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Home » News » CTM completes acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group

CTM completes acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group

Corporate Travel Management (CTM) completed its acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group on Friday, expanding into the independent consultant (IC) model.

Founded in 2015, 1000 Mile Travel is a network of independent travel experts specialising in SME business travel services across Australia and the UK, offering high-touch travel management expertise.

The business model supports a growing workforce of travel experts who manage their own customer portfolio while leveraging the buying power and technology of a major agency.

CTM founder and managing director, Jamie Pherous said the acquisition offers 1000 Mile Travel’s agents and customers the benefits of CTM’s scale, buying power, access to content and intuitive technology for greater value.

“1000 Mile Travel Group is a highly successful business that has crafted a unique value proposition for those agents wanting to not only manage their own SME portfolio from home, but also grow that portfolio and provide services demanded by corporate clients,” he commented.

“We’ve been partnering with 1000 Mile Travel for nearly a year through the provision of our proprietary Lightning online booking technology.

“During that time, we have recognised a strong alignment between our businesses based upon shared values, common technology systems and high growth objectives, and we believe – through the leadership of 1000 Mile Travel – we are well-placed to expand the 1000 Mile Travel model into our largest markets of North America and the UK.”

1000 Mile Travel Group MD Ben Ross and executive director Nicola Veltman

1000 Mile Travel founder and managing director, Ben Ross said the acquisition paves the way for significant growth for the company and its network of independent business owners at a pivotal time in the industry’s recovery.

“Our business was established to meet the needs of the independent corporate travel business owner market, and our business model has grown from strength to strength,” Ross added.

“That model has never been more in demand than it is in the post-pandemic environment, and we’re excited to take the next step of our growth journey with CTM – a company that demonstrates the same values that have underpinned our own success, through high-touch service and innovation, and building meaningful relationships with staff, customers and within the travel industry.”

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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Australian Corp Travel Agency CTM Notches Up Yet Another Acquisition to Expand in U.S.

Matthew Parsons , Skift

July 1st, 2022 at 4:05 AM EDT

Australia’s Corporate Travel Management has bought 1000 Mile Travel Group in an all-share transaction.

Terms of the deal were not fully disclosed, but on Friday CTM issued 106,336 fully paid ordinary shares to Zazi Pty Ltd , in its capacity as trustee of the Zazi Investment Trust, as part consideration for the acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group.

This element values the deal at more than $1.3 million.

Founded in 2015, 1000 Mile Travel Group is a network of independent travel experts who handle corporate, group, cruise and leisure bookings.

CTM said the acquisition will help it expand its “independent consultant footprint” in the small and medium enterprise market in Australia, the UK and North America — a region where it’s been heavily investing over the past two years.

CTM snapped up U.S.-based Travel and Transport for $195 million in September 2020 , months after acquiring Texas-based Corporate Travel Planners.

Closer to home it recently bought Melbourne-based Helloworld Corporate for $127 million .

The deal comes at a time when travel management companies are desperately seeking to recruit more consultants to cope with renewed demand for business trips.

“Our business was established to meet the needs of the independent corporate travel business owner market, and our business model has grown from strength to strength,” said Ben Ross, 1000 Mile Travel founder and managing director. “That model has never been more in demand than it is in the post-pandemic environment, and we’re excited to take the next step of our growth journey with CTM.”

CTM founder and managing director Jamie Pherous added the agency was “well-placed to expand the 1000 Mile Travel model into our largest markets of North America and the UK.”

Tags: australia , business travel , corporate travel , ctm , travel management

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8 December 2022

CTM Takes Corporate Host Agency Model to International Markets

Corporate Travel Management (CTM)’s host agency business, 1000 Mile Travel Group, is launching into the US market and expanding operations in the UK in response to strong SME travel management demand.

1000 Mile Travel Group was acquired by CTM in July 2022. The strategic acquisition presents CTM with an exciting opportunity to leverage both a growing cohort of independent travel advisors and increasing demands for specialist travel management solutions by SMEs – a traditionally unmanaged segment in corporate travel.

Founded in Australia in 2015, 1000 Mile Travel Group is a highly successful network of experienced independent travel advisors offering high-touch, flexible travel management services to small businesses. The corporate host agency business model, designed specifically to meet the needs of independent corporate travel agents, supports a growing workforce of experienced travel advisors seeking to manage their own client portfolio on their own terms and from anywhere they want.

