have told me the problem is not too bad yet. However, I expect no such relieving news when I am in Siberia the following week. <BR> <BR>The first thing I did notice on the car trip from Pulkovo to central Petersburg was a HUGE quantity of white "puffs", almost as large as cotton balls, that are shed from trees. The first day I held my hands over my face for fear of inhaling them. They would be swept up on the streets and appear to be snow at first glance.

Also bring a small umbrella-last June it rained almost every day (briefly) when I was in Petersburg, Tallin, Tartu and Helsinki

Jane-Just returned from St P-no problems with mosquitos, but as Marc David Miller mentioned, those white puffs are everywhere-they're harmless, but pesty. You'll also be experiencing 'white nights'-at midnight, it'll appear as if the lights have been dimmed, but not turned off. Something to see if you've never experienced this before. Have a great trip-St P is a beautiful city.