graco modes nest travel system bayfield

Graco Modes Nest Travel System

$319.99 $399.99 original price: $399.99, sale price: $319.99 .

color : Bayfield

What we about it

About this product.

• Includes the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat
• Three height positions
• Parent-facing or forward-facing
• One-step, self-standing fold
• Expandable storage basket

Description

The Graco Modes Nest Travel System makes it easy to stay connected with your little one by bringing baby closer than ever. Raise the Slide2Me height-adjustable seat or infant car seat for face-to-face smiles and interactions.

This stroller can be used as an Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Pramette and Toddler Stroller. Adjust the stroller seat or your infant car seat to any of three height positions and choose parent-facing or forward-facing mode to find just the right ride for your little one.

There are two options for infants. The stroller seat converts into a cozy pramette for comfortable strolls, or you can use the infant car seat. The Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite is a rear-facing seat for babies 4-35 lbs. In three easy steps you can feel confident you’ve got a secure install.

When baby is a little older, you can switch to the toddler stroller seat for a comfy ride up to 50 lbs. The stroller has a lightweight aluminum frame and one-step, self-standing fold that makes it easier to get in and out of the car (and keeps the stroller off the ground).

Parents also appreciate the stroller’s extra touches like the expandable storage basket, leatherette handle, cup holders, child’s tray and large canopy with a peekaboo window so you can easily check on your little one.

Infant car seat :

• Child recommendations: 4-35 lbs (rear-facing) or up to 32”
• Click Connect technology provides one-step secure attachment
• Adjustable base with 4 recline positions lets you customize fit to your vehicle
• Easy-to-read level indicator helps eliminate installation guesswork
• Rotating canopy with window and visor provides shade and sun protection for baby
• EPS, energy absorbing foam
• Wash removable seat cushion in cold water on delicate cycle (line dry)
• Holds child up to 50 lbs
• Dimensions unfolded: 47”x 35.5”x 25.75”
• Dimensions folded: 19.75” x 38.75” x 25.75”
• Stroller weight: 23 lbs
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• Mix N’ Move accessories: dishwasher safe
• Spot clean using mild soap and warm water

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For questions about an order you have placed, please contact customer support directly.

Best Answer: Each item varies and that information is listed on the car seat itself. We’re unable to open packages to verify the dates, but each infant car seat generally has an expiration date of about 6 to 7 years.

Best Answer: The tires of the Modes Nest Stroller are made of plastic.

Best Answer: This travel system already comes with the SnugRide SnugFit 35 Infant Car Seat Base.

Best Answer: The infant car seat weighs 7 lbs without the base and 10.76 lbs including the base.

Best Answer: It does! The stroller seat converts to the bassinet or pramette.

Best Answer: There are brakes on the rear wheels.

Best Answer: You can purchase any ClickConnect compatible car seat base (essentially any SnugRide® car seat base should work).

Best Answer: The stroller seat does convert into a bassinet.

Best Answer: The Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat featured in this travel system weighs around 7 lbs without the base.

Best Answer: This travel system does come with the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat.

Customer Reviews

Rated 5 stars by 63% of reviewers

Rated 4 stars by 23% of reviewers

Rated 3 stars by 4% of reviewers

Rated 2 stars by 3% of reviewers

Rated 1 star by 7% of reviewers

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Graco Modes Nest Travel System, Bayfield

• Enjoy face-to-face smiles by raising the Slide2Me seat or infant car seat to one of three height positions to find just the right ride as baby grows
• Reversible stroller seat can face the parent or the world, for just the right ride as the baby grows
• 3 strollers in 1: Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Bassinet, and Toddler Stroller to stroll from infant to toddler
• Includes the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, rear-facing for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32" for an easy transition from car to stroller
• Expandable extra-large storage basket means more room for parent and baby essentials

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• Free Standard Shipping with any online purchase of $49. learn more

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• Easy exchanges & returns. learn more

From the manufacturer

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• Baby Products
• Strollers & Accessories
• Travel Systems

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Graco Modes Nest Travel System, Includes Baby Stroller with Height Adjustable Reversible Seat & SnugRide Lite Infant Car Seat Base, Black

About this item.

