Russia is a country of great extremes. It is the largest country in the world and its ambitions match its size. It is one of the coldest countries with temperatures dropping down to -62 degress Celcius at some places. On one hand it has some of the largest oil reserves in the world and on the other it has beautiful snow capped mountains and great history that attracts tourists to its shores. Here are some of the insane and crazy things you can do on your trip to this great land rooted in traditions and cultural values.
Listen to opera singers at Bolshoi Theater
The Bolshoi Theater situated in Moscow is considered a national treasure. It is the second largest theater in Europe after the Italian La Scala opera house. Boishoi theater is one of the greatest opera and ballet theaters in the world. The Bolshoi ballet and Bolshoi Opera companies are one of the oldest ballet and opera companies . The magnificence and architecture of this theater is spell binding. The building is a great example of neoclassical architecture. The Quadriga of Apollo built by Pyotr Klodt adorns its facades. The performances are very soulful and a must watch for any tourist visiting Moscow.
Watch the ultimate circus of cats
Many of us are quite used to the tricks in the circus that become repetitive and dry, but Russia has a new brand of circus where the cats are the performers. You can watch the circus of cats at the Cats theater in Moscow and see them walking the tight rope , posing on a mirror ball and a host of other tricks. The theater is small and cozy and they have a place for people to watch the resting cats. If you are still not convinced that a circus of cats might be worth watching, then there are some special dogs who perform in the circus of cats.
Play Helicopter golf in Moscow
How does a country play golf when it is covered with snow for most of the year ? Well, Russians beat the snow by play helicopter golf. Helicopter golf is exactly as it sounds and involves hitting the ball with a heli-golf club that is about 16 meters in size and weighs around 15 kilos. The players hit and track the ball through the snow as the spectators cheer them on.
Dine at the Twin Star Diner
Ever wanted to play Sherlock Holmes ? Well, here is your chance to test your detective skills at the Twin Star Diner in Moscow where only twins wearing identical clothes wait the tables and serve drinks. The concept of this restaurant was inspired by the 1964 Soviet era movie ‘Kingdom of Crooked Mirrors’. The restaurant only hires identical twins as staff and the diner appears like a hall of mirrors.
Experience a simulated rocket launch in Star City
Once a secret Soviet Air Force facility that wasn’t even depicted on the maps, Star City now offers zero gravity flights to tourists. Star City was open to public during the 1990s. You can experience simulated rocket launch and feel like an astronaut without having to go through the physical rigors and training of an astronaut.
Admire the White Night in St Petersburg
The two months period between May to July witnesses the longest days in St Petersburg. The days are almost 24 hours long and you can see the sun setting over the horizon even at 10.30 pm. This magical period is celebrated with great fervor in St Petersburg. During the White Night festival the museums stay open for longer durations and the Marinnsky Theater offers an extended session of ballets and operas. It’s an event that will stay with you for a lifetime.