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	<title>Russia Business Blog</title>
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	<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog</link>
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		<title>Site of the Month for August 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/site-of-the-month-for-august-2011/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/site-of-the-month-for-august-2011/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 03:51:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=43</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Site of the Month for August 2011 talks about Russian Business. Russia Central is a Russian web directory providing information and resources on Russian business, Russian news, politics, travel, education, culture, real estate, history, transport, health, service and much more.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.russiacentral.info/"><img src="http://www.russiacentral.info/images/logotext.gif" alt="Russian Directory" class="aligncenter"/></a><br />
Site of the Month for August 2011 talks about <a href="http://www.russiacentral.info/">Russian Business</a>. Russia Central is a Russian web directory providing information and resources on Russian business, Russian news, politics, travel, education, culture, real estate, history, transport, health, service and much more.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Cruises For Cruising Volga River In Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/cruises-for-cruising-volga-river-in-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/cruises-for-cruising-volga-river-in-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jun 2011 06:22:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alan Smith</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Travel and Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cruises]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Luxurious Hotel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=41</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Russia has been known as one of the most visited countries in the world because of its many historical places, world-class architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Most visited destinations are Moscow and Saint Petersburg which are recognized as world cities. Major tourist spots are the Golden Ring of ancient cities, the famous Trans-Siberian Railway, and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia has been known as one of the most visited countries in the world because of its many historical places, world-class architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Most visited destinations are Moscow and Saint Petersburg which are recognized as world cities. Major tourist spots are the Golden Ring of ancient cities, the famous Trans-Siberian Railway, and the Volga River which is appropriate for cruises. The Volga River, which is the national river of Russia, is the largest river in Europe in terms of length and watershed. Volga&#8217;s drainage basin includes the eleven largest cities of Russia. The largest reservoirs in the world can also be found along the Volga. The Volga Delta includes 500 channels and smaller rivers. The largest estuary in Russia is the only place in Russia where you can find lotuses, flamingos, and pelicans. The amazing view that surrounds the Volga River has attracted people to visit through cruises.</p>
<p>Cruising along the Volga River can be enjoyed once you book for it through the travel agents. They can present to anyone those many luxurious cruise ships available for travelers. There are many on-board amenities on cruises that will make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. You will have everything you need. The cabins and suites are spacious with complete world-class amenities. There are bars, restaurants and public areas in the cruise ship. Food served is exotic and tastes delicious. On-board meals and wine are included in the cost. But what makes the trip truly wonderful is the view of the great palaces, monuments, villages, and landmarks that you will witness. A great cruising expedition is truly an economical way to see the majestic Russia. The cruises were designed to navigate the Volga River while providing a comfortable vacation experience. The cruise ship has professional staff that is attentive to your needs. You can enjoy the amenities of a fine and luxurious hotel with the panoramic view of Russia in your suite throughout the ship. Choosing these travel agents will definitely exceed your expectations.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Study Medicine in Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/study-medicine-in-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/study-medicine-in-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Apr 2011 03:11:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Andy Johnson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Education and Reference]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Studying Medicine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[University]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=36</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Study medicine in Russia? Russia&#8217;s long history of medical education has attracted many students from around the world. So what makes candidates want to go to medical school in Russia? Well it is fairly cheap, much cheaper than any western country yet highly advanced and respected around the world. Most students like the idea that [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Study medicine in Russia? Russia&#8217;s long history of medical education has attracted many students from around the world. So what makes candidates want to go to medical school in Russia? Well it is fairly cheap, much cheaper than any western country yet highly advanced and respected around the world. Most students like the idea that there are no entrance exams. This is due to the fact that in Russia the motto goes education is for all those who seek it.</p>
