Moscow

8 August- early train to Moscow this morning. Just under 4 hours on a fast train. Train very comfortable- not much to see on the way- water, fields, little villages. Most excitement was being mistaken for Russian at the train station- some woman foolishly asked me for directions. Also got to say Nyet and now know 'thank you' in Russian. Progressing slowly. Does feel good at least being able to thank people in their own language. Hotel again very central and looks to be in upmarket area. In fact I feel like I have been teleported to Double Bay times 10. Never seen so many brand name shops all in the one place. Place full of youngish Russians- skeletal young women and generally much larger men driving expensive black cars. Lots of restaurants and cafes as well- looks like we could get a decent cup of coffee around here. Even found an English language bookshop. Number of security guards around as well and some guards/police with some impressive hardware. Feels a bit like a gated community. We are in the inner circle geographically and can walk to the Kremlin so probably no surprise. Are some impressive looking buildings around here- very ornate- look mainly like banks and Government offices. Some buildings with huge arches in the middle where the horse and carriage used to go so is also an old area we assume. Feel I need to read up on Moscow a bit more. Feels very different to St Petersburg from very brief acquaintance. St Petersburg seems more faded grandeur. Have half day tour tomorrow of the Kremlin and its environs . Trying local restaurant tonight- may finally go for beef Strogonov- seems like we should.