• Product 1: Enjoy face-to-face smiles by raising the Slide2Me seat or infant car seat to one of three height positions to find just the right ride as baby grows
• Product 1: Reversible stroller seat can face parent or the world, for just the right ride as baby grows
• Product 1: 3 strollers in 1: Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Pramette, and Toddler Stroller to stroll from infant to toddler
• Product 1: Includes the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, rear-facing for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32" for an easy transition from car to stroller
• Product 2: 4-position adjustable base helps ensure an accurate install and helps keep baby comfortable as he or she grows
• Product 2: Easy-to-read level indicator helps eliminate guesswork from the installation process, so you can feel confident it’s installed correctly
• Product 2: Compatible with current Graco Infant car seat models. Easy installation of stay-in-car base using LATCH system
• Product 2: Graco ProtectPlus Engineered: a combination of the most rigorous crash tests that helps to protect your child in frontal, side, rear & rollover crashes; additional testing based on the New Car Assessment Program and for extreme car interior temperatures

• Enjoy face-to-face smiles by raising the Slide2Me seat or infant car seat to one of three height positions to find just the right ride as baby grows
• Reversible stroller seat can face parent or the world, for just the right ride as baby grows
• 3 strollers in 1: Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Pramette, and Toddler Stroller to stroll from infant to toddler
• Includes the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, rear-facing for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32" for an easy transition from car to stroller
• Parent's tray with cup holders provides extra convenience on the go

• 4-position adjustable base helps ensure an accurate install and helps keep baby comfortable as he or she grows
• Easy-to-read level indicator helps eliminate guesswork from the installation process, so you can feel confident it’s installed correctly
• Compatible with current Graco Infant car seat models. Easy installation of stay-in-car base using LATCH system
• Graco ProtectPlus Engineered: a combination of the most rigorous crash tests that helps to protect your child in frontal, side, rear & rollover crashes; additional testing based on the New Car Assessment Program and for extreme car interior temperatures
• Create your own travel system with any Graco stroller through a one-step secure attachment

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Product Description

Graco Modes Nest Travel System, Includes Baby Stroller with Height Adjustable Reversible Seat, Pram Mode, Lightweight Aluminum Frame and SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, Norah The Graco Modes Nest Travel System makes it easy to stay connected with your little one by bringing baby closer than ever. Raise the Slide2Me height-adjustable seat or infant car seat to bring your baby closer for face-to-face smiles and precious interactions on everyday strolls. This 3-in-1 stroller can be used as an Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Pramette, and Toddler Stroller. Adjust the stroller seat or your infant car seat to any of three height positions and choose parent-facing or forward-facing mode to find just the right ride for your little one. Modes Nest Travel System includes the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, rear-facing from 4-35 lb, and the stroller seat converts to infant pramette mode for comfortable strolls with baby from day one. An expandable storage basket creates even more space for parent and baby essentials. Every ride is smooth and convenient with the lightweight aluminum frame and one-step, self-standing fold. Extra touches such as a leatherette handle, removable cup holders, and a large canopy with peekaboo window ensure comfort every day. With Modes Nest Travel System, you'll be strolling together, closer than ever. Graco SnugRide Lite Infant Car Seat Base (SnugRide Lite) If you have more than one car, consider an extra infant car seat base for seamless transitions. Leave your base permanently installed in your car and keep your other base for dad or grandma's car. The Graco SnugRide Lite Infant Car Seat Base features 4-position adjust and easy-to-read level indicator to help ensure an accurate install. This base pairs perfectly with any Graco Infant Car Seat through a one-step secure attachment. It is Graco ProtectPlus Engineered to help protect in frontal, side, rear, and rollover crashes, providing extra peace of mind about your little one's safety.

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Modes™ Nest DLX Travel System

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• Enjoy face-to-face smiles by raising the Slide2Me™ seat or infant car seat to one of three height positions to find just the right ride as baby grows
• Reversible stroller seat can face parent or the world, for just the right ride as baby grows
• 3 strollers in 1: Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Pramette, and Toddler Stroller to stroll from infant to toddler
• Includes the Graco® SnugRide® SnugLock™ 35 DLX Infant Car Seat, rear-facing for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32" for an easy transition from car to stroller
• Expandable extra-large storage basket means more room for parent and baby essentials

Product Details

Description.