<p>The advantage of studying medicine in Russia is the broad clinical exposure one receives. While there are many medical universities in Russia it is better to go to the ones in bigger cities because they are better funded and are known for research and development. The admission process isn&#8217;t difficult. There are some requirements that need to be met and once accepted an admissions letter is typically issued. After that the student must submit the requested documents along with a fee for an invitation letter. With this letter you than can go to the Russian Embassy in your country and request a visa. The living costs are relatively cheaper than in Europe. The most expensive thing in Russia is the cost of renting an apartment. To cut costs and stay within your budget its better to live in the student hostel where all foreign students live.</p>
<p>Traveling to the hospitals when doing clinical rotations is usually done in groups. Transportation is easily accessible and one can get a subsidized transportation card that makes traveling less costly. The way it works is you pay a flat fee every month and you get a card that allows you to travel an unlimited amount of times within that month. To study medicine in Russia it is essential to able to adapt to the climate and culture. You should be willing to learn a bit of Russian which will come natural later, as time passes by you&#8217;ll notice how fast you start speaking Russian. So what are you waiting for, want to change your life, start your medical career today. The opportunity awaits you. Study medicine in Russia and get your MD in 6 years.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Wonderful Ice Fishing in Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/wonderful-ice-fishing-in-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/wonderful-ice-fishing-in-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Mar 2011 03:19:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Recreation and Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fishing Locations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ice Fishing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=35</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are so many ice fishing locations around the world to choose from. Just make sure that you are not thinking of tropical regions when you make that choice. If you are planning to visit Russia during winter months, make sure you are well prepared for the bitter cold. However, as an ice fishing enthusiasts, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are so many ice fishing locations around the world to choose from. Just make sure that you are not thinking of tropical regions when you make that choice.</p>
<p>If you are planning to visit Russia during winter months, make sure you are well prepared for the bitter cold. However, as an ice fishing enthusiasts, not even the cold will keep you away. Many Russians love to get out and go to a nearby lake to indulge in ice fishing.</p>
<p>Ice fishing in Russia is a popular past time for many Russians and they have devised a way to stay warm while sitting on the ice for hours. The trick to stay warm during your attempt at ice fishing in Russia is to drink vodka. There is a saying in Russia when it comes to drinking vodka and it roughly translates to warm on the inside and cold on the outside. Though you may scorn at the time, but it genuinely works in keeping you warm.</p>
<p>Once you find a suitable lake to indulge in some hobby ice fishing, find an area on the lake where the ice is less thick. Then you can start sawing, pounding or hacking a hole in the ice. Once your hole is opened, you just need to bring your stool, bait and fishing line.</p>
<p>The prospect of catching fish during ice fishing depends on a number of factors. The first factor is the type of fish you catch is completely dependent on the lake you go to. The second factor and the most important is how long can you stand the cold. At 30 degrees below zero even drinking gallons of vodka will not keep you warm for ever. How long you can stand the cold and how long you can keep yourself warm ensures the success you have in ice fishing.</p>
<p>If you have never done ice fishing, Russia might be a good place to experience it. But make sure you carry enough aspirins because you are going to need it after drinking the vodka to stay warm on the cold ice!</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Investing in Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/investing-in-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/investing-in-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Mar 2011 06:37:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ralph Serpe</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Business and Economy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Governments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Investment Vehicles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russian Economy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=33</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There is no doubt that the Russian economy as it stands is based upon the country&#8217;s massive natural resources which include oil, gas and precious metals. The country has a massive stake in the worldwide supply of gas, something we saw when a gas line was &#8220;switched off&#8221; due to a dispute with a neighbouring [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There is no doubt that the Russian economy as it stands is based upon the country&#8217;s massive natural resources which include oil, gas and precious metals. The country has a massive stake in the worldwide supply of gas, something we saw when a gas line was &#8220;switched off&#8221; due to a dispute with a neighbouring country, and this is likely to continue for some time to come. However, annual economic growth in Russia has been averaging around 8%, prior to the credit crunch and worldwide recession, which is certainly something which warrants further investigation.</p>
