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UzBEKISTAN, KAzAKHSTAN, TURKMENISTAN, UKRAINE PERFECT FOR… AzERBAIJAN, ARMENIA AND GEORGIA UzBEKISTAN GASTRONOMY ADVENTURE
Uzbekistan has long been a strong trade centre, • Russian borscht cooking class, Moscow • Flight by MIG aircraft located on the Great Silk Road between Europe and • Caviar Tasting, St Petersburg • Helicopter flight, Valley of Geysers Asia. The cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand are • Tour of central Moscow food market • Ice fishing, Kamchatka filled with intricate architecture, turquoise blue • Vodka factory and tasting, Moscow • Snowmobile Safari, Karelia domes, dazzling minarets and detailed mosaics such • Uzbek pilav cooking class • Falcon Farm, Almaty as those featured on the legendary Registan, while FAMILIES NATURE the capital city of Tashkent merges the beauty of the • Meet a Russian Cosmonaut, Moscow • Study brown bears, Kamchatka old city with modern skyscrapers of glass and metal. • Private tour of Moscow State Circus • Mount Elbrus, Caucasus Amidst this prominent development, the country • Russian Troika ride, St Petersburg • Gobustan Stones, Azerbaijan maintains an air of tradition with many local artisans • Matryoshka Doll Painting, St Petersburg • Thermal Springs of Ksudach volcano producing hand-knotted carpets and Uzbek UKRAINE • Interactive Experimentarium museum • Black Sea, Sochi ceramics while performances of folklore singing and One of the most picturesque and indeed, oldest country of considerable beauty, the spectacular dancing remain commonplace. ART & ARCHITECTURE MUSIC, THEATRE & FESTIVALS INSTANT EXPERT countries in Eastern Europe, Ukraine’s capital Kiev mountain ranges, lakes and dense forests envelop KAzAKHSTAN • Moscow Metro Stations • Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow finally achieved independence in 1991 following a endless monasteries and crumbling churches. a travel professional’s guide to Russia • Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg • Mariinski Theatre, St Petersburg The world’s ninth largest country and yet one of the series of tumultuous events including Nazi Armenia’s spiritual centre of Echmiatsin is a focal • Faberge Eggs display, Moscow • Maslenitsa Festival, Moscow least visited. Almaty buzzes with a surprisingly western occupation, a brutal Soviet regime and a blanket of point in the country’s capital Yerevan, and, as one of • High Tea with a famous Russian artist • White Nights Festival, St Petersburg air whilst travellers do not need to venture too far out radiation from the tragic Chernobyl nuclear power the oldest churches in the world, is well worth a visit. • Amber Rooms at Catherine Palace • Traditional Cossacks Show of the city to be faced with the dramatic landscapes of plant disaster. But through all this emerges a GEORGIA the Medeo gorge and Big Almaty Lake. fascinating and beautiful city full of history and a deep A largely untouched land of myth, history, culture and Jewish heritage. The magnificent St Sophia TURKMENISTAN traditions, Georgia embodies the values of hospitality Abercrombie & Kent Russia Cathedral, the oldest church in Kiev and a UNESCO Stoleshnikov Pereulok 11, Turkmenistan is a truly distinctive country offering a and friendship. Revel in the striking scenery and vast World Heritage Site, boasts amazing frescoes and Office 311/313, unique experience, quite apart from its neighbouring array of wines of the Kakheti region, or bask in the mosaics whilst the city is also home to a large number Moscow 107031, Russia. countries. The capital city of Ashgabat displays strong cultural vibrancy of the capital city of Tbilisi with its Tel +7 (0)495 514 0089 of stunning Synagogues waiting to be admired. political influences; formal parks, numerous fountains theatres, galleries and churches hidden amidst the [email protected] and statues of Turkmenbashi, the country’s dictator, ARMENIA narrow streets adorned with lace-trimmed balconies. reside alongside a sea of turquoise and golden The world’s oldest Christian nation, Armenia is a poor Abercrombie & Kent Europe domes, sparkling marble palaces and minarets. St Georges House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, AzERBAIJAN GL50 3LG, UK. Azerbaijan is a country of remarkable diversity Tel +44 (0)1242 547700 juxtaposing modern dynamic cities with timeless [email protected] rural villages against a backdrop of the truly majestic Caucasus mountains. In the capital of Baku, imposing Abercrombie & Kent Italy & Croatia skyscrapers encircle the city’s ancient core; a maze Piazza San Jacopino n.7, of narrow alleyways, historic caravanserais, mosques Florence 50144, Italy. Tel +39 055 29 4629 and palaces. Outside of the city lies the volcanic [email protected] desert of Gobustan from which rise huge boulders bearing engravings of artists from the Neolithic period. Depicting ancient tribes, hunting scenes and Abercrombie & Kent Inc dances, the drawings offer an insightful historical 1411 Opus Place, Executive Towers West II, account of the area. Suite 300, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1182, USA. Tel 888 611 4711 Take a calligraphy class in Tashkent • Visit the workshop of a famous Uzbek puppet maker • Explore Afrosiab with an expert or +1 630 725 3400 archaeologist • Join a local painter for a Pisanki master class • Attend a lecture by an Armenian historian, researcher, author [email protected] and expert of medieval architecture • Attend a culinary class in Tbilisi • Learn about wine making in Kakheti, Georgia
www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] fold fold
THE A&K DIFFERENCE RUSSIA GROUPS AND SHORE EXCURSIONS
