Many people expect Moscow to be drab and gray, but in fact, the massive red walls of the Kremlin and the gilded domes of its churches make it seem surprisingly colorful and exotic. Situated on the banks of the Moskva River, Moscow is the seventh-largest city in the world. It is frequently cited as the city with the greatest number of billionaires. Moscow has had an extraordinarily violent history. In 1571, it was sacked by Crimean Tatars and burned to the ground. In 1812, a fire started by Napoleon’s troops destroyed three-quarters of the city. And during the Siege of Moscow in 1941, a million Nazi soldiers supported by 14,000 artillery pieces were driven off by the defenders. Moscow is home to the State Tretyakov Gallery’s treasure trove of Russian art and the famed Bolshoi Ballet.
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Ararat Park Hyatt MoscowSleek, newly renovated 211-room contemporary hotel well-located near the Bolshoi Theatre a short walk from Red Square and the stylish shops of Tverskaya Street. |
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The Ritz-Carlton, MoscowLuxurious 11-story hotel centrally located adjacent to Red Square and the Kremlin. |
Last fall I stayed at the Ritz Carlton Moscow and was very impressed with not only the lovely physical aspects of the rooms and public areas, but also with the
special atmosphere and attentive staff. The atmosphere in the lobby is energizing without seeming overly crowded and noisy. It seems very Russian! The staff was also energized, helpful and very willing to assist all guests in all ways. This is a special hotel.