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refresher course

Definition of refresher course

Examples of refresher course in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'refresher course.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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“Refresher course.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refresher%20course. Accessed 21 Apr. 2024.

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Refresher Training: Keep Your Staff Fresh

Table of Contents

Employee refresher course training can reduce the impact of the forgetting curve on an organization’s time, resources, and, ultimately, the bottom line.

Benefits of Refresher Training

Refresher training for employees can aid an organization in several ways. Some direct benefits of employee refresher training include:

Increased efficiency and knowledge retention

Fewer mistakes

Fostering a culture of continuous learning

Creating parity in employee knowledge

Keeping employees safe in the workplace

Achieving regulatory compliance

Helping to identify training needs and skills gaps

Increased employee confidence

Lower turnover rates and improved retention

Increased awareness of new products, trends, and marketplace information

Signs Your Workplace Needs Refresher Training

As with all other training interventions, you will need to do some analysis before deciding if an employee refresher training program would be beneficial to your organization or not. To start you off, here are six key indicators that could show that refresher training is a good idea.

Repeated mistakes being made by multiple employees

Employees are underusing, misusing, or not using corporate technology at all

New and renewed policies are not being followed

Productivity decreases, and employee churn increases

An increase in workplace accidents and safety incidents

Customer satisfaction rates are plummeting

It goes without saying that, if at all possible, you should not wait until you see the signs mentioned above to implement your online refresher training. A proactive approach to continuous learning always pays dividends and will save a lot of time and money in the long run.

How to Conduct Refresher Training Online with an LMS

In this section, we’ll break down the exact steps you need to take to create, build, and deliver a refresher course. We’ll focus on the online training method, as it is the most current, popular, cost-effective, and arguably the most effective method to deliver refresher training. 

With that in mind, here are the steps to follow so your learners get the most from your refresher course.

Step 1. Make a training plan

The first things to establish are the purpose of your refresher training and how often you plan to run it. Your refresher training plan should cover the following key points:

Refresher training objectives

These will be unique to your organization, but a sample objective for refresher training could be:  “Upon completion of the training, all manufacturing staff will understand and adhere to the latest safety standards applicable to the chemical manufacturing industry”.

Who your audience is and their needs

Identify which employees need the training and what the priorities are. Then, determine how you can meet those needs, cater to that specific audience, and reach the learning objectives. This will include deciding on which refresher training methods to utilize, such as online learning, blended learning, or hands on training.

How often to run refreshment training

This depends on the needs of the organization, but annual refreshing training is a good base point to start from. According to the forgetting curve, you should try to schedule training as close to any compliance deadline or major business initiative as possible to ensure that retention and enthusiasm are at their peak.

What training materials to include

This is often referred to as “training needs analysis.” The more precisely you define the knowledge gaps, the more accurate, shorter, and useful the refresher training will be. Check here for a deep dive into how to conduct a training needs assessment .

For more information on this, download our free training plan template .

Step 2. Review existing training material and select new content

As this is refresher training, chances are you already have materials on hand. Now’s the time to review those, deciding what to include, cut, and add. Once you’ve audited the current course content, you can plan how to convert it into an online course, and what images, interactions, and other elements to use. This acts as an eLearning storyboard that will map out the structure of your course, making the development process easier.

If you don’t have existing training materials, you’ll need to build your content from scratch by using research, subject matter experts, and other tools available to you. Include only precise, need-to-know information, whether it is a refresher on a product or an update on a safety compliance training module . 

If you decide to use scenario-based training , write new scenarios every year so your learners can’t repeat the same answer from the previous year.

Step 3. Create learning materials

Now it’s time to actually develop your online course. For this, you will need an eLearning authoring tool. There are many options on the market, so you will need to research which one will suit you best. If you have no prior experience in content development and want to build professional-looking training courses fast, you can try the iSpring Suite Max authoring toolkit – it’s easy to use, even for newbies.

You can quickly convert PowerPoint presentations into engaging online courses, build interactive quizzes, train soft skills with dialogue simulations, create impactful tutorial videos, and make microlearning training courses in minutes. This allows you to cover a wide range of training scenarios, including refresher courses to hone customer service skills, reinforce safety protocols, or fill urgent knowledge gaps.

Here is an example of what you can build with iSpring right in your browser:

Step 4. Communicate the “why” with your learners

Nothing saps motivation like the words “mandatory training.” It may be a given that the training is mandatory for compliance requirements. Nevertheless, it can also be something your employees believe is important and will improve the way they do their jobs.

So, don’t wait until the first day of training to communicate the purpose behind the refresher training. Your organization may have a change manager and a communications method that covers all of that, but if not, even a short series of emails to prep the trainees and encourage good expectations will go a long way.

If you provide solid reasoning and address how the training will benefit learners as well as the company, you will encourage buy-in from the employees.

Step 5. Choose your deployment method 

Once you’re happy with your refresher training content and you’ve tested it, it’s time to decide how to deliver it to employees.

The simplest way to do this is usually via a learning management system , which will allow you to automate many of the steps required for a successful training delivery – for example, scheduling, sending out invites, registering trainees, and measuring results.

Opting for a user-friendly LMS will allow employees to access training right away without any steep learning curves. Ideally, your LMS should facilitate mobile learning, gamification, and integrations with your existing tech stack for the best learner experience possible.

Also read:  

• 12 LMS Benefits For Recruiters, HR, Sales and Commercial Directors
• Mentorship Program: All You Should to Know
• 17 Key Recruiting Metrics and How to Improve Them with Online Training
• The Ultimate Guide to Lecture Capture
• Retail Sales Training – How to Move It Online

Step 6. Deliver learning materials

The simplest way to deploy training is usually via a learning management system , which will allow you to automate many of the steps required for a successful training delivery. These include scheduling, sending out invites, registering trainees, and providing results.