WELCOME the 11th century after hostile tribes led to migration helicopter. Guests will also be enthralled by • One of Moscow’s most exclusive palaces dating from the south. Many of these towns – Vladimir, Kamchatka’s brown bear population which can be from the 18th century With such diversity of customs, culture and wildlife, Suzdal, Yaroslavl and Rostov – flourished as trade watched catching salmon in their natural habitat. • An underground bunker built at the time of Cold Russia, the Stans, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia centres, whilst Sergiev Posad became an important War as a nuclear shelter for the Communist Party make for truly fascinating destinations and, while still VOLGA RIVER CRUISE religious centre following the foundation of the leaders widely untouched, now is the time to visit. Cruise through rural Russia admiring unrivalled views Trinity Monastery of St Sergius. of a largely unchanged realm, still abundant with ST PETERSBURG At A&K Russia, we make it our mission to keep up to ST. PETERSBURG elaborate wooden houses and a deep-rooted way of Sightseeing and Activities date with new developments in all the countries we St. Petersburg is an historic centre uniquely fusing a life. Sail along the magnificent Volga, through the • Exclusive access to the Gold or Diamond Rooms cover. We maintain long-standing connections and a stylistic allegiance to Europe with elegant Russian largest lakes of Europe and experience the authentic in the Hermitage network of on-the-ground staff to not only ensure architecture. The glamour has returned to this one Russia beyond the lights of the Kremlin with visits to • Backstage visit to the Mariinsky Theatre your comfort and safety, but also to uncover local time Russian capital since the devastating siege such towns as Uglich and Yaroslavl. • Visit to apartment of Konstantin Romanov – one of secrets and experiences beyond the reach of the A&K RUSSIA SERVICES RUSSIA during WWII, adding to the deep historic feel and the “hidden treasures” of St. Petersburg ordinary traveller. Anyone can visit the Hermitage, • Individual FIT travel arrangements, supported by meeting at the airport and an orientation meeting at Russia, a country of such enormous social, political spirit of reform. • Master class in matryoshka doll painting but A&K will take you behind the scenes to the vast SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS effortlessly arrange imaginative tours including our Guardian Angel network their hotel, our Guardian Angel will be working and geographic proportions, remains widely • High tea with a famous Russian artist at his home wealth of treasures hidden from the public eye in the The city houses one of the world’s greatest art “Arriving by air in Moscow, I looked special dining opportunities, traditional Russian • Tailor-made group programmes including private behind the scenes to ensure your clients enjoy every undiscovered and therefore one of the great Our comprehensive services for special interest • Meeting with a Siege of Leningrad survivor store rooms of the museum. galleries, the Hermitage, reflecting the strength and forward with dread to a long wait at teambuilding activities, specialist speakers, private dining venues, activity options, luggage handling minute of their trip. He/she is always only a phone destinations for travel in the 21st century. groups ensure seamless ground operations and • Lecture about the Romanov tsars by a historian authority of former imperial Russia. Whilst the golden Russian customs and passport control. visits and many more custom-built services. With a team of dedicated staff in Moscow and St and Russia’s best Tour Directors/Event Managers call away for support and advice. But, as I stepped off the plane, the A&K distinct, creative proposals, so you won’t have to MOSCOW dome of St Isaac’s Cathedral dominates the skyline, Gala Venues Petersburg, our passion and expert knowledge • Special interest itineraries with themes such as Guardian Angel was waiting for me and worry about a thing. Our Tour Directors are the best generating dramatic city views from the colonnade. PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSIONS • Dine like a Tsar in the historic interiors of a famous CONCIERGE RAIL Moscow is the epicentre of contemporary growth in escorted me past all the queues, extends into every aspect of your tour, from superb gastronomy, art, architecture or history in their field, with specialised knowledge ranging St. Petersburg also boasts vast palaces, ideal for A&K Russia has a specialist team of Tour Consultants Russian restaurant featuring the best traditions of Rail travel in Russia is fast, comfortable and Russia, where reminders of the Imperial and Soviet fast-tracking both customs and passport hotels and private transport services to the best • Incentive programs & special event handling in from art to architecture, from history to nature. private exploration or gala dining, a fine example who can customise a Private Shore Excursion for Russian cuisine and Cossack entertainment inexpensive, but train stations can be confusing and years stand alongside newer Western influences. The controls in no time at all. Other non local guides and unique Insider Access experiences. selected destinations Whatever your interests, we can tailor-make a being the Yusupov Palace. Another example lies to A&K passengers were met only in the cruise line guests visiting St. Petersburg. Private • Dine privately in one of St. Petersburg’s museums handling luggage is strenuous. A&K Russia’s Kremlin recounts the core of Russian history with the We know how to balance your bespoke • Cruise ship private shore excursions busy arrivals hall and, by the time they proposal to suit you; photographers can enjoy innovative Concierge Rail Service provides the the south in Pushkin, where Catherine I Shore Excursions allow guests to access smaller • Enjoy an elegant dinner cruise on the Neva River requirements to seamlessly reveal the best our 15th century Annunciation Cathedral at its heart. made it there, I was already relaxing in professional tuition and a tour of some of the best EXPERIENCED MULTI-LINGUAL TOUR perfect solution with the reassurance and practicality commissioned her grand Summer Palace in 1717. The more exclusive sights according to their own during which you’ll see many of the principal sites destination has to offer. Originally built to house the weapons of the Tsars, my chauffeur-driven car, half-way to my photographic spots in Moscow and St Petersburg, flamboyant Rococo style and lavish interior were schedule, and even make a one-day visit to Moscow of St. Petersburg, wonderfully illuminated. CONSULTANTS of escorted transfers, seat reservation, porterage the Armoury now contains a collection of treasures hotel - I felt very special.” Russia, the Stans, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia are history lovers may discover the key locations in the and a complimentary A&K ‘Rail Pack’. added over the years by consequent Empresses. while the ship is docked in St. Petersburg. Clients Our well-travelled and experienced Tour and the Diamond Fund contains jewellery gathered story of the Romanov dynasty, while gastronomes waiting to be discovered by you. Allow us to who pre-book shore excursions with us will not need Consultants offer expert knowledge and passion by Tsars and Empresses. Next to the Kremlin, Red Make your gala event truly THE BEST EXPERT GUIDES, TOUR DIRECTORS KAMCHATKA may enjoy a vodka