vinoy hotel history tour

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A Treasured Past

From the time it opened at the dawn of 1926 to its current incarnation as one of St. Petersburg’s most spectacular waterfront resorts, The Vinoy has been – and always will be – a place to relax, play, and indulge.

Vinoy History

Pink. Proud. Perfectly preserved. Celebrating almost 100 years of sun-drenched hospitality, the resort looks back, reminisces and forges forward in its never-ending quest to deliver thoughtfully curated and inspiring experiences.

Conception: The Beginning

In 1923, it all started with a party, a bet, and a game of golf at the St. Petersburg Beach Drive home of Aymer Vinoy Laughner, a wealthy Pennsylvania businessman.

Laughner acquired the land for $170,000. Led by architect Henry L. Taylor and contractor George A. Miller, construction for The Vinoy Park Hotel began on February 5, 1925. The contractor set a construction record for completing the 375-room hotel in just under 10 months, in time for a grand opening on New Year’s Eve 1925.

The Golden Years

Despite the Great Depression gripping the country, the 1930s still attracted wealthy Northerners to The Vinoy, who arrived by train or car to experience the resort's carefree ambiance, lavish pleasures, and refined hospitality. Celebrities, presidents, and the local elite continued to flock to the hotel and solidified its position as the "grand dame" of St. Petersburg, whose residents called upon the hotel to host their most important social occasions. In1932, candy entrepreneur David L. Clark purchased the Coffee Pot Golf Course on Snell Island for $156,000. This would later become the golf course for The Vinoy.

The War Era

As the country eased out of the Great Depression and into the cold reality of the Second World War, The Vinoy Park Hotel shifted to a more patriotic purpose. On July 3, 1942, The Vinoy ceased operation as a hotel and was leased to the U.S. Army Air Force and subsequently the United States Maritime Service as a training center and housing for military cooks and bakers. By the time the training center was closed, more than 100,000 trainees had passed through the city of St. Petersburg.

The Decline

Post-war America coincided with the country's great highway expansion and the glory days of the automobile. Once again, Florida was the go-to destination for winter sun-seekers and The Vinoy welcomed them in much the same way as it had for the past three decades - as an elegant oasis overlooking Tampa Bay where guests could enjoy superb cuisine, incomparable service and a genteel ambience. However, the advent of air conditioning and The Vinoy's resistance to it prompted guests to seek cooler environs elsewhere and The Vinoy soon fell out of favor. By the late 1960s, the lack of regular maintenance took its toll on The Vinoy and it stood as a sad relic of St. Petersburg's golden past.

Rock Bottom

By the early 1970s, The Vinoy had declined into a low-rent boarding house, commanding $7 per night, far less than the extravagant nightly rate of $20 in 1925. Finally, in 1974, the hotel closed its doors for good. Much of the hotel's effects - china, silver and crystal among others - were sold at public auction. In 1978, despite its dilapidated condition, the St. Petersburg community petitioned to secure the landmark hotel's place on the National Register of Historic Places. Yet, throughout the 1980s, the hotel remained empty and served as a haven to homeless wanderers and SWAT teams who used it for training.

The Rebirth

In May 1990, after being abandoned for 18 years, the restoration and reconstruction of The Vinoy began. For two years, architects, interior designers and local historians took careful consideration to preserve and recreate the historic landmark's original Mediterranean Revival design.

In 1992, The Vinoy reopened as a Stouffer Hotel and restored its place as the epicenter of St. Petersburg's waterfront downtown. It was named by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as one of the Historic Hotels of America.

The New Millennium

The Vinoy continues to expand upon its legacy with its latest transition into Marriott's portfolio of Autograph Collection hotels on April 5, 2023. The newly renovated, landmark hotel returns anew as an incomparable in-town resort, blending its classic grace and timeless glamour with contemporary style while paying homage to St. Petersburg’s past, present and future.

