Moscow Shopping

In order to satisfy the wishes of Russian business women, chic designer stores have opened their doors in Moscow. Today there is a risk that visitors will return home with considerably more expensive souvenirs than fur caps and Russian dolls. Popular shopping streets are Noviy Arbat and the more exclusive Kuznetskiy most. But the number one shopping street is Tverskaya ulitsa. Stalin had the street restored in the 30's so here too there is evidence of his liking for massive, grey buildings. Those who wish to start their shopping trip at one of the shopping centres with the finest old traditions in the world should head for GUM. The building was designed in the new Russian style at the end of 19th century.

During the Stalinist period, GUM was temporarily converted to offices. Now it accommodates, among other things, Galeries Lafayette, Dior and Benetton (address: Krasnaya ploshad' 3). Yeliseyev's covered market is the name of Moscow's most famous delicatessen shop. During the Soviet period it was called Gastronom no. 1. It is here you buy your ration of vodka and caviar (address: Tverskaya ulitsa 14). The Russians are professional tea drinkers and at Chudesa Podnebesnoi you can find the finest Chinese teas (address: Krivokollenniy pereulok 12). For those who wish to visit a market, a trip to Vernisazh, the famous market in Izmailovo Park, is recommended. Here there are hundreds of stalls selling traditional souvenirs, but also porcelain and jewellery. Don't be afraid to bargain, if it does not work at the first stall then maybe at one of the subsequent 99 (address: Izmailovskoye shosse). Families with children can have a wonderful time at Detskiy Mir - the children's department store - which is full of an interesting mixture of Russian and imported toys (address: Teatralniy proyezd 5).