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Nicole Riley- Owner

Hi, I'm Nicole Riley founder and owner of Riley Premier Travel. My career in travel started out of a genuine passion for planning and traveling. I enjoy every stage of the planning process and love helping others make their travel dreams a reality. With my agency, no detail of your trip is overlooked, and you’ll always receive the best value. 

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Thank you for allowing Riley Premier Travel to assist you on your upcomig travel.  We will work to get you the best price available. Please fill out the Travel Inquiry Form in its entirety, and you will be contacted within 24-48 hours to discuss your Itinerary in Detail. 

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• Name (as on Passport) and DOB of any additional Passengers . Copy of Passports will be needed and emailed to [email protected] *
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Riley Premier Travel Terms & Conditions

We are Riley Premier Travel and are excited to help you with your travel needs. Please get familiar with our Terms & Conditions.

The following terms and conditions apply to any trip booked with Riley Premier Travel (hereinafter referred to as “RPT” “our” “us”).  By booking a trip with RPT you (hereinafter referred to as, “you” “your” or “traveler”) acknowledge that you (i) are 21 years of age or older, (ii) understand and accept these terms and conditions (the “Terms and Conditions”) and (iii) are entering into a contractual relationship with RPT.

Price Policy All trip prices are as posted on the RPT website at the time of booking and do not include airfare.  Trips are priced per person, based on shared occupancy.  Single rooms may be available at an additional cost and the prices will be listed where applicable.  Prior to booking, prices are subject to change without notice.  If you are using our payment plan option, you must submit a non-refundable, non-transferable, per person deposit (equivalent to the first month’s installment payment or other amount determined by RPT in its sole discretion) at the time of booking to reserve your space.

Traveler understands and agrees to satisfy their balance in full no less than 60 days prior to the date of arrival. Should Traveler fail to submit the final payment 60 days out, a 10% late fee will be assessed each day based on the original amount.

If Traveler fails to submit payment in full by 5 days prior to the date of departure, RPT reserves the right to cancel booking and retain 100% of funds paid.

RPT will notify Traveler in writing of the date & frequency of the scheduled payments.

Credit Card Payment/Processing RPT uses a third-party credit card processing company to provide Traveler with a convenient way of submitting payment. Traveler agrees to update Company’s records in the event that Travelers credit/debit card/bank account is closed, expires, or is no longer active for whatever reason. Traveler may contact RPT directly to provide updated payment information: [email protected]

Declined Payment In the event that payment is attempted by RPT and is subsequently declined, Company will provide Traveler with a courtesy email notifying Traveler of the declined payment method. If the past due payment is not paid within three (3) days of its due date, there will be a 10% late fee assessed for that interval’s payment.

If payment has not been submitted within seven (7) days of the first payment attempt, RPT will cancel the Travelers booking and & retain all paid funds.

Refunds All payment to RPT is non-refundable and non-transferrable. This is because RPT has contractual agreements with our hotel, airlines, transportation, and other vendors that will not allow us to obtain any refunds.

Payment Disputes Traveler agrees to not file a payment dispute or chargeback through their bank/financial institution and to instead utilize her travel insurance in the event that she can no longer attend the planned trip.

Traveler agrees to not file a chargeback in violation of RPT’s Refund Policy. In the event that a chargeback is requested and/or processed, Traveler agrees to repay RPT for the full amount and be responsible for any fees incurred in recouping payment, including attorney’s fees.

Passport and Travel Documents Traveler is responsible for securing a valid passport. Upon signing up to attend a planned trip, Traveler will send via e-mail a photocopy of their passport, displaying the expiration date. Ninety (90) days prior to the Date of Arrival, Traveler will send an updated copy of their passport.

Some destination countries require a tourist visa to be secured before entering the country. Traveler understands that it is their responsibility to secure the visa and will do so at the time of purchasing Traveler’s airline ticket(s).