If you still don’t have an LMS, you can try iSpring Learn . It’s an easy-to-use system that allows you to get your courses online and delivered in just a few clicks. Plus, it has recurring enrollment features that will help you make refresher training absolutely automated. 

Instead of enrolling users in a course manually each time, you can set up automatic course re-enrollments. They will repeat at specific intervals and then just track the results – which employees have started and finished a course, what scores they got, and more.

Moreover, it comes with a user-friendly mobile app so that employees can access refresher training from any device, at the point of need.

Step 7. Ask for feedback

Don’t forget to be proactive in asking your learners what worked, what didn’t, and what they would like to see in future refresher courses. This feedback is critical, as you can use it to improve next year’s course.

iSpring Learn comes with robust analytics and reporting so you can closely monitor key performance metrics and pinpoint areas of improvement.

We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about employee refresh training.

What is the purpose of refresher training?

The purpose of refresher training is to review and reinforce knowledge that employees have previously learned, either on the job or during formal education programs. Not only does this improve competence, reduce errors, and encourage continual growth, but it also ensures your organization remains compliant with the relevant rules and regulations.

What is refresher and updating training?

This is a specific type of an ongoing training provided to employees who have already completed initial training on the subject or have previous knowledge of the topic. This type of training aims to update and refresh employees’ understanding of the subject, improve their confidence, and ensure they’re up to speed on the latest changes or developments.

How often do you need refresher training?

This depends on the topic, industry, and context. In some heavily regulated industries like healthcare or aviation, staff must take annual refresher training to maintain their certifications and stay updated on the latest procedures and protocols.

It’s also recommended to provide employee refresher training whenever there are new technologies or updates in the company or sector.

Final Thoughts

This wraps up our look at the importance of refresher training. Businesses don’t have to look far to see the benefits of providing staff with regular refreshment training; improved safety, performance, competence, and compliance are just a few of the rewards your organization can reap.

Get an iSpring Learn 30-day trial and enjoy the benefits of an employee refresher training today.

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Content creator:

Helen Colman

She enjoys combining in-depth research with expert knowledge of the industry. If you have eLearning insights that you’d like to share, please get in touch .

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refresher course

• a study course serving as a review of previous education.
• a short educational course for people to review their subject and developments in it

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Word history and origins.

Origin of refresher course 1

Example Sentences

After a year away from restaurants, I need a refresher course.

Since the presentations are done via video, Chobani is recording them and assembling a library that workers can use for refresher courses or to learn new skills.

The train operator was put through a refresher course on safety protocols, as well, Walker said.

Bachmann could use a refresher course on the 2008 election, and the circumstances that helped elect Barack Obama.

The beleaguered House speaker could use a refresher course in constitutional prerogatives.

Hello, it's a much-needed refresher course straight from 1971.

Even I'll have to take a refresher course before I'll be able to go outside the landing buildings.

When you are away for any length of time from this planet, you must take a refresher course.

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Everything You Need to Know About Refresher Training

In our fast-paced lives, juggling the demands of work and home can sometimes lead to forgetfulness. It’s a natural part of how our brains function – they tend to let go of information we don’t frequently use while retaining knowledge we engage with regularly.

That’s where the concept of refresher training comes in. It involves providing employees with opportunities to revisit and reinforce their existing knowledge and skills regularly. These brief, focused training sessions serve as memory joggers, helping employees stay up-to-date, boost their confidence, reduce errors, and ultimately enhance the overall efficiency of your business.

Think of it to keep your mind sharp and your abilities finely tuned. By offering these occasional refreshers, you’re empowering your workforce to perform at their best, ensuring they are well-prepared and productive.

What is Refresher Training?

Refresher courses are training programs designed to revisit and reinforce essential knowledge and skills. It’s commonly used in compliance and safety training, where employees need periodic retraining to stay up-to-date with regulations and procedures. These online refresher courses serve as reminders, helping employees retain and apply what they’ve learned, especially when dealing with complex organizational rules and processes. They ensure that vital information remains accessible and that employees can continue to perform their jobs effectively while staying compliant with changing requirements. Online refresher courses are like periodic tune-ups, ensuring your team is always at the top of their game.

Why Do Employees Need Refresher Training?

When it comes to training and learning, more than one-time instruction is needed. It is valid for complex subjects or processes that require time to grasp fully. People tend to forget much of what they’ve learned shortly after instruction, and their knowledge continues to fade. Studies suggest that learners can forget up to 89% of what they’ve learned within a month, emphasizing the need for refresher training refresher.

It is a valuable tool to ensure employees remember and apply what they’ve learned. It’s essential for maintaining compliance with regulations, company best practices, and critical procedures. Failure to comply can lead to employee mistakes, and in severe cases, it can result in sanctions or penalties from external regulatory authorities. It helps keep everyone sharp and informed.

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Few Steps That Influence Organizations to Invest in Refresher Training

Many benefits accrue to both employees and the organization, such as:

Reducing Errors Through Ongoing Training

Employees are less likely to make mistakes when their knowledge remains up-to-date and well-practiced. This steady reinforcement of skills ensures they can perform tasks accurately, avoiding guesswork and errors.

Increase Employee Confidence to Empower Your Workforce

Regular training fosters confidence and competence among employees. As they make fewer mistakes and encounter fewer challenges, their job satisfaction and overall performance improve, benefiting employees and customers.

Fuel Productivity and Efficiency Through Training

Confidence and assurance in one’s abilities translate into higher productivity and efficiency. Employees who stay at the top of their game can consistently enhance their work and accomplish tasks more efficiently.

Ensure Adherence to Rules and Regulations

Training Refresher reinforces compliance by providing employees with frequent reminders of best practices, guidelines, and updates on new regulations and policies. It helps maintain a culture of adherence to essential rules and standards.

Detect Knowledge Gaps for Improvement

They are adding fun quizzes or assessments into refresher training aids in assessing employees’ understanding of various topics. Consistent struggles in a specific area can guide future training sessions, addressing areas where employees need the most help.