• Toddler seat converts to infant pramette mode, for comfortable strolls with baby
• Lightweight travel system with aluminum frame
• One-step self-standing fold for easy storage
• Stylish leatherette stroller handle ensures a smooth grip
• Child's tray with cup holder to store baby's essentials removes easily to help your child climb in and out of the stroller
• Removable parent cup holder attaches to the stroller frame, for refreshments on the go
• Full-sized canopy with peekaboo window keeps your child shaded and lets you check in on him or her with ease
• Multi-position reclining seat ensures baby's comfort
• Stroller holds child up to 50 lb for years of strolling together
• Convertible 3- or 5-point harness grows with your child, with harness covers for added comfort

Specifications

• Color: Raven
• Model#: 2173823
• Stroller Depth: 38.07 in
• Stroller Width: 26.77 in
• Stroller Weight: 21.96 lb
• Stroller Height: 41.85 in
• Product Width: 21.96 in
• Product Height: 41.85 in
• Product Depth: 26.77 in

Recommended Use

Product instructions, care & maintenance.

• CLEANING SEAT PAD: To clean seat pad, spot clean using mild soap and warm water
• CLEANING HARNESS: Surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth. Do not immerse harness straps or latch strap in water.
• CLEANING HARDGOODS: Metal and plastic parts may be cleaned with mild soap & cool water CLEANING BODY SUPPORT *on select models: Wash removable body support in cold water on delicate cycle and line dry
• WHEEL MAINTENANCE: Use light oil if wheels squeak

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• Modes™ Nest DLX Travel System Reviews - page 2
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Rookie Moms

Pregnancy > Parenthood

The Graco Modes Nest Travel System: A Versatile and Budget-Friendly Option for New Parents

• Pinterest 25

I don’t know about you, but when I was expecting my first baby, finding the perfect stroller felt like the most daunting task! There are so many strollers out there and it’s hard to know exactly what will work for your family.

My little piece of advice… always start out with a reliable and versatile travel system. Travel systems are typically able to adapt as your baby (and family) grow. The Graco Modes Nest Travel System is an amazing option that does just that. I’ve been using the stroller over the last month so that I could get a good handle on what I do and don’t like about it and now I’m here to let you in on what I’ve found!

Graco Modes Nest Review

To make the long story short, I was very impressed with this stroller. It comes with many of the bells and whistles of a luxury stroller but has a much more digestible price tag . I think the easiest way to break it all down for you is through a pros and cons list, which I’ve done below! But, first things first, here are the basics.

• Travel System includes: the Graco Modes Nest stroller base, toddler seat (which converts to the pramette mode), the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, and car seat base
• Weight Max: Up to 50 Lbs, Infant Car Seat from 4-35 lbs
• Height-adjustable seat
• Convertible 3- or 5-point harness
• One-step self-standing fold
• Snack tray and parent cup holder included

Pros of the Graco Modes Nest Travel System

You Get 3 Strollers in 1!

The quality that makes the Graco Modes Nest Travel System stand out is that it has many configurations and can be used with an infant car seat, as a pramette (basically a bassinet), or as your typical toddler stroller.

This travel system not only adapts as your baby grows, but they’ve made it so easy to change it from one mode to the next. I was honestly shocked at how easy it was to flip the toddler sear from forward-facing to rear-facing. It was also a breeze to click the car seat directly into the base, which is how I would use the stroller the most frequently in the infant stage.

This versatility ensures that you won’t need to invest in multiple strollers or travel systems as your child grows, saving you both time and money.

But wait, there’s more! On top of the many configurations, this stroller also has a Slide2Me height-adjustable seat. With the simple push of 2 buttons, you can move the seat or attached car seat up and down. It’s really nice to be able to bring your baby closer to you when necessary!

Comes with an Amazing Car Seat

Safety is, of course, a top priority when choosing a travel system , and the Graco Modes Nest Travel System doesn’t disappoint. It comes with the top-of-the-line Graco Snugride 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat and Base. It comes in at just about 7 lbs, which is so nice because no one wants to lug around. abulky car seat.

With its lightweight design and easy installation, it’s a breeze to use. It even has a 4-position adjustable base making it easier to install and ensuring it fits like a glove in any car.

Most importantly, it is Graco ProtectPlus Engineered which means it has passed the most rigorous crash tests.

Budget Friendly

I wasn’t expecting to say this, but after having tried the Graco Modes Nest Travel System out I truly believe it is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Uppababy Vista.

While the Uppababy Vista certainly has its merits, the hefty price tag can be a deterrent for many new parents. The Graco Modes Nest, on the other hand, provides an excellent balance of quality, functionality, and affordability.

