Our Newsletters are becoming an important way to keep in touch with those that have expressed an interest in travel to Russia. They are great fun to put together and even more fun to browse through. Anastasia always manages to put just the right touch into each month's edition.

When I think of the many Februarys I have spent in St. Petersburg I think first and foremost how beautiful the snow is and how short the days are. It is more of a temptation to lay abed on a dark February morning than any other time of the year. Sleep seems to be almost delicious! As I have noted in other places, the great part is that the palaces and museums are almost empty of tourists, and so much more enjoyable. Russian winters are entirely manageable if you dress for them. A marvelous shapka, gloves, good shoes, and a few layers of clothes under an overcoat are more than enough to hold old man winter at bay. Russian women manage to dress warmly and stylishly at the same time. It is a great country for a lady to wear her most attractive boots and an attractive scarf.

Now is the time to start planning for our May, June or July of 2005 trip. It is the time the romantic white nights occur and the city has planned a great musical extravaganza for tourists.

We will take full advantage of what is available. Keep reading our newsletters for update on our Summer Trips.

Michael E. Donnelly, Ph.D. President