Empower Employees to Excel Continuously

A robust refresher training program offers employees opportunities for continuous skill development . It not only boosts motivation and a desire to learn but also enables proficient employees to mentor others, enhancing their communication and leadership abilities.

Cultivate a Positive Learning Environment

Refresher training instills a positive learning culture within the organization, encouraging employees to advance their skills and knowledge. It demonstrates the organization’s commitment to professional development, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Few Methods to Implement Refresher Training Online with an LMS

In this section, we’ll guide you through creating a basic refresher course, focusing on the modern and effective online training approach. We’ve outlined a few steps to ensure your employees derive maximum benefits from refresher courses. Online training is the preferred method due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

Let’s delve into these steps to ensure a successful refresher training experience for your employees.

Step 1. Select Suitable Training Objectives and Methods

First, it’s essential to establish the purpose and frequency of your refresher training. The objectives should be specific to your organization, focusing on what employees need to achieve, such as adhering to safety standards in the chemical manufacturing industry . Identifying your target audience and their unique requirements is the next step. Determine which training methods, such as online, blended, or hands-on, would best cater to their needs. Additionally, consider the optimal timing for training sessions and craft comprehensive training materials by analyzing knowledge gaps.

Step 2. Choose Fresh Content to Design Engaging Learning Activities

In this step, whether you have existing training materials or not, it’s crucial to assess and select the most relevant content for your training refresher. If you have previous materials, review them to determine what to keep, remove, or add. This evaluation will guide the creation of your online course, helping you decide on visuals, interactions, and the course structure. If you need to possess existing materials, gather information from research and subject matter experts. Focus on delivering precise, must-know information.

Step 3. Craft Microlearning Courses with a Versatile Authoring Tool

Now, it’s time to create the content for your online course. To do this, you’ll need an eLearning authoring tool . With various options available, research to find the one that fits your needs. If you lack content development experience and want to create professional training courses quickly, consider using the Paradiso authoring tool. It’s user-friendly, allowing you to convert PowerPoint presentations into engaging online courses, build interactive quizzes, simulate dialogues for soft skills training, produce impactful tutorial videos, and create microlearning courses in minutes.

Step4. Inspire Learner Engagement through Clear Communication

Mandatory refresh training can often demotivate employees, but it doesn’t have to. It’s essential to communicate the reasons behind refresher training in advance. Consider using emails, messages, or meetings to set expectations, clarify the purpose, and highlight the benefits for individuals and the organization. When employees understand why the training is essential and how it can improve their skills and job performance, they are more likely to engage willingly. Good communication fosters enthusiasm and encourages employee participation.

Step 5. Assess Training Progress for Continuous Improvement

After finalizing and testing your refresher training content, it’s time to determine how to deliver it to your employees. The most convenient method is through a learning management system (LMS). An LMS automates various aspects of training, such as scheduling, invitations, registration, and tracking results. Choose a user-friendly LMS that provides seamless access to training, supports mobile learning, incorporates gamification, and integrates with your existing technology for an optimal learning experience. Make it easy for your employees to access and engage with the training material.

Step 6. Provide refresher courses To Increase Training Efficacy

With Paradiso LMS’s mobile app, you can access training from any device. Robust analytics and reporting help track performance and pinpoint improvements. Ready to start? Schedule a demo today !

Simplify refresh training with a learning management system (LMS). An LMS automates scheduling, inviting participants, registration, and tracking results. For a user-friendly LMS, consider Paradiso. It makes putting courses online easy with recurring enrollment. Set intervals for automatic re-enrollment and monitor progress.

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Meaning of refresher in English

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• academic year
• access course
• Advanced Placement
• asynchronous
• foundation course
• immersion course
• on a course
• the national curriculum
• work placement

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• Microlearning

What is refresher training, and how often should it take place?

• Posted by by Athena Marousis
• February 22, 2024
• 6 minute read

While having your morning coffee and going through a mountain of work emails, you find a new policy update and wonder, “Didn’t we go over this last year?” Yes, you did. But it’s time for a review and update. That’s when refresher training comes in. It helps reinforce what you already know and adds any new information you need to stay updated. 

Here, we’ll peel back the layers of refresher training. It’s more than a simple review session. It acts as a bridge connecting past learning with present demands. Maintaining a solid foundation of skills means your staff is ready to tackle new challenges that come their way. 

Why does this matter? In a world where change is the only constant, staying sharp, skilled, and agile isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential.

What is refresher training?

What is a basic training refresher, how often should refresher training take place, why is annual refresher training important, benefits of refresher training, examples of refresher training, implementing effective refresher training, tips for engaging employees and measuring success, key takeaways.

Refresher training helps experienced employees brush up on their skills and knowledge. It’s shorter than initial training, focusing on updating and reinforcing what they might have forgotten. This keeps everyone sharp, up-to-date with industry standards, and working efficiently. It boosts productivity and work quality while ensuring compliance and safety. Depending on the needs, it can vary in form and is often offered through online platforms.

In the rapidly changing landscape, what was known yesterday might not be enough to navigate today’s challenges or tomorrow’s opportunities. Refresher training keeps everyone on track. It ensures that your staff isn’t just maintaining their skill levels. They’re enhancing what they know to contribute more effectively to their roles.

A basic training refresher focuses on the crucial skills and knowledge employees need. It’s a targeted approach to ensure everyone remains proficient and compliant . This type of training covers essential procedures, safety protocols, and fundamental operational tasks that form the bedrock of daily work activities.

This process acts as a recalibration of your team’s capabilities, sharpening the essential tools and methods they rely on. Its value shines in reinforcing key practices, especially those tied to safety and regulatory compliance. 