and caviar tasting session. introduce you to their old-world charm and a visa. memorable with a classical which extends into every tour we produce. Fluent in Square is home to St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s & EVENT MANAGERS Home to magnificently diverse and abundant wildlife, experience that extra special A&K touch for INCENTIVES ballet piece danced by the multiple languages, our friendly team are able to mausoleum. MOSCOW yourselves. Thanks to the stringent selection criteria employed this untouched land of majestic volcanoes, steaming Bolshoi Theatre soloists or a offer an exceptional and truly personal service. Originality, flexibility and attention to detail ensure performance from the Red by A&K Russia, our expert local guides and Tour A centre of the arts, Moscow boasts the Tretyakov geysers, wild bears and pacific salmon is a UNESCO Sightseeing and Activities the success of our Incentive Programmes. An Army Choir. MULTI-COUNTRY/REGIONAL ITINERARIES Directors are renowned for being the best in the Gallery, gathering together over 130,000 exhibits, World Heritage Site unlike any other. The second • Exclusive access to the Grand Kremlin Palace exciting destination for incentive tours, we can largest concentration of geysers in the world can be • Visit to the Tretyakov Gallery of Russian art with a Why deal with several different suppliers to arrange industry. Professional, knowledgeable and including works by Rublyov and Chagall. Also, housing Moscow’s largest collection of foreign art, found in the Valley of Geysers, best visited by private choir performance a multi-country tour when you can work with just one supremely organised, an A&K Tour Director or • Visit to the Cold War Museum and Stalin’s Bunker specialist providing consistent support? With A&K Event Manager is an indispensable ingredient for a the Pushkin Museum opened in 1912 with a Geoffrey Kent • Excursion to Sergiev Possad to visit the Holy Trinity Russia you can build up an itinerary to any number of successful group tour. magnificent array of Impressionist and Post- Founder, Chairman and CEO St. Sergius Monastery with an exclusive access to destinations within Russia, Ukraine, the Stans, Impressionist paintings. Russia’s musical legacy is PEACE OF MIND the private icon collection of the Russian Patriarch Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia, dealing with one played out in the legendary Bolshoi Theatre, All of A&K Russia’s suppliers are required to comply • Russian cooking class with a renowned chef central contact point and one simple transaction strikingly beautiful after its 6 year renovation. with stringent health and safety legislation and guests • Backstage visit to the Bolshoi theatre without losing any of the competitive edge or local THE GOLDEN RING are covered by our comprehensive corporate detail. Gala Dinner Venues liability insurance. This circle of towns to the northeast of Moscow • An elegant Banquet Hall overlooking the Red Our A&K Europe team will also be happy to help forms an excellent touring itinerary outside of the & MOMENTS Square with any multi-country tours combining Russia with city into rural Russia. The towns were created from the Rest of Europe. A&K Russia have built up an impressive array of ‘Insiders’ Access’ opportunities, those special A&K RUSSIA’S GUARDIAN ANGELS Uncover the secrets of Stalin’s bunker with an ex-KGB agent • Meet a survivor of the Siege of Leningrad and hear his stories • Our Key Services Meetings and events • Gala dinner venues • Technical equipment hire and technical support • Catering moments that give a visitor a deeper insight into their Enjoy high tea at the home of a renowned Russian artist • Take a private tour of the amber restorers’ workshop at Catherine • Floral decoration • Entertainment • Hotel accommodation • Transportation • Restaurants • Sightseeing tours • Tickets for Our unique network of on-the-ground staff allows chosen destination and reward them with Palace • Enjoy a private tour of the Cosmonaut Training Centre, including space food tasting and meeting a Russian cosmonaut cultural events • Multi-lingual local guides • Corporate/pillow gifts • Multi-lingual event management personnel A&K Russia to provide unparalleled support, experiences and memories that only A&K can available to your clients 24/7. After a personal unlock. www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] fold fold
THE A&K DIFFERENCE RUSSIA GROUPS AND SHORE EXCURSIONS
WELCOME the 11th century after hostile tribes led to migration helicopter. Guests will also be enthralled by • One of Moscow’s most exclusive palaces dating from the south. Many of these towns – Vladimir, Kamchatka’s brown bear population which can be from the 18th century With such diversity of customs, culture and wildlife, Suzdal, Yaroslavl and Rostov – flourished as trade watched catching salmon in their natural habitat. • An underground bunker built at the time of Cold Russia, the Stans, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia centres, whilst Sergiev Posad became an important War as a nuclear shelter for the Communist Party make for truly fascinating destinations and, while still VOLGA RIVER CRUISE religious centre following the foundation of the leaders widely untouched, now is the time to visit. Cruise through rural Russia admiring unrivalled views Trinity Monastery of St Sergius. of a largely unchanged realm, still abundant with ST PETERSBURG At A&K Russia, we make it our mission to keep up to ST. PETERSBURG elaborate wooden houses and a deep-rooted way of Sightseeing and Activities date with new developments in all the countries we St. Petersburg is an historic centre uniquely fusing a life. Sail along the magnificent Volga, through the • Exclusive access to the Gold or Diamond Rooms cover. We maintain long-standing connections and a stylistic allegiance to Europe with elegant Russian largest lakes of Europe and experience the authentic in the Hermitage network of on-the-ground staff to not only ensure architecture. The glamour has returned to this one Russia beyond the lights of the Kremlin with visits to • Backstage visit to the Mariinsky Theatre your comfort and safety, but also to uncover local time Russian capital since the devastating siege such towns as Uglich and Yaroslavl. • Visit to apartment of Konstantin Romanov – one of secrets and experiences beyond the reach of the A&K RUSSIA SERVICES RUSSIA during WWII, adding to the deep historic feel and the “hidden treasures” of St. Petersburg ordinary traveller. Anyone can visit the Hermitage, • Individual FIT