I am planning a trip to Russia to commence during the first week of October. I have two questions: (1) Is this a good time to travel there, weather wise? (2) Can anyone recommend a tour company (I would want an escorted tour)? I am currently leaning toward a Trafalgar tour. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Shane Usary.

We went to Moscow and St. Pete in October of 2000, and it was VERY cold, but wonderful. The average temperature in Oct. in Moscow is 37 - 48F. We just bundled up (including thermal underwear!) and walked around anyway. We have red noses in some of our pictures, but big smiles!<BR><BR>Sorry, I can't help with tours - we went on our own.<BR><BR>Have fun!

Shane, I just returned from Russia a few days ago. St.Petersburg was kind of cool and cloudy but Moscow was warm and sunny every day. I met up with a few Moscow people and they said it can start getting pretty cool in October. I loved Moscow but felt like I could have used one less day in St.Petersburg.<BR><BR>I went without a tour company because when I started checking into them they were staying in hotels that were too far out of the city or had schedules with things included that were not of interest to me. I did hire a private guide for an orientation when I first got there to help me with subways and take me to a few places. After that I went on my own and had no problems. If you want hotel ideas or more information you can e-mail me. You may enjoy a tour but I get very claustrophic with even just a few hours of tour guide. There are daily tours you can join when you get there you can make the choice when you arrive.

Hello-<BR><BR>My mom and I are traveling to Russia during the end of November. I recommend clubABC tours. Enjoy your trip and feel free to email me about your recommendations if you go to Moscow and St.petersburg.<BR><BR>Robin

&gt;&gt;&gt;The average temperature in Oct. in Moscow is 37 - 48F.<BR><BR>Are you serious? I knew it would be chilly, but the little bar graphs on the temperature charts I saw didn't look that low! Then again, I had to buy a coat in Paris in the middle of July...<BR><BR>I'll also be in Russia (Moscow and St. Petersburg) this October. I've been debating whether to take a lighter jacket or moderate winter coat. I think the choice is made....<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR><BR>Jennifer

Hi all,<BR><BR>Sure, it is not easy to guess about temperature, but you may see the average and weather forecast here - http://www.geocities.com/alexmsc/ (INFO page). <BR>I hope it would be Indian Summer...<BR><BR>I will be glad to escort you in Moscow.<BR><BR> Best regards, <BR> Alexander.

We need an English speaking guide/driver for Oct 11 or thereabouts????????

Shane-<BR><BR>My wife & I are heading to St. Petersburg & Moscow in 2 1/2 weeks using Eastern Tours Consolidated in NYC.<BR><BR>Their number: 1-800-339-6967.<BR>Website: www.traveltorussia.com<BR><BR>Might want to check it out. They have some great deals.<BR><BR>Bob

Shane: If you decide to go the private guide route in Moscow, please email me, and I will give you some information that may help. Marty