By honing in on these fundamental components, basic refresher training establishes a uniform level of skill and knowledge across your team. This uniformity is crucial for minimizing mistakes and boosting overall efficiency . The training aligns everyone’s efforts, from updates on the latest safety protocols to revisiting customer service basics or familiarizing themselves with new tech tools. With it, you promote a cohesive, safe, and productive work environment.

Deciding on the frequency of refresher training depends on several factors. 

• The nature of your industry
• Your business’s specific needs
• Legal requirements 

Generally, scheduling refresher training at least annually is a good idea. However, the “one size fits all” approach doesn’t always apply. Some industries require more frequent updates. Conducting training sessions every six months or quarterly can be beneficial.

Keep a close eye on your team’s needs. If they find new processes or tools challenging, it’s time to schedule a refresher. The aim is to keep everyone sharp, safe, and up-to-date. Providing the right training helps them excel with the necessary tools and knowledge.

Annual refresher training is critical for sustaining a proficient, safe, and compliant workforce. This importance is magnified when we consider the natural tendency of humans to forget over time . This phenomenon is known as the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve . 

In the 1880s, a German psychologist named Hermann Ebbinghaus uncovered new information about how we retain information. He found that an hour after learning something new, we’ll likely forget half of it.

Fast forward to a day later, and that figure could rise to 70%. By the time a week has passed, just 25% of the original information remains. 

This phenomenon highlights the importance of reinforcing learning.

Beyond combating forgetfulness, annual refresher training serves several key functions. It ensures employees’ skills align with current industry standards and regulatory requirements. 

For example, industries with strict safety and compliance regulations—like healthcare , food and beverage , and manufacturing —require ongoing training. Some industries must adhere to OSHA standards. For those, annual safety training is a legal requirement. 

Annual refresher training isn’t just a regulatory requirement or a tool to mitigate the forgetting curve. It’s a strategic investment in your organization’s most valuable asset—your people. Through this investment, you can ensure your workforce remains capable, confident, and competitive over time.

Refresher training is not just a routine part of employee development; it’s a strategic tool that offers multiple benefits for employees and the organization. 

Here are some key advantages:

• Increased productivity Regular updates and refreshers help employees work more efficiently, directly impacting overall productivity.
• Improved performance Employees with reinforced skills and knowledge can perform their tasks more effectively, leading to higher-quality work.
• Compliance with safety standards Ensuring employees are current with safety protocols minimizes risks and helps meet industry regulations.
• Fostering a culture of continuous learning Regular training reinforces the importance of learning and growth. Staff is more likely to actively seek out new knowledge and skills.
• Improved employee retention When companies invest in their employees’ development, they feel more valued and supported. This builds loyalty and reduces turnover. 

Refresher training can take many forms. Each is tailored to organizational needs, skill sets, and compliance requirements. 

Here are some concrete examples:

• Safety protocols and compliance: Annual sessions on workplace safety standards, emergency procedures, and compliance ensure a safe working environment.
• Technology updates: Training on the latest software tools, platforms, or equipment being introduced to keep employees adept at using new technologies
• Customer service excellence: Reinforce best practices in customer interaction, handling difficult situations, and providing exceptional service.
• Quality control: Maintain quality with the latest industry standards and company-specific quality assurance processes.
• Leadership and management skills: For supervisory roles, refresher courses on leadership principles, conflict resolution, team management, and effective communication.

Designing and rolling out an effective refresher training program requires a strategic approach. Here are key strategies to consider:

1. Assess needs

Start by identifying the specific skills and knowledge areas that need refreshing. This can be done through performance reviews , feedback sessions, and analyzing industry trends.

2. Set clear objectives

Once you know what needs refreshing, set tangible goals for your training. What specific skills or knowledge should your employees come away with? How will this training contribute to your overall business objectives?

3. Choose the right format

Depending on the content, audience, and logistics, decide whether e-learning, microlearning , or in-person sessions would be most effective.

4. Engage learners with interactive content

Use interactive elements like quizzes, simulations, gamification elements, and group discussions to make the training engaging.

5. Schedule strategically

Plan sessions at times that minimize disruption to daily operations. For critical updates, ensure training is timely.

6. Implement the training

Roll out your training program, ensuring all employees can access the necessary resources and support to engage fully with the material.

7. Track progress and feedback

Implement a system to track completion and assess the impact of training. Use feedback to refine future sessions, making them more relevant and impactful.

Make refresher training easily accessible with a powerful mobile app

• Make it interactive: Use quizzes, group discussions, and simulations to keep your team engaged. Adult learners often benefit from active participation more than passive listening.
• Link training to career development: Keeping training relevant to the learner matters. Show your team how this refresher training can help them grow in their roles or prepare for future opportunities. This can boost motivation and engagement.
• Use technology to your advantage: Mobile training platforms, like TalentCards , can make training more accessible and engaging. Consider using one to deliver content in a flexible, user-friendly format.
• Measure impact: To understand the effectiveness of your training, look at performance metrics before and after the sessions. Surveys, quizzes, and observation can also provide insights into how well the material was absorbed.
• Reward participation: Recognize and reward engagement and improvement post-training. This could be through certificates, badges, or even spot bonuses . Recognition encourages continuous learning and improvement.

Implementing a well-crafted refresher training program requires effort. Yet, the payoff is significant. More knowledgeable and engaged employees, improved performance, and stronger alignment with industry standards are all within reach.

Annual refresher training ensures skills stay current and comply with evolving industry regulations. It keeps the workforce agile and prepared for new challenges.

What is the meaning of a refresher course?

A refresher course is a time for staff to revisit essential knowledge and skills. They may also be updated on new standards.

The frequency depends on the industry, job role, and regulatory requirements. Typically, it’s annually, but some industries may require more frequent updates.

Basic training refresher covers foundational skills and knowledge necessary for effective job performance. It ensures all employees meet a consistent competency level.

Refresh your training with a mobile platform

Keeping your workforce skilled, informed, and agile is crucial in today’s fast-changing business world. An effective refresher training program keeps you compliant and safe while promoting ongoing improvement and excellence.