If a visa is required for your planned trip, Traveler agrees to purchase their airline ticket and obtain a visa within thirty (30) days of booking their trip.

It is the responsibility of the Traveler to ensure that there are adequate amounts of passport and visa pages within their passport booklet, in accordance with the requirements of the planned trip destination. RPT will not be liable in the event that Traveler fails to ensure that Traveler’s travel documents are in order.

Travel Insurance Each Traveler is required to purchase a travel insurance policy within fourteen (14) days of booking their planned trip. The insurance policy must include a minimum of $100,000 of coverage and should cover emergency transportation/evacuation and trip cancellation in the amount of the planned trip costs, at minimum. Traveler will provide RPT with a digital copy of their travel insurance policy within fourteen

(14) days of booking their planned trip.

RPT may include travel insurance with your planned trip.

Purchase of Airline Tickets Traveler is responsible for purchasing their airline ticket to the origination city of the planned trip. RPT is not responsible for any delays caused by the airline, missed flights due to Traveler error, or otherwise.

Traveler agrees to purchase their airline ticket as soon as possible, no later than 120 days prior to the Date of Arrival. Traveler will provide RPT with a digital copy of their airline reservation 120 days prior to the Date of Arrival.

One (1) week prior to the Date of Arrival, Traveler will provide an updated digital copy of their travel itinerary to RPT.

In the event that Traveler arrives prior to the planned trip Date of Arrival, transportation from the airport will not be provided by RPT. RPT will provide Traveler with a window of time (based on local time) during which transportation will be provided.

Covid-19 An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present.

COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and people with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

By booking a trip with Riley Premier Travel, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. (Your company name) will not be held responsible or liable if you or your party get Covid-19.  We recommend getting Travel Insurance that covers Covid-19.

Alcohol + Substance Abuse Riley Premier Travel does not, under any circumstances, accept responsibility for any damages that result to yourself or anyone else due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or any other substances. We cannot take any responsibility for the effect drinks or other substances may have on people.

As such, we do not accept liability for any loss, damage, death, or inconvenience that abusing alcohol or other substances may cause you.

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How to Book a Tour: 1. Choose your tour. 2. Fill out the Reservation form under the Reservations Tab. 3. Submit your deposit (Via mail or call us with your credit card number). 4.Once we reveive your deposit and Reservaton Form, we will mail you an invoice/tour confirmation. 5. Trip Documents will be mailed out 3 weeks prior to departure. What's Included in a Riley Tour: Round trip transportation via Riley Bus Service Hotel accommodations Meals as listed All admissions to attractions mentioned Baggage handling for one suitcase per person All taxes and tips in connection with tour features Services of a tour director TO VIEW OUR TOURS, SELECT THE SEASON AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE

DEPARTURE POINTS

We have many departure points available for tour passengers. We are working on securing parking at locations where it is not available. We suggest you contact our office to find the most convient departure point that is a available for your tour if it is not listed below. INSIDE SECURE PARKING: Riley Tours Office - Murdock, MN OUTSIDE PARKING: Burger King - Hutchinson, MN AmericInn - St. Cloud, MN AmerVU Inn - Waconia, MN Holiday Inn - Alexandria, MN Crow River Senior Center - St. Michael, MN Walmart - Watertown, SD (Only if there is 6 more people signed up for this pick-up point, if there is not, travelers will get picked up in Murdock) PICK-UP WITHOUT PARKING: Target - Plymouth, MN Target - Minnetonka, MN Target - St. Paul, MN Lunds & Byerlys - Eden Prairie, MN ADDITIONAL PICK-UP INFORMATION: Additional departure points are scheduled based upon the tour route and will be on your itinerary. Courtesy transportation will be provided up request for ten or more passengers departing from one location. PRE-TOUR LODGING: Upon request, lodging for the night before the tour departs will be provided at a cost of $50-$100 per room depending on location for travelers who live more than 50 miles from the nearest designated departure point. For travelers who live within 50 miles of the nearest designated departure point, we can help arrange pre-tour lodging for the full cost of the room.

