travel passport aesthetic

15 of the World’s Most Beautiful Passports

By lindsay lowe | jan 17, 2017.

Your passport is the one thing you always have with you when you travel around the world, so it might as well be beautiful. These 15 countries have transformed their passports into works of art.

Norway’s new passport shows off the Aurora.

Norway’s passport, which was redesigned in 2014 , is a celebration of Scandi minimalism. The inside pages depict Norway’s natural landscapes using clean lines and shades of teal, grey, and orange. The illustration are gorgeous enough in normal light, but they really come alive when you shine a UV light on them: The colors turn dark, and the Northern Lights appear as dazzling ribbons across the night sky.

No more twiddling your thumbs in the customs line! Finland’s passport, redesigned in 2012, doubles as a flipbook. When you thumb through the document, an illustration of a moose at the bottom right hand corner appears to saunter across the page. 

3. AUSTRALIA

Kangaroos, emus, platypuses: the Australian passport has them all. The illustrations inside pay tribute to the country’s distinctive biology. And beneath the pretty pictures, a host of hidden security features—including an image of a kangaroo that appears to float above the page when tilted—make Australia’s passports e xtremely difficult to forge.

Canada’s new passport looks fairly ordinary in the light of day. But when you shine a blacklight on the inside pages, they transform into glowing illustrations of iconic Canadian scenes and symbols, from Niagara Falls to Technicolor maple leaves. 

Wikimedia Commons

Like Canada’s passport, China’s passport has an ultraviolet secret. Pass a UV light over the inner pages, and illustrations of landmarks like the Great Wall of China burst into colorful life.

6. NEW ZEALAND

As a remote nation surrounded by water, New Zealand has always been a nation of travelers—from the early Polynesian explorers who first sailed to the island, to modern-day Kiwis who travel thousands of miles beyond their borders. Each page of New Zealand’s passport—one of the world's most powerful —tells the story of the many journeys that New Zealanders have taken throughout history.

Like many of the world’s most beautiful passports, Hungary’s passport comes alive under UV light. A blacklight reveals part of the musical score of the second Hungarian national anthem, the Szózat.

8. INDONESIA

The 48 pages of Indonesia’s passport feature brightly colored drawings of the island nation’s impressive flora and fauna, including a turtle, a bird of paradise, and a Rafflesia, one of the world’s largest flowers. 

The Irish passport, redesigned in 2013 , is a lovely tribute to the music, architecture, and natural beauty of the Emerald Isle. The illustrations inside depict landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin’s iconic River Liffey, woven through with Celtic designs.

The Scandinavians seem to know something the rest of us don’t when it comes to stylish passport design. Sweden’s passport, redesigned in 2012, features unusual birds-eye-view illustrations of famous Swedish landmarks and neighborhoods. And yet again, the whimsical drawings take on a whole new life when you slip them under UV light.

11. UNITED KINGDOM

Wikimedia Commons

The UK redesigns its passport every five years for security reasons. The most recent design, unveiled in November 2015, celebrates the past 500 years of creativity in Britain. The inside pages feature illustrations of British innovators, including the modern artist Anish Kapoor and the first computer programmer, Ada Lovelace. Also, a watermark of William Shakespeare graces every page. 

12. UNITED STATES

America’s passport is full of colorful illustrations of classic American landscapes, paired with inspirational quotes from U.S. leaders. But the current look may be on its way out; the U.S. passport is getting a makeover , and will debut later this year , or near the start of 2018.

13. PHILIPPINES

The new Philippine passport, which   was released in 2016 , features colorful illustrations of the country's tourist destinations, natural landmarks, and animals. The most dramatic rendering shows the wings of endangered cockatoos framing the face of the national bird, the Philippine eagle.

Jewben09via Wikimedia Commons //  CC BY-SA 3.0

Each page of Mexico’s colorful passport features a different coat of arms  to represent Mexico’s 31 states and Federal District. 