What’s the best way to reach your staff on the go? By leveraging the power of mobile learning . With it, you can deliver bite-sized, impactful training directly to your employees. Enhance performance, engagement, and compliance by keeping them ahead of the curve.

• Refresher training reinforces existing knowledge and skills, ensuring staff remains sharp and ready for their roles. 
• Regular refresher training and practicing active recall helps employees stay aligned with the latest industry standards. 
• Given the natural tendency to forget information over time, periodic refresher courses are vital for sustaining knowledge and preventing skill loss. 
• Regular training initiatives underscore the importance of ongoing professional development, encouraging a workplace environment that values growth and adaptability.

Make refresher training conveniently accessible with a mobile training app

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Refresher Training: The Complete Guide

8 minute read

With increasingly busy lives, juggling demands of the home and workplace, it’s only normal that we find ourselves forgetting things along the way. We know from research and experience that the brain lets go of information that we don’t need to access often and that the best way to retain knowledge that we do need is through repetition.

This is why refresher training, little and often, can be such a powerful tool for businesses. Empowering your employees to revisit topics and build on their existing knowledge can help them to feel more confident, make less mistakes and improve the overall efficiency of your business.

Read on to learn more about:

• What refresher training is
• Why it’s important
• The benefits of refresher training
• Signs that your business needs refresher training
• Top tips on how to conduct refresher training

What is refresher training?

Refresher training is coaching or teaching on a specific subject that learners have already encountered, that’s designed to jog their memory and boost their knowledge on the topic.

This type of training is useful not only for keeping the memory sharp, but also for ensuring that your employees have the most up-to-date information at their disposal., especially if it’s on a subject that is changing frequently.

Why is refresher training important for employees?

When it comes to training, teaching something once is often not enough. This is particularly true for complex theories or processes which can take a long time to master.

It’s common for learners to forget a large proportion of what they have learned almost instantly, with even more knowledge on the topic fading over time. It’s estimated that learners can forget as much as 90% of what they learn over a period of a month, which highlights the importance of refresher training.

Refresher training is also a great way to ensure employees are following company best practices and adhering to important procedures, especially when it comes to compliance. Failing to comply can lead to employee mistakes, and in more serious cases, sanctions or penalties from external regulators.

What are the benefits of refresher training?

There are numerous advantages both for employees and the business, which include:

1. It helps employees to make less mistakes

Forgetting how to do something or the right steps to follow in a process can lead to guesswork and mistakes. Ensure your employees are armed with the knowledge and training they need to ensure that these behaviors become second nature.

2. It can boost employee confidence

Fewer mistakes will mean your employees perform better, experience fewer difficulties, and feel happier at work. Not only will your employees benefit from this, but your customers, too.

3. It makes employees more productive and efficient

More confident and assured employees make for more productive work. Refresher training helps employees to stay at the top of their game and continuously improve.

4. It ensures compliance

Refresher training can help to ensure rigorous compliance, with regular reminders on the dos and don’ts and updates on new regulations and policies that need to be adhered to.

5. It can highlight gaps in knowledge and inform future training programs

Introducing quiz or assessment modules within your refresher training is a useful way to gauge how well your employees understand different topics. If employees are repeatedly struggling in one particular area or module, it can help you to plan the next training session to prioritize.

6. It helps your employees to excel

A great refresher training program allows employees to improve and develop their skills on an ongoing basis, which can help to boost their motivation and desire to learn.

Refresher training can also provide employees who are particularly competent or knowledgeable in a particular area an opportunity to teach others, which can help to build important communication and leadership skills.

7. It promotes a positive learning culture

Refresher training promotes a positive learning culture across the organization that supports employees’ progression and encourages them to develop their skills. Not only does this help to keep your organization operating at the highest possible level, but it also shows employees that you care about their professional development.

Learn more about how to promote a learning culture in your organization. 

Does your business need refresher training?

Is refresher training a good fit for your business? There are a few telltale signs that suggest that introducing refresher training could be beneficial, including:

1. Frustrated employees

If your employees appear increasingly disgruntled and dissatisfied, this could indicate that they’re not getting the support or training that they need. Take time to speak to them to understand where they would benefit from some additional training and ensure they have clear objectives that they are working towards.

2. A rise in customer complaints

An increase in customer complaints is a worrying warning sign that all is not well. If you’ve received an influx in new complaints, dissect them to identify common themes – this can help to inform which areas to focus on for your refresher training. Regular refresher training is particularly important for employees in customer-facing roles, so implementing this proactively can help to prevent customer satisfaction rates from slipping.

3. Low technology adoption rates

Investing in new technology can be a substantial outlay for businesses, so it’s vital that user adoption rates are high to justify the costs. If employees aren’t using the tools or software that you’ve introduced or you’ve seen a drop off over a period of time, it’s a good idea to introduce some refresher training that gets to the bottom of why.

4. Frequent or recurring mistakes

Are you employees making the same mistakes time and again? This is likely a sign that they are not learning from their mistakes or that they simply don’t know how to rectify them. Refresher training can help them to understand how these mistakes can be avoided and provide helpful tips and best practices.

5. Compliance or cybersecurity concerns

Has there been a change in legislation or guidelines that your company now needs to comply with? Or are you concerned that employees have become too relaxed when it comes to following your compliance or cybersecurity procedures? If that’s the case, design a refresher course for your employees to follow to ensure compliance.

When it comes to business-critical training such as compliance and cybersecurity, it’s best practice to proactively provide ongoing training, as prevention is always better than cure. You can find our roundup of the best compliance training examples here. 

How to conduct refresher training

Once you’ve decided that your employees need refresher training, what’s the best way to implement it? Here we’ll take you through the steps you need to take to successfully set up and deliver your training.