<p>There are a number of very prominent and very strong economic sectors in the Russian economy which include the aircraft industry, electronics, telecoms and agriculture to name but a few. The country also has very strong trading relations with China, the US and the majority of the leading worldwide economies which bodes well for the future. It will be interesting to see how these strong overseas partnerships develop because there is very much a public face and a private life for the Russian economy. The headlines you see regarding friction on the political scene do not necessarily reflect the underlying strength and direction of the Russian economy.</p>
<p>There are a number of relatively easy ways to invest in Russia which include direct equities, collective investments as well as index tracking investment vehicles. Direct equities attract the highest risk/reward ratio while collective investments and index tracking investments will give a general return linked to some specific index or economic indicator. So depending upon your personal risk/reward ratio profile there are options to mix and match the above investment vehicles.</p>
<p>After many years in the &#8220;cold&#8221; there is no doubt that the Russian economy is now well and truly back in the international fold although work still needs to be done with regards to regulations and business practices. As time progresses and trading relationships with the US, China and other leading economies continue to strengthen there is no doubt that the Russian economy is well-positioned for the future. The massive array of natural resources available to the Russian authorities will forever be in the minds of overseas investors and overseas governments, keen to have access to these potential riches.</p>
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		<title>Russia Export Import</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/russia-export-import/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/russia-export-import/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:15:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Business and Economy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Export]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Import]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=30</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Russia has an enormous amount of natural resources. The natural gas reserves in Russia are the largest in the world, with coal and oil reserves placed at second and eighth position respectively in the world. Thus, Russia&#8217;s major export products comprise of the natural resources mentioned above. It is the largest exporter of natural gas [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia has an enormous amount of natural resources. The natural gas reserves in Russia are the largest in the world, with coal and oil reserves placed at second and eighth position respectively in the world. Thus, Russia&#8217;s major export products comprise of the natural resources mentioned above. It is the largest exporter of natural gas and the second largest when it comes to exporting oil in the world. Actually, the bulk of its exports about 80% include natural gas, oil, timber and metals. </p>
<p>This happens because of high domestic consumption and low income tax. The income tax is charged at 13% flat rate in Russia. It stands second in terms of personal tax charged in the world after UAE where no income tax is charged. This low income tax has made the citizens more contented and also contributed to the increase in the revenue collection of the Russian government.</p>
<p>This makes it one of the best markets for starting an import business. The new policy adopted by the government is much liberal than what it had in the past, and now it does let you import certain items easily that were difficult to import earlier. You can now easily set up an import business in Russia and take advantage of the improved spending power of its population.</p>
<p>Russia has more graduates in higher education than the other countries of Europe and its literacy rate among the average population is quite high. This makes it easy for you to successfully tap the stylish and urbane import goods market. The imported products that are high in demand include computers, electronics, apparels and luxury goods.</p>
<p>The major industries in Russia also require imported machinery and equipment that they can use to enhance their production. The major industries that depend upon imported plants, equipment and machinery include mining, oil and energy sector. If you can find the right contacts then you can benefit hugely from this highly profitable market.</p>
<p>Exporting products from Russia can also make you a fortune, especially if you already have an experience of conducting business in key sectors such as natural gas, oil and coal. You can easily export these products from Russia, as it is already famous across the world for such exports, and you would not have to make an extra effort in order to convince your buyers. You can make huge profits by getting these products for yourself and then supplying them to the highest bidder.</p>
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		<title>Culture In Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/culture-in-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/culture-in-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 10 Jan 2011 03:32:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Andy Johnson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Society and Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[History]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=27</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Russian culture has developed over centuries and not just the relatively few years of its life under Communist rule. Whilst individualism and competition is the norm in Western society, a sense of community and togetherness are ingrained in the Russian spirit. Its climate and geography has shaped Russia&#8217;s culture in a far more lasting [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Russian culture has developed over centuries and not just the relatively