BA Moscow London
LUXury is a 13,000 ft runway
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Agree re no crew hotac near DME, but hey, you gotta loooove that Novotel (or was it a Sofitel?) at SVO. MOW city centre priced, Soviet-Styled throughout. 
So why not out the crew on that train? There's lots of very decent hotac near Paveletsky station!
So why not out the crew on that train? There's lots of very decent hotac near Paveletsky station!
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Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world, next to Tokio. However it is not the crew problem, because airline pays it. There are many very good (expensive, but good) hotels in the centre of Moscow. Security issue problem is a pure imagination. Once you have locked the aircraft there will be no suprising visitors. On that matter all Russian airports are quite strict.
There are some major airline crews doing a nightstop in Moscow, and none of them experienced any real problems. Yes most probably you would need a visa for a crew, but it is a very straight forward thing (1 year multi entry, you just need to apply). Or... let me tell you a secret: bizjet crews are receving visas upon arrival, you just need to pay some extra...
There are some major airline crews doing a nightstop in Moscow, and none of them experienced any real problems. Yes most probably you would need a visa for a crew, but it is a very straight forward thing (1 year multi entry, you just need to apply). Or... let me tell you a secret: bizjet crews are receving visas upon arrival, you just need to pay some extra...
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weren't Virgin or bmi going to start Moscow several years ago? Do you think either of them would start it now? Maybe not high on the list for Virgin with other places in demand, but could it be an option for bmi? either as longhaul or shorthaul? Guess with the demand they would be more likely to throw a 321 on the route, but guess it would be with business class.
Do you think anyone else will compete with SU/BA (and don't Transaero do LGW from DME?). Is the market big enough for additional competition?
Do you think anyone else will compete with SU/BA (and don't Transaero do LGW from DME?). Is the market big enough for additional competition?
weren't Virgin or bmi going to start Moscow several years ago? Do you think either of them would start it now?
When Virgin first started to Tokyo they stopped at SVO as they were only using 747-200s. Wonder if their rights are still valid ?
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DME Hotel
I have just spent the night at the DME hotel, and am recovering in the BA lounge.
NEVER EVER suggest that this is a suitable hotel, for anyone.
I returned to Moscow very late last night, and to save two long drives in busy traffic, I agreed to stay in DME.
As an aside, the BA strike, has had an unusual effect on the DME-LHR service.
The flight is catered ex DME, and yet BA said NO catering on the flight ex DME...they advise hot meal in Lounge.....dep is now in 1 hour......still no sign of any food....
Bumz
NEVER EVER suggest that this is a suitable hotel, for anyone.
I returned to Moscow very late last night, and to save two long drives in busy traffic, I agreed to stay in DME.
As an aside, the BA strike, has had an unusual effect on the DME-LHR service.
The flight is catered ex DME, and yet BA said NO catering on the flight ex DME...they advise hot meal in Lounge.....dep is now in 1 hour......still no sign of any food....
Bumz
Too mean to buy a long personal title
Bumz_Rush: As an aside, the BA strike, has had an unusual effect on the DME-LHR service.
The flight is catered ex DME, and yet BA said NO catering on the flight ex DME
The flight is catered ex DME, and yet BA said NO catering on the flight ex DME
It could also be that they have run out of the BA service carts, trays, and other supplies that get washed up/turned around from the outbound London flights.
Bumz:
Could you be a little more specific about the DME hotel deficiencies.
Bumz:
Could you be a little more specific about the DME hotel deficiencies.
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DME Airport hotel
The Hotel is owned by the airport operator, and is a modern building, very close to the airport. The reception staff do not speak much english, and the rest of the staff are worse.
The rooms are modern in concept, but the beds are the traditional russian. a sheet, and pillow are supplied. The heating was on last week...(very hot outside too), but the official Russian heating season must have started early.
The window needed opening to keep the heat down, but Russian aircraft are rather loud.
I arrived early morning so was hoping for a good sleep. The cleaners are very efficient, and very early, and the sound of roll on cases was loud, as I was close to the lift.
At least no hookers asking if I was OK....
The windows were covered with venetian blinds, not very efficient at keeping the light out.
Breakfast is very Russian, and basic...I could not eat 90% of it...
I actually went to the airport to eat....breakfast....then onto the BA...with NO food either....
They do take credit cards.
I trust this is enough to keep you out of this airport hotel.
Bumz
The rooms are modern in concept, but the beds are the traditional russian. a sheet, and pillow are supplied. The heating was on last week...(very hot outside too), but the official Russian heating season must have started early.
The window needed opening to keep the heat down, but Russian aircraft are rather loud.
I arrived early morning so was hoping for a good sleep. The cleaners are very efficient, and very early, and the sound of roll on cases was loud, as I was close to the lift.
At least no hookers asking if I was OK....