15. SWITZERLAND

SDE via Wikimedia Commons

Switzerland’s passport (issued in 2010) definitely makes a statement . Instead of the standard dark cover stamped with a country crest, the Swiss went bold, minimal, and modern, with an unusual off-center alignment for the text. The geometric patterns on the inner pages are just as striking.

• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Community Trips
• TTIFridays (Community Events)
• SG Travel Insider (Telegram Grp)

• Around The World

12 Coolest Passports from around the World — A Flipbook, Glow-In-The-Dark Designs, and…

From flipbooks to colourful designs that appear only under black light, here are the world’s coolest passports.

Passports all over the world sport a similar look and it’s no coincidence. In 1920, the League of Nations made an agreement to standardise all passports — each one must be of a certain size and have the same number of pages.

Photo credit: @pgnarisara via Instagram

But having to follow standards hasn’t stopped countries from injecting their own identity! These include some features you’d be surprised to find in passports.

These are some of the submitted designs for Taiwan’s new passport. Photo credit: New Power Party

In April 2020, a passport design contest in Taiwan raised a few eyebrows — with designs such as bubble tea, braised pork rice, and the Formosan black bear submitted by Taiwanese.

For other countries around the world, here are passports with some of the coolest features — in no particular order 🤩

1) Norway — northern lights revealed under UV light

The new Norwegian passport has three colour variations — red for standard, green for diplomatic, and white for immigrant. Photo credit: Neue Design Studio

Norway’s newly designed passport hasn’t been introduced yet but it’s already made headlines. Named “Norwegian landscapes”, the award-winning design may look simple, but hides some intriguing details.

Photo credit: Neue Design Studio

Under UV light, the minimalistic landscape reveals a charming night scene — complete with the northern lights! It’s a brilliant use of UV technology, and adds a spectacular touch of magic to Norway’s passport.

Read more: Norway budget itineraries

2) Finland — passport turns into a flipbook

Spot the “flying” swan on the Finnish passport. Credit: @cirge

Finland’s passport might look plain, but turn the pages and you’ll know why it makes this list of world’s coolest passports. The country earned a reputation for transforming their passports into flipbooks. It’s actually a covert security feature, and you’ll see a swan flying when the pages are flipped.

In the older version, the visa pages show a moose walking—or galloping—away.

Credit: Mist3rMaul via YouTube

3) Canada — dazzling displays appear under UV light

Photo credit: The Star

The Canadian passport couldn’t look more ordinary at first sight. Outside, the cover shows the country’s coat of arms. Inside, each visa page features Canada’s landmarks, historical figures and natural wonders.

Photo credit: chachichachichicken via imgur

However, the true surprise comes when you shine UV light on the pages. The dull-coloured landmarks instantly turn into a dramatic scene of iridescence. It’s an impressive burst of colours that also doubles as clever anti-fraud technology. Not only is this one of the world’s coolest passports, but it might just be the most colourful too!

Fun fact: The only person in the world who does not need a passport to travel is Queen Elizabeth II.

4) Indonesia — a visual guide of local natural wonders

The Indonesian passport features the Komodo dragon and the crater lakes of Mt. Kelimutu. Photo credit: Dewi Arna

Most countries have images of skylines or attractions on their passports, but Indonesia went for something less typical. Open their passport and you’ll be greeted with vivid images of the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural wonders and wildlife.

Every page in the Indonesian passport shows something different. These include the Komodo dragon that’s endemic to eastern Indonesia, the crater lakes of Mt. Kelimutu , and Javanese wayang puppet.

Photo credit: Dewi Arna

Besides breathtaking wildlife, fauna and flora, Indonesia also has some of the best landscapes. Check out our Indonesia guides and itineraries to find out more!

5) China — more iconic landmarks show up under UV light

Photo credit: Rachel Huang

Like a travel handbook, China’s passport is a proud product of the country’s tourism ministry. Each visa page features one unique attraction from all 34 provinces and cities — or so it seems.