1. Decide on your delivery method

The best fit for your organization will depend on a number of factors including company size, setup and the learning styles of your employees. Let’s take a closer look at some of the options:

• Face to face training

This can be a great option if your employees work primarily in the office or together in-person and if there are hands-on elements required as part of the training. This type of training is beneficial for interactive Q&A type sessions as it allows for open discussion.

One of the key downsides of face to face learning is the cost and it can also be difficult to scale, especially if you’re hosting refresher training sessions on a biweekly or monthly basis.

Elearning can provide an ideal solution for companies looking to create scalable, engaging content, quickly. It’s convenient for your learners too, as they can access it from a central location and complete it in their own time.

While the disadvantages of elearning are few and far between, it can be difficult to find the best authoring tool for your objectives. Some will require authors to have a certain level of pre-existing skill, while others may have limited template and design options. Check out our handy guide to the best elearning authoring tools here.

• Blended learning

This approach offers the best of both worlds: structured face to face learning and flexible elearning modules . Blended learning allows you to combine the best elements of both styles and adapt it to your learners to give them the best possible learning experience.

Read more about the pros and cons of online learning vs face to face here.

2. Determine your audience

A critical stage of any elearning planning is understanding who your audience is and what the right level is to pitch it at. Consider what level of knowledge your learners already have on the topic. How long ago it was that they had their last training session on this topic? Are there common mistakes they are making that you need to factor into the training?

3. Review existing content

Take stock of your existing training content to understand if there are elements that you can repurpose or reuse in your refresher training. While your refresher training should cover all the basics, it should also put your learners to the test, so make sure each session gets incrementally more challenging.

4. Create new content

Work with your Subject Matter Experts to produce new content for your refresher training that delivers on your key messages. Build your course content from scratch or take advantage of our extensive library of elearning templates that can adapt to make your own.

Take inspiration from our showcase page where you can explore different elearning formats and examples that you can utilize for your training.

5. Schedule your course

Once your content is ready, you’re all set! Upload your content to your LMS and choose how you want your learners to access it, e.g. via link invites or individual user logins. Be sure to set targets for your learners to ensure they’re completing their training in a timely manner and keep an eye on performance so you can make tweaks to your content along the way.

Using Elucidat for refresher training

Elucidat makes it easy for authors of all levels to produce awesome refresher training. From video tutorials and quizzes to microlearning and scenario-based learning, we’ve got heaps of handy templates for you to use, all you have to do is provide the content!

Ready to get started? Book a demo and we’ll get you set up with a free trial today!

Written by Elucidat

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Refresher training: a complete guide

• Reading time: 4 minutes

Written by Christophe Jacobs

Chief customer success officer.

German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus spent years researching the memory of people. He concluded that over time, we forget the information we have learned. In fact, we forget about 50% of what we learned within the hour, 80% within 2 days and as much as 90% within a month. He translated his findings into his “forgetting curve”.

What is refresher training?

Refresher training, also known as retraining or recurrent training, is a form of training aimed at updating and refreshing already acquired knowledge and skills. This type of training ensures that employees maintain compliance and follow to safety guidelines in all types of industries. This reduces the risk of accidents, incidents, and legal liabilities and boosts morale, motivation, and self-confidence. The goal is to understand the content better, repeat key principles and improve skills to ensure they are keeping up with the latest developments and best practices.

The importance of repetition

His research additionally showed that by adding several repetitions, forgetting becomes less significant. Repetition at regular intervals can make people remember more in the long run. This is also what we want to achieve among employees in an organization. Some knowledge is so crucial that we cannot afford to have employees forget that information.

We do not want employees to forget cybersecurity rules, causing a data breach, or we do not want an employee to forget personal protective equipment, causing an accident. Therefore, we need to repeat these topics on a regular basis, this through refresher training.

Training refreshment & examples

Such refresher training can take different forms and can also occur in different sectors. In industrial settings, for example, it is necessary to regularly update employees, as well as visitors and contractors, on safety protocols, emergency procedures and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Repeated training improves awareness of protocols and safety and reduces the risk of accidents.

Compliance training is also an important example of refresher training: updating employees on the latest changes in laws and regulations, for example for GDPR or anti-money laundering laws. Other examples include regularly refreshing first aid skills and training employees in the use of software that undergoes regular updates.

Advantages of refresher training

This type of training aims to refresh and reinforce employees’ knowledge and skills in specific areas, providing opportunities for continuous development beyond initial onboarding. Here are some of the most important advantages of refresher training:

Improved performance

Refresher training helps employees strengthen their skills and stay up to date on industry trends and best practises. When employees are better aware of the newest skills and regulations, the work process becomes better and more effective.

Boost employee motivation

Offering opportunities for ongoing learning and skill development shows an organization’s dedication to its employees. This improves the overall work environment, boosts employee morale, and increases productivity.

Adaptation to industry changes

Dynamic changes, such as new regulations or market trends, impact industries. Employees who receive refresher training have a greater ability to adapt quickly, keeping the organisation ahead of the competition.

Cost saving

Instead of investing in extensive training for new employees, organisations can optimise resources by investing in existing staff through refresher training. This reduces the need for additional training sessions and lowers training-related costs.

How to create refresher training?

Of course, how you organize your refresher training depends on the target audience, the company and the topic. This can be done through classroom training, online training but also blended training. If you choose online training, keep in mind the following points to make your refresher training truly effective.

Keep your training short

A refresher training is different from training for someone who has no prior knowledge. Identify the specific knowledge or skills that need an update or reinforcement and focus on them.

In FLOW SPARKS, you can use the FASTLANE to make the training as efficient as possible for the user. In fact, an intake test is used in the FASTLANE. Based on that intake test, a user can earn exemptions. Specifically, therefore, the user only must go through the parts that are relevant to him/her and the training time is kept to a minimum. Of course, all information remains available and can be consulted if the user needs it.