It comes in at a price of around $400 for the stroller and infant car seat, which is a steal! Especially considering it does not compromise safety or convenience.

Prioritizes Convenience

Speaking of convenience… when it comes to ease of use, the Graco Modes Nest Travel System shines. The stroller features a one-step, self-standing fold, making it incredibly convenient for busy parents on the go. No more struggling to fold and store a bulky stroller while juggling a baby and a million other things.

The stroller’s lightweight design further adds to its portability and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through crowded spaces or maneuver around tight corners.

Luxury Features & Accessories

Comfort is another aspect where the Graco Modes Nest Travel System truly excels. The stroller features a spacious seat with multiple recline positions, allowing your child to sit or nap in a position that suits them best.

I also love the Pramette mode! It offers a cozy and safe sleeping environment for newborns, perfect for strolling around the neighborhood or enjoying outdoor activities.

As for accessories, the stroller’s large canopy provides excellent protection from the sun, ensuring your little one stays cool and comfortable even on hot summer days. It also comes with a snack tray and a parent cup holder. The cup holder fits my 40 oz Yeti so it would definitely fit the ever-popular Stanley! And, it has an expandable extra large storage basket that you can grab things out of from the front or back.

Cons of the Graco Modes Nest Travel System

Lacking Some High-End Stroller Qualities

Let’s keep it real and talk about a few things you might want to consider before choosing the Graco Modes Nest Travel System. While it’s a functional and versatile option, it may not have ALL the fancy bells and whistles you’d find in higher-end travel systems. It also doesn’t seem quite as durable.

If you’re all about advanced features like super-smooth suspension, off-road capabilities, or high-tech add-ons, you might want to explore other options that cater to those specific needs.

Does Not Have Double Stroller Capability

Unlike some travel systems, there are no attachments available to turn the Graco Modes Nest into a double stroller. If you are only planning on having one child or know that you will get a different stroller as your family grows, this isn’t really an issue.

If you do want a stroller that grows from single to double, I recommend checking out the Graco Modes Nest2Grow Stroller. It has many of the same features but can grow with your family.

Not the Best Option for Short Parents

One thing I would have really loved to see in this stroller would be handlebar adjustment. I am only 5’3″, so quite short! The handlebar height was fine while pushing but it was a bit difficult to get my arms over the handlebars to adjust the seat height and to fold the stroller.

I really believe the Graco Modes Nest Travel System is a game-changer for new moms who don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on a stroller. Its impressive versatility, safety features, budget-friendly price, and overall convenience make it a clear winner in the world of travel systems. Whether you’re running errands, going for a stroll in the park, or embarking on a family adventure, the Graco Modes Nest has proven to be an invaluable companion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Graco modes become double?

There are no attachments available to turn the Graco Modes Nest into a double stroller. However, the Graco Modes Nest2Grow Stroller can go from a single to a double.

What is the weight limit for Graco modes car seat?

The car seat that comes with the Graco Modes Travel System is the SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, which has a weight limit of 4-35 lbs.

Does the Graco modes stroller fold up?

Yes, the Graco Modes Stroller folds up. It can fold up with the toddler seat attached and it can stand on its own.

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• Independent Trave...

Independent Travel to Moscow and St. Petersburg

My wife and I have traveled independently to many European countries and, after reading many of the comments in this forum, feel like we may be able to do so in Moscow and St. Petersburg as well, although we feel somewhat less comfortable than the other countries where we have traveled in Europe.

My biggest question is how much we will miss by visiting the main sites without a tour guide. In the other European countries we have visited on our own we have been comfortable and satisfied with the level of knowledge we have gained by studying and visiting on our own, although we believe a tour guide or tour company in any country would normally be able to provide greater insight than visiting a site on our own, but about in Moscow and St. Petersburg?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Unless you speak at least some Russian and read the alphabet it would be difficult without a guide. Very few signs in English especially in Moscow. Also not too many people speak English there.

