So You Want To Go To Russia?

 

As I mentioned in my last post, I will be heading to Russia in March. After a long and tedious process to follow all the rules, I decided it was time to share the 7 steps for a smooth sailing to Russia. Word to the wise, follow these steps because I went through a much more difficult process to get my visa submitted and trust me, you do not want to follow that path.

Step 1: Passport

Please make sure your passport is up-to-date and has at least 2 side-by-side visa pages. This is a requirement not just for Russia, but almost any country you may step foot in. If not, order a new passport and have it expedited for about $180 and you will receive it within 2 weeks.

Step 2: Flights

Book your flights! As of right now, Russia is not too pricey to fly to. I think B and I are flying 12-14 hours with a layover in another country. Tickets alone are roughly $750. Best to book a package deal (flight + hotel) with Expedia or Travelocity. I think B and I are paying about $1300 per person for flights and hotels--not to bad, huh?

Step 3: Lodging

Backpackers be aware that this is not a country for spontaneity! Russia requires that you be INVITED to their country. Yes, you read that right. Russia has a two-step process that I will go into details about in step 4-6. Like I said in step 2, try to book a package deal. I suggest calling Expedia or Travelocity and ask them for assistance with booking if you plan to bounce around like B and I. We called Expedia and booked flights and two fabulous looking 5 star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg—I will give you the names and reviews upon my return to the states. B and I are flying into Moscow and out of St. Petersburg—we plan to book a train between the two cities.

Step 4: Requesting Your Invitation

The best part about booking with a proper hotel is that they will send you an invitation to Russia. Once you book your hotel(s), please email the hotel(s) and ask for the proper documents for "Visa Support." Yes, if you are staying at more than one hotel, then you will need multiple invitations. The hotel(s) will either send you a Word document that requires extensive information and copies of your passport or they will just ask you to fill in your information on an online application. The hotels in Russia are quite quick at returning emails. I think the longest I waited for a reply was 48 hours and that was due to a weekend. Once you receive the invitation, please review that the information is correct and print a copy out.

Step 5: Visa Photos

Get 2 passport photos for your visa! This will probably cost you about $12-$13 at a photography place or CVS.

Step 6: Requesting Your Visa

This process is a little more tedious and nerve-racking. Please make sure that you are careful and detail oriented when filling out the online visa application: Click for Visa Application . Okay, once you spend about 20 minutes to an hour filling it out, submit and print it! Next, you will need to figure out the rules for the embassy or consulate you have chosen. The Russian Embassy requires that you book an appointment and bring a money order with your documents. However, the consulate is considered an expedited process and may cost a little bit more ($30), but they do not require an appointment. Also, you can pay with cash or a money order at the consulate—No credit cards are accepted at the embassy and/or consulate.

Step 7: The Waiting Game

I wish you luck! I find out next week if I really will be entering Russia. (Stay tuned for an update!)

 

**Total Expected Cost For 2 People in Russia for 10 Days: $3012 USD

-Flights and 5 Star Hotels: $1300 pp

-Passport Photos: $12 pp

-Visa Support/Invitation: Free

-Visa Expedited: $194 pp

-Passport if needed: $180 (not included in price above)

 

 Check back for the following posts:

• How to Plan a Girls' Trip to Iceland!
• A Review of Moscow
• A Review of St. Petersburg
• Russian Cuisine

Camping With The Rainbow Family

Hello, fellow adventurers!


B and I recently went on a camping adventure in Tennessee. It was quite interesting and not what I expected. We hiked about 2 miles into the Cherokee National Forest with our packs on. Let me tell you, it was rough in 100 degree temperature. Oh, did I mention it was uphill?

B and I hiking

Okay, enough of me complaining about the hike. So, I bet you are wondering why we chose such a random destination for camping. Well, it was for the Annual Rainbow Family Gathering. Or in other words, a new and exciting adventure!


What is the Rainbow Gathering?
"Many people gathering together to pray for peace and healing in the world. Openly and with mutual respect."