The windows were covered with venetian blinds, not very efficient at keeping the light out.
Breakfast is very Russian, and basic...I could not eat 90% of it...
I actually went to the airport to eat....breakfast....then onto the BA...with NO food either....
They do take credit cards.
I trust this is enough to keep you out of this airport hotel.
Bumz
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The European B767 has about 30 more seats than the Longhaul B777, but has an awful lot more Club class seats. About double the number, so if BA went to B777 they would be turning away club class pax all the time
As to the Russians and gratitude for the sub rescue, I won't hold my breath if you don't mind!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/4309340.stm
Well done to all involved, as the RAF were involved we're not completely off-topic.
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I'm trying to sort out a 3 night break for January! Visa - not really a problem, pay £30 send the form, send the accommodation form supplied by the hotel, some photos and a passport!
I am quite amazed about the cost of the accomodation in Moscow and flights dont seam to be that cheap either!!
Holiday Inn Lesnaya Street http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/hi/...hd/mowlu?irs=y seems to be quite reasonable, anyone stayed there?
Jinkster
I am quite amazed about the cost of the accomodation in Moscow and flights dont seam to be that cheap either!!
Holiday Inn Lesnaya Street http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/hi/...hd/mowlu?irs=y seems to be quite reasonable, anyone stayed there?
Jinkster
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Its very newhotel..
and I have not stayed there, but I did have an apartment the other side of the railway, to the north.
Tverskia, a main shopping street, is perhaps 200yds away to the west.
Not too bad an area, and as you say central, to the action, if you are happy to take the metro, from Belorusskaya station, down the green line to Teatralnaya.
At present I am in the Marriott Renaissance hotel, near the Prospect Mira metro.....very close to the armed services museum, with a vast stock of missiles aircraft and tanks. From my window I can see a sam site pointing at me
Enjoy your stay in Moscow, it is a great cuty, the people are fun, and the night life is excellent....(but not cheap.)....
Bumz
Tverskia, a main shopping street, is perhaps 200yds away to the west.
Not too bad an area, and as you say central, to the action, if you are happy to take the metro, from Belorusskaya station, down the green line to Teatralnaya.
At present I am in the Marriott Renaissance hotel, near the Prospect Mira metro.....very close to the armed services museum, with a vast stock of missiles aircraft and tanks. From my window I can see a sam site pointing at me
Enjoy your stay in Moscow, it is a great cuty, the people are fun, and the night life is excellent....(but not cheap.)....
Bumz
TightYorksherMan
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Armed services musem 
that sounds more like it
Dont speak a word of russian - but dont mind catching the metro or walking!! Its all an adventure.
Not really into Ballet or anything but it wondering if it would be worth a visit, any ideas how much it costs?
Think I owe you a beer for all this - ever fancied working for Lonely Planet
that sounds more like it Dont speak a word of russian - but dont mind catching the metro or walking!! Its all an adventure.
Not really into Ballet or anything but it wondering if it would be worth a visit, any ideas how much it costs?
Think I owe you a beer for all this - ever fancied working for Lonely Planet
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Lonely Galaxy perhaps
There is a flee market at the Izmailovo Park, it is on the metro to the north of the city...best days sat and sun. just follow the croud from the metro, or turn left if they have already vanished....not certain the entry fee, but pence....great place....
Also at the VNNK Metro, is the Soviet Achievement Park, if you go to the VDNK metro, and look for the big statue of the rocket, the space museum is below this monument. Opening normally not before 11am, I think. Has been closed several times I have passed there.
Also slightly further north of the metro, but within sight is the big statue of two peasants gathering in the harvest. Next to this is the northern entry to the Park, and a big mother of a building....Great shopping arcade. This is what they do with the old soviet buildings.
There is another aircraft museum behind the old city airport, on the green metro line., between Dynemo and Airport. There old airport terminal building is still there, and if you walk towards the "air port " ie away from the road, there is an open site of old migs.... extra charge if you have a camera....
As you walk down Tverskia from your hotel towarsd the red sq, on the RHS oposite TGIF, is the revolution museum, very interesting, two old tanks outside.....
Further down on the same side is nNght Flight the original night club, food is excellent, and the girls are to die for....
Lastly there is the Old Arbat, a tourist trap, but very interesting, with kiosks. and the Hard Rock cafe...its your call.
The Bolshoi is closed for two or more years due to "repairs", but the Triumph Concert Hall, at Mykeosca. (spelling), on Tverskia junction of Garden Ring Road, is great pot luck value.
Very close by is the American bar and Grill, and the American Diner, great ex-pat people watching and great H24 food. Recomend the wings, and in the Diner the Onion Ball...the shakes, and coke floats....
Thats all for you, but the hotel should have the tourist guide book in your room, with a map.
Have a great time, and just enjoy.