One of the most exciting elements of our brand transition has been embracing the rich history of our 100-year-old hotel. After June 1st, 2023, each guest will have the unique opportunity to tour the resort with a docent and visit a newly designed history gallery in the lobby, where they will see artifacts from The Vinoy’s beginnings, such as original room keys, plate ware and handwritten postcards highlighting some of the first guest visits. Please note that this tour occurs Thursday to Sunday 2pm - 3pm.

In 1978, The Vinoy was named to the National Register of Historic Places, despite being closed and stripped bare of its furnishings and other architectural details.

Revival of the Fittest

The Vinoy reflects the architectural influences of the Mediterranean coast, capturing its essence down to every detail. Over the years, The Vinoy’s incomparable facilities have stood the test of time.

The original 1925 color named “Vinoy” was created by the Gutta Percha Paint Company exclusively for the hotel.

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Travel back in Time with a History Tour of The Vinoy in St. Petersburg Florida

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When we went to St. Petersburg, Florida last week, we were fortunate enough to receive a private tour of The Vinoy, located along the waterside. I truly felt as if we had stepped back in time to the golden age of Florida travel, long before Walt Disney World.

If you’re looking for an authentic Florida experience, I invite you to travel back in time with a history tour of The Vinoy hotel. No wayback machine, Deloreans, phone booths or hot tub time machines needed.

Table of Contents

History of The Vinoy

I learned a lot about tourism in Florida on this tour and it was conducted by the delightful and knowledgeable Elaine. The Vinoy Hotel opened on New Year’s Eve in 1925 after taking only 10 months to build. Did you know it was considered good luck to open on New Year’s Eve. I would have guessed New Year’s Day, but hey… let the party begin early, right?

The Vinoy is named after Aymer Vinoy Laughner. He “discovered” the property after having a few drinks with his friends and hitting golf balls across the street into the area. I found this humorous in that men never really change, do they?

After purchasing the property, construction began to the tune of 3.5 million dollars. Quite a considerable amount in those days. Rooms rented for $20 a night, also on the pricey end. However, the Mediterranean  Revival style hotel was certainly a sight to see and a place to be seen. Residents of St. Petersburg looked to the light to know when the hotel was opened for “season” from Thanksgiving to Easter. (Remember, no air conditioning back then!)

While many things have changed over the years, the hotel retains a majority of the original tile. The tile was handcrafted and hand-glazed and shipped from a factory in Flint, Michigan. I loved looking for the different and special designs in the tile.

Use in Wartime

During World War II, Laughner gave over the hotel to the US Army to serve as a residence for the men in training. During this time the hotel suffered a lot of wear and tear (although the tile held up) and Laughner no longer wanted to keep it. He sold the hotel shortly after.

Unfortunately, after the hotel sold it was not kept to its previous standards. By the early 1970s, rooms were $8 a night, $12 less at 50 years later should give you an idea of the type of clientele the hotel was attracting. After much disuse and disrepair, The Vinoy closed in 1974. The hotel sat closed for 18 years.

By 1992 and $93 million later, The Vinoy returned to its original splendor.

The lobby, ballroom and dining room are all listed on Florida and National Registers of Historic Places.

Tour and lunch details

There’s more I could tell you about The Vinoy, but it truly is a place you have to see and experience for yourself. The lasted only an hour and was well worth our time. Next time we will combine the tour with lunch. The dining room was stunning and I just want to sit and take it all in!

You don’t have to be staying at the hotel to get a tour . Simply call for reservations to (727) 824-8005. Tours depart at 10:30 Wednesday to Saturday for $10 per person. I highly recommend combining a 3-course lunch with your tour at the historical Marchand’s for only $27 per person. The Vinoy is located at 501 5th Ave NE in beautiful St. Petersburg Florida.

Find more to do in Downtown St. Pete here .

Our tour was a private one arranged by Visit St. Petersburg Clearwater. All opinions are my own. 

