These words by the 19th-century poet Fyodor Tyutchev still resonate today. Russia is beyond comprehension; it can only be felt. And to do that, you have to come to Russia, see Russia, travel through Russia. Our vast country covers more than 17 million square kilometers. Such an expanse is barely imaginable, especially for Europeans. The day breaks in the east, on the Chu-kotka peninsula, nine hours before Moscow. To travel by train across the country takes about a week; by air-ten hours. In that time, the plane flies over tundra, taiga, steppe and desert. Russia’s natural landscape is extraordinary, and in many respects unique. It is hardly surprising that the country has 25 national parks and 84 nature reserves. Over half the country’s territory is forest, and one of its most romantic trees is the birch, which has become Russia’s national symbol. And you do not want to felt. And to do that, you have to come to Russia, see Russia, travel through Russia. Our vast country covers more than than The day breaks in the east, on the Chu-kotka peninsula, nine hours before Moscow. To travel by train across the country takes about a week; by air- In that time, the plane flies over tundra, taiga, steppe and desert. Russia’s natural landscape is extraordinary, and in many respects unique. It is hardly surprising that the country has 25 national parks and 84 nature reserves. Over half the country’s territory is forest, and one of its most romantic trees is the birch, which has become Russia’s national symbol.