Skyscrapers, steel doors, sweltering rooms – living in a Russian residence can be quite a culture shock for some. These are the things that take the most getting used to.

Recently Vladimir Putin presented Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel with a bouquet, but his gesture was called offensive by some sections of the press. The Kremlin responded by saying it was a Russian tradition to give flowers to women - even if they are the leaders of countries - and Putin loves tradition, as these snaps prove.

Solitude has become attractive, because it can be advantageous. For everyone – men and women.

This settlement has preserved its medieval downtown, and today it’s a popular destination for travelers.