DISCOUNTS & SAVINGS

We at Rileys know that cost really does matter, and although we do our best to keep tour prices affordable, we also offer many ways to save! Whether you are a new customer or a returning one, we've got you covered! NEW CUSTOMER DISCOUNT: Get 5% off your first tour with us! (Not Combinable with the Early Bird Discount--not valid on all tours) EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Receive 5% off your total tour price if you sign up early - see our catalog for details (Not Combinable with the New Customer Discount--not valid on all tours) BIRTHDAY BUCKS: Give us your birthday and we'll send you a birthday card with a Riley Bucks Certificate the month of your birthday! MILEAGE PROGRAM: For each mile you travel on a Riley Tour, you earn miles to be used as a discount credit on a future tour! 5,000 Miles=$50 Off 10,000 miles=$100 off 15,000 miles=$150 off 20,000 miles=$200 off 25,000 miles=$250 off 30,000 miles=$300 off 35,000 miles=$350 off 40,000 miles=$400 off 45,000 miles=$450 off 50,000 miles=$500 off REFER A FRIEND PROGRAM: -Receive a $50 per person credit when you refer a friend to sign up for a tour with us, who is not on our mailing list -Receive a $25 per person credit when you refer a friend to sign up for a tour with us, who is already on our mailing list *Please note that discounts must be applied prior to making your final payment but cannot be used as the depost. No refunds can be made for discounts/credits after you have made your final payment*

TRIP INSURANCE

Riley's offers an optional Travel Protection Plan for every tour. This coverage can protect you from non-refundable charges and any additional expenses if a illness or an accident prevents you or your partner from going on a tour or leave a tour while it's in progress. This plan is optional and at an additional cost. It is non-refundable. Cost is based on age and tour price. For a quote and/or to enroll please visit: my.travelinsure.com/uma/rileytours

How to book a tour...

Select from any of our interesting tours listed online or in our catalog! 

Go to our reservation page, fill out the form and submit it or fill out a reservation form located in the back of our catalog.   Send the deposit required for your tour or call us with your credit card number (deposit amount is listed on tour page in catalog or on tour page of the website--please download the brochure).   Once we recieve your reservation form and deposit, we will send you a confirmation/invoice with the remaining balance due by the final payment date listed on the invoice (most final payments are due 45 days prior but some are different).   You may cancel your tour for any reason up to 31 days prior to the trips departure, some tours are more--see tour page for cancellation deadline for the tour you are signing up for.

Your tour documents will be mailed to you 21 days prior to departure.  In these documents you will find your Pick-up location and time, an itinerary of your tour, medical forms, luggage tags and other important information about your tour.  Your tour director will call you the week before to introduce themself and answer any questions you may have.  

Once you have chosen your pickup location just show up 20 to 30 minutes before departure time and we will take care of the rest. Enjoy your trip.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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DUI trial marked by allegations of Tallahassee police misconduct ends in guilty verdict

A DUI trial that garnered international attention over allegations that Tallahassee police planted evidence ended with a guilty verdict against the man who was behind the wheel.

Calvin Riley Sr. was convicted Monday on a DUI charge after a two-day trial at the Leon County Courthouse. At the behest of the defense, County Judge Jason Jones opted to drop a charge of driving with a suspended license before the jury got the case.

The guilty verdict, which jurors reached after deliberating less than an hour, marked a major victory for the State Attorney's Office and the Tallahassee Police Department, including the officers who were on scene during Riley’s arrest and Chief Lawrence Revell, who had publicly denied that any misconduct occurred.

It was a swift rebuke of claims made by the Public Defender's Office and Our Tallahassee, a blog run by local political operative Max Herrle that posted a story about the case and edited and narrated police body-cam footage from the arrest. The video alone garnered millions of social-media views last week on the eve of Riley's trial.