CTM Founder and Managing Director, Jamie Pherous, said the acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group provides an exciting opportunity to take the successful corporate host agency model into markets which have traditionally focused only on leisure travel. “1000 Mile Travel Group delivers a unique and flexible travel management model for servicing small and growing businesses while offering all the benefits of CTM’s global buying power and enterprise-grade travel technology, including our proprietary online booking tool, Lightning.”

Pherous cites an unprecedented demand for travel management services in the unmanaged SME segment resulting of the more complex travel environment and the ongoing risk of travel disruptions. “Small businesses are finding increased value in the expertise, support and negotiated deals available through CTM’s managed travel programs,” said Pherous. “However, they require a unique style of servicing and engagement due to their more flexible operational and support needs. The independent corporate travel advisor fits those needs perfectly.”

1000 Mile Travel Group’s host agency solution has seen significant growth in its corporate travel advisor network, a trend which has accelerated in the post-COVID travel environment. The company is now exporting its corporate host agency model to the US and expanding its focus in the UK market to capitalize on demand and opportunity.

1000 Mile Travel Group Founders and co-CEOs, Nicola Veltman and Ben Ross, said the host agency’s point of difference is its first-hand experience, the strength of its travel advisor network, and the backing of CTM which delivers global buying power, proprietary technology and scale to its independent travel advisors and their customers.

“What makes 1000 Mile Travel Group different to other host agencies is that we’ve ‘walked the talk’ – we were once travel advisors working for the mega TMCs, and we took the step to set up our own independent travel business to achieve a better lifestyle,” says Veltman. “We were the business’s first independent advisors. It wasn’t easy, and we quickly found that there’s a lack of dedicated corporate independent network models that truly understand the unique needs of business travel. So, we built our own model, and we’ve developed and refined a unique ‘business blueprint’ that sets our agents up for success.”

Veltman explains that the 1000 MTG leadership team truly understands the challenges its independent travel advisors may face because they’ve also experienced and overcome them, and they’ve invested in building critical partnerships and technology solutions needed to make running an independent corporate travel business a success. “As a result, our network has grown from strength to strength in a very short time, and many of our agents are earning enviable six-figure salaries working a third of their portfolio, from wherever and whenever it suits them.”

CEOs Veltman and Ross have relocated to Denver, Colorado, to focus on establishing the brand in North America as well as integrating CTM’s leisure host agency, MTravel, into the 1000 Mile Travel Group business.

“By bringing our incredible MTravel team and travel advisor network into the 1000 Mile Travel Group brand, we’re able to leverage our combined resources, expertise, tools and infrastructure for the benefits of both travel specializations, whether corporate or leisure. We’ve created a highly connected, experienced and engaged global network of more than 750+ independent travel experts across USA, Australia and the UK, who will get together at our first global conference in Hawaii in February. We’re all excited about the opportunities ahead of us with CTM’s backing.

“Whether you’re a business travel expert or vacation travel advisor, our business support, technology, and content can transform the way you work and live your life, and provide exceptional value and service to your customers along the way,” said Veltman.

Find out more about 1000 Mile Travel Group here .

About Corporate Travel Management – click here

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1 July 2022

CTM acquires 1000 Mile Travel Group Ltd, expanding independent consultant footprint in corporate SME market in Australia and off-shore

Corporate Travel Management (CTM, ASX:CTD) has today completed the acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group Ltd , expanding its interest in the business travel market via the independent consultant (IC) model.

Founded in 2015, 1000 Mile Travel is a network of independent travel experts specialising in SME business travel services across Australia and the UK, offering high-touch travel management expertise. Their business model supports a growing workforce of travel experts who desire to manage their own customer portfolio whilst leveraging the best in buying power and technology. The heightened demand for travel expertise to support a rapidly rebounding travel market makes this an attractive opportunity for CTM.

CTM founder and Managing Director, Jamie Pherous said the acquisition is an exciting and complementary extension to CTM’s corporate travel services and offers 1000 Mile Travel’s agents and customers the benefits of CTM’s scale, buying power, access to content and intuitive technology for greater value.