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• Jun 26, 2023

The Vinoy: History tour & high tea experience

The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club

501 5th Avenue NE

St. Petersburg, Fl. 33701

Immerse yourself in the resort's intriguing history, as you embark on a guided tour through its legendary halls, learning decades worth of stories and fascinating memories. The History Gallery is a must-see collection, showcasing memorabilia and photos dating back to the 1925 New Year's Eve opening day. Your tour is led by knowledgeable on site Docents, who will delve into The Vinoy's, 100 year legacy of secrets and stories.

After your tour, you will find your way to the Mezzanine for high tea. Sip on a cup of Earl Grey and indulge in the afternoon tea delights. From finger sandwiches to an assortment of freshly baked scones and other sweets, put together by The Vinoy's renowned pastry team. All of this is presented on The Vinoy's signature historic China, if that China could talk, adding a touch of cultured elegance to your high tea experience.

The experience is available Thursday to Sunday from 2p until 4p. Reserve your tour by calling the concierge at 727-404-5252.

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VINOY HISTORY TOUR

Begin your self-guided tour by clicking on one of the locations below.

• FRONT ENTRANCE & VERANDA
• LOBBY & MEZZANINE
• VINOY GRAND BALLROOM
• HISTORY GALLERY
• RESERVATIONS

Renaissance Vinoy Hotel History Tour

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The Vinoy launches downtown St. Pete’s only high tea experience

• June 21, 2023
• • By Andrew Harlan

Explore The Vinoy’s new History Gallery

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Travel back in time with a history tour of the vinoy in st. petersburg florida.

May 15, 2016 by Tonya Denmark 2 Comments

When we went to St. Petersburg, Florida last week, we were fortunate enough to receive a private tour of The Vinoy, located along the waterside. I truly felt as if we had stepped back in time to a golden age of Florida travel, long before Walt Disney World.

If you’re looking for an authentic Florida experience, I invite you to travel back in time with a history tour of The Vinoy hotel. No wayback machine, Deloreans, phone booths or hot tub time machines needed.

History of The Vinoy

I learned a lot about tourism in Florida on this tour and it was conducted by the delightful and knowledgeable Elaine. The Vinoy Hotel opened on New Year’s Eve in 1925 after taking only 10 months to build. did you know it was considered good luck to open on New Year’s Eve. I would have guessed New Year’s Day, but hey… let the party begin early, right?

The Vinoy is named after Aymer Vinoy Laughner. He “discovered” the property after having a few drinks with his friends and hitting golf balls across the street into the area. I found this humorous in that men never really change, do they?

After purchasing the property, construction began to the tune of 3.5 million dollars. Quite considerable amount in those days. Rooms rented for $20 a night, also on the pricey end. However, the Mediterranean  Revival style hotel was certainly a site to see and a place to be seen. residents of St. Petersburg used to look to the light to know when the hotel was opened for “season” from Thanksgiving to Easter. (Remember, no air conditioning back then!)

While many things have changed over the years, the hotel retains a majority of the original tile. The tile was hand crafted and hand glazed and shipped from a factory in Flint, Michigan. I loved looking for the different and special designs in the tile.

Use in War time

During World War II, Laughner gave over the hotel to the US Army to serve as a residence for the men in training. During this time the hotel suffered a lot of wear and tear (although the tile held up) and Laughner no longer wanted to keep it. He sold the hotel shortly after.

Unfortunately, after the hotel was sold it was not kept to its previous standards. By the early 1970s, rooms were $8 a night, $12 less at 50 years later should give you an idea of the type of clientele the hotel was attracting. After much disuse and disrepair, The Vinoy closed in 1974. The hotel sat closed for 18 years.

By 1992 and $93 million later, The Vinoy was returned to its original splendor.

The lobby, ballroom and dining room are all listed on Florida and National Registers of Historic places.

Tour and lunch details

There’s more I could tell you about The Vinoy, but it truly is a place you have to see and experience for yourself. The lasted only an hour and was well worth our time. Next time we will combine the tour with the lunch. The dining room was stunning and I just want to sit and take it all in!