travel arrangements, supported by meeting at the airport and an orientation meeting at Russia, a country of such enormous social, political spirit of reform. • Master class in matryoshka doll painting but A&K will take you behind the scenes to the vast SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS effortlessly arrange imaginative tours including our Guardian Angel network their hotel, our Guardian Angel will be working and geographic proportions, remains widely • High tea with a famous Russian artist at his home wealth of treasures hidden from the public eye in the The city houses one of the world’s greatest art “Arriving by air in Moscow, I looked special dining opportunities, traditional Russian • Tailor-made group programmes including private behind the scenes to ensure your clients enjoy every undiscovered and therefore one of the great Our comprehensive services for special interest • Meeting with a Siege of Leningrad survivor store rooms of the museum. galleries, the Hermitage, reflecting the strength and forward with dread to a long wait at teambuilding activities, specialist speakers, private dining venues, activity options, luggage handling minute of their trip. He/she is always only a phone destinations for travel in the 21st century. groups ensure seamless ground operations and • Lecture about the Romanov tsars by a historian authority of former imperial Russia. Whilst the golden Russian customs and passport control. visits and many more custom-built services. With a team of dedicated staff in Moscow and St and Russia’s best Tour Directors/Event Managers call away for support and advice. But, as I stepped off the plane, the A&K distinct, creative proposals, so you won’t have to MOSCOW dome of St Isaac’s Cathedral dominates the skyline, Gala Venues Petersburg, our passion and expert knowledge • Special interest itineraries with themes such as Guardian Angel was waiting for me and worry about a thing. Our Tour Directors are the best generating dramatic city views from the colonnade. PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSIONS • Dine like a Tsar in the historic interiors of a famous CONCIERGE RAIL Moscow is the epicentre of contemporary growth in escorted me past all the queues, extends into every aspect of your tour, from superb gastronomy, art, architecture or history in their field, with specialised knowledge ranging St. Petersburg also boasts vast palaces, ideal for A&K Russia has a specialist team of Tour Consultants Russian restaurant featuring the best traditions of Rail travel in Russia is fast, comfortable and Russia, where reminders of the Imperial and Soviet fast-tracking both customs and passport hotels and private transport services to the best • Incentive programs & special event handling in from art to architecture, from history to nature. private exploration or gala dining, a fine example who can customise a Private Shore Excursion for Russian cuisine and Cossack entertainment inexpensive, but train stations can be confusing and years stand alongside newer Western influences. The controls in no time at all. Other non local guides and unique Insider Access experiences. selected destinations Whatever your interests, we can tailor-make a being the Yusupov Palace. Another example lies to A&K passengers were met only in the cruise line guests visiting St. Petersburg. Private • Dine privately in one of St. Petersburg’s museums handling luggage is strenuous. A&K Russia’s Kremlin recounts the core of Russian history with the We know how to balance your bespoke • Cruise ship private shore excursions busy arrivals hall and, by the time they proposal to suit you; photographers can enjoy innovative Concierge Rail Service provides the the south in Pushkin, where Catherine I Shore Excursions allow guests to access smaller • Enjoy an elegant dinner cruise on the Neva River requirements to seamlessly reveal the best our 15th century Annunciation Cathedral at its heart. made it there, I was already relaxing in professional tuition and a tour of some of the best EXPERIENCED MULTI-LINGUAL TOUR perfect solution with the reassurance and practicality commissioned her grand Summer Palace in 1717. The more exclusive sights according to their own during which you’ll see many of the principal sites destination has to offer. Originally built to house the weapons of the Tsars, my chauffeur-driven car, half-way to my photographic spots in Moscow and St Petersburg, flamboyant Rococo style and lavish interior were schedule, and even make a one-day visit to Moscow of St. Petersburg, wonderfully illuminated. CONSULTANTS of escorted transfers, seat reservation, porterage the Armoury now contains a collection of treasures hotel - I felt very special.” Russia, the Stans, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia are history lovers may discover the key locations in the and a complimentary A&K ‘Rail Pack’. added over the years by consequent Empresses. while the ship is docked in St. Petersburg. Clients Our well-travelled and experienced Tour and the Diamond Fund contains jewellery gathered story of the Romanov dynasty, while gastronomes waiting to be discovered by you. Allow us to who pre-book shore excursions with us will not need Consultants offer expert knowledge and passion by Tsars and Empresses. Next to the Kremlin, Red Make your gala event truly THE BEST EXPERT GUIDES, TOUR DIRECTORS KAMCHATKA may enjoy a vodka and caviar tasting session. introduce you to their old-world charm and a visa. memorable with a classical which extends into every tour we produce. Fluent in Square is home to St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s & EVENT MANAGERS Home to magnificently diverse and abundant wildlife, experience that extra special A&K touch for INCENTIVES ballet piece danced by the multiple languages, our friendly team are able to mausoleum. MOSCOW yourselves. Thanks to the stringent selection criteria employed this untouched land of majestic volcanoes, steaming Bolshoi Theatre soloists or a offer an exceptional and truly personal service. Originality, flexibility and attention to detail ensure performance from the Red by A&K Russia, our expert local guides and Tour A centre of the arts, Moscow boasts the Tretyakov geysers, wild bears and pacific salmon is a UNESCO Sightseeing and Activities the success of our Incentive Programmes. An Army Choir. MULTI-COUNTRY/REGIONAL ITINERARIES Directors are renowned for being the best in the Gallery, gathering together over 130,000 exhibits, World Heritage Site unlike any other. The second • Exclusive access to the Grand Kremlin Palace