Flipping through the passport brings you to Beijing’s Forbidden City , Shaanxi’s Terracotta Army , and Hainan Island’s Coconut Grove . You’ll also find the Victoria Harbour of Hong Kong and Macau’s Sai Van Bridge .

What’s even more interesting is that Taiwan and the Sun Moon Lake are included.

Photo credit: Rachel Huang, and sohu.com

But, it’s a whole different story once you turn on the UV lights — a second landmark pops up above the first! In Shaanxi, the Pagoda Hill appears above the Terracotta Army. Meanwhile, the desserts of Xinjiang overshadows the Silk Road.

Read more: 12-Day Yunnan Itinerary: China’s Best Kept Secret

6) New Zealand — has one of the world’s rarest passport colours

Photo credit: The New Zealand Herald

New Zealand’s passport has got to be one of the most aesthetically-pleasing in the world. For one, it’s black — one of the rarest passport colours (apparently, only seven countries have a black cover!). That said, black is New Zealand’s national colour, so it’s the obvious choice.

On top of the snazzy colour, the black cover is also decorated with silver ferns, creating an eye-popping contrast.

Photo credit: Feb Talk

Another interesting feature of the New Zealand passport is the overarching theme of navigation and travel in its designs. They include images of navigational tools used by New Zealand explorers through the times. For example, the picture above shows an astrolabe , an elaborate analogue instrument used to measure altitude when sailing.

Fun fact: Passports all over the world come in shades of red, blue, green, and black. Although there aren’t any rules for passports to be of certain colours, countries chose among these four colours because they look official.

7) The Philippines — iconic landmarks with lyrics to the national anthem

Mayon Volcano in Luzon, Philippines. Photo credit: Paulo Galgo

The Philippines passport is like a tourist guidebook that features several landmarks and wonders of the country. Some notable attractions include the Chocolate Hills of Bohol , Mayon Volcano , and Underground River of Peurto Princesa, Palawan .

Marcelo Fernan Bridge in Cebu, Philippines. Photo credit: Paulo Galgo

But that’s not all! The passport also doubles as a secret songbook. If you can read Tagalog, you’ll notice that there’s an accompanying sentence of the national anthem on each page.

8) Australia — ‘floating’ and ‘sinking’ kangaroos

Photo credit: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia

Australia is the first country to use Colour Floating Security technology on its passports. This ultramodern technology uses lasers to create images within the laminate of the data page — making it harder for criminals to forge.

If you hold the passport at different angles, it’ll show red and blue kangaroos “floating” and “sinking”.

Read more: Australia budget guides and itineraries

9) Switzerland — unconventional cover and naturally colourful pages

Photo credit: Forgemind ArchiMedia via Flickr

If you’ve ever seen a Swiss passport, you’ll know why it’s often praised as one of the coolest passports around.

Compared to other passport covers, the off-centre placement of the Swiss cross and texts gives it a modern, minimalist look. Next, the cover is filled with embossed mini Swiss crosses, giving it a satisfying tactile sensation.

Finally, the visa pages are printed with bright, vibrant hues. Each page also features a famous landmark from each Swiss canton at the corners.

Read more: 10-day Switzerland adventure under S$2,300 with the Swiss Travel Pass

10) Lebanon — sun and moon move across pages

Lebanon’s old (left) and new passport (right). Photo credit: GraphicShop

In 2016, Lebanon’s passports were given a makeover. The new minimalistic cover stands out amongst a sea of ordinary-looking passports. But, what’s truly eye-catching is the specially-designed features inside the passport.

Photo credit: GraphicShop

Within the visa pages, you’ll find illustrations of attractions such as the Baalbek , Byblos Castle , Jeita Grotto , and Rock of Raouche . If you flip through the pages, there’s also a sun rising from the East (first page) and setting in the West (last page).

Want a night scene? Shine some UV light! The pages turn dark, and the movement and different phases of the moon can be seen in reverse.

Fun fact: Passports of some Arabic countries are opened from the left-hand side. This is because their official languages are written from right to left.