State Attorney Jack Campbell praised the prosecution, which was led by Florida State University law student and certified legal intern Emma Hirschy, and the jury, which had to convene for a second day Monday after delays on Friday.

“The totally unfounded and sensational accusations against this officer — clearly the jury saw through the allegation that she had planted anything,” Campbell told the Tallahassee Democrat. “The defendant’s the one who decided to drink. The defendant’s the one who decided to drive. And we’re going to continue to do our business even when people want to hurl allegations at the officer and the criminal justice system in general.”

Public Defender Jessica Yeary gave a prepared statement to reporters after the trial but declined to take questions. She pledged to continue to support Riley and his family “through every next step of this process.”

“While we are disappointed and believe in Mr. Riley and his case, we respect the jury’s verdict,” she said. “I am incredibly proud of our lawyers and our team and the hard work they put in, bringing to light and litigating issues of police misconduct and calling it out when we see it. Without their work, our communities would suffer at the hands of bad police conduct and over-prosecution.”

Officers: Riley had slurred speech, bloodshot eyes

Riley, a 56-year-old barber, was arrested May 7, 2023, after TPD Officer Kiersten Oliver spotted his white Mercedes with its headlights off speeding down South Monroe Street. Officers testified that Riley had slurred speech and bloodshot eyes, fumbled unsuccessfully for his ID and admitted he had just left a bar more than five miles away after having a couple of beers.

During a search of the vehicle, after Riley was placed in handcuffs and put in the back of a squad car, Oliver searched his vehicle and found a small unopened bottle of vodka in the passenger's side. She opened the bottle, breaking the seal in the process, and dumped it out before tossing it back in the passenger seat ― all in view of her body-worn camera.

Another officer, Margaret Mueth, whom Oliver had called to help at the scene, ended up making the arrest and writing the report, which noted both the opened bottle and a cup in the center console that officers said smelled like alcohol.

Mueth took the stand Monday, testifying as Oliver had earlier that Riley was already under arrest on DUI and driving with a suspended license charges when the search happened and the bottle was found.

“Did this bottle, open or not, come into your decision to arrest the defendant for driving under the influence?” Hirschy asked. “No,” Mueth replied.

In her closing argument, Assistant Public Defender Desiree Goodfellow told jurors that the officers who testified “are not credible” and that Oliver lied “from the second she pulled Mr. Riley over until the second she got off that witness stand.” She accused Oliver of using the vodka bottle against Riley – even though the officer was the one who opened it.

“These officers are taking an oath to swear to tell the truth and then these officers are lying,” Goodfellow told jurors. “They did it right there in front of you.”

Hirschy, in her closing, said Oliver never went to other officers to announce that she’d found an open bottle of liquor – which would be key evidence in a DUI case.

“What this boils down to is simple miscommunication,” Hirschy said. “They made a mistake. They both told us that it was a mistake. Every one of us is human, including these two officers. I’m not saying that it was OK to make that mistake, but they made a mistake, they’re honest and they owned up to it.”

Riley sentenced to jail time, probation after DUI conviction

After the verdict, Jones sentenced Riley to six months probation, including a condition that he serve 10 days at the Leon County Detention Facility, with credit for one day served. He ordered his vehicle impounded for 10 days and his driver’s license suspended for six months.

Riley, who opted not to testify but gave a short statement to the court just before sentencing, said he accepted responsibility “for getting upset” and letting his emotions take over during his arrest. He was initially cooperative during the traffic stop but started shouting and calling officers “liars” after Oliver said she smelled marijuana, which he denied using.

“I was only going through this emotional stuff because of the past I’ve been through with law enforcement and what I started going through that night with these officers,” he said. “It was just a repeat of what I experienced growing up here.”

City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow, whose campaigns have gotten help from Herrle’s political committees, posted a link to Riley’s GoFundMe page in a social media post. He said he plans to bring up issues about the arrest during this Wednesday’s City Commission meeting.

