Moscow and St Petersburg are by far the most popular destinations in Russia but there is a lot more to see in that country. Amazing nature and views of Lake Baikal in Siberia will not leave disappointed any nature lover; a trip across Russia with the Trans-Siberian Railway shows how vast and different that country is; the towns and cities of The Golden Ring attract with their history and traditional architecture; Volga river cruises will show you Russia in its provincial charm... So if you have already been to Moscow and St Petersburg, there is still plenty to see in that vast country. As the Russians say: "Real Russia is outside Moscow."

You have probably heard about a city in the south-west Russia on the Black Sea coast called Sochi. Its mild subtropical climate makes it hugely popular with the Russians - it is a wonderful summer resort on the coast and winter wonderland higher up in the mountains in winter. The world heard of Sochi a few years ago when the city was chosen to be the host of the XXII Olympic Winter Games and XI Paralympic Games in 2014. Another sport event taking place there is the Russian Formula 1 Grand Prix which also starts in 2014. Sochi International Film Festival is held every year in June and is a great attraction for film lovers and aspiring film creators. There is also a number of parks and gardens, museums and galleries, spas and therapeutic hotels in Sochi itself and in the surrounding area.

Due to the fact that Sochi is going to host the Olympics, at the moment the city infrastructure is being developed and renovated, so it is becoming more inviting and convenient than ever. For example, not many people speak English in Russia, even where they are supposed to do so - in hotels, airports, stations, etc. But with the international Olympic guests coming to Sochi, the local government issued a regulation according to which representatives of public services should be able to speak English. So, in Sochi you will find it easier to get assistance if you do not speak Russian.

As mentioned above, Sochi is the favourite resort in Russia, so if you decide to visit it, make sure you book your accommodation well in advance, especially in summer. Another important thing to remember is that if you require a visa to enter Russia, you must obtain it before you travel as you cannot get it on arrival. Visa processing time may take a few days and require some research, so if you are not sure how to go about it, you can contact a visa specialist and not to worry about your application.