You don’t have to be staying at the hotel to get a tour . Simply call for reservations to (727) 824-8005. Tours depart at 10:30 Wednesday to Saturday for $10 per person. I highly recommend combining a 3-course lunch with your tour at the historical Marchand’s for only $27 per person. The Vinoy is located at 501 5th Ave NE in beautiful St. Petersburg Florida.

Related posts:

May 17, 2016 at 7:48 pm

What a gorgeous place! Did they add air conditioning when they did the remodel/restoration?

June 3, 2016 at 11:45 am

What a cool property – thanks for sharing Tonya

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Vinoy Resort Offers St. Pete’s Only High Tea

• By FTL Staff
• June 22, 2023

The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club is bringing a new historical tour and high tea experience to downtown St. Petersburg, immersing guests and locals in the resort’s rich history.

The History Tours and High Tea experience comes as the Vinoy debuts its revitalized onsite History Gallery, part of the resort’s comprehensive renovation that was revealed in April 2023.

RELATED: Best Historic Destinations in Florida

The iconic resort, which opened its doors on New Year’s Eve in 1925, has decades of stories captured within its pink walls, including hosting U.S. presidents, celebrities and athletes, and even serving as military housing in the 1940s. Now locals and guests can take a step back in time with an exclusive luxury guided tour of the resort’s nearly 100-year history. This museum-quality gallery will cater to small groups led by highly trained on-site Docents. These specialized Docents will tell intimate stories as they guide guests through archival photos and memorabilia dating back to 1925.

Following the hour-long history tour, a luxe high tea – the only high tea offering in downtown St. Pete – will be served on the Mezzanine. Guests will sip a fragrant cup of Earl Grey as they enjoy classic afternoon tea noshes including elegant finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delectable, sweet treats from the Vinoy’s renowned pastry team, all served on The Vinoy’s signature historic china.

RELATED: Florida Shines in Tripadvisor’s Best Travel Experiences Lists

The History Tour and High Tea experience is offered Thursdays – Sundays from 2 pm – 4 pm. Pricing starts at $109 per person ($55 for children 12 and under) and can be booked via the resort’s concierge by calling 1.727.404.5252.

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Celebrate love and history at The Vinoy

TAMPA (BLOOM) – Nestled in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club, Autograph Collection is heralding a series of captivating events that promise to blend luxury, history, and romance. From the exclusive Galantine’s Day celebration to the enchanting Easter Brunch & Easter Egg Hunt, The Vinoy is setting the stage for unforgettable memories. Here’s a closer look at what’s in store.

History and High Tea Tour

Delve into the illustrious past of The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club with its unique History Tour & High Tea Experience. This intimate journey invites both guests and locals to explore the iconic resort’s vibrant history, all within its enchanting pink walls that have stories to tell of U.S. presidents, celebrities, athletes, and even its time as military housing during the 1940s.

Following the immersive historical tour, participants are treated to a sumptuous high tea on the Mezzanine. This luxurious experience stands as the only high tea offering in downtown St. Petersburg, ensuring an exclusive finish to an enriching journey through time.

The Vinoy’s History Tour & High Tea Experience offers a unique opportunity to blend the elegance of the past with the indulgence of the present, making it a must-visit for those seeking to experience the essence of St. Pete’s storied elegance.

This exclusive event is priced at $75, requiring reservations through the Concierge at [email protected] or by calling 727-404-5251.

Savor The Romance: Valentine’s Day Dinners (February 9th, 10th, 14th, 16th & 17th)

The Vinoy is redefining romantic evenings with its “Savor The Romance” Valentine’s Day dinners. Set against the backdrop of the Mezzanine Terrace, guests will be enveloped in candlelight as they enjoy a special four-course menu. Culinary delights include Amber Jack Crudo, Roasted Winter Beet Salad, Amarone Wine Risotto, and a main course of Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Diver Scallops St Jacques. The evening concludes with a Raspberry Fondant and a Chef’s Selection of Petite Fours, all for $130 per person. Reservations are a must for this romantic rendezvous.