“The evidence presented at trial included all the hallmarks that drive distrust in law enforcement: phantom marijuana smells, fabricated evidence and incomplete body cam footage,” he wrote. “Thankful for those that stand up to injustice.”

TPD did not respond Monday to text messages from the Democrat.

Campbell criticized Our Tallahassee’s account of the arrest and said “the timing and the way this was done is frustrating.”

He added: “We need to recognize that the truth has value and that integrity is still important and not to believe everything that’s put on social media.”

Contact Jeff Burlew at [email protected] or 850-599-2180.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Jury convicts driver who alleged police planted bottle during DUI stop

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Israel-Premier Tech to ride Paris-Roubaix on gravel bikes

Israeli team spotted on Arenberg recon aboard Factor Ostro Gravel

With all the talk of safety focussed on the new entry chicane to the Arenberg Forest Israel-Premier Tech seem to be taking a new approach by opting to use the Factor Ostro Gravel over the bike sponsor’s aero bike, the Ostro Vam, first spotted this year at the Tour Down Under. 

On a recon of the Arenberg Forest, all riders were aboard gravel bikes, though the team cars did have black versions of the Ostro VAM road bike on the roof. 

With it all but confirmed that Specialized sponsored teams (Bora-Hansgrohe, Soudal QuickStep, AG Insurance Soudal and SD Worx-Protime) will be aboard the Tarmac this year rather than the Roubaix, in line with our Roubaix tech preview, it’s interesting to see another team go in a totally different direction.

The Factor Ostro at the time of release was touted as the most aero gravel bike on the market, with extremely deep tube shapes and UCI compliant for road racing. Its aero optimisation is based around a 34mm tyre, though the team have informed us that they will be using 32c tyres, though these look more chunky in the pictures likely due to the wider internal width of the Black Inc. wheels. 

In a statement from the team's Equipment Manager, Gary Blem, it transpires this is a result of back to back testing of both bikes:

" We did quite a lot of testing on the cobbles after Opening Weekend with Tom Van Asbroeck and Riley Sheehan, comparing the new OSTRO VAM with the OSTRO Gravel and the overwhelming consensus was that the OSTRO Gravel would be the best choice for Paris – Roubaix. The Ostro Gravel has a longer wheelbase so it tracks slower which is perfect for a race like Paris - Roubaix as it gives the riders more time to react, and the increased tire clearance allows us to run 32mm tires."

In stark contrast to the approach of Specialized teams, Israel-Premier Tech clearly are of the opinion that comfort equals speed, though the aero benefits of the Ostro Gravel perhaps make this a more simple choice than for some teams:

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The OSTRO Gravel is a bike built for comfort and direct feedback from our riders was that they would opt for comfort over aerodynamics. Fortunately, given it is an incredibly aero gravel bike, there is no compromise on aerodynamics and having just completed our recon ride, we are confident this is the best Factor bike for our team this Sunday. 

While Israel-Premier Tech is committed to the gravel setup, the other Factor-sponsored team, Human Powered Health, have confirmed that they are not. Over the chaotic cobbles mixed with smooth(ish) tarmac, it'll be curious to see which strategy wins out, and whether lady luck has more of a bearing on things than any tyre setups.

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Will joined the Cyclingnews team as a reviews writer in 2022, having previously written for Cyclist, BikeRadar and Advntr. There are very few types of cycling he's not dabbled in, and he has a particular affection for older bikes and long lasting components. Road riding was his first love, before graduating to racing CX in Yorkshire. He's been touring on a vintage tandem all the way through to fixed gear gravel riding and MTB too. When he's not out riding one of his many bikes he can usually be found in the garage tinkering with another of them, or getting obsessive about tyres. Also, as he doesn't use Zwift, he's our go-to guy for bad weather testing... bless him.

Rides: Custom Zetland Audax, Bowman Palace:R, Peugeot Grand Tourisme Tandem, Falcon Explorer Tracklocross, Fairlight Secan & Strael

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