11) Hungary — reveals music scoresheet under UV light

Photo credit: u/cookacka via Reddit

It’s not uncommon for countries to hide holographic images in their passport as an anti-fraud measure. Norway and China hid famous attractions, while Canada’s passport turns into a colourful work of art under UV light. Hungary, however, kicked it up a notch and printed an entire music score onto its passport.

Under UV light, you’ll see the music score of Szózat , a Hungarian patriotic song. Needless to say, using passports to celebrate one’s national culture is genius.

12) Japan — features designs by a famous artist

Photo credit: Suho.com & Wikimedia Commons

In 2020, Japan issued brand new passports featuring the artwork of ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai  from the Edo-period. Each double-page spread depicts 24 designs from the “ Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji ” series.

Photo credit: Asako Shimizu & Wikimedia Commons

It’s said that the complicated ukiyo-e artwork makes passport forgery difficult. Plus, the designs also achieve the intent of promoting the Japanese culture ahead of the Summer Olympics .

So, the next time you’re in Japan looking for the best Mount Fuji photo spot, ask the local Japanese for their passport for reference!

Planning to see Mount Fuji in the future? Here’s our 7-day Tokyo & Mount Fuji itinerary .

Most unique and coolest passports in the world

The Singapore passport may not be on our list of coolest passports, but it’s still one of the world’s most powerful passport !

Boba fans will be disappointed for now, as there won’t be a bubble tea motif on the new Taiwanese passport . Instead, they shrank the English name of the island “Republic of China” to almost illegible, setting it apart from a Chinese passport. A daring move, we’d say, but not quite as fun 😛

Passports aren’t just official travel documents — they identify who you are and are also your gateway to the world. But, the next time you travel and meet someone from these countries, ask to see their passports. Maybe you’ll get some inspiration for new places to visit too!

Until we get to use our passports again, how about checking out these staycation ideas for the perfect getaway in Singapore? Or the latest deals to kickstart your next adventure!

Featured Image Credit: chachichachichicken via imgur FB Cover Credit: Joel Carillet

Which of these passports did you think was the coolest? Share them in the comments below!

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com (@thetravelintern) on Sep 9, 2020 at 4:30am PDT

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Where to See Cherry Blossoms Outside Japan — The Ultimate 2024 Guide

Where to Travel in 2024 According to Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

New Holiday Destinations with Direct Flights from SG

10 Lesser-known Countries That Are Surprisingly Visa-free for Singapore Passport Holders

Yunnan Nature Bucket List For Outdoor Lovers — Best Spots in Kunming, Lijiang, Dali & Shangri-la

12 Best Luxury Getaways Based on Your Horoscope

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

2D1N JB Itinerary — The Broke Friends Getaway

New Direct Flight to Broome — Idyllic Australian Beach Getaway Now...

Climbing Mount Kinabalu — A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Scaling One of...

25 Unique Things to Do in Taiwan Besides Visiting Night Markets

25 Exciting Things to Do in Shanghai — First Timer’s Guide...

• Terms Of Use
• Privacy Policy

How to Look Good in Passport Photos, According to Beauty Experts

By Cassie Steer

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Passport photos are important—by government mandate, it’s the image that unequivocally declares “this is my face." And while Anna Wintour gets Mario Testino to shoot hers, those of us perched awkwardly atop plastic swivel seats in busy pharmacies have to do much more than just sit still to get a worthy photo. Don't worry: There are some insider tricks to ensure the results are as flattering as they can be. So roll back those shoulders (it elongates the neck), and get ready for that snapshot countdown with a little help from the experts.

Ditch the glow

“This is probably the only instance where glow is the enemy,” says makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis . “While highlighters and shimmers should be avoided, brightening powders, especially under the eyes, are great for cheating good lighting.” If you're using a phone, the combination of an HD camera and direct lighting can amplify texture—use a blurring primer to create a smooth canvas rather than opting for blanket coverage. Skip the sunscreen (but only for the picture) as SPF and flash photography don’t tend to mix.