Bubbly With Love: A Toast to Romance (February 9th, 10th, 14th, 16th, & 17th)

Elevate your celebration of love at The Veranda with “Bubbly With Love.” This package offers couples the chance to toast to their love with a bottle of Moet & Chandon Imperial, complemented by the exquisite flavors of Oyster Rockefeller. Set on the iconic front porch of The Vinoy, the experience starts at $135, making for a breathtakingly romantic setting. Ensure your spot by making a reservation.

Easter Brunch & Easter Egg Hunt (Sunday, March 31st)

As spring unfolds, The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club beckons families to its Easter Brunch & Easter Egg Hunt. Hosted in the newly renovated Grand Ballroom, this event features a lavish brunch and delightful activities like egg decorating, set against the historic charm of The Vinoy. The event is designed to create lasting family memories, with two seating times available. Prices start at $130+ per person and $45+ for kids, with complimentary admission for children under 2. Reservations are essential, and a 72-hour cancellation policy is in effect.

The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club continues to offer unparalleled experiences that marry the elegance of the past with the luxury of the present. For reservations and more information, contact the Concierge at [email protected] or call 727-404-5251. Don’t miss the chance to be part of these exceptional events, celebrating love, history, and family in the heart of downtown St. Pete.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.

Red Square & Moscow City Tour

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Description

Highlights:.

• Experience medieval Kitay Gorod (China town).
• Wander picturesque Red Square and Alexander Garden.
• Explore grand Christ the Savior Cathedral on our Red Square tour.
• Breathtaking panoramic views from Patriarch bridge.
• Enjoy a hearty lunch on the large open verandah and marvel at the stunning views of the Kremlin.
• Learn about Russian culture from the local through relaxed cultural discussions.

Tour Itinerary:

Red square:.

Russia and Moscow are synonymous with Red Square and the Kremlin and that's hardly surprising as you'll find these places absolutely stunning!

• - Walk-through the Resurrection Gate and don’t forget to flip a coin so you’ll be sure to come back one day!
• - Visit the world's famous Kazan Cathedral .
• - See the State Department Store (GUM), once the Upper Trading Stalls, which were built over a century ago and still operating!
• - Admire the lovely St. Basil's Cathedral! The French diplomat Marquis de Custine commented that it combined "the scales of a golden fish, the enamelled skin of a serpent, the changeful hues of the lizard, the glossy rose and azure of the pigeon's neck" and wondered at "the men who go to worship God in this box of confectionery work".
• - Walk by Lobnoye Mesto (literally meaning "Execution Place", or "Place of Skulls"), once Ivan the Terrible's stage for religious ceremonies, speeches, and important events.
• - Entering the Alexander Garden , you’ll take in spectacular views of Russian architecture from ancient to Soviet times, as well as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with an eternal flame. Watch Changing of the Guard Ceremony every hour in summer and every half an hour in winter.

Kitai-gorod:

Stroll along medieval Kitai-gorod with its strong ancient Russia feel, known for its bohemian lifestyle, markets and arts.

• - Nikolskaya Street. Here you will find the Russia's first publishing house, the second oldest monastery, and Ferryn Pharmacy, known as the number one pharmacy back in Soviet times and famous for its Empire-style architecture.
• - Ilinka Street. The financial street of the Kitaigorod (China Town) district, where you’ll find the Gostiny Dvor (Merchant’s Yard), which is now a showroom for Ferraris and Maseratis. The street was designed in the 1790s by Catherine the Great.
• - Varvarka street. The oldest street in Moscow, which dates back to the 14th century, and still has remnants of early Muscovite architecture, such as the Old English Court and the Palace of the Romanov’s.
• - Kamergersky Lane. Only a small road of about 250 meters, it is home to some of the oldest artifacts of the city, as each building holds a fascinating story. Some of Russia's most famous writers, poets, and composers from as far back as the Golden Age of Russian culture, have lived or worked on this lane.

Historic City Center

Walk the historical old center of Moscow with its cool local vibe, including the main Tverskaya street , and indulge in desserts in the first grocery “Eliseev's store” , housed in an 18th century neoclassical building, famous for its baroque interior and decoration.

