kadamakkudy tourism

Kadamakkudy : A Hidden Gem in Ernakulam’s Backwaters

Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and Marine Drive are just a few of the well-known tourist attractions in Kerala’s Ernakulam region. However, tucked away from the crowded tourist areas is a tranquil refuge that has recently captured hearts—Kadamakkudy. Kadamakkudy is a lovely cluster of fourteen islands encircled by the enchanting Vembanad backwaters, located only eight kilometers from Kochi. In this post, we’ll look at the beauty and attractions of Kadamakkudy, including its islands, breathtaking landscape, wonderful cuisine, and the optimum times to explore this hidden treasure.

Table of Contents

Exploring Kadamakkudy Islands

The Kadamakkudy Islands are made up of fourteen separate isles, each having its own special charm. The archipelago offers a broad range of experiences, from the largest island, Big Kadamakkudy, to the smaller ones like Rukanal, Palayam Thurut, Pyala, and others. These islands, which are said to have developed during the 1341 flood that formed the Kochi estuary, are now accessible not just by boat but also by car, boosting the region’s tourism potential.

Key Features:

Spectacular sunrise views.

The islands of Big Kadamakkudy and Small Kadamakkudy offer stunning sunrise vistas, drawing travelers anxious to see the splendor of morning. The resorts on these islands provide excellent vantage points for taking in the tranquil scenery.

Boat Trips and Pokkali Fields

Morning boat rides allow you to explore the backwaters and meander through the picturesque Pokkali fields. Kadamakkudy provides a calm location for individuals looking for a peaceful vacation from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Culinary Delights

Enjoy the native tastes that Kadamakkudy is known for. The island’s specialties range from cardamom-fried carp to naran shrimp fry, kappa, and fish curry. Don’t forget to try the original Nadan toddy for a taste of the region.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to see Kadamakkudy’s beauty is between 5:30 and 7 p.m., especially during the spectacular sunset. The islands light in a fascinating way, producing a beautiful scene. Visitors are encouraged, however, to leave before dusk, especially if traveling with children.

Kadamakkudy is an enthralling island near Varappuzha in the Ernakulam district, making it conveniently accessible for tourists touring the area.

Also Read : Vallabhankunnu Hill Top: Nature’s Bounty at its Best | Kollam

Kadamakkudy’s Specialties

Prawn farms (chemmeen kettu).

Kadamakkudy is well-known for its prawn farms, which provide a unique opportunity to learn about the subtleties of prawn farming. For six months, the fields are used for prawn cultivation, and for the remaining six months, they are used for rice (pokkali) agriculture.

Paddy Cultivation (Pokkali)

The agricultural methods on the island include six months of prawn farming and six months of paddy agriculture (pokkali) . This cycle adds to Kadamakkudy’s distinct appeal.

Haven for Bird Watchers and Photographers

Kadamakkudy is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a variety of birdwatching chances. Capturing the beauty of diverse avian species against the backdrop of lush landscapes makes it a bird photographer’s paradise.

Finally, Kadamakkudy stands out as a hidden gem in Ernakulam, providing an ideal blend of natural beauty, cultural activities, and culinary pleasures. Kadamakkudy invites you to experience its appeal and make lasting memories in this off-the-beaten-path area, whether you seek peace, unusual food, or a connection with nature.

Kadamakkudy Village

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Kadamakkudi

A picturesque setting where you can unwind yourself from the madding crowds and bustles of city life, Kadamakkudi is a cluster of 14 islands

There are cities that amaze us with their urban charm. Then there are villages that mesmerise us with their bewitching natural bliss. Very rarely, you also come across cities that offer a perfect blend of both these experiences. Ernakulam is indeed one such land that gifts you the blessings of both these. All you need to do is visit Kadamakkudi, an amazing island with breathtaking beauty, located just a few minutes away from the heart of Ernakulam city.

A picturesque setting where you can unwind yourself from the madding crowds and bustles of city life, Kadamakkudi is a cluster of 14 islands including Valiya Kadamakkudy, Murikkal, Palyam Thuruth, Pizhala, Cheriya Kadamakkudy, Pulikkapuram, Moolampilly, Puthussery, Chariyam Thuruth, Chennur, Kothad, Korambadam, Kandanad and Karikkad Thuruthu.

The idyllic backwaters and splendid paddy fields offer a stunning multisensory experience. Here is where you can engage yourself in activities such as fishing, boating, houseboat cruises and an all-round village tour. At Kadamakkudi, you can also enjoy the finest of local cuisines, with fish and seafood being the stars of the menu. The island is also one of the rare spots in Ernakulam where you get to enjoy the sights of many different species of local and migratory birds.

