Moscow (pronounced /ˈmɒskoʊ/ in English or /ˈmɒskaʊ/ in American English, Russian:  Москва . Moskva, IPA [mɐˈskva]; see also other names) is the capital and the largest city of Russia. It is also the largest metropolitan area in Europe,^[3] and ranks among the largest urban areas in the world. Moscow is a major political, economic, cultural, religious, financial, educational, and transportation centre of Russia and the world, a global city. It is also the seventh largest city proper in the world, a megacity. The population of Moscow (as of 1 June 2009) is 10,524,400.

It is located by the Moskva River in the Central Federal District, in the European part of Russia. Moscow sits on the junction of three geological platforms.Historically, it was the capital of the former Soviet Union, Russian Empire, Tsardom of Russia and the Grand Duchy of Moscow. It is the site of the Moscow Kremlin, one of the World Heritage Sites in the city, which serves as the residence of the President of Russia. The Russian parliament (the State Duma and the Federation Council) and the Government of Russia also sit in Moscow.

Moscow is a major economic centre and is home to one of the largest numbers of billionaires in the world

visiting Moscow? rad this article ont hings to do

What a Tourist Should Do in Moscow
By Annushka Turanna

How to understand this city better? How to prepare for the Russian holidays? Our experience can help you to explore and enjoy this wonderful city.

1. Find a map of Moscow. Unfortunately there's no tourist info but you can easily enter one of the hotels in the center (it should be a 5-star or 4-star hotel) and take a tourist map for free.

2. Learn the alphabet before coming to Russia. This can help you to get around the metro and read names of Moscow streets. Even if you learn a few letters you can easier understand what is written. For example "PECTORAH" sounds not as /pectopah/ but as /restoran/ (means restaurant) because Russian 'P' sounds /r/, and Russian 'H 'sounds /n/.

3. Use the metro. It's a very convenient transport and it doesn't cost much. Moscow metro is probably most beautiful metro in the world. The halls are adorned with mosaics, statues, paintings. Do take pictures of fantastic Moscow metro stations!

4. Negotiate the price when you take a taxi. Don't trust the driver if he talks about using a meter. There have been a lot of scams with meters showing astronomic prices. In Russia locals often stop not only official taxies but private cars. This is very common as this is an easy way for drivers to earn some extra money.

5. Use sign language while in Moscow. Many locals do not understand English and might be afraid to communicate with you. It's usually better to talk to younger people as they are more likely to remember it. But sign language works in most cases!

6. Try to avoid dealing with the police. Don't be surprised if a policeman ask for a bribe.

7. Pay for a lady if you invite her to a restaurant (if you're a man). Russian women will consider it a disrespect if you suggest going Dutch.

8. Enjoy Moscow night life. Life seems to never stop here. Many bars, clubs and restaurants are open 24 hours. It's not dangerous to walk around the center of Moscow at night.

9. Beware of pickpockets in public places. Put your money, passport and camera in a safe place before entering the metro.

10. Go to the countryside. There're lots of noble estates and monasteries near Moscow. You can order a car or take a local train (in Russian 'electrichka"). One of the most well-known towns near Moscow is Sergiev Posad where like a fairy-tale kingdom rises The Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius.

A team of professional Moscow tour guides and interpreters provides services for independent travelers. We offer tours of Moscow and free tips that are useful for all visitors of Russia: http://www.bridgetomoscow.com/

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