Boost your color

This is not the time to skimp on color. “A soft cream blush will help reinstate bone structure and a healthy tone to the skin, both of which tend to get washed out with direct lighting—especially with the flash of a photo booth,” says Nguyen-Grealis. “Enhance lips with a stain or tinted balm that matches the natural tone of the lips for definition that doesn’t look obviously makeup-y.”

Add definition

“Focus on creating symmetry by subtly defining your eyes with kohl eyeliner inside the top waterline and adding a sweep of mascara,” says Nguyen-Grealis. Brows also add structure to the face, but think balanced rather than bulky: “Instead of using pencils and shadows, simply brush up using a fiber brow gel that gives the illusion of a fuller brow without dominating the face.”

Consider the light

“Think about bathing yourself in light,” says photographer Charisse Kenion . “When it comes to choosing the required light-colored background, stick with off-white or creamy tones that won’t show up too yellow and make you look either ill or too warm. Also avoid any grey tones because they can make you appear tired and add extra shadows.” Looking to brighten up your skin for the photo? "A simple trick anyone can do is to place a white piece of card on your lap to reflect a bit of light up under the chin and illuminate the face,” adds David Bate , Professor of Photography at the University of Westminster. “If using your phone or a camera at home, placing a white sheet over the window can dramatically soften the light and improve the look of a face.”

Smize for the camera

“The difficulty with passport photos is that you’re not allowed to smile,” says Ruth Crilly , a professional model and content creator at A Model Recommends . The fashion industry has mastered the art of perfecting that stylishly miserable look, so take your cues from the pros. “To avoid looking hard and angry, keep your mouth closed but your jaw loose to create just the right amount of space to give some nice shape to the face. If it’s easier, press your tongue to the roof of your closed mouth behind your teeth—it’ll have the same sort of effect. It can be helpful to tip your chin towards your chest and look down before raising your face slightly just before the shot to ensure you look animated rather than staring murderously into the lens.”

Upgrade your kit

“Unless you’re planning on creating some travel vlogs, you don’t really want to spend your entire travel budget on a camera to take a passport picture—and there’s really no need as phone cameras tend to be pretty good these days,” says Kenion. As tempting as it may be to slap a “Paris” Instagram filter over the top of your headshot, passport pictures have to remain totally unedited, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a little techie to eke out the best result. Sometimes it pays to delve a little deeper into your phone settings. Always start with portrait mode—this switches the primary camera to the telephoto camera, which has a higher zoom and simulates the look of portraits taken with a DSLR camera. Then, it’s time to get creative with exposure, focus, and gridlines to balance your shot. Gridlines are one of the easiest ways to improve your portrait; simply go to your phone’s settings and switch it on in the camera app. “TikToker Alix Earle set the internet alight when she shared that she uses a Newmowa LED Video light that clips to her phone. I bought one too and it’s brilliant for illuminating the entire face with bright light,” Kenion adds.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Passport-collector.com

Passport History Expert & Author | Tom Topol

The Design Philosophy Behind Passports

Design Philosophy Behind Passports

Unveiling the Ingenious Design Philosophy Behind Passports

In an increasingly interconnected world, passports have become more than just travel documents; they are symbolic representations of identity and sovereignty. At passport-collector.com , we believe in delving deeper into the intricacies of passport design, unraveling the fascinating reasons that make passports all look so strikingly similar yet uniquely distinctive. Join us as we explore the underlying design principles that govern passports and their undeniable influence on international travel.

The Passport’s Universal Aesthetic: A Symbol of Unity Design Philosophy Behind Passports

Passports, regardless of the issuing country, adhere to a remarkably consistent design. Why is that? The answer lies in the pursuit of international cooperation and seamless travel experiences. The standardized layout and format create a sense of familiarity for immigration officials worldwide, making the identification process more efficient. This harmonious approach promotes the idea of unity among nations, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers.