few years of its life under Communist rule. Whilst individualism and competition is the norm in Western society, a sense of community and togetherness are ingrained in the Russian spirit. Its climate and geography has shaped Russia&#8217;s culture in a far more lasting way than communism. With harsh cold weather the Russian people have developed an inner strength and persistence and also a fairly dark outlook on life. Vast distances from other communities mean that trading has been limited historically and cautiousness and a relative naivety in commerce have therefore evolved. Russia&#8217;s agricultural history and high esteem of family and village life have ensured that work done is done for the good of many not the few. This sense of communal life shows in many public ways; many Russians are very tactile and socialise and date in groups. In restaurants it&#8217;s not uncommon for a person to join a group of strangers rather than dine on their own. Ladies may hold hands and men kiss purely as signs of friendship and bonding. Even social activities are often permeated with team events and sports.</p>
<p>In business, do not rush as negotiations can be slow and carefully considered with nothing set in stone until the deal is signed. Authority and seniority is admired, but emotional play and delaying tactics may be used to try and change your point of view. Since Russians live very closely with their families they are used to having a very close network of people to help them get things done. This is often the case in business too and infiltrating this close communal network should not be assumed or taken lightly. Russians can have a very sceptical outlook on life and can expect things to go wrong. A very sunny disposition can be hard to bear for some Russians. Strength and a lack of compromise are seen as much better personality traits.</p>
<p>If you are invited to a Russian home, it is polite to take a small gift. Whilst eating at a dinner party or business meeting, remember that the oldest or most honoured guest is served first, manners are generally casual, but ensure your hands are always visible. Men generally serve drinks to women who are seated to the left of them. There are many differences between the West and Russia in terms of what is considered bad manners in public. The following are just a few things that are frowned on in Russia: standing with your hand in your pockets, showing the sole of your footwear when crossing your legs, whistling, putting your arm over the back of a chair, relaxing on the steps of a public building or eating lunch on the grass of a park. Careful preparation and planning will ensure that your trip to this fascinating country is a productive and enjoyable one.</p>
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		<title>Russia Tourist Spots and Tourist Attractions</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/russia-tourist-spots-and-tourist-attractions/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/russia-tourist-spots-and-tourist-attractions/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 25 Nov 2010 06:52:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ralph Serpe</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Travel and Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cultural]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tourists]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=25</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Russia offers exotic beauty, great weather, and several places of attractions for its tourists. The place has been a hot spot for years mainly because of the historic monuments, cultural sites, museums, and ports. Russian evenings would offer you a memorable experience as you enter the restaurants, ballrooms, theaters, and bars. This Russian vacation with [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia offers exotic beauty, great weather, and several places of attractions for its tourists. The place has been a hot spot for years mainly because of the historic monuments, cultural sites, museums, and ports. Russian evenings would offer you a memorable experience as you enter the restaurants, ballrooms, theaters, and bars. This Russian vacation with your family will not be complete without your children knowing about its history showcased in the Tretyakov Gallery of Moscow. The gallery not only represents the rich cultural heritage of the country but also is the treasure trove of Russian past.</p>
<p>The natural attractions of the country include the national parks, gardens, and lakes. Lake Baikal is among the top Russia tourist spot that ranks among the best natural wonders of the world. It is also one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. This deep-water lake features a beautiful surrounding, home to many migratory birds every year. The Volga River is another natural Russian tourist spot and the largest river in Europe.</p>
<p>Historical monuments in Russia are the government buildings and the administrative offices. The Kremlin is one such structure in Russia that stands between the Red Square and Saint Basil&#8217;s Cathedral. Kremlin consists of four churches, citadels, and Kremlin Towers. It is the official residence of President of Russia. St Basil&#8217;s Cathedral is the Russian Orthodox Church named after St Basil, interred in the cathedral premises. It remained the tallest structure of the country until the Great Bell Tower was built in 1600.</p>