Set clear goals

Define what users need to know and what knowledge they need to reinforce. Communicate these goals to the user as well. Give them a clear picture of exactly what needs to be known, what has changed and why it is important to refresh this information.

Available resources

Make sure resources are available and point users to where they can go for more information. This could include an online platform where they can access relevant resources or a contact person within the organization who can help them further with questions.

Communicate the timeline

In case of safety trainings, for example, there is often a period of validity. By communicating this clearly, employees can anticipate and take timely steps to renew their certification. This prevents unpleasant surprises when certificates quietly expire without being aware of it. In the FLOW SPARKS LMS , for example, it is possible to have automatic emails sent when the expiration date is almost reached.

Have a look at how FLOW SPARKS can help with building your refresher training

Do you need help setting up refresher trainings? Are you looking for a tool that automates this for your organization? FLOW SPARKS can help you! Request your FREE demo by filling in the form below and we will contact your immediately!

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6 Common Leadership Styles — and How to Decide Which to Use When

• Rebecca Knight

Being a great leader means recognizing that different circumstances call for different approaches.

Research suggests that the most effective leaders adapt their style to different circumstances — be it a change in setting, a shift in organizational dynamics, or a turn in the business cycle. But what if you feel like you’re not equipped to take on a new and different leadership style — let alone more than one? In this article, the author outlines the six leadership styles Daniel Goleman first introduced in his 2000 HBR article, “Leadership That Gets Results,” and explains when to use each one. The good news is that personality is not destiny. Even if you’re naturally introverted or you tend to be driven by data and analysis rather than emotion, you can still learn how to adapt different leadership styles to organize, motivate, and direct your team.

Much has been written about common leadership styles and how to identify the right style for you, whether it’s transactional or transformational, bureaucratic or laissez-faire. But according to Daniel Goleman, a psychologist best known for his work on emotional intelligence, “Being a great leader means recognizing that different circumstances may call for different approaches.”

• RK Rebecca Knight is a journalist who writes about all things related to the changing nature of careers and the workplace. Her essays and reported stories have been featured in The Boston Globe, Business Insider, The New York Times, BBC, and The Christian Science Monitor. She was shortlisted as a Reuters Institute Fellow at Oxford University in 2023. Earlier in her career, she spent a decade as an editor and reporter at the Financial Times in New York, London, and Boston.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Definition of refresher course noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

refresher course

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Taylor Swift’s “The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived” Is A Venomous Breakup Song

The singer gifts us another powerful bridge to scream/sing/cry to.

Shortly after announcing The Tortured Poets Department as her next original album, Taylor Swift opened up to an Eras Tour crowd in Melbourne, Australia, about what the project meant to her. “More than any of my albums that I’ve ever made — I needed to make it,” she said in February, via NME . “It was really a lifeline for me. Just the things I was going through and the things I was writing about. ... I never had an album where I needed songwriting more than I needed it on Tortured Poets .”

The comments fueled fan theories that this would be a confessional breakup album , but if people were expecting a melancholic ode to a relationship lost, they’ll be surprised by the sharp, biting ire of at least one song.

Here are “The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived” lyrics, explained.

A Taylor Swift Bridge For The Ages

The song is set after a relationship ends, in which the narrator is now doubting everything. “Was any of it true? Gazing at me starry-eyed in your Jehovah’s Witness suit, who the f*ck was that guy?”

Swift sings about a guy who showed her off, but didn’t treat her right in private. She also makes multiple references to drug use, and wonders, “I just want to know if rusting my sparkling summer was the goal.”

But then there’s the bridge — and it might go down as one of Swift’s best ever. “Were you sent by someone who wanted me dead? Did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed?” she asks as the music climbs, before implying that the ex was living a lie the entire time. “Were you writing a book? Were you a sleeper cell spy? In 50 years, will all this be declassified?”

Swift has written some devastating breakup bridges, but few have come close to this level of venom. It’s one thing to imply someone is a poor partner. It’s another thing entirely to paint them as a malevolent force. “You deserve prison but you won’t get time,” she sings.

But... Who Is The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived?

As always, Swifties can only speculate as to who this song is about — and even then, not every detail is likely autobiographical.

The line about Swift’s “sparkling summer” being rusted seems to hint at a relationship that fell apart during the warmest time of year. Swift and Joe Alwyn’s breakup was announced in April, while her reportedly “always casual” connection with The 1975’s Matty Healy cooled off by June, per People .

It’s worth noting that Swift’s line, “I would have died for your sins,” is somewhat reminiscent of “I would die for you in secret” from “ Peace ,” which Swift previously told Rolling Stone was inspired by her personal life.

That song, too, navigated the gap between a relationship’s public facade and private challenges. That isn’t to say the tracks are connected — they have very different emotional contexts — but if nothing else, it seems Swift has been thinking about these themes for a while.

“The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived” Lyrics

Read the song’s full lyrics below.

Was any of it true?

Gazing at me starry-eyed

In your Jehovah's Witness suit

Who the f*ck was that guy?

You tried to buy some pills

From a friend of friends of mine

They just ghosted you

Now you know what it feels like

And I don’t even want you back, I just want to know

If rusting my sparkling summer was the goal

And I don’t miss what we had, but could someone give

A message to the smallest man who ever lived?

You hung me on your wall

Stabbed me with your push pins

In public, showed me off

Then sank in stoned oblivion

‘Cause once your queen had come

You’d treat her like an also-ran

You didn't measure up

In any measure of a man

Were you sent by someone who wanted me dead?

Did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed?

Were you writing a book? Were you a sleeper cell spy?

In 50 years will all this be declassified?

And you'll confess why you did it, and I'll say, “Good riddance”

‘Cause it wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden

I would've died for your sins, instead I just died inside

And you deserve prison, but you won't get time

You'll slide into inboxes and slip through the bars

You crashed my party and your rental car

You said normal girls were “boring”

But you were gone by the morning

You kicked out the stage lights, but you're still performing

And in plain sight you hid, but you are what you did

And I'll forget you, but I'll never forgive

The smallest man who ever lived

Red Square & Moscow City Tour

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Description

Highlights:.