“1000 Mile Travel Group is a highly successful business that has crafted a unique value proposition for those agents wanting to not only manage their own SME portfolio from home, but also grow that portfolio and provide services demanded by corporate clients. We believe this acquisition will complement CTM’s strategic corporate travel offering while delivering significant benefits to 1000 Mile Travel’s network of independent agents and their customers.

“We’ve been partnering with 1000 Mile Travel for nearly a year through the provision of our proprietary Lightning online booking technology. During that time, we have recognised a strong alignment between our businesses based upon shared values, common technology systems and high growth objectives, and we believe – through the leadership of 1000 Mile Travel – we are well-placed to expand the 1000 Mile Travel model into our largest markets of North America and the UK. We’re thrilled to be able to welcome 1000 Mile Travel’s employees, ICs and customers to the CTM family and look forward to working together more in the coming months.”

1000 Mile Travel founder and Managing Director, Ben Ross said the acquisition paves the way for significant growth for the company and its network of independent business owners at a pivotal time in the industry’s recovery. “Our business was established to meet the needs of the independent corporate travel business owner market, and our business model has grown from strength to strength. That model has never been more in demand than it is in the post-pandemic environment, and we’re excited to take the next step of our growth journey with CTM – a company that demonstrates the same values that have underpinned our own success, through high touch service and innovation, and building meaningful relationships with staff, customers and within the travel industry.”

About Corporate Travel Management – click here

• Travel Agents

CTM completes acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group

Corporate Travel Management (CTM) completed its acquisition of 1000 Mile Travel Group on Friday, expanding into the independent consultant (IC) model.

Founded in 2015, 1000 Mile Travel is a network of independent travel experts specialising in SME business travel services across Australia and the UK, offering high-touch travel management expertise.

The business model supports a growing workforce of travel experts who manage their own customer portfolio while leveraging the buying power and technology of a major agency.

CTM founder and managing director, Jamie Pherous said the acquisition offers 1000 Mile Travel’s agents and customers the benefits of CTM’s scale, buying power, access to content and intuitive technology for greater value.

“1000 Mile Travel Group is a highly successful business that has crafted a unique value proposition for those agents wanting to not only manage their own SME portfolio from home, but also grow that portfolio and provide services demanded by corporate clients,” he commented.

“We’ve been partnering with 1000 Mile Travel for nearly a year through the provision of our proprietary Lightning online booking technology.

“During that time, we have recognised a strong alignment between our businesses based upon shared values, common technology systems and high growth objectives, and we believe – through the leadership of 1000 Mile Travel – we are well-placed to expand the 1000 Mile Travel model into our largest markets of North America and the UK.”

1000 Mile Travel Group MD Ben Ross and executive director Nicola Veltman

1000 Mile Travel founder and managing director, Ben Ross said the acquisition paves the way for significant growth for the company and its network of independent business owners at a pivotal time in the industry’s recovery.

“Our business was established to meet the needs of the independent corporate travel business owner market, and our business model has grown from strength to strength,” Ross added.

“That model has never been more in demand than it is in the post-pandemic environment, and we’re excited to take the next step of our growth journey with CTM – a company that demonstrates the same values that have underpinned our own success, through high-touch service and innovation, and building meaningful relationships with staff, customers and within the travel industry.”

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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CONFIRMED: 1000MTG extends Virtuoso pact to the UK

Partnership with global luxury travel consortia extended to third market.

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1000 Mile Travel Group has confirmed an extension of its existing partnership with Virtuoso to the United Kingdom, a move exclusively foreshadowed by LATTE last May .

In a statement released today, the company said that by becoming a Virtuoso member in the UK, 1000MTG solidifies its position as a trailblazer in the luxury travel industry, offering its travel advisors and their customers’ unparalleled access to curated experiences, personalised itineraries, exclusive perks, and world-class services spanning the globe.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone for the host agency which now boasts Virtuoso membership in Australia, North America and the United Kingdom.

Subscribe to LATTE’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury travel industry.

“First, we revolutionised the corporate travel agent model, and now we’re embarking on an exhilarating journey to redefine luxury travel excellence in the travel advisor space,” said Ben Ross, Co-founder and CEO of 1000MTG .

The exclusive partnership with Virtuoso in the United Kingdom marks a pivotal moment in 1000MTG’s pursuit of innovation and exceptional service.