exciting destination for incentive tours, we can largest concentration of geysers in the world can be • Visit to the Tretyakov Gallery of Russian art with a Why deal with several different suppliers to arrange industry. Professional, knowledgeable and including works by Rublyov and Chagall. Also, housing Moscow’s largest collection of foreign art, found in the Valley of Geysers, best visited by private choir performance a multi-country tour when you can work with just one supremely organised, an A&K Tour Director or • Visit to the Cold War Museum and Stalin’s Bunker specialist providing consistent support? With A&K Event Manager is an indispensable ingredient for a the Pushkin Museum opened in 1912 with a Geoffrey Kent • Excursion to Sergiev Possad to visit the Holy Trinity Russia you can build up an itinerary to any number of successful group tour. magnificent array of Impressionist and Post- Founder, Chairman and CEO St. Sergius Monastery with an exclusive access to destinations within Russia, Ukraine, the Stans, Impressionist paintings. Russia’s musical legacy is PEACE OF MIND the private icon collection of the Russian Patriarch Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia, dealing with one played out in the legendary Bolshoi Theatre, All of A&K Russia’s suppliers are required to comply • Russian cooking class with a renowned chef central contact point and one simple transaction strikingly beautiful after its 6 year renovation. with stringent health and safety legislation and guests • Backstage visit to the Bolshoi theatre without losing any of the competitive edge or local THE GOLDEN RING are covered by our comprehensive corporate detail. Gala Dinner Venues liability insurance. This circle of towns to the northeast of Moscow • An elegant Banquet Hall overlooking the Red Our A&K Europe team will also be happy to help forms an excellent touring itinerary outside of the & MOMENTS Square with any multi-country tours combining Russia with city into rural Russia. The towns were created from the Rest of Europe. A&K Russia have built up an impressive array of ‘Insiders’ Access’ opportunities, those special A&K RUSSIA’S GUARDIAN ANGELS Uncover the secrets of Stalin’s bunker with an ex-KGB agent • Meet a survivor of the Siege of Leningrad and hear his stories • Our Key Services Meetings and events • Gala dinner venues • Technical equipment hire and technical support • Catering moments that give a visitor a deeper insight into their Enjoy high tea at the home of a renowned Russian artist • Take a private tour of the amber restorers’ workshop at Catherine • Floral decoration • Entertainment • Hotel accommodation • Transportation • Restaurants • Sightseeing tours • Tickets for Our unique network of on-the-ground staff allows chosen destination and reward them with Palace • Enjoy a private tour of the Cosmonaut Training Centre, including space food tasting and meeting a Russian cosmonaut cultural events • Multi-lingual local guides • Corporate/pillow gifts • Multi-lingual event management personnel A&K Russia to provide unparalleled support, experiences and memories that only A&K can available to your clients 24/7. After a personal unlock. www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] fold fold
THE A&K DIFFERENCE RUSSIA GROUPS AND SHORE EXCURSIONS
WELCOME the 11th century after hostile tribes led to migration helicopter. Guests will also be enthralled by • One of Moscow’s most exclusive palaces dating from the south. Many of these towns – Vladimir, Kamchatka’s brown bear population which can be from the 18th century With such diversity of customs, culture and wildlife, Suzdal, Yaroslavl and Rostov – flourished as trade watched catching salmon in their natural habitat. • An underground bunker built at the time of Cold Russia, the Stans, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia centres, whilst Sergiev Posad became an important War as a nuclear shelter for the Communist Party make for truly fascinating destinations and, while still VOLGA RIVER CRUISE religious centre following the foundation of the leaders widely untouched, now is the time to visit. Cruise through rural Russia admiring unrivalled views Trinity Monastery of St Sergius. of a largely unchanged realm, still abundant with ST PETERSBURG At A&K Russia, we make it our mission to keep up to ST. PETERSBURG elaborate wooden houses and a deep-rooted way of Sightseeing and Activities date with new developments in all the countries we St. Petersburg is an historic centre uniquely fusing a life. Sail along the magnificent Volga, through the • Exclusive access to the Gold or Diamond Rooms cover. We maintain long-standing connections and a stylistic allegiance to Europe with elegant Russian largest lakes of Europe and experience the authentic in the Hermitage network of on-the-ground staff to not only ensure architecture. The glamour has returned to this one Russia beyond the lights of the Kremlin with visits to • Backstage visit to the Mariinsky Theatre your comfort and safety, but also to uncover local time Russian capital since the devastating siege such towns as Uglich and Yaroslavl. • Visit to apartment of Konstantin Romanov – one of secrets and experiences beyond the reach of the A&K RUSSIA SERVICES RUSSIA during WWII, adding to the deep historic feel and the “hidden treasures” of St. Petersburg ordinary traveller. Anyone can visit the Hermitage, • Individual FIT travel arrangements, supported by meeting at the airport and an orientation meeting at Russia, a country of such enormous social, political spirit of reform. • Master class in matryoshka doll painting but A&K will take you behind the scenes to the vast SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS effortlessly arrange imaginative tours including our Guardian Angel network their hotel, our Guardian Angel will be working and geographic proportions, remains widely • High tea with a famous Russian artist at his home wealth of treasures hidden from the public eye in the The city houses one of the world’s greatest art “Arriving by air in Moscow, I looked special dining opportunities, traditional Russian • Tailor-made group programmes including private behind the scenes to ensure your clients enjoy every undiscovered and therefore one of the great Our comprehensive services for special interest • Meeting with a Siege of Leningrad survivor store rooms of the museum. galleries, the Hermitage, reflecting the strength and forward with dread to a long wait at teambuilding activities, specialist speakers, private dining venues, activity options, luggage handling minute of their