Lifestyles of the Russian people have been different from those of us in the West. Free time in summers might be spent at "dachas," country homes where vegetables and flowers are tended to; more affluent Russians head off to the Black Sea. And then there is canoeing, a sport naturally suited to Russia with its vast expanses of forests, lakes, and rivers.

Canoeing expeditions generally last at least a week, and often up to twelve days. There is more than meets the eye with this sport, and experts in the field know precisely what equipment to bring along, what routes to follow, how to contend with weather situations, etc. Groups of tourists may be organized in sizes from eight to twenty, are provided with all essential equipment (tents, sleeping bags, camping utensils, etc.), and are led by an expert guide. Canoeing participants need only to bring with them warm clothing (for the occasional cold nights), rain gear, two pairs of socks (including one long pair), rubber boots (and perhaps sneakers), and a coat for windy conditions. Food is included as part of expeditions, although participants may be required to help in building campfires and meal preparations. Nights are spent in tents.

Since canoeing groups are limited in size, reservations are accepted on a first come, first served basis. The following are two expeditions that are scheduled for this summer. Other expeditions shorter in length (say five to seven days) may be organized as demand might require, and so indicate when you might desire to participate in canoeing and perhaps to some degree particular wishes can be accommodated.

Twelve-day Expedition on the northern shores of Lake Lagoda:
Group sizes: 8-16 people
Typical weather conditions: 16-20 degrees Celsius (61-68 degrees Fahrenheit)
Water temperature: 14-18 degrees Celsius (57-64 degrees Fahrenheit)

Expedition begins and ends at the small village of Berezova and winds its way through the coastline of the northern shores of Lake Lagoda, crossing through shoreline islands. The shore of Lake Lagoda is either marked by precipitous, rocky cliffs or by picturesque meadows. The multitudinous, uninhabited islands of Lake Lagoda offer visitors solitude and pristine beauty. Opportunities for fishing, and in the last half of summer berry and mushroom picking.

Cost: 12 days x $40 = $480 per person.
Dates expedition offered: TO BE DETERMINED

Twelve-day Expedition in the environs of Lake Vyoska
Group sizes: 12-20 people
Typical weather conditions: 16-20 degrees Celsious (61-68 degrees Fahrenheit)
Water temperatire: 16-18 degrees Celsius (61-64 degrees Fahrenheit)

Expedition follows a circular path through Lake Vyoska and neighboring lakes of Lybimovskaya, Balahanovskaya, Spokoynaya Glad, and through connecting channels. The remnants of abandoned villages can be visited. Opportunites for fishing and berry and mushroom picking.

Cost: 12 days x $40 = $480 per person.
Dates expedition offered: TO BE DETERMINED

For canoeing expeditions, an additional $180 gives participants a double room in Saint Petersburg (with bath) for three days, pickup/return to train station/airport, and an individualized tour (with English-speaking guide) of any one museum (Hermitage, Russian Museum, Peterhof, etc.) for two persons.

If the above two expeditions do not fit into travel plans, indicate desired dates for canoeing and if there is enough demand from other tourists other expeditions may be organized.