I have had a love affair with Russia for a very long time. When I was in high school, I learned about the Romanovs and their horrific end, and that started years of recreational research and rare book collecting. I also have a love affair with figure skating, so when the opportunity to go to Moscow for the annual Cup of Russia Grand Prix event presented itself, I grabbed that gold ring.

Going to Russia is not like going to Hawaii or even to London. There is quite a bit of paperwork involved in acquiring the necessary visas, but the trip and seeing Cup of Russia was worth all the red tape.

I didn't get to do all I'd wanted to do in Moscow, particularly visit the Boscosport store and skate in Gorky Park (yes, I'd brought my skates). I don't mind though. I just have some things to look forward to on my next visit (and there WILL be another visit...hopefully many more).

My photos are up. I will be adding my Moscow diary soon.