Why Are They Called Rainbows?
"The gatherings are called rainbow because they are for all the peoples of the earth, from many families, tribes, and nations. Some say that the Hopi people native to North America tell a vision of a time when mother earth, the land, air, waters, and creatures of all kinds were sick with poisons and ill treatment by people, the children of the white races, or more specifically the people who lived the cultures of those who displaced the native peoples of the Americas - not just Caucasians, would grow their hair long, wear beads, and come together with the children of all the nations to heal the earth."

An elder singing songs of peace.

When and Who Attends?
"The Annual Rainbow Family Gathering is celebrated during the first week of July (1st - 7th) and is hosted in a different National Forest within the United States. Since approximately 1972 there has been an Annual Rainbow Family Gathering every year with some states having hosted more then one Gathering within it's borders. Of all the various types of Rainbow Family Gatherings, The Annual Rainbow Family Gathering of the Living Light is by far the largest of Family Gatherings. In high years the mass of family can exceed 30,000 souls and has also enjoyed the energy much the same with as few as 7,000 belly buttons in attendance.

These rather large freeform gatherings are attended by a broad and diverse spectrum of people although the hippie movement has a larger appeal to the media. Truth is, you can meet almost anyone from almost anywhere at a gathering. The celebration is commercial free and there is absolutely no charge to attend a Rainbow Family Gathering."


My Experiences:
After B and I set up camp, we went to explore and find the "Full Circle." I was surprised to see lots of nudists walking around. Of course, there were fully clothed people and just topless people. Seeing those people did not scare me, so we continued walking up into the mountain. There was a huge party going on at the top. People were painted, juggling, dancing, and everything in-between. Check out the video to get a taste of our 4th of July experience!
***Warning: There is some nudity in the video

Honestly, all of the people were so kind. People offered out free food and free water to everyone. If you wanted to help, then you just show up at a camp site and ask if you can assist. B and I helped make  cinnamon buns and in return "Lovin Oven" gave us free breakfast. 

B next to a handmade oven!

There was a part of the mountain that was called "Trading Circle." This was where people with random beads, artwork, flashlights, snacks, etc. came to trade. Anyone and everyone could participate in it...if you had things that were worthy of trading. **Money is not used here!

Trading Circle: Notice the people on the sides of the path?

Random Picture Time?

B juggling during a talent show.

Dance Party!

Spirit House: A place to say goodbye to loved ones.


As the Rainbows say, "Welcome Home."

For more information:
Event Calendar
Staying In Touch
About Cherokee National Forest

Are you adventurous enough to camp out and party with hippies? Or did you go? If so, share your pictures and stories! Have questions for me? Then, ask already!

The Ten Commandments of Travel

Once upon a time in NYC, I met an Australian couple who took almost a year off to travel the world. Currently this couple is backpacking through Spain. I'm green with envy because this couple is living the life I want...and perhaps you too. 

From left to right: James, Vanessa, Hill, me, and B
(Australians: James and Vanessa)

So, how to you plan a trip like that? 

According to Wanderlust Magazine, The Ten Commandments of Travel are:

1.             Thou shalt time your trip well: Go off-peak, or in the ‘shoulder season’ just before the masses arrive. For example, African safaris in the rainy season cost up to 40% less, and offer the chance to see more new-born animals; the Galápagos Islands in May are 20-30% cheaper than December / January or high summer – and offer warmer, calmer conditions

2.             Thou shalt not book the first trip you see:  Work out your itinerary and then compare prices from different tour operators. Use comparison websites like www.skyscanner.net to check flight prices, and an up-to-date guidebook to assess the going rate for activities on the ground

3.             Thou shalt go where the pound is strongest:  If possible, avoid the Eurozone, where the pound is weak. Instead, head for economies linked to the dollar (the US, central America) or other weakening currencies (Iceland, South Africa, Bulgaria)

4.             Thou shalt be flexible:  Be willing to fly a day earlier or two days later, or with a stopover you hadn't thought of, to save money. For example, flying to Australia on 10 December – the beginning of peak season – can cost up to £300 more than flying on the 9th

5.             Thou shalt consult other travelers: Talk to people who have already travelled to your planned destination – log on to a travel forum like our own myWanderlust or www.tripadvisor.com for recommendations and advice from real travelers

6.             Thou shalt seek out local knowledge: Many destinations offer free ‘greeter’ tours run by volunteers – a great way to save money, meet the locals, and pick up insider tips. Destinations include Paris, New York and even Thanet in Kent.

