Before going to Russia for the first time, I had heard so much hype about St Petersburg and not so much about Moscow. Having now been to both cities myself I really can’t understand why Moscow doesn’t get as much attention. I thought Moscow was a fun, cosmopolitan city with a great vibe, and dare I say it – my favourite of the two cities. These are three of my favourite Moscow things…

The Ritz-Carlton Moscow

Glitz, gloss and glamour! The Ritz Carlton has everything to offer for the perfect trip to Moscow, fantastic location, moments walk from Red Square, comfiest and biggest beds, wonderful food and the coolest roof top bar in the city with its unbeatable views of Red Square, which is literally magical, especially when lit up at night.

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Delicious chocolates!

I was lucky enough to stay on the Club Floor, where you are offered five delicious food presentations a day, with unlimited wine, beer and champagne in the Club Lounge that has its own terrace with views of Red Square!

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View of Kremlin from Club floor terrace

I would recommend upgrading to a Club room as the value of the food & beverage more than compensates. There are also a handful of Club rooms with views of Red Square. Another highlight for me was free wifi and the fact I could control everything from the curtains to lights to music from my bed. On arrival I had the most delicious handmade chocolates in my room!

Diamond Vaults

As I lover of all things sparkly, I was incredibly excited to visit the Diamond Fund at the Kremlin and I was defiantly not disappointed. Russia is the number two world producer of diamonds today. There were diamonds and precious gems of every shape, colour and size you could ever dream of! Catherine the Great’s sceptre with its famous Orlov Diamond stole the show, the diamond alone weighs up at around 189 carats!! Other highlights of the Diamond Fund included the world’s largest Sapphire and of course, a collection of Faberge eggs. It really is true…Diamonds are a girl’s best friend!

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Red October

Red October

When Russia’s beloved Red October Chocolate Factory moved to a site further out of the city centre, the old buildings were converted into a luxury residential complex. Red October currently houses many artist studios and galleries, that you can visit and have a look at their work or take part in lectures and workshops. Red October also has numerous fashionable restaurants, bars and clubs, so no wonder the area has turned into one of the hottest places in town.

Moscow has something for everyone, and I’m looking forward to my return visit.

Published on 24th October, 2011