Bumz
Also at the VNNK Metro, is the Soviet Achievement Park, if you go to the VDNK metro, and look for the big statue of the rocket, the space museum is below this monument. Opening normally not before 11am, I think. Has been closed several times I have passed there.
Also slightly further north of the metro, but within sight is the big statue of two peasants gathering in the harvest. Next to this is the northern entry to the Park, and a big mother of a building....Great shopping arcade. This is what they do with the old soviet buildings.
There is another aircraft museum behind the old city airport, on the green metro line., between Dynemo and Airport. There old airport terminal building is still there, and if you walk towards the "air port " ie away from the road, there is an open site of old migs.... extra charge if you have a camera....
As you walk down Tverskia from your hotel towarsd the red sq, on the RHS oposite TGIF, is the revolution museum, very interesting, two old tanks outside.....
Further down on the same side is nNght Flight the original night club, food is excellent, and the girls are to die for....
Lastly there is the Old Arbat, a tourist trap, but very interesting, with kiosks. and the Hard Rock cafe...its your call.
The Bolshoi is closed for two or more years due to "repairs", but the Triumph Concert Hall, at Mykeosca. (spelling), on Tverskia junction of Garden Ring Road, is great pot luck value.
Very close by is the American bar and Grill, and the American Diner, great ex-pat people watching and great H24 food. Recomend the wings, and in the Diner the Onion Ball...the shakes, and coke floats....
Thats all for you, but the hotel should have the tourist guide book in your room, with a map.
Have a great time, and just enjoy.
Bumz
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easily the best way is by taxi
easily the best kind of taxi is the one that your local contacts have organised to meet you.
Try to insist that this happens. If it's not possible you will have to haggle with the dozens of local taxi drivers who will hussle you as you enter the arrival area. The usual currency is USD expect to pay $50 (they'll ask for about $70-80 initially) but most accept Euros.
Also the guy you haggle with and pay the money is not usually the one that drives you - free market economy unleashed!!
Good luck
easily the best kind of taxi is the one that your local contacts have organised to meet you.
Try to insist that this happens. If it's not possible you will have to haggle with the dozens of local taxi drivers who will hussle you as you enter the arrival area. The usual currency is USD expect to pay $50 (they'll ask for about $70-80 initially) but most accept Euros.
Also the guy you haggle with and pay the money is not usually the one that drives you - free market economy unleashed!!
Good luck
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taxi. SVO
If you have any local contacts, yes ask them to collect you but SVO is a pig hole, so they must be a very good friend....
A taxi, tout. will as stated ask as much as possible...tell them 50$, and keep walking, and say you need a receipt. I have often used the tout system, and no problem. The cars are OK, and they will be parked perhaps 10 mins walk from the terminal door. Remember the weather, so keep warm for that walk.
The Hyatt, which is the hotel I assume you refered to, is a very nice stylish hotel, very close to the action, of all colours.
A taxi, tout. will as stated ask as much as possible...tell them 50$, and keep walking, and say you need a receipt. I have often used the tout system, and no problem. The cars are OK, and they will be parked perhaps 10 mins walk from the terminal door. Remember the weather, so keep warm for that walk.
The Hyatt, which is the hotel I assume you refered to, is a very nice stylish hotel, very close to the action, of all colours.
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Can not blaim BA but beware-
There is a scam on the streets in Moscow, and two tourists have been hurt, and at least one lost a lot of money.
It involves a person 'dropping" a wad of 100$ bills in the street as you are walking. Man no 1 drops these, along side you, or just in front of you...if you dont pick them up, he will, and looks around to see who might own them. He will ask if they are yours....if you say yes....you are in trouble...if you agree to share your winnings with him you are also in trouble....Man no 1 vanishes, and you have about 500$ in your hand as Man no 2 returns looking worried...and sees you with his money.....where is his1000$....he will insist that you have stolen his money...and demand its return. Man no 1 has vanished, and is keeping watch.
This has happend to me three times in less than three months....Today, I saw the drop, and kicked, ever so slightly the bundle into the very wet gutter, and totally ignored the two men.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You have been warned......Bumz
It involves a person 'dropping" a wad of 100$ bills in the street as you are walking. Man no 1 drops these, along side you, or just in front of you...if you dont pick them up, he will, and looks around to see who might own them. He will ask if they are yours....if you say yes....you are in trouble...if you agree to share your winnings with him you are also in trouble....Man no 1 vanishes, and you have about 500$ in your hand as Man no 2 returns looking worried...and sees you with his money.....where is his1000$....he will insist that you have stolen his money...and demand its return. Man no 1 has vanished, and is keeping watch.
This has happend to me three times in less than three months....Today, I saw the drop, and kicked, ever so slightly the bundle into the very wet gutter, and totally ignored the two men.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You have been warned......Bumz