• Experience medieval Kitay Gorod (China town).
• Wander picturesque Red Square and Alexander Garden.
• Explore grand Christ the Savior Cathedral on our Red Square tour.
• Breathtaking panoramic views from Patriarch bridge.
• Enjoy a hearty lunch on the large open verandah and marvel at the stunning views of the Kremlin.
• Learn about Russian culture from the local through relaxed cultural discussions.

Tour Itinerary:

Red square:.

Russia and Moscow are synonymous with Red Square and the Kremlin and that's hardly surprising as you'll find these places absolutely stunning!

• - Walk-through the Resurrection Gate and don’t forget to flip a coin so you’ll be sure to come back one day!
• - Visit the world's famous Kazan Cathedral .
• - See the State Department Store (GUM), once the Upper Trading Stalls, which were built over a century ago and still operating!
• - Admire the lovely St. Basil's Cathedral! The French diplomat Marquis de Custine commented that it combined "the scales of a golden fish, the enamelled skin of a serpent, the changeful hues of the lizard, the glossy rose and azure of the pigeon's neck" and wondered at "the men who go to worship God in this box of confectionery work".
• - Walk by Lobnoye Mesto (literally meaning "Execution Place", or "Place of Skulls"), once Ivan the Terrible's stage for religious ceremonies, speeches, and important events.
• - Entering the Alexander Garden , you’ll take in spectacular views of Russian architecture from ancient to Soviet times, as well as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with an eternal flame. Watch Changing of the Guard Ceremony every hour in summer and every half an hour in winter.

Kitai-gorod:

Stroll along medieval Kitai-gorod with its strong ancient Russia feel, known for its bohemian lifestyle, markets and arts.

• - Nikolskaya Street. Here you will find the Russia's first publishing house, the second oldest monastery, and Ferryn Pharmacy, known as the number one pharmacy back in Soviet times and famous for its Empire-style architecture.
• - Ilinka Street. The financial street of the Kitaigorod (China Town) district, where you’ll find the Gostiny Dvor (Merchant’s Yard), which is now a showroom for Ferraris and Maseratis. The street was designed in the 1790s by Catherine the Great.
• - Varvarka street. The oldest street in Moscow, which dates back to the 14th century, and still has remnants of early Muscovite architecture, such as the Old English Court and the Palace of the Romanov’s.
• - Kamergersky Lane. Only a small road of about 250 meters, it is home to some of the oldest artifacts of the city, as each building holds a fascinating story. Some of Russia's most famous writers, poets, and composers from as far back as the Golden Age of Russian culture, have lived or worked on this lane.

Historic City Center

Walk the historical old center of Moscow with its cool local vibe, including the main Tverskaya street , and indulge in desserts in the first grocery “Eliseev's store” , housed in an 18th century neoclassical building, famous for its baroque interior and decoration.

From our tour. Impressions of our American tourist:

At 3:30, as energy flagged, lunch was on the agenda at a Ukrainian restaurant.  Just in time!  We asked our guide to order for us.  We all had the same thing....borscht (the Ukrainian version has beans and more tomatoes than the Russian version, which has more beets and includes beef). 

The special high bread served is called galushki.  Our main course was golubtsy...a dish of minced meat rolled in braised cabbage leaves.  Both dishes called for optional sour cream as a topping....of course, yes, please....I recommend it. 

Full, satisfied, and completely refreshed, it was off to Red Square and St. Basil's and GUM department store.  Red Square is not so named because of the color of the brick walls of the Kremlin.  Rather the word for 'red' and the word for 'beautiful' are similar in pronunciation....and, there you have it. 

As we made the turn by the National Museum in front of which is the mounted sculpture of the "Marshall of Victory," Giorgy Zhukov from WWII and caught our first view of St. Basil's, my friend and I simultaneously emitted "Oooohhhhh!"  There it was....the iconic onion domes of St. Basil's!  Hooray....it was open until 7....we had about 30 minutes and were allowed in, AND we could take photos with no flash. 

Now, I can give you a taste of what we saw in the other cathedrals in Cathedral Square.  What we learned is that St. Vasily and St. Basil are one in the same....Russian/English.  He was a common man who wandered Moscow unclothed and barefoot.  But, all, even Ivan the Terrible, heeded his opinions derived from his visions.  Ivan had this cathedral built over his tomb. 

As we exited and took photos up close of the onion domes, Inna presented us with chocolate (how did she know we were ready for another energy boost, and we each got a big piece of chocolate.  The baby's name pictured on the wrapper of this famous Russian chocolate is Alyonka....the Russian Gerber baby, don't you think? 

One could wear out the credit card in GUM's (capitalized because it is actually a government abbreviation), but the 'kitty' and my credit card stayed in my pocket as we strolled through the glass-topped arcade. 

We then strolled through some of Moscow's lovely pedestrian streets; paused to listen as a wonderful quartet performed Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" in an underground passage to cross the busy street (hooray!....we DID have our 'classical concert' experience after all; a request Alina tried in vain to fill because none was scheduled those days), saw the Bolshoi, which means 'big' (my friend has yet to recover that their performance schedule did not coincide with our cruise), saw the Central Telegraph Building, dating from the 1930's, and made our way to the Ritz-Carlton to see the night view of Moscow from the rooftop bar, called O2. 

There were fleece blankets to wrap yourself in....yes, it got that cold when the sun set.  We each ordered something hot to drink...the ginger, mint, lemon tea served to me in a parfait glass (for 600 rubles...about $9....you pay for the view here!) was delightful and hit the spot perfectly.  It was time to call it a night....

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting city tour, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time.

*This Moscow city tour can be modified to meet your requirements.

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