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These twin islands near Kochi are a scenic paradise

Kadamakkudy, an agrarian hamlet in the backwaters close to Kochi city, is a familiar name among travel lovers. However, some other villages like Cheppanam and Chathamma which are also located near the city are yet to attract the attention of tourists.

After the fishing season is over around the time of Vishu, the paddy fields in Kadamakkudy are drained to prepare the land for 'pokkali' farming. The paddy produced in the fields attracts several migratory birds and the natural beauty of the area during this period has been well-documented. Similar is the situation in Cheppanam and Chathamma also.

Twin villages

The enduring charm of Kainakary in Kuttanad

Situated in Panangad Panchayat in Ernakulam district, Cheppanam and Chathamma are 'twin' villages. To reach these scenic rural hamlets, take the Bypass Road from Ernakulam to Aroor and turn to the left at the junction near Fisheries University. This road leads to Panangad. Travel one kilometre along Panangad Road and deviate to the left at N M Junction. You would soon arrive at Cheppanam.

Cheppanam and Chathamma were once islets in the Vembanad Lake, covered by thick forests. In fact, all the roads in both villages end in backwaters. Later, after a bridge and the Ernakulam Bypass Road were built, the islets were referred to as islands to give them more recognition. But the entire area has retained its old rustic charm. Life in the villages revolves around the backwaters, canals, Chinese fishing nets, coconut groves, prawn ponds, and pedestrian paths. There are toddy shops, tea shops, and bakeries.

When resorts offering facilities such as kayaking and sailing were opened in the villages, the area came to the limelight.

Fish and 'pokkali rice'

In the past, Kadamakkudy was a backwater area at the mercy of the Arabian Sea. Residents of the islets in the region had to depend on canoes or jankars to reach their homes from places such as Moolampally. However, regular boat services now connect Kadamakkudy to Bolgatty, Vallarpadam, Mulavukad, and Ramanthuruthu.

The land route to Kadamakkudy is along the Edappally-Paravur Road. Take a deviation to the left after the Varapuzha bridge and you can reach the islands. In fact, it is a mere five-minute drive from Varapuzha town.

Backwaters extend over the entire area, except for the land where houses, roads and ridges of paddy fields stand. Water covers the place, whether it is summer or rainy season. Bunds have been built for the protection of Kadamakkudy residents and they block the waves when the sea turns rough. Attractions include a toddy shop offering fish delicacies made with local varieties such as prawns, clams, squid, kari and pallathi . A teashop in the island also sells traditional items like pickled mango and gooseberry, boiled eggs of duck, omelet, tapioca and fish curry.

An all-round guide to exploring Fort Kochi

Pizhala and Chathanathu Kadavu are the two inhabited areas in Kadamakkudy and the beauty of islands can also be enjoyed from the Container Road beyond the Goshree Bridge.

Incidentally, there are almost no settlers in Kadamakkudy and all the local residents are related or know each other very well. This presents a striking contrast with the nearby cosmopolitan area of Kochi.

Most of the residents in Kadamakkudy earn a living from fishing. While people like Cleetus use a net, others like Sarojini search the shallow waters for their catch; mostly crabs, each costing around Rs 2,000. The crabs are exported and are of the finest quality, say the local people.

During the months from December to May, Kadamakkudy witnesses fish farming and then the water is drained to sow ‘pokkali paddy’ during the monsoon. A rice with heritage status, pokkali also is exported and is priced at around Rs 80 a kg. When the pokkali fields are ready for harvest, the area attracts migratory birds as well as avid photographers.

Suggestions have been submitted to the Tourism Department of Kerala to implement an island tourism project in Kadamakkudy. It is pointed out that a traveller could reach Paravur within 20 minutes from High Court Junction in Ernakulam if the bridge connecting Moolampally and Paravur is opened. Moreover, tourists can easily visit nearby attractions such as Kuzhupilly Beach, Muziris, Cheraman Perumal Mosque and St Thomas Church.

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Weekend Getaway – Kadamakkudy

What’s your plan for this weekend? A visit to Kadamakkudy can be planned.

Shopping, watching movies, or just spending a quiet day at home?

Why don’t you take off for an outing with your family and beat those week long work blues?

Because a picturesque destination can soothe your senses and bring back your lost vigour.

Kadamakkudy is one of the must see places near Kochi in Ernakulam district and is the perfect choice for a weekend trip.

It consists of 14 smaller islands – prominent ones include Valiya Kadamakkudy, Pizhala, Palayam Thuruthu and Murikkal.

Image by  SYNAN  via Wikimedia

This quaint, sleepy village, situated 15 kms from the mainland, is a treat to the eyes – Nature has painted such a strikingly beautiful picture of this place; you will simply stand and stare! It has the perfect blend of rustic beauty and lush greenery adding to its charm.

