News from Moscow by Arthur Lookyanov

I will be gone from Moscow from June 23 until the 28th. My friend and web-designer, who lives in Kiev (Ukraine), has invited my wife (Olga) and I for his wedding, which will be celebrated on the 25th of June. His name is Stanislav (Stas) and his lovely bride is Irina. Although we have not met in person, we have known each other for over a year via the internet. He is a very talented programmer and designer. The name of his website is: "Miracle Design" and his nick name is "Miracle." There is no question he merits this name, as he has done a lot of wonderful work for me. Two web sites, business cards, promotion and a great deal of practical advice about the internet. But, what I have come to appreciate most is our friendship!

I am sorry to inform you that when I am...

The first spring holidays in Russia on the 1st of May is currently over. This year, 2005, 1st of May was not only the day when the people in Russia celebrated the Day of Labour and Peace, but also on the same day was Orthodox Easter here. Everybody celebrated these holidays and we were treated couple of days to some great weather here in Moscow! A lot of people spent these days in Parks, walking all together around famous city sights with their kids, relatives and friends after cold and long winter time in Russia. As usual, a lot of families went out for their first trips out of city to spend holidays on their dachas (summer houses) at Moscow Region.

I was working during these holidays with a tourist from Chicago, US. He is retired engineer, pilot, and it was ver...

I’m currently working (from April 24th until May 1st) with a businessman from the Intel Corp. from the U.S., who was a previous client. He used my services last year more than four months, and it was very nice to meet him again. I’m very exited to communicate with this intelligent man from a world famous company. During our driving trips between his numerous business meetings I have the opportunity to talk with him about new technologies, digital photography, pets and simply about our life . . . I thank God that I have such interesting and good clients during my work....

Recently I returned from my alternate trip to Suzdal, a majestic ancient city in Russia. I was there on March 29 -30, with my client from Intel Corp. (USA) and her two friends (classmates). It was extremely cold on those days (about -10C), but I took several good shots of Suzdal’s winter scenes during my trip. I would like to share my work with you (on these last days of winter) and I hope you enjoy them. I will try to upload my new photos as soon as I have time.

There are dozens of beautiful churches and breathtaking landscapes in Suzdal. The XVI-XVIII century churches as well as extremely picturesque landscapes attract many travelers to this ancient city in Russia. In 1983 Suzdal received "The Golden Apple" prize from the International Travel Commentators Associ...

A huge fire on Saturday, March 26th, roared through part of the sprawling Izmailovo outdoor market (Vernisazh), which is a popular stop among tourist looking for souvenirs and artwork. The blaze killed one woman and injured at least two others. The fire was measured a three on a five-point fire danger scale; about 20 fire brigades arrived at the site. Investigators believe arson was the cause of the fire. Moscow government officials informed the media that the damaged buildings will be restored at the beginning of September 2005 (in time for "Day of the City" celebration).

I was with my client from Ireland the day after the fire (Sunday, 27th), the trade rows were safe and worked as usual (excluding the second level). There were a few less tourist than usual, but...

During the week I had the opportunity to meet Johnny Weir, his mom and official trainer (Precilia) while we enjoyed sightseeing and shopping together. Johnny Weir is a famous Figure Skater from the United States. From the 13th until the 21st of March, I worked with Johnny Weir’s trainer, Carolanne Leon. She was a very nice person and it was her first trip to Russia. I was very pleased and excited when they graciously offered me a ticket to the March 20th Exhibition. It was great! During this whole week I crossed my fingers for Johnny. He took 4th place in the men's Figure Skating Championship in Moscow. I want to wish Johnny and his trainers great success in the future. Good Luck Johnny from Delaware (USA)!...

Hello all! I decided to create new page to show my clients important news during my work as personal guide and driver, tell people about interesting events in Moscow and probably more... I hope that this page will be useful for you!
Cordially,
Arthur...