I visited St Petersburg last Autumn for a protracted period , and did not find it anymore daunting than any other European city . As Ilja says , learning the Cyrillic alphabet is a big plus . I also found that it was fairly easy to grasp . It will , among other things , enable you to read signs with relative ease . I would answer the main part or your question ( about tour guides ) thus - I am not enamored of tour guides or tours. While I only use a tour under duress ( A sites rules prohibiting an independent visit - ie Glasgow School of Art , Municipal House in Prague , etc ) . Doing your own preparation and homework is the best way , in my opinion . My wife and I ventured through St Petersburg with nary a concern ,and made two day trips outside of the central district ( one was twenty five miles away , and no English speakers in sight ) Figuring out the logistical details , did not present any difficulties . While I never use tours , I am an inveterate eavesdropper , have done so many times , and find , that on balance , the information that they impart is fairly elementary . If you want greater detail , they are unlikely to supply it . I also prefer to go at my own pace , not being rushed and being able to dwell on things that most other visitors barely give a passing glance . If you are interested , let me know . I would be happy to provide you with information that will enable you to travel independently

Thank you, Steven. I am encouraged by your comments and feel the same way you do about tour groups. We are very much willing to prepare in advance and learn the basics of the Cyrillic alphabet to help us have a better experience.

I would be very interested in learning more about your experience in Russia and receiving any additional information you can provide on independent travel there, starting perhaps with obtaining the visa.

I am not opposed to hiring a private or small group guide for a specific site or for a day trip outside St Petersburg and Moscow, but, like you said, I much prefer the freedom of staying at places as long or short as I want and seeing the sites that interest me most. For example, neither my wife nor I are big into shopping, yet most tour itineraries leave afternoon time for just that. Not interested!

Please provide whatever you may feel would be helpful for us.

Russ , I see you are quite near San Francisco - you can start by looking at the VISA procedure , it's fairly straightforward . Since there is a consulate in San Francisco - look here http://www.consulrussia.org/eng/visa-sub1.html

And here - http://ils-usa.com/main.php

Having always traveled independently, we thought we could do a better job than any tour. How misguided (pun intended) we were. Now that we have had the experience of having someone native to the area walk us around and explain things through a personal perspective we realize how much we missed. For St. Petersburg I highly recommend http://www.peterswalk.com/tours.html . This is not a traditional guided tour, but an opportunity to receive some orientation to the area as well as insight into the "Russian soul". I think if you did this upon arrival the rest of your time would be much more meaningful. We really liked the http://www.pushka-inn.com . The location is superb (just around the corner from the Hermitage square), the rooms lovely, the included breakfast at the restaurant next door ample and overall an excellent value. We used this company to get our visa: https://www.passportvisasexpress.com/site/san_francisco_customer_service Note that it costs about the same for a 3-year visa as a one-year, and you never know if you might want to return within that more extended window of time. It is not cheap, so factor that into your planning.

If you like traveling without a guide in other countries and find this satisfying, the same will be true in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Of course it's not either/or - you can certainly take a guided walk or boat tour, for instance.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of learning Cyrillic if you're going on your own. The book I used was Teach Yourself Beginner's Russian Script, which was great. It breaks down the alphabet into letters that are the same as English, letters that look the same but are pronounced differently, etc. It's out of print, but you can get used copies on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Teach-Yourself-Beginners-Russian-Script/dp/0071419861/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459701143&sr=8-2&keywords=teach+yourself+russian+script

Russia is indeed a bit more "foreign" than say, Italy. However, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, I found enough English to be able to get by. Many restaurants had English menus and/or English speaking staff, for instance. This was most emphatically not true in Vladimir and Suzdal (two cities in the Golden Ring outside Moscow). I went with my sister, a Russian speaker, and if she hadn't been there, I would have been in big trouble. So, if you want to see places outside these two big cities, use a guided tour (even if just for that part). Also, Moscow and St. Petersburg are huge cities. Coming from New York, I wasn't intimidated, but those not used to a megacity may not be so cavalier (even I found them overwhelming at times, especially Moscow).

I found both Lonely Planet and Rough Guide to be helpful, and both to have various errors. Look at both, buy whichever one has a more recent edition, and then be prepared to have to discard some of the advice therein. Also, these places change more quickly than places in Western Europe. Be very careful of outdated advice. For instance, I was there in 2001 and 2010, so I won't give you any specifics on getting a visa - that changes constantly.

Just as a teaser, two things I saw and loved that I doubt would be included in any escorted tour are the Gorky House in Moscow (an Art Nouveau wonder) and the Sheremyetov Palace in St. Petersburg (it's now a museum of musical instruments, and the decor is amazing, particularly in the Etruscan Room).

Thanks for all the good advice. Any additional thoughts are welcomed.

