Baltic Outlook January 2019 | Page 32

URBAN ICONS / January Fly to Moscow € 119 from The King of Ice In winter, Moscow’s Red Square reserves its precious space for a very special urban gem. Words by Olga Dolina Publicity photo It’s hard to imagine more fairytale-like surroundings for the most atmospheric open-air ice-skating rink in the country. Sharpen your blades and slide into fun, surrounded by four historic beauties: the walls of the Kremlin, the State Historical Museum, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, and the GUM department store. For 13 seasons in a row, the GUM Ice Rink has gathered children and adults, both locals and visitors, for a carefree yet active pastime. The festive atmosphere of long Christmas holi- days continues until February 28 and embraces visitors with an exceptionally colourful bazaar full of traditional crafts, delicious food, and warm drinks. Each year the decorations reflect a different theme, and this season you can discover the rich gallery of iconic Soviet-era 30 / airBaltic.com cartoon characters, including children’s favourites Cheburashka and Winnie-the- Pooh. Stay tuned for updates, because the venue offers special figure skating, ice hockey, and even curling classes for all newcomers. Don’t miss the chance to learn some tips and tricks from hockey star Alexei Yashin or support your favourite team at the WCT Red Square Classic curling championship stage on February 1–3. The rink can easily accommodate up to 450 skaters and is open daily from 10.00 to 23.30, when GUM, the Russian capital’s grandest department store, sparkles in golden lights. Remember, use of the ice is free of charge on weekdays until 15.30, and a brand-new selection of skates can be easily rented on the spot. Red Square, 3; gumrussia.com round trip