Caucasus

The Caucasus mountain range extends from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea and forms Russia's most southern border. Although some of this area has been trouble by ethnic conflict there are still some areas that have not been affected and should be seen.

Where Caucasus meets the Black Sea is the holiday resort of Sochi. At the eastern end lies Chechnya and Dagestan. The northern Caucasus is the crossroad’s for the Mediterranean, Central Asia, Middle Eastern and Central European cultures since the Bronze Age. There are as you can imagine quite a few religious groups so this area makes your trip to Russia a cultural must see.

Dont's:

Many old customs still thrive and women are advised to wear a scarf over their heads when entering churches in Russia.

If you are invited to a Russian's home it is proper to bring a gift. Wine, confectionary or a cake is acceptable. Flower's are ok but make sure they are of an odd number as even numbers are for funerals. Once the meal begins it is rude not to accept the food or drink.

When sitting even with strangers it is customary to share your food, drink or even your cigarette.

Winters in Russia are extremely cold due to much of the country being so far north.
From May to early September summer days in the north are long and generally warm. During July and August Russia experiences it's wettest months even though it is summer.