Security: The Cornerstone of Passport Design

At passport-collector.com , we recognize that security is paramount when it comes to passport design. Passports are equipped with a plethora of advanced security features, ranging from microprinting and holograms to UV-reactive inks. These measures prevent counterfeiting and ensure that the documents are nearly impossible to replicate, safeguarding the integrity of international borders.

The Psychology of Color and Symbolism

Passport design goes beyond mere functionality; it taps into the realm of psychology and symbolism. The colors chosen for passport covers often reflect a nation’s heritage or values. Blue, for instance, exudes trust and stability, making it a popular choice among many countries. Moreover, the use of national symbols and emblems on passport pages fosters a sense of national pride and identity, even within the context of a standardized document. Design Philosophy Behind Passports

Intuitive Layout for User-Friendly Experience

Navigating a passport can be a complex task, especially for travelers who are new to the process. Therefore, at passport-collector.com, we emphasize an intuitive layout that prioritizes user-friendliness. Clear sections for personal information, visa stamps, and essential travel details make it easy for both travelers and immigration officers to locate and interpret the necessary information swiftly. Design Philosophy Behind Passports

The Future of Passport Innovation

As technology continues to evolve, so does passport design. Biometric information and RFID chips have paved the way for enhanced security and expedited immigration procedures. At passport-collector.com, we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of these advancements, ensuring that passport designs not only meet the current standards but also anticipate the needs of future travelers.

Conclusion Design Philosophy Behind Passports

In conclusion, the seemingly uniform design of passports conceals a world of intricate details, aimed at fostering international cooperation, enhancing security, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for individuals around the globe. At passport-collector.com , we celebrate the fusion of artistry, security, and practicality that define passport design, and we remain committed to contributing to the evolution of this essential document in the years to come. As you embark on your next adventure, remember that your passport is not just a booklet; it’s a gateway to exploration, connection, and discovery.

1. What are the earliest known examples of passports, and how have they evolved?

The word "passport" came up only in the mid 15th Century. Before that, such documents were safe conducts, recommendations or protection letters. On a practical aspect, the earliest passport I have seen was from the mid 16th Century. Read more...

2. Are there any notable historical figures or personalities whose passports are highly sought after by collectors?

Every collector is doing well to define his collection focus, and yes, there are collectors looking for Celebrity passports and travel documents of historical figures like Winston Churchill, Brothers Grimm, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe . Read more...

3. How did passport designs and security features change throughout different periods in history, and what impact did these changes have on forgery prevention?

"Passports" before the 18th Century had a pure functional character. Security features were, in the best case, a watermark and a wax seal. Forgery, back then, was not an issue like it is nowadays. Only from the 1980s on, security features became a thing. A state-of-the-art passport nowadays has dozens of security features - visible and invisible. Some are known only by the security document printer itself. Read more...

4. What are some of the rarest and most valuable historical passports that have ever been sold or auctioned?

Lou Gehrig, Victor Tsoi, Marilyn Monroe, James Joyce, and Albert Einstein when it comes to the most expensive ones. Read more...

5. How do diplomatic passports differ from regular passports, and what makes them significant to collectors?

Such documents were often held by officials in high ranks, like ambassadors, consuls or special envoys. Furthermore, these travel documents are often frequently traveled. Hence, they hold a tapestry of stamps or visas. Partly from unusual places.

6. Can you provide insights into the stories behind specific historical passports that offer unique insights into past travel and migration trends?

A passport tells the story of its bearer and these stories can be everything - surprising, sad, vivid. Isabella Bird and her travels (1831-1904) or Mary Kingsley, a fearless Lady explorer.

7. What role did passports play during significant historical events, such as wartime travel restrictions or international treaties?

During war, a passport could have been a matter of life or death. Especially, when we are looking into WWII and the Holocaust. And yes, during that time, passports and similar documents were often forged to escape and save lives. Example...