If you are a photography aficionado, then Kadamakkudy should not be missed! The countryside has vast tracts of water spread area dotted with coconut trees and verdant patches of greenery – this breathtaking landscape will produce some picturesque village photos ! Agriculture and fishing are the main occupations of the inhabitants. The islands are famous for paddy cultivation, toddy tapping and prawn farming.

The changing hues of the sunrises and the sunsets in Kadamakkudy are a delight to watch. The calm and serene breezy mornings and evenings interspersed with the chirping of birds gives you the beautiful aura of village life.

The scenic natural beauty of these islands can be best explored on foot or on a bicycle. Ferry services are also available connecting the islands with each other. You can go fishing or buy fish from the local fishermen and prepare your own lunch in the authentic Kerala style. You can also taste some toddy too!

Image by  Francisdianish  via Wikimedia

An island worth visiting in Kadamakkudy is Pizhala – the central part of Kadamakkudy surrounded by the Periyar river. Here, pokkali paddy farming is done on a large scale.

Pokkali is a type of long grain rice variety that is rich in protein content. It is highly saline resistant and cultivated in water logged coastal regions. Apart from viewing pokkali fields, you can go night fishing, crab hunting and country boat rowing.

For those having a spiritual bend of mind, there are Catholic churches and temples in Kadamakkudy. The St. Francis Xavier’s Church in Pizhala boasts of a century’s history. Kadamakkudy Syrian Catholic Church is another famous church. Shree Balabhadra Temple and Moorthinkal Shree Vaishanava Kshethram are the important temples.

For a bird watcher, Kadammakudy offers a wonderful paradise. It is the haven of about 75 species of birds including migratory ones.

Image by  Arshad.ka5  via Wikimedia

One can spot the Little Cormorant, Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Lesser Whistling Duck, Ashy Prinia besides different varieties of kingfishers, herons, bee-eaters, swallows amongst a few. The months from February to May are ideal for bird watching.

How to Reach Kadamakkudy

Kadamakkudy is situated 15kms from Edappally in Ernakulam. You can either rent a cab or travel by bus to reach the destination.

If you are intending to travel by bus, catch the Varapuzha bound bus from Edappally junction, (near Lulu mall). Alight at Varapuzha town and then take another bus to Kadamakkudy. Direct bus services to Kadamakkudy from Edappally are also available although it’s limited.

Ernakulam is well connected to all the major cities of India by road, rail and air.

Kadamakkudy is beckoning you to experience its everlasting beauty and breathe in its fresh air. It’s an ideal jaunt to escape from the monotony of everyday life. So get ready this weekend to enjoy to the fullest at Kadamakkudy!

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Kadamakkudy Islands Top Tourist Attraction Kerela Tourism

• Post category: Kerala Tourism
• Post author: Source
• Post published: 7 March 2024
• Reading time: 6 mins read

Kadamakkudy Islands Top Tourist Attraction Kerela Tourism: Nestled amidst tranquil backwaters and lush greenery, Kadamkkudy offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located as a group of islands in Ernakulam district , a suburb of Kochi city, Kadamkkudy attracts visitors with its rustic village scenery and traditional activities. From fishing to toddy tapping, the island displays the vibrant colors of rural life.

Table of Contents

Accessible by road from Varappuzha town on National Highway-66, Kadamkudy consists of fourteen islands, with Valiya Kadamkkudy being the main island. Murikkal, Palayam Thuruth, Pizhala, and others contribute to the picturesque landscape of the island.

• Distance From Kochi  Is Approx.  20km  Via  NH966A
• Google Map: Kadamakkudy

Just 20 km from Kochi, this paradise attracts travellers looking for peace and natural beauty. Vast expanses of backwaters, lush green paddy fields, and a variety of bird species wait to be explored. Kadamkkudy is not just a destination; It is an immersion in the authentic rural lifestyle, with farming activities, fishing, and prawn farming presenting a vivid picture of rural life.

List of Birds Spotted at Kadamakkudy

Kadamakkudy, with its serene backwaters and lush greenery, serves as a heaven for birdwatchers. Here’s a comprehensive list of avian species spotted in this picturesque locale:

