The City of Vladimir is one of the oldest Russian communities. It is located in the heart of the historic Vladimir region (Vladimirskaya Oblast) 180 kilometers (115 miles) northeast of Moscow on the bank of the Klyazma River. The city was founded in either 990 or 1108, depending on which historians you consult. For the better part of two centuries (from 1157 to the mid 1300s) it was the capital of ancient Rus. Vladimir is now considered one of the major members of the Golden Ring of communities which have played a significant role in Russian history.
Among many other attractions, the City boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These are the Golden Gates, Vladimir’s unofficial symbol, and the Assumption and St. Demetrius Cathedrals. The city is also home to several award winning museums, art galleries and theaters; a number of world-class performing groups, artists, and artisans, and several first rate institutions of higher learning.
Tourists from all over the world travel to Vladimir to enjoy its vibrant culture and its rich religious and secular historic architecture.
Over the past few years the town has developed dramatically. Three new shopping malls have sprung up, Night clubs, new bars opened, fitness clubs, coffee shops and all things you would expect from a modern city.
Vladimir has all the amendencies of a city with the feel of a small town. Locals are interested in meeting foreigners.
Some interesting facts about Vladimir:
A bottle of vodka costs little more than 2 pounds!
Russians love English football, All Man utd, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool games can be watched live on TV. Most foreigners flock to the Korner café. A sports bar located in the city centre.
The unofficial ratio of Women to men in Vladimir is 4-1

Russia now celebrates a nation of vast diversity and vibrance, after years of communism.
The historic city of Vladimir is an ideal setting in which to become immersed in Russian culture.  This 1,000 year old city of more than 300,000 is located approximately 120 miles northeast of Moscow.  Students are met at the airport in Moscow and driven past vast forests and fields, through villages and small towns to this former capitol of ancient Rus.
During your stay you will travel to the nearby picturesque town of Suzdal, the capital Moscow (a country in its own right) and, St. Petersburg, in addition to touring the historic sights of Vladimir. You will become intimately acquainted with the increasingly modern shops and outdoor markets, and visit your new Russian friends in their Soviet-era apartments.