Moscow Image © Losevsky Pavel, 2007 Used under license from Shutterstock.com
Sunlight glint off gold-domed churches. Scantily clad women emerge from sleek, black cars. Uniformed military men march across the vast expanse of Red Square. Wide sidewalks packed with people; busy highways crowded with cars; neck-wrenching skyscrapers towering on either side. Stores boast the latest from Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci and Prada. This isn't your father's Moscow. A far cry from the city depicted in ancient newsreels, with dour citizens queueing in breadlines in the snow, today's Moscow is vibrant, muscular and up-to-the-minute - the political, economic and cultural capital that defines this nation in the 21st century. Spread over 380 square miles, this city of nearly 10 million is massive,: its big-city appearance and attitude can be overwhelming. The city is set to grow at a dizzying pace; last year the mayor announced a program meant to open 240 new hotels - roughly one every two months. With perhaps thousands of museums, parks, restaurants and clubs enticing a range of global visitors, it's not the easiest place to get a grip on, but the opportunities to try are unlimited.More than 850 years old, Moscow has always been known for the richness of its culture. Of course, the new Russia comes with new forms of art and entertainment, and Moscow is leading the way. Sometimes intellectual and inspiring, sometimes debauched and depraved, it is always eye-opening.