• Lesser Whistling-Duck
• Asian Openbill
• Painted Stork
• Little Cormorant
• Oriental Darter
• Yellow Bittern
• Black Bittern
• Purple Heron
• Great Egret
• Intermediate Egret
• Little Egret
• Cattle Egret
• Indian Pond-Heron
• Black-crowned Night-Heron
• Black-headed Ibis
• Brahminy Kite
• White-breasted Waterhen
• Purple Swamphen
• Eurasian Moorhen
• Black-winged Stilt
• Black-bellied Plover
• Red-wattled Lapwing
• Little Ringed Plover
• Bronze-winged Jacana
• Common Sandpiper
• Wood Sandpiper
• Common Redshank
• Small Pratincole
• Gull-billed Tern
• Whiskered Tern
• Rock Pigeon
• Common Kingfisher
• Stork-billed Kingfisher
• White-throated Kingfisher
• Pied Kingfisher
• Green Bee-eater
• Blue-tailed Bee-eater
• Indian Roller
• Greater Flameback
• Rose-ringed Parakeet
• Ashy Woodswallow
• Indian Golden Oriole
• Black Drongo
• Rufous Treepie
• Oriental Skylark
• Barn Swallow
• Wire-tailed Swallow
• Red-vented Bulbul
• Red-whiskered Bulbul
• Blyth’s Reed-Warbler
• Common Tailorbird
• Ashy Prinia
• Plain Prinia
• Yellow-billed Babbler

With such a diverse range of bird species, Kadamakkudy promises an enriching experience for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Boat Trips and Pokkali Area

Embark on a morning boat ride to explore the tranquil backwaters and wander through the picturesque Pokkali fields. Kadamakkudy offers a tranquil retreat for individuals who want a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Enjoy the country flavours that Kadamakkudy is famous for. From cardamom-fried carp to Naran prawn fry, cuppa, and fish curry, the island’s specialties promise a gastronomic delight. Be sure to sample the original Nadan Toddy for an authentic taste of the region.

The Best Time to Visit

Experience the true beauty of Kadamakkudy between 5:30 pm to 7 pm , especially during the mesmerizing sunset. The islands are bathed in mesmerizing light, creating a wonderful sight. However, visitors are advised to depart before dusk, especially if travelling with children.

Ultimately, Kadamakkudy emerges as a hidden gem in Ernakulam, offering a perfect blend of natural splendour, cultural richness, and culinary delights. With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse offerings, Kadamakkudy beckons you to immerse yourself in its charm and create unforgettable memories in this unusual destination.

Whether you yearn for tranquility, culinary adventure, or a deep connection with nature, Kadamakkudy promises an experience unlike any other.

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House Boating in backwaters of Kadamakkudy

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Fish Farm Visit, Feed Fish, Experience different fish methods Fishing with Fishing stic, Castnet Fishing

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Castnet Fishing

Castnet is a traditional method of fishing. Here, the conical shaped nets fitted with lead weight at the bottom are spread into the water with one yarn in the hand.

Karimeen Pollichath

Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl spot )is one such traditional food in kerala.One more layer of spicy masala is spread on top of fish and the banana leaf is folded into a packet.

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Prawns roast is a spicy seafood which is popular among the village of Kadamakkudy .Fresh prawns prepared in coconut oil

Lunch with Karimeen Elayil Pollichathu, Naran Prawns Roast, Kappa, Fish Curry, Cabbage Thoran, Achinga Thoran, Mezhukku peratti, Tomato/Pineapple Curry, Pickle, Pappadam and Rice

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Kadamakkudy, Ernakulam

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A perfect destination for you to unwind, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Kadamakkudy is a cluster of islands scattered in the suburb of Kochi city in Ernakulam district. Backwaters, paddy fields, fish farming, toddy tapping and other rustic village scenes and activities will cheer up your soul. The island is easily accessible as it is linked by road to Varappuzha town on the National Highway-66.

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Infra development to give Kadamakkudy village tourism a fillip

KOCHI: The Kadamakkudy panchayat, which consists of eight islets in the Goshree area, is all set to become one of the major tourist villages in Ernakulam. In this year’s annual budget, the Kadamakkudy panchayat has come up with a plan to develop the area by focusing on infrastructure development. This move, according to panchayat president N G Mary Vincent, will give a thrust to the dreams of making the village a complete tourism hub.

“The islets remain scattered and our major aim will be to connect all of them with the help of bridges. The work of some of the bridges has already been launched. The work of the approach roads of Chennoor-Pizhala bridge, Chennoor-Cheriyamthuruthu bridge and Kadamakkudy -Chathanad bridge has to be completed. Once the work of the bridges are completed, it will act as the easiest route to reach Ernakulam from Paravur side. this will also help in bringing more tourists to the villages,” she said.

Kadamakkudy is also one of the key areas in Eranakulam where Poakkali farming is rampant. last year, Pokkali was cultivated in nearly 80 hectares of land in Kadamakkudy. “We are planning to extend it to 100 hectares this year. This will also be a big boost to fish farming as most of the farmers are cultivating shrimps in the Pokkali fields during the offseason,” said Mary.

She said once the Kochi Water Metro project become operational, it will also offer better connectivity to Kadamakkudy islands with the City centre. “At present, there will be five stops for Water metro in the islands- Kadamakkudy, Paliamthuruthu, Kothad, Pizhala and Chennoor. “We aim to convert Kadamakkudy into a tourism spot,” she added.

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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