trip. He/she is always only a phone destinations for travel in the 21st century. groups ensure seamless ground operations and • Lecture about the Romanov tsars by a historian authority of former imperial Russia. Whilst the golden Russian customs and passport control. visits and many more custom-built services. With a team of dedicated staff in Moscow and St and Russia’s best Tour Directors/Event Managers call away for support and advice. But, as I stepped off the plane, the A&K distinct, creative proposals, so you won’t have to MOSCOW dome of St Isaac’s Cathedral dominates the skyline, Gala Venues Petersburg, our passion and expert knowledge • Special interest itineraries with themes such as Guardian Angel was waiting for me and worry about a thing. Our Tour Directors are the best generating dramatic city views from the colonnade. PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSIONS • Dine like a Tsar in the historic interiors of a famous CONCIERGE RAIL Moscow is the epicentre of contemporary growth in escorted me past all the queues, extends into every aspect of your tour, from superb gastronomy, art, architecture or history in their field, with specialised knowledge ranging St. Petersburg also boasts vast palaces, ideal for A&K Russia has a specialist team of Tour Consultants Russian restaurant featuring the best traditions of Rail travel in Russia is fast, comfortable and Russia, where reminders of the Imperial and Soviet fast-tracking both customs and passport hotels and private transport services to the best • Incentive programs & special event handling in from art to architecture, from history to nature. private exploration or gala dining, a fine example who can customise a Private Shore Excursion for Russian cuisine and Cossack entertainment inexpensive, but train stations can be confusing and years stand alongside newer Western influences. The controls in no time at all. Other non local guides and unique Insider Access experiences. selected destinations Whatever your interests, we can tailor-make a being the Yusupov Palace. Another example lies to A&K passengers were met only in the cruise line guests visiting St. Petersburg. Private • Dine privately in one of St. Petersburg’s museums handling luggage is strenuous. A&K Russia’s Kremlin recounts the core of Russian history with the We know how to balance your bespoke • Cruise ship private shore excursions busy arrivals hall and, by the time they proposal to suit you; photographers can enjoy innovative Concierge Rail Service provides the the south in Pushkin, where Catherine I Shore Excursions allow guests to access smaller • Enjoy an elegant dinner cruise on the Neva River requirements to seamlessly reveal the best our 15th century Annunciation Cathedral at its heart. made it there, I was already relaxing in professional tuition and a tour of some of the best EXPERIENCED MULTI-LINGUAL TOUR perfect solution with the reassurance and practicality commissioned her grand Summer Palace in 1717. The more exclusive sights according to their own during which you’ll see many of the principal sites destination has to offer. Originally built to house the weapons of the Tsars, my chauffeur-driven car, half-way to my photographic spots in Moscow and St Petersburg, flamboyant Rococo style and lavish interior were schedule, and even make a one-day visit to Moscow of St. Petersburg, wonderfully illuminated. CONSULTANTS of escorted transfers, seat reservation, porterage the Armoury now contains a collection of treasures hotel - I felt very special.” Russia, the Stans, Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia are history lovers may discover the key locations in the and a complimentary A&K ‘Rail Pack’. added over the years by consequent Empresses. while the ship is docked in St. Petersburg. Clients Our well-travelled and experienced Tour and the Diamond Fund contains jewellery gathered story of the Romanov dynasty, while gastronomes waiting to be discovered by you. Allow us to who pre-book shore excursions with us will not need Consultants offer expert knowledge and passion by Tsars and Empresses. Next to the Kremlin, Red Make your gala event truly THE BEST EXPERT GUIDES, TOUR DIRECTORS KAMCHATKA may enjoy a vodka and caviar tasting session. introduce you to their old-world charm and a visa. memorable with a classical which extends into every tour we produce. Fluent in Square is home to St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s & EVENT MANAGERS Home to magnificently diverse and abundant wildlife, experience that extra special A&K touch for INCENTIVES ballet piece danced by the multiple languages, our friendly team are able to mausoleum. MOSCOW yourselves. Thanks to the stringent selection criteria employed this untouched land of majestic volcanoes, steaming Bolshoi Theatre soloists or a offer an exceptional and truly personal service. Originality, flexibility and attention to detail ensure performance from the Red by A&K Russia, our expert local guides and Tour A centre of the arts, Moscow boasts the Tretyakov geysers, wild bears and pacific salmon is a UNESCO Sightseeing and Activities the success of our Incentive Programmes. An Army Choir. MULTI-COUNTRY/REGIONAL ITINERARIES Directors are renowned for being the best in the Gallery, gathering together over 130,000 exhibits, World Heritage Site unlike any other. The second • Exclusive access to the Grand Kremlin Palace exciting destination for incentive tours, we can largest concentration of geysers in the world can be • Visit to the Tretyakov Gallery of Russian art with a Why deal with several different suppliers to arrange industry. Professional, knowledgeable and including works by Rublyov and Chagall. Also, housing Moscow’s largest collection of foreign art, found in the Valley of Geysers, best visited by private choir performance a multi-country tour when you can work with just one supremely organised, an A&K Tour Director or • Visit to the Cold War Museum and Stalin’s Bunker specialist providing consistent support? With A&K Event Manager is an indispensable ingredient for a the Pushkin Museum opened in 1912 with a Geoffrey Kent • Excursion to Sergiev Possad to visit the Holy Trinity Russia you can build up an itinerary to any number of successful group tour. magnificent array of Impressionist and Post- Founder, Chairman and CEO St. Sergius Monastery with an exclusive access to destinations within Russia, Ukraine, the Stans, Impressionist paintings. Russia’s musical legacy is PEACE OF MIND the private icon collection of the Russian Patriarch Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia, dealing