One of history's seminal works pertaining to Russian history and culture and a MUST for anyone contemplating a visit or simply interested , is this fine work from 1980 - http://www.amazon.com/Land-Firebird-The-Beauty-Russia/dp/096441841X

This is about you and not about Petersburg. Do you like guided tours? We don't and didn't find that a guide added to our experience in China where we did hire private guides mostly for the logistics; it was easy to have someone drive us places. But once at a site, we didn't need the guide. I felt the same way about our 9 nights in Petersburg. We did hire a guide for the trip to the Catherine Palace again for the ease of logistics for us Olds. Here is our visit: https://janettravels.wordpress.com/2016/01/23/an-easy-trip-to-the-catherine-palace/ There are also snapshots of the Church on Spilled Blood in this photo journal. Having someone pick us up at the apartment and get us in without line ups and shepherd us through the palace steering clear of the tour groups was lovely. But we didn't need commentary because we can read and prepare.

You certainly don't need a guide for the Hermitage (we spent 4 days there), the Russian Museum, the Kazan Cathedral or Church on Spilled Blood or the Faberge Museum. We enjoyed a number of self guided walking tours including a couple from Rick Steves guidebooks. We took the canal cruise suggested by RS that had an English commentator. I would not take one without that as you will be totally clueless. The commentator was not all that good but at least we had some idea what we were seeing. So for people like us who like to do our own thing and can read a guidebook and don't particularly like to be led about, a tour is not needed. If you enjoy tour groups, then go for it. Petersburg is easy to negotiate. It helps if you can read the cyrillic alphabet and it is also useful to have the google translate ap on your phone. We found ourselves translating packages in grocery stores with it and the occasional museum sign or menu. I have one food I need to avoid and so it was handy to have the translator to talk with waiters (I could either show them the sentence, or play it for them or play it to myself and then repeat it to the waiter -- that all worked well)

Dear Russ, I cannot help you with Moscow, but about four years ago, my husband and I went to St Petersburg on our own. But, we did use a private guide for 4 half days. We both feel that our guide absolutely made our trip (we stayed 6 or 7 nights). We used a company owned by Tatyana Chiurikova, www.tour-stpetersburg.com I cannot say enough good things about her and our experience. I emailed her and we worked out a schedule/ sights that was tailored to our interests. She also offered some recommendations, which we took. The guide will meet you at your hotel. And frequently, at certain places, with the guide, we were able to skip the long entrance lines. We had an half day driving tour of the city (car, driver, & guide). You are taken to & go in places such as Peter & Paul Fortress, some of the cathedrals, etc. We had a half day with the guide at the Hermitage which ensured that we would see the major sights there. And, of course, you can stay after your guide leaves or return another day. Also, we had the guide for Peterhof (a must & go by boat) and Catherine's Palace. I hope that you will go to the website. As I said, our guide made our trip. I am positive that we would have missed quite a bit on our own everyday. And I'm sure we would have wasted a lot of time trying to get to various place.This was the best of both worlds, a guide where needed and plenty of time on our own. Whatever you do, I'm sure that you will love St Petersburg! Ashley

I am curious about the lines as we encountered no lines on our trip -- but it was in September. We got tickets for the Hermitage at machines and skipped those lines and our guide for the Catherine Palace which was our only guided experience (as noted before, chosen for the logistics of getting there) had arranged tickets and we didn't have a line, but then we also didn't see lines. We did not find lines at any other site.

Both Moscow and St Petersburg I've done on my own, that is together with the Dear Partner. I can't remember any problem getting where we wanted to go. The Metro systems are well signed, and with a little exercise and patience you can recognize the station names. With a good map and a good guide - we had the Rough Guides - that part of the logistics is solved. The language is a major problem, but the usual tricks of pointing, looking helpless, and making a joke of it all do wonders. I would hate to be led by a guide, but for others it is a comfortable thought.

We also did both cities on our own. I found the DK Eyewitness guide for Moscow has the best map. I used the one from our library (kept the book at home). Took the smaller RS book for St. Petersburg ( his book on northern cities). His map and restaurant ideas were all good. We also downloaded the Google maps in our Android Samsung tablets/phones for both cities and then could get directions to any place we typed in. The blue ball guided us everywhere. I'm sure we missed somethings by not having a guide, but we just enjoy walking around and getting a sense of a place. If you like art, The Hermitage is great. We went 3 times and still missed alot. In St. Peterburg we stayed at the 3 Mosta which we loved (quite and not far from the Church of Spilled Blood.) We also loved the Georgian food in both cities. There's a great Georgian restaurant near the 3 Mosta hotel. We're now in Belarus- very scenic. Enjoy your trip!!

