Volga Region

The Volga, Don and other rivers were trade routes long before Russia evolved as a country. The Slav and Norse adventures traded along them from the Baltic Sea to Byzantium.

During the 13th century the Tatar Golden Horde, conquered this region and made Vogograd their capital for (2) two centuries.

Nizhny Novgorod is Russia's third largest city and is known as the economic centre or "wallet". The town holds a popular International Trade Fair annually. It is also renown for it traditional wooden dolls.

Kungur is situated 90kms south east of Perm and is one of the oldest towns in the Ural Mountains. It established trade relations with Asia and became the largest tea dealers in Russia.

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. Flowers 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 its wettest months even though it is summer.