with one played out in the legendary Bolshoi Theatre, All of A&K Russia’s suppliers are required to comply • Russian cooking class with a renowned chef central contact point and one simple transaction strikingly beautiful after its 6 year renovation. with stringent health and safety legislation and guests • Backstage visit to the Bolshoi theatre without losing any of the competitive edge or local THE GOLDEN RING are covered by our comprehensive corporate detail. Gala Dinner Venues liability insurance. This circle of towns to the northeast of Moscow • An elegant Banquet Hall overlooking the Red Our A&K Europe team will also be happy to help forms an excellent touring itinerary outside of the & MOMENTS Square with any multi-country tours combining Russia with city into rural Russia. The towns were created from the Rest of Europe. A&K Russia have built up an impressive array of ‘Insiders’ Access’ opportunities, those special A&K RUSSIA’S GUARDIAN ANGELS Uncover the secrets of Stalin’s bunker with an ex-KGB agent • Meet a survivor of the Siege of Leningrad and hear his stories • Our Key Services Meetings and events • Gala dinner venues • Technical equipment hire and technical support • Catering moments that give a visitor a deeper insight into their Enjoy high tea at the home of a renowned Russian artist • Take a private tour of the amber restorers’ workshop at Catherine • Floral decoration • Entertainment • Hotel accommodation • Transportation • Restaurants • Sightseeing tours • Tickets for Our unique network of on-the-ground staff allows chosen destination and reward them with Palace • Enjoy a private tour of the Cosmonaut Training Centre, including space food tasting and meeting a Russian cosmonaut cultural events • Multi-lingual local guides • Corporate/pillow gifts • Multi-lingual event management personnel A&K Russia to provide unparalleled support, experiences and memories that only A&K can available to your clients 24/7. After a personal unlock. www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] fold fold
UzBEKISTAN, KAzAKHSTAN, TURKMENISTAN, UKRAINE PERFECT FOR… AzERBAIJAN, ARMENIA AND GEORGIA UzBEKISTAN GASTRONOMY ADVENTURE
Uzbekistan has long been a strong trade centre, • Russian borscht cooking class, Moscow • Flight by MIG aircraft located on the Great Silk Road between Europe and • Caviar Tasting, St Petersburg • Helicopter flight, Valley of Geysers Asia. The cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand are • Tour of central Moscow food market • Ice fishing, Kamchatka filled with intricate architecture, turquoise blue • Vodka factory and tasting, Moscow • Snowmobile Safari, Karelia domes, dazzling minarets and detailed mosaics such • Uzbek pilav cooking class • Falcon Farm, Almaty as those featured on the legendary Registan, while FAMILIES NATURE the capital city of Tashkent merges the beauty of the • Meet a Russian Cosmonaut, Moscow • Study brown bears, Kamchatka old city with modern skyscrapers of glass and metal. • Private tour of Moscow State Circus • Mount Elbrus, Caucasus Amidst this prominent development, the country • Russian Troika ride, St Petersburg • Gobustan Stones, Azerbaijan maintains an air of tradition with many local artisans • Matryoshka Doll Painting, St Petersburg • Thermal Springs of Ksudach volcano producing hand-knotted carpets and Uzbek UKRAINE • Interactive Experimentarium museum • Black Sea, Sochi ceramics while performances of folklore singing and One of the most picturesque and indeed, oldest country of considerable beauty, the spectacular dancing remain commonplace. ART & ARCHITECTURE MUSIC, THEATRE & FESTIVALS INSTANT EXPERT countries in Eastern Europe, Ukraine’s capital Kiev mountain ranges, lakes and dense forests envelop KAzAKHSTAN • Moscow Metro Stations • Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow finally achieved independence in 1991 following a endless monasteries and crumbling churches. a travel professional’s guide to Russia • Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg • Mariinski Theatre, St Petersburg The world’s ninth largest country and yet one of the series of tumultuous events including Nazi Armenia’s spiritual centre of Echmiatsin is a focal • Faberge Eggs display, Moscow • Maslenitsa Festival, Moscow least visited. Almaty buzzes with a surprisingly western occupation, a brutal Soviet regime and a blanket of point in the country’s capital Yerevan, and, as one of • High Tea with a famous Russian artist • White Nights Festival, St Petersburg air whilst travellers do not need to venture too far out radiation from the tragic Chernobyl nuclear power the oldest churches in the world, is well worth a visit. • Amber Rooms at Catherine Palace • Traditional Cossacks Show of the city to be faced with the dramatic landscapes of plant disaster. But through all this emerges a GEORGIA the Medeo gorge and Big Almaty Lake. fascinating and beautiful city full of history and a deep A largely untouched land of myth, history, culture and Jewish heritage. The magnificent St Sophia TURKMENISTAN traditions, Georgia embodies the values of hospitality Abercrombie & Kent Russia Cathedral, the oldest church in Kiev and a UNESCO Stoleshnikov Pereulok 11, Turkmenistan is a truly distinctive country offering a and friendship. Revel in the striking scenery and vast World Heritage Site, boasts amazing frescoes and Office 311/313, unique experience, quite apart from its neighbouring array of wines of the Kakheti region, or bask in the mosaics whilst the city is also home to a large number Moscow 107031, Russia. countries. The capital city of Ashgabat displays strong cultural vibrancy of the capital city of Tbilisi with its Tel +7 (0)495 514 0089 of stunning Synagogues waiting to be admired. political influences; formal parks, numerous fountains theatres, galleries and churches hidden amidst the [email protected] and statues of Turkmenbashi, the country’s dictator, ARMENIA narrow streets adorned with lace-trimmed balconies. reside alongside a sea of turquoise and golden The world’s oldest Christian nation, Armenia is a poor Abercrombie & Kent Europe domes, sparkling marble palaces and minarets. St Georges House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, AzERBAIJAN GL50 3LG, UK. Azerbaijan is a country of remarkable diversity Tel +44 (0)1242 547700 juxtaposing modern dynamic cities with timeless [email protected] rural villages against a backdrop of the truly majestic Caucasus mountains. In the capital of Baku, imposing Abercrombie & Kent Italy & Croatia skyscrapers encircle the city’s ancient core; a maze Piazza San Jacopino n.7, of narrow alleyways, historic caravanserais, mosques Florence 50144, Italy. Tel +39 055 29 4629 and palaces. Outside of the city lies the volcanic [email protected] desert of Gobustan from which rise huge boulders bearing engravings of artists from the Neolithic period. Depicting ancient tribes, hunting scenes and Abercrombie & Kent Inc dances, the drawings offer an insightful historical 1411 Opus Place, Executive Towers West II, account of the area. Suite 300, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1182, USA. Tel 888 611 4711 Take a calligraphy class in Tashkent • Visit the workshop of a famous Uzbek puppet maker • Explore Afrosiab with an expert or +1 630 725 3400 archaeologist • Join a local painter for a Pisanki master class • Attend a lecture by an Armenian historian, researcher, author [email protected] and expert of medieval architecture • Attend a culinary class in Tbilisi • Learn about wine making in Kakheti, Georgia
