I am trying the same process you are now mentioning, and for your RW to go to most european countries will require a Shengen Visa. If she has certain ties which increase her chances of returning, i.e., child, decent job, owns property or has been out of the country before, maybe her chances are fairly good.

The *snafu* is that there is no guarantee and they can only apply a few weeks before they intend to depart and what makes matters worse, will only know 2-3 days before departure whether the visa has been granted. No risk on their part, but if you have already booked tickets and accomodation, it could get ugly.

Cyprus, which was mentioned earlier sounds as good a place as any, climate is mild even during winter months, and if RW's don't require visas (saves you $200 off the bat) and no worries as to getting her there would be a good choice.

I met and spent two weeks with a Russian girl in Greek Cyprus last April. It does rain a bit in the winter, but it's not bad and there will be none of the masses of tourists present during summer. The spring and fall are the best times to visit, it's one non stop party through the summer.

She will have no problems going to Cyprus, no visa required, but they sometimes ask to be sure she has enough cash to support herself. Many Russians vacation in Cyprus, there are many Russians living and working there and many resturants have Russian menus and food.

In addition, I can vouch for the legendary hospitality of
the Cypriot people. Most were very surprised (espeacilly in the mountains)to see an American and Russian together.
We were a curiosity wherever we went, although I suspect it was more her beauty than our being a couple. (Cypriot men are known for making their feelings known around beautiful women, so be prepared. It's all harmless)

Cypriots are *very* friendly folks and almost all speak good English. This, coupled with the large Russian population makes it easy for everyone involved. Cyprus remains divided, with the South being Greek. (The capital of Nicosia is the last divided city on Earth, after the Berlin wall came down.)

Lots of history and archealogical sites, that wonderful Med
climate and all kinds of seaside activities. In addition
it's one of the safest places on Earth, virtually no crime at all. It's a great place and I plan on returning next year.

Any questions, just ask.

Cyprus is not such a cheap place to vacation. The Cypriot pound is one of the few currencies that is worth more than the USD. In April one Cypriot pound exchanged for 70 cents US, so it'll be a tad spendy. I spent about $1500 US while there, but I fly for free so it wasn't too bad. Your airfare will be about $1000 round trip, more if you cover her costs.

Hey, no one said this was gonna be cheap.......

But I would still recommend Malta - so much better and cheaper. Last time my friends paid $400 each for the trip there (flight tickets and a hotel for one week with breakfast). Not very expensive in my opinion.

Tootsie