From our tour. Impressions of our American tourist:

At 3:30, as energy flagged, lunch was on the agenda at a Ukrainian restaurant.  Just in time!  We asked our guide to order for us.  We all had the same thing....borscht (the Ukrainian version has beans and more tomatoes than the Russian version, which has more beets and includes beef). 

The special high bread served is called galushki.  Our main course was golubtsy...a dish of minced meat rolled in braised cabbage leaves.  Both dishes called for optional sour cream as a topping....of course, yes, please....I recommend it. 

Full, satisfied, and completely refreshed, it was off to Red Square and St. Basil's and GUM department store.  Red Square is not so named because of the color of the brick walls of the Kremlin.  Rather the word for 'red' and the word for 'beautiful' are similar in pronunciation....and, there you have it. 

As we made the turn by the National Museum in front of which is the mounted sculpture of the "Marshall of Victory," Giorgy Zhukov from WWII and caught our first view of St. Basil's, my friend and I simultaneously emitted "Oooohhhhh!"  There it was....the iconic onion domes of St. Basil's!  Hooray....it was open until 7....we had about 30 minutes and were allowed in, AND we could take photos with no flash. 

Now, I can give you a taste of what we saw in the other cathedrals in Cathedral Square.  What we learned is that St. Vasily and St. Basil are one in the same....Russian/English.  He was a common man who wandered Moscow unclothed and barefoot.  But, all, even Ivan the Terrible, heeded his opinions derived from his visions.  Ivan had this cathedral built over his tomb. 

As we exited and took photos up close of the onion domes, Inna presented us with chocolate (how did she know we were ready for another energy boost, and we each got a big piece of chocolate.  The baby's name pictured on the wrapper of this famous Russian chocolate is Alyonka....the Russian Gerber baby, don't you think? 

One could wear out the credit card in GUM's (capitalized because it is actually a government abbreviation), but the 'kitty' and my credit card stayed in my pocket as we strolled through the glass-topped arcade. 

We then strolled through some of Moscow's lovely pedestrian streets; paused to listen as a wonderful quartet performed Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" in an underground passage to cross the busy street (hooray!....we DID have our 'classical concert' experience after all; a request Alina tried in vain to fill because none was scheduled those days), saw the Bolshoi, which means 'big' (my friend has yet to recover that their performance schedule did not coincide with our cruise), saw the Central Telegraph Building, dating from the 1930's, and made our way to the Ritz-Carlton to see the night view of Moscow from the rooftop bar, called O2. 

There were fleece blankets to wrap yourself in....yes, it got that cold when the sun set.  We each ordered something hot to drink...the ginger, mint, lemon tea served to me in a parfait glass (for 600 rubles...about $9....you pay for the view here!) was delightful and hit the spot perfectly.  It was time to call it a night....

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting city tour, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time.

*This Moscow city tour can be modified to meet your requirements.

Write your review

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6. Walks With Folks

7. Real Russia

9. Happy Moscow Tours

10. MoscowMe

11. Tour of Moscow - Day Tours

12. Three Whales

13. Guia de Moscú

14. IdeaGuide - Your Personal Guide in Moscow

15. Tsar Visit

16. VikiTours

17. Moscow Greeter

18. Milena Krasavina

19. GuiaRus - Day Tour

20. Excursions in Russia

21. Friendly Local Guides Moscow

22. Gorodskoi Voyazh

23. Rusiatourmoscu

24. Angel Taxi - Day Tour

25. CheapRussia Tours

26. Vadim Pavlov Guide and Driver in Moscow

27. Your Moscow Guide & Driver

28. Moscow With Locals

29. GuiasRusia

30. Taxi Francais

What travelers are saying.

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• GuiaRus - Day Tour
• Moscow Navigator
• Angel Taxi - Day Tour
• Your Moscow Guide & Driver
• Excursions in Russia
• Vadim Pavlov Guide and Driver in Moscow
• Guia en Moscu