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Travel hacks for your Moscow business trip

Moscow has three main international airports: Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo and Vnukovo. From all of them can you can get to the city via the Aeroexpress Train or taxi.

Please follow the signs to get to the Aeroexpress Station. If you have any trouble, go to the nearest Information Stand – the attendants there speak English, and surely will be able to assist you. The Aeroexpress Trains will take you to one of Moscow’s train stations, depending on which airport you leave from. Travel time is about 30 minutes. Tickets cost 340 rubles (7 euros or $10), and you can buy them from a vending machine just before train departure (credit cards are accepted), or to save time, buy your tickets in advance from the Aeroexpress website.

If you prefer, you can grab a taxi. You will need to order your vehicle in advance; otherwise, you run the risk of becoming a victim of the privateer taxi drivers, who will aggressively offer you their services as soon as you leave the arrivals area. Ignore them.

http://www.taxi-pilot.ru/eng/taxi_in_moscow.html

http://www.9995556.ru/about (possibility of renting a car with driver)

http://www.womantaxi.ru/ (female taxis – drivers are women)

http://www.moscowminitaxi.ru (possibility of renting a car with a driver for a day or longer)

Bankcards and money

The official currency of Russia is the ruble, and payment in other currencies is not possible. You can change your money into rubles right at the airport, but not at very favorable rates. If you need cash to pay for your taxi (the average price from the airport to the city center is 800–1,200 rubles (17–25 euros or $ 24-35), and credit cards are not accepted), then change a small amount at the airport. After that, exchange the rest at a more favorable rate in any bank in the city. In Moscow, almost everywhere you can pay by credit card, with the exception of some small shops, subway ticket offices (!) and most museums. However, it is always best to have cash in your wallet, because if a bankcard terminal is not working at a store, you will learn this only when you reach the checkout counter: posting announcements about such problems is not done in Moscow. In addition, if the seller does not have change for a large bill, he/she will likely ask you to solve this problem yourself, in which case you will have to resort to using your bankcard.

Getting around in the city

Ideally, if your office and hotel are located not far from each other in the city center, then you can walk between the two places. The territory of Moscow is huge, and trying to get to faraway places on foot is impossible. Alternatives are the Metro (subway) and taxis. Pros of the former are the speed and relative cheapness, cons are the intolerable stuffiness in the railcars and the huge number of passengers. The pros of the latter mode are obvious, but all these are nullified in monstrous Moscow traffic jams during rush hour. Rule number one: plan your meetings in advance and choose the appropriate times and modes of transportation.

By the way, along with the “official” taxis, people in Moscow often use private “motorists.” You can flag down a car anywhere in the city, just go to the roadside and raise your hand in a characteristic gesture. The average price in the city is about 300 rubles (6 euros or $9). Keep in mind that when you travel with a private “motorist,” you are responsible for your own safety. Phone numbers of emergency services are given in the box.

Translation problems

Contrary to the opinion of Muscovites, in Moscow very few people can speak normal English. Yes, they will be able to explain to you how to get somewhere in English, but not much more than that. If you will need to converse a lot, it is better to use the services of a personal translator. This service is provided by translation bureaus and specialized agencies. Here we list some of them:

http://www.primavista.ru/eng

http://moscowtime24.com/services/interpretation-services.html

http://www.welcome-moscow.com/

http://interpretermoscow.com/en/

Where to work

Moscow has no shortage of restaurants for holding business meetings. However, as far as good work spaces go, the city offers limited opportunities. If you need to rent an office for a few days, with all the necessary equipment, then take advantage of the co-working centers. Recently, this concept has gained a lot of popularity in Moscow, so it will not be hard to find something suitable: for example, a strict office for a serious meeting in the business district of the MIBC Moscow-City, or the so-called creative space for creative work near a park.

By the way, socket types C and F of 220 V are used in Russia, so do not forget the 220-volt adapter for your laptop.

Co-working places:

http://coworkstation.ru/

http://flacon.ru/space/coworking/

http://ditelegraph.com/

Emergency numbers

In Russia, a common three-digit number system is used to call different services in an emergency: Ambulance – 103, Police – 102, rescuers and firefighters – 101, 112.

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