“With unparalleled access to specialized training and resources, including destination-specific, product-specific, sales, and marketing training, and travel tools and technology including a mini website, customisable marketing materials, automated social media workflows, and co-op advertising opportunities, it’s easier than ever for our advisors to luxurize their travel business,” Alex Locke, General Manager – United Kingdom said.

Being part of the Virtuoso network unlocks a multitude of opportunities for networking and collaboration from industry events and conferences hosted by Virtuoso to  grants travel advisors’ access to a global community of like-minded travel professionals and suppliers who share their passion for delivering unparalleled experiences to discerning travellers.

Being able to provide increased client trust and confidence is paramount for independent travel advisors, and 1000MTG recognises the significance of this aspect. Clients can rest assured knowing that they have chosen a reputable agency that has successfully met Virtuoso’s stringent standards.

The media statement continued, saying that “by aligning with Virtuoso, 1000 Mile Travel Group demonstrates its unwavering commitment to excellence, further solidifying its position as a trusted and reliable partner in the luxury travel industry.”

Nicola Veltman, co-founder and CEO added, “With Virtuoso’s support and our team’s steadfast dedication, we are poised to create a new standard of unparalleled luxury travel experiences. This is just the beginning of the next extraordinary chapter in our story.”

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6 December 2023

1000MTG announces groundbreaking new Australian Symposium

1000 Mile Travel Group (1000MTG) proudly announces its inaugural Australian Symposium, a groundbreaking event poised to bring together a cohort of travel advisors, partners, and staff from across the nation. Hosted at the luxurious Dorsett Hotel in Melbourne on 12 December 2023, the Symposium is set to redefine new industry standards while fostering growth and productivity in travel businesses.

Ben Ross, CEO and co-founder exclaimed “we are thrilled to gather some of the brightest minds in the travel industry for our first-ever Symposium. This event is a testament to our commitment to providing our travel advisors with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their businesses.”

The highlight of the day will be a professional development workshop led by Chelsea Cunningham , a renowned brand marketing expert specializing in brand narrative and storytelling. Cunningham’s workshop will delve into the transformative power of social media and brand awareness, equipping travel advisors with the confidence and skills needed to navigate this dynamic space and drive business growth.

Aside from the workshop, the Symposium agenda is packed with engaging sessions. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear insights from 1000MTG founders, Ben Ross and Nicola Veltman, and participate in break-out sessions offering practical tips and advice on business growth and success, a Q&A panel session featuring knowledgeable fellow experts, and updates from key suppliers and partners in the travel industry.

Lauren Gray, General Manager Australia states that “the Symposium offers a unique opportunity for travel advisors to connect and network with fellow business owners, key suppliers, and the 1000MTG head office team. It promises to be a day of learning, collaboration, and celebration, marking a new date in the 1000MTG calendar and an event not to be missed.”

The Symposium has been made possible thanks to the generous support of esteemed travel industry partners, including gold sponsors Expedia TAAP and Singapore Airlines , and silver sponsor, Virgin Australia . Designer Journey’s , the cocktail hour sponsor, adds a touch of elegance to the event with their dedication to creating bespoke travel experiences while Dorsett Melbourne , the host venue sponsor, provides the perfect backdrop for this milestone event with its blend of sophistication and modern comfort.

Nicola Veltman, CEO and co-founder of 1000MTG expressed gratitude for the support of their sponsors, who share their vision for the future of travel. “Their commitment enables us to create an unparalleled experience for our travel advisors,” she said.

Overall, the inaugural 1000MTG Australian Symposium promises to be a day filled with innovation, networking, and growth, setting a new standard for travel industry events in the country while offering an exceptional new professional development opportunity to 1000MTG travel advisors.

About 1000 Mile Travel Group - click here

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Driving Distance Calculator

Driving distances between two cities.

Travelmath helps you find driving distances based on actual directions for your road trip. You can get the distance between cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes to figure out the best route to travel to your destination. Combine this information with the fuel cost tool to find out how much it will cost you to drive the distance, or compare the results to the straight line distance to determine whether it's better to drive or fly. You can print out pages with a travel map.

Maybe you want to see the driving time instead? Or if you're driving a long distance, you might want to check the midpoint of your trip to find a hotel.

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