www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] fold fold
UzBEKISTAN, KAzAKHSTAN, TURKMENISTAN, UKRAINE PERFECT FOR… AzERBAIJAN, ARMENIA AND GEORGIA UzBEKISTAN GASTRONOMY ADVENTURE
Uzbekistan has long been a strong trade centre, • Russian borscht cooking class, Moscow • Flight by MIG aircraft located on the Great Silk Road between Europe and • Caviar Tasting, St Petersburg • Helicopter flight, Valley of Geysers Asia. The cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand are • Tour of central Moscow food market • Ice fishing, Kamchatka filled with intricate architecture, turquoise blue • Vodka factory and tasting, Moscow • Snowmobile Safari, Karelia domes, dazzling minarets and detailed mosaics such • Uzbek pilav cooking class • Falcon Farm, Almaty as those featured on the legendary Registan, while FAMILIES NATURE the capital city of Tashkent merges the beauty of the • Meet a Russian Cosmonaut, Moscow • Study brown bears, Kamchatka old city with modern skyscrapers of glass and metal. • Private tour of Moscow State Circus • Mount Elbrus, Caucasus Amidst this prominent development, the country • Russian Troika ride, St Petersburg • Gobustan Stones, Azerbaijan maintains an air of tradition with many local artisans • Matryoshka Doll Painting, St Petersburg • Thermal Springs of Ksudach volcano producing hand-knotted carpets and Uzbek UKRAINE • Interactive Experimentarium museum • Black Sea, Sochi ceramics while performances of folklore singing and One of the most picturesque and indeed, oldest country of considerable beauty, the spectacular dancing remain commonplace. ART & ARCHITECTURE MUSIC, THEATRE & FESTIVALS INSTANT EXPERT countries in Eastern Europe, Ukraine’s capital Kiev mountain ranges, lakes and dense forests envelop KAzAKHSTAN • Moscow Metro Stations • Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow finally achieved independence in 1991 following a endless monasteries and crumbling churches. a travel professional’s guide to Russia • Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg • Mariinski Theatre, St Petersburg The world’s ninth largest country and yet one of the series of tumultuous events including Nazi Armenia’s spiritual centre of Echmiatsin is a focal • Faberge Eggs display, Moscow • Maslenitsa Festival, Moscow least visited. Almaty buzzes with a surprisingly western occupation, a brutal Soviet regime and a blanket of point in the country’s capital Yerevan, and, as one of • High Tea with a famous Russian artist • White Nights Festival, St Petersburg air whilst travellers do not need to venture too far out radiation from the tragic Chernobyl nuclear power the oldest churches in the world, is well worth a visit. • Amber Rooms at Catherine Palace • Traditional Cossacks Show of the city to be faced with the dramatic landscapes of plant disaster. But through all this emerges a GEORGIA the Medeo gorge and Big Almaty Lake. fascinating and beautiful city full of history and a deep A largely untouched land of myth, history, culture and Jewish heritage. The magnificent St Sophia TURKMENISTAN traditions, Georgia embodies the values of hospitality Abercrombie & Kent Russia Cathedral, the oldest church in Kiev and a UNESCO Stoleshnikov Pereulok 11, Turkmenistan is a truly distinctive country offering a and friendship. Revel in the striking scenery and vast World Heritage Site, boasts amazing frescoes and Office 311/313, unique experience, quite apart from its neighbouring array of wines of the Kakheti region, or bask in the mosaics whilst the city is also home to a large number Moscow 107031, Russia. countries. The capital city of Ashgabat displays strong cultural vibrancy of the capital city of Tbilisi with its Tel +7 (0)495 514 0089 of stunning Synagogues waiting to be admired. political influences; formal parks, numerous fountains theatres, galleries and churches hidden amidst the [email protected] and statues of Turkmenbashi, the country’s dictator, ARMENIA narrow streets adorned with lace-trimmed balconies. reside alongside a sea of turquoise and golden The world’s oldest Christian nation, Armenia is a poor Abercrombie & Kent Europe domes, sparkling marble palaces and minarets. St Georges House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, AzERBAIJAN GL50 3LG, UK. Azerbaijan is a country of remarkable diversity Tel +44 (0)1242 547700 juxtaposing modern dynamic cities with timeless [email protected] rural villages against a backdrop of the truly majestic Caucasus mountains. In the capital of Baku, imposing Abercrombie & Kent Italy & Croatia skyscrapers encircle the city’s ancient core; a maze Piazza San Jacopino n.7, of narrow alleyways, historic caravanserais, mosques Florence 50144, Italy. Tel +39 055 29 4629 and palaces. Outside of the city lies the volcanic [email protected] desert of Gobustan from which rise huge boulders bearing engravings of artists from the Neolithic period. Depicting ancient tribes, hunting scenes and Abercrombie & Kent Inc dances, the drawings offer an insightful historical 1411 Opus Place, Executive Towers West II, account of the area. Suite 300, Downers Grove, IL 60515-1182, USA. Tel 888 611 4711 Take a calligraphy class in Tashkent • Visit the workshop of a famous Uzbek puppet maker • Explore Afrosiab with an expert or +1 630 725 3400 archaeologist • Join a local painter for a Pisanki master class • Attend a lecture by an Armenian historian, researcher, author [email protected] and expert of medieval architecture • Attend a culinary class in Tbilisi • Learn about wine making in Kakheti, Georgia
www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected] www.akdmc.com/russia [email protected]