THE centre of Moscow is the epitome of Russia's history and the end to the days of Communist rule. There is still the Kremlin and the palaces and churches that played such a key role in Russia's history. Moscow plays an important part in Russia's history,

THE centre of Moscow is the epitome of Russia's history and the end to the days of Communist rule. There is still the Kremlin and the palaces and churches that played such a key role in Russia's history. Moscow plays an important part in Russia's history, from the rule of the Tsars to the Russian Revolution when it was virtually given a new lease of life. Strangely, the Cathedral Square in the Kremlin retains more of the aura of early Tsarist Russia and the spirit of Ivan the Terrible than the days of revolution and Stalin and Lenin. But the aftermath of the revolution still comes to mind when standing in Red Square. It is still an impressive space although the days of parades of Russian military might have passed. It is in Red Square that can be seen the stark contrast between the GUM department store and the exuberance of St Basil's Cathedral. It is worthwhile during a trip to Moscow to take the Metro - which was built during the days of Stalin's rule in the 1930s - and visit Gorky Park, the city's main recreation area. ACCOMMODATION Moscow has accommodation that seems to be split between two kinds: the hotels run by international chains, or those that are run-down Soviet-style and give all the appearance of those around in previous days. VISA Anyone planning to visit Moscow has to have a Russian travel visa.