"The first time I visited Moscow, I had a good experience, but I really felt like an outsider, especially since I didn't know Russian at all. This was exacerbated by my further lack of the Cyrillic alphabet, so I was unable to transliterate. Having only a three-day stay, my appetite was whetted and I developed a strong desire to return to this great city. The second time I travelled to Moscow, I was better prepared. I studied some of the Russian language in advance of my trip, bought several tour books, and, most importantly, booked a Russian tour guide who also had the ability to speak English. This is how I came to meet Elena.

Elena was not only helpful in being my personal tour guide, she also was fun to be with. We really enjoyed each other's company, and engaged in some thought-stimulating conversations. She also did not hesitate to suggest some museums, monuments, and other touring sites that she felt I would be interested in seeing, but didn't know about. Furthermore, she really helped to tutor me in learning Russian. I originally booked her for only two days, but I ended up hiring her for the duration of my one-week stay. She really showed me how best to enjoy this great city. And, now, I feel like I gained a new friend! Bolshoi spaseeba, Elena!"