Question by robert43041: travel to Moscow and St-Petersburg: Is it THAT complicated and restrictive?
Byuing a plane ticket is no problem. Then the Visa. Ok, Then the letter of invitation (possibly get one via the web). Then what. Ok, I make hotel reservation in Moscow for one night (in order to register properly). So what happens? Do they just sign the documents (surely I must have made a “reading” mistake when I read that they keep your passport for like 3 days?) Answers from experiences travelers appreciated.
Answers and Views:
Answer by Alan B
Not very likely that they will keep your passport for more than a couple of hours whilst the hotel registers your visa.
Do carry your travel documents with you when you are out and about , especially in tourist areas where there are schoolchildren etc.such as Alexandria Park in Moscow.
As for it being restrictive? Well no its not restrictive,and just like airport security is there to keep people safe
Read all the answers in the comments.
What do you think?
Dessau11 says
First, make sure you have a copy of your passport before giving it to anyone, though I would not recommend relinquishing it to anyone.
Also, unless you are planning to stay (beyond 'x' number of days, semi-permanently) you should not need a letter of invitation just to visit. I do not know where you are from, though unless you are seeking employment, I have never heard of that requirement. I would contact a travel agency in your area and ask them for advice.
With that said, you can take an overnight (sleeper) train from Moscow to St. Petersburg (and vise versa). I believe it leaves around 9 or 10 pm and you arrive around 9 am. Keep in mind that each sleeper section if-you-will sleeps four people (two sets of bunk beds with a small table in between) and unless you reserve the whole thing, you need to be comfortable sleeping in the same "room" as strangers. However, I have done this twice, once sharing a "room" with two strangers and never had a problem. The transportation is very reliable.