7.             Thou shalt ask – if thou dost not ask, thou dost not get: “Is that your best price?” “Are you able to offer a discount for cash?” “Could you include breakfast / an airport pickup / an activity for that price?” It’s not that hard, is it…

8.             Thou shalt book early (and late): Book budget airline tickets as early as possible, but keep an eye out for late deals on packages and tours. Sites likewww.yapta.com and www.farecast.com help you monitor fluctuations in airline fares to get the best price.

9.             Thou shalt travel to former troublespots:  Don’t put yourself in danger, but countries rebounding from political turmoil or natural disasters need you – and will lower their prices to entice you. Current bargains include Bali and Sri Lanka

10.             Thou shalt know when not to save: Some things you shouldn’t scrimp on – travel insurance, for one. And is it worth saving £50 on a flight if you end up flying from a remote airport at stupid o’clock with no meals?

       ***Yes, this list of ten commandments is from the UK, so please don't think too much about the euro! Take the advice and start planning! 

Good luck, fellow backpackers!

In the Bahamas with my 1st backpack.

Backpacking Basics

Hello, fellow adventurers!

Have you always wanted to backpack across Europe or the world in general? I bet you wonder what it takes to be a true backpacker, right? Well, I have already given you some tips in a few earlier posts, but I have great news...

"Cheesing it" in Peru with my first
hand-me-down backpack!

The other day, I went to REI with B because he was preparing for a trip to Nicaragua and needed supplies. While I was looking around the store, I found a newsletter and decided to take it with me. I'm glad I did because now I can help you guys out. REI is hosting a class on Backpacking Basics! Yes, a class that will get rid of the uncertainty you may have about backpacking!

Description of the class:
"REI will take the mystery out of Backpacking as we share our knowledge in this show and tell session. We will cover backpacking essentials: choosing a pack; selecting proper clothing; and the right footwear; and understanding the basic gear you need to reach your destination."

Price:
FREE

In-store Locations and Dates:
1) April 4th at Bailey's Crossroads, College Park: 7 p.m.
2) April 11th at Columbia: 7 p.m.
3) April 25th at Rockville: 6:30 p.m.
4) April 27th at Timonium: 7 p.m.

Have fun becoming a true backpacker, fellow adventurers!

A Traveler's Worst Nightmare

Hello, fellow bloggers!

Cristo Redentor

Once upon a time, I flew back from Brazil and landed in the United States. I went through customs fine. Then, like any typical U.S. entry, headed to claim my bag and recheck it to continue on my journey. B grabbed his bag and I stood there watching the luggage carousel circle around. I began to get this sinking feeling in my stomach as I watched everyone from my flight pick up their bags. I stood and waited as I watched an employee take all the extra bags off the carousel and sit them on the floor in a pile. I looked at B with a concerned look. B and I went and talked to Delta employees about my bag. They apologized and told me to file a missing bag report in Virginia. I landed in Virginia and was eager to file a report. Well, weeks later my bag never surfaced and Delta repaid me for my loss. It was a sad day for me, but it meant I got to go shopping for a new bag....

Of course, I absolutely love REI and shop their religiously for any travel gear I may need. B and I went to REI last night and looked around at our options. I saw my old bag, but wanted to try something new. B and I decided to try a brand of bag called Deuter because we see many foreign backpackers with this brand. I tried the bag on and loved it. I have not gone on any adventures with it yet, but soon I will and will report back to you all.

Check the bag out and let me know what you think!
Deuter ACT Lite 60 + 10 SL: $199.00 : Get the most bang for your buck with this one :)


Tip of the day: Something may seem bad at first, but look at it as a new adventure waiting to blossom!