8. How has the emergence of digital passports and biometric identification impacted the world of passport collecting?

Current modern passports having now often a sparkling, flashy design. This has mainly two reasons. 1. Improved security and 2. Displaying a countries' heritage, icons, and important figures or achievements. I can fully understand that those modern documents are wanted, especially by younger collectors.

9. Are there any specialized collections of passports, such as those from a specific country, era, or distinguished individuals?

Yes, the University of Western Sidney Library has e.g. a passport collection of the former prime minister Hon Edward Gough Whitlam and his wife Margaret. They are all diplomatic passports and I had the pleasure to apprise them. I hold e.g. a collection of almost all types of the German Empire passports (only 2 types are still missing). Also, my East German passport collection is quite extensive with pretty rare passport types.

10. Where can passport collectors find reliable resources and reputable sellers to expand their collection and learn more about passport history?

A good start is eBay, Delcampe, flea markets, garage or estate sales. The more significant travel documents you probably find at the classic auction houses. Sometimes I also offer documents from my archive/collection. See offers... As you are already here, you surely found a great source on the topic 😉

Other great sources are: Scottish Passports , The Nansen passport , The secret lives of diplomatic couriers

11. Is vintage passport collecting legal? What are the regulations and considerations collectors should know when acquiring historical passports?

First, it's important to stress that each country has its own laws when it comes to passports. Collecting old vintage passports for historical or educational reasons is safe and legal, or at least tolerated. More details on the legal aspects are here...

Does this article spark your curiosity about passport collecting and the history of passports? With this valuable information, you have a good basis to start your own passport collection.

Question? Contact me...

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

False claim migrants in the US illegally need passports for air or land travel | Fact check

The claim: Individuals in the US illegally must now carry a passport to travel by air or land

[ En Español : Falso: inmigrantes que están ilegalmente en EE.UU. necesitan pasaporte para viajar ]

A March 17 Instagram video ( direct link , archive link ) shows a man talking about immigration documentation.

"Immigrants who do not have legal immigration status from this moment on, if you want to travel, even within the United States whether on local flights or by land by vehicle, you must carry your passport from this moment on,” says the commentator in the video.

The post garnered more than 6,000 likes in five days.

More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page

Our rating: False

The Transportation Security Administration accepts passports and other forms of identification, such as a driver's license, for individuals who are in the country illegally and want to travel. Such travelers without passports will need to verify identities with facial recognition to travel.

The TSA accepts passports and other forms of identification

The TSA accepts various identification from travelers , including foreign government-issued passports and state-issued enhanced driver's licenses.   

“To travel domestically in the U.S., TSA requires a valid form of identification which can be either a state- or federal-issued identification document,” Kelley Ortega , an attorney at the Jaime Barron Immigration Law Group, told USA TODAY. “A foreign passport is also often accepted. In practice, lots of individuals who are apprehended and released at the border either have no passport or have their passport confiscated and, as such, would not be able to present a valid identification to travel by plane with TSA upon their release.”

The post may be based on a report from the Associated Press on March 14 that noted the government has started requiring migrants without passports to submit to facial recognition technology to verify their identity if they want to take a domestic flight. But there are no reputable reports of passports being required to travel at all, contrary to the post's claim that they are mandatory even for land-based travel.

Fact check : Biden didn't remove bald eagle from passports; photo placed on different page

For immigrants already in the country illegally, 19 states and the District of Columbia allow them to obtain driver’s licenses, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. A driver's license is a document approved by the TSA for boarding a flight.

USA TODAY reached out to the user who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Our fact-check sources:

• Transportation Security Administration, accessed March 21, Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint
• Kelley Ortega, March 21, Email exchange and phone call with USA TODAY
• Associated Press, March 14, Migrants lacking passports must now submit to facial recognition to board flights in US
• National Conference of State Legislatures, March 13, 2023, States Offering Driver’s Licenses to Immigrants

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here .

USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Passport chaos and broken holidays: Sorry, but this is the Brexit we voted for

Millions of people are at risk of falling victim to a ‘passport 10-year rule’, the independent’s travel expert simon calder has warned. it’s all our own fault, writes sean o’grady – we asked for it.

