If you keep yourself updated on Russian news, you may be aware that its leaders are restricting freedoms rather than expanding them. One recent example of this is the shutting down of the eXile, an expat newspaper that is described as "irreverent" and "seeking to offend." An audit of the newspaper was conducted for minor code violations, but the newspaper's editors are certain that the reason behind the audit was couched in politics.

Tensions between the UK and Russia have increased, as have U.S.-Russia differences over perspectives about Iran's nuclear goals. While none of these events have immediate consequences for visitors to Russia, it is always wise to keep abreast of any political situation in a destination country prior to travel there.

If you're a fan of architecture or folk art, you are bound to appreciate Eastern Europe's traditional wooden architecture. These secular and religious buildings appear to be straight out of fairy tales, but they're actually significant reminders of Eastern Europe's architectural developement, the folk beliefs of its peoples, and the innovation of its builders. The following are examples of where you can see wooden architecture in Eastern Europe:

• Kizhi Island, Russia
• Tomsk, Russia and other Siberian cities
• Bucovina Region of Romania
• Southern Ukraine

For photos of beautiful abandoned wooden houses in Russia, visit this gallery from Russianfun.net.

Church of the Transfiguration on Kizhi Island Photo Credit: Yarik Mission © 2006