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		<title>Buying Property in Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/buying-property-in-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/buying-property-in-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2010 06:51:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>John Philips</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Real Estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Investment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=22</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Russia is one of the largest countries in the world. With its strategic location on the upper parts of Europe and Asia and its natural reserves of oil and gas, Russian economy has soared since the middle 1990&#8242;s and stayed strong over the years. Just like the Russian economy, the property prices have also ascended. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia is one of the largest countries in the world. With its strategic location on the upper parts of Europe and Asia and its natural reserves of oil and gas, Russian economy has soared since the middle 1990&#8242;s and stayed strong over the years. Just like the Russian economy, the property prices have also ascended. Property market has risen annually by three percent until the first quarter of 2009, and climbed higher by up to twenty percent for economy-class housing and thirty percent for business-class housing for the next quarters.</p>
<p>Ownership of Russian properties has not been made possible until the legislation of the Land Code of 2001, which gives the local Russian residents and foreign investors the right to own and use the properties they bought. What property to buy and where is the suitable place to buy a property for an assured good return of investment? Apartments in Russia are probably some of the best property investments you can get, especially if you can find a property for sale. The most suitable place to buy a property is in Moscow, which is the center of business and commerce of Russia, though prices are more expensive in Moscow than other Russian cities.</p>
<p>You can also choose to buy a property in equally commercially-active but less expensive cities, such as St. Petersburg. However, although property investment in Russia may sound good, it is not easy to make the necessary procedures in purchasing and selling a property in Russia. Both the buyer and the seller have to present the required documents, such as apartment titles and floor plans among others, and make a preliminary agreement that characterizes the conditions of all the future transactions of the buyer and the seller. Then, they can sign the sale-purchase agreement with notary after the payment has been made.</p>
<p>You may even sell or rent your property in Russia without actually living or being there, but by just finding trusted Irish agents in Russia. You can sell your property through the real estate websites, for instance, ExtraSales, which caters mostly to Russian buyers. ExtraSales has established direct links all throughout Russia, as well as the permission to promote on Russian real estate websites. You may also want to advertise your property in SID or Services Ireland Directory, where you can also find Irish agents that will advise you on how to sell your property in Russia. SID is an online directory that serves the various needs of the Irish people. </p>
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		<title>Impressions of Russia</title>
		<link>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/impressions-of-russia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/impressions-of-russia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Sep 2010 08:45:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Andy Johnson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Travel and Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cultural Heritage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.guiderussia.com/blog/?p=19</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Created in the 12th century, Russia was originally a much smaller country. Known as Muscovy, the country was formed in the golden ring area surrounding present day Moscow. After being dominated by the Mongols for a few hundred years, the country began to slow start conquering lands and expanding. Russia as we know it today [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Created in the 12th century, Russia was originally a much smaller country. Known as Muscovy, the country was formed in the golden ring area surrounding present day Moscow. After being dominated by the Mongols for a few hundred years, the country began to slow start conquering lands and expanding. Russia as we know it today didn&#8217;t really form until Peter the Great came on the scene. A very tall man, Peter the Great could be considered the first great real estate investor of Russia. During his reign, Peter conquered all of the lands between Moscow and the Pacific Ocean. Russia is simply a huge country. From east to west, the country is so big you can travel for seven days on a train and still not make it all the way across.</p>
<p>During the 20th century, Russia converted from a rather corrupt monarchy to communism. Alas, communism didn&#8217;t turn out to be much better with leaders such as Joseph Stalin indiscriminately slaughtering much of the population through ill advised planning. Eventually, the Russians changed their mind and converted to a rough form of Democracy in 1991. Thereafter, the various satellite companies controlled by the former Soviet Union began breaking off and claiming independence. Democracy has been an up and down prospect for Russia. While Ferraris drive the streets of Moscow, the rest of the country can go months without heating. This contrast brings up a unique aspect of the cultural heritage of Russia.</p>
<p>In Russia, it is all about Moscow. Moscow gets everything first, while the rest of the country is really left to fend for itself. If you travel through Russia, you&#8217;ll be stunned at the differences including infrastructure and standard of living. Russia has gone through fits and starts in the change to Democracy. The Russian Mafia is legendary and has its hands in everything. At one point in the late 90s, only 7 percent of people paid taxes. Fortunately, things have begun to turn around under the reign of President Vladimir Putin. The mafia has lost some of its power or at least become less obvious. The foreign debt while represented 90 percent of the gross domestic product is now down into the teens. Real income for ordinary Russians is growing at about 12 percent on average. All and all, the country finally seems to be getting its ducks in a row.</p>
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