Location

Vladimir is located in 180 km north-east from Moscow. It was founded in 990 and in the 11-13th centuries it was the capital of Russia. It’s population is about 350 thousand people, nowadays it is one of the major tourist centres, a part of the Tourists’ Golden Ring of Russia. The are some unique white-stone buildings of 11-13th centuries, among which there are magnificent cathedrals and the Golden Gate.

Visit Official Vladimir city website for more information.

Official language of Russian Federation is Russian.

Weather

Vladimir has a humid continental climate. The average temperature in September is 16°C (61°F) at days and 8°C (46°F) during nights.

Time

During the summer, Moscow Time shifts forward an additional hour ahead of Moscow Standard Time to become Moscow Summer Time, making it GMT+4.

Currency

Russian currency is the Russian Ruble – RUB.

Exchange rates in August 2010:

1 EUR = 39,11 RUB

1 USD = 30,46 RUB

Smoking policy

In Russia smoking is allowed in the majority of enclosed public places.

Electricity

The Electricity in Russian Federation is 220-240V/50-60Hz, common European plugs. Adaptors can be purchased in the major electrical shops.

Language

The official language of ISGSB 2010 is English. No simultaneous interpretation will be provided.

Public transport

In Moscow there are three types of public transport: buses, trolleybuses, and trams. Tickets may either be bought beforehand (cost 24 rubles, if you buy the ticket in a special booking office) or on the trip from the driver (28 rubles). It also includes ‘rapid transit’ system (metro). It has no transit zones, and one ticket is available for one trip independently of its time or distance (26 rubles). All tickets have to be checked automatically at the station platform. All public transport modes don’t work at night (from 1 a.m. up to 6 a.m.).