Moscow: extreme heat and smog

09.08.2010

Dear Travellers,

Updated 09 August 2010
As of today we have not cancelled our tours to Russia and all our tours are operating as planned. We have taken all reasonable steps to make sure your stay in Moscow during these days is less affected by the adverse air conditions.

There is a possibility of flight delays because of the weather conditions. Go Russia will be monitoring the situation and our customers will be met at the airport upon arrival. Our tourists are provided with air-conditioned transport during their excursions and we have included more time spent with transport. We also advise our customers to have plenty of water and wear gauze masks. Our guides are monitoring the situation and decide on spot which are the best travel arrangements for the current day should be, based on the group experience and overall situation.

As of today 09 August the sky is clear, however there is still fire smell in the air.

Feedbacks we are getting from Russia are positive and the tourist that are currently in Moscow have not expressed any complaints or further concerns.

Please also note that situation changes almost every day so it is very difficult to assess what will happen in late August. However the Russian Emergency Authorities have reassured they plan to manage all fires in the Moscow region within the week. Weather forecasts also shows some temperature cooling.

However, given current air pollution in Russia, and according to the UK National Travel Health and Network Centre (NaTHNaC) exposure to air pollutants may cause cardiovascular or respiratory disease or worsen pre-existing illnesses. If you have a pre-existing condition you should ensure that you carry adequate supplies of your regular medication. Please read more here:

http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/europe/russian-federation#health

We also advise all our customers to check with their doctors if traveling to Russia is suitable for them under these circumstances.

Unfortunately we won’t be able to refund any money for last minute tour cancellations as advised in our booking conditions. That is why we advise to have valid travel insurance in place that covers tour cancellation.

Please note that when joining any of our tours customers accept the risks and hazards potentially involved in traveling and we cannot accept any liability for any damage or injury caused by the current air situation in Russia.

We are very sorry that this situation would affect your travel plans.

Updated 03 August 2010
As you will be visiting Russia and Moscow in particular in the next couple of days we would like to advise you that Russia is experiencing extremely high temperatures this summer season. Moscow is shrouded in smoke from peat and forest fires in the city suburbs.

Please make sure you have plenty of water when traveling and going on excursions. Moscow doctors also advise the elderly people should wear gauze masks outdoors.

You can read more details on BBC website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-10836281