Article bookmarked

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Post-Brexit passport rules are catching out many travellers

Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK

Sign up to our brexit email for the latest insight.

I ’ve still got, somewhere, my original black British passport. When it ran out, the passport office asked if I’d like the old one returned – to which I said yes, on sentimental grounds (so that I could wistfully lay my hands upon it and gaze back at the bewildered youth in the photograph who had no idea what life was going to hurl at him ).

It’s a handsome thing, the old passport – if not the bewildered youth – made from cardboard that feels as strong as oak, and finished in a deep, almost glossy black, which gave it the feel of sturdy dependability that a Morris Minor – that other proud British emblem – might inspire in its owner. I used this document to travel fuss-free to the continent during the period when Britain was in the European Union.

When Brexit happened – a vote I take due responsibility for, as I foolishly imagined it would get us a better deal – one of the few unalloyed benefits I presumed we’d enjoy was that we would see the back of the flimsy maroon Euro-passports and return to the old model. But, like the Morris motor car that resembled a poached egg, it has passed into history.

(Some time after Brexit, by the way, it transpired that there was no such thing as a compulsory standard size and colour for the Euro-passport – Mrs Thatcher had just gone along with it because she considered it a matter of such triviality, it wasn’t worth messing up the single market project for the sake of it.)

So, now I have a new, not-quite-black-but-dark-blue UK passport – and not only does it still resemble a building society passbook, but it’s useless with it. To the great horror of about 100 British travellers every single day, it is no longer possible to enter the EU unless your passport was issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (so check the date of issue) and is valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave (so look up the date of expiry). You may also be asked if you’ve got enough money to support yourself. The cheek!

Is this the Brexit we voted for ? Well, yes: in the sense that we wished to end free movement and we ended up with a deal that was about as good as it was going to get, botched as it was by Boris Johnson and David Frost .

As we’re now discovering, the not-so-free movement of people is a two-way thing. Of course, if we can’t bothered with pesky passport rules and queueing at the barrier when we arrive at CDG or VCE or BCN, we could always hire a dinghy and paddle across to Calais to begin our European odyssey. But we don’t, because we know – or should do – that the Europeans have just as much right to control their borders and regulate who’s coming to visit, work or live in their land as the UK does.

That’s true of goods, particularly food , moving mostly across the English Channel. The Europeans had no problem shoving up the obstacles to English cheese and Scottish salmon crossing the borders, at much cost. But so troublesome do the British find the idea of running customs checks that we still haven’t gotten around to imposing them, and probably never will – much to the anger of British farmers.

Somehow, as the passport problems and border checks fiasco demonstrate, the UK has managed to engineer for itself a Brexit that represents the worst of all worlds. We don’t seem to be very effective at controlling who and what gets into the UK, and face expensive and apparently insuperable inconvenience when we want to move ourselves or some shellfish across to France or Belgium.

In recognition of the farmers’ tractor protest in London , we should also acknowledge that we’ve (and by “we” I mean Johnson, Liz Truss and Kemi Badenoch) done some rotten trade deals with countries such as Australia , which will eventually destroy large sections of British agriculture.

Next year, for whoever is in government after the general election, the EU will impose even more onerous rules. Or, rather, enact the agreements we freely signed in 2019 and 2020.

So you will need an electronic visa waiver (which is actually, in practice, a kind of three-year visa) called the Etias in order to enter the EU (except Ireland), and there will be a modest fee. But it’s yet more bureaucracy, and there is absolutely no guarantee that it won’t get even worse. And, of course, in the post-Brexit world, you will need to take extra care about health insurance and driving in the EU, too.

The EU has indicated that the UK-EU Brexit review due next year will not be an opportunity for yet another go at renegotiating Johnson’s deal, and that all the still-sovereign nations that comprise the EU retain the right to impose their own residency rules and taxation on UK nationals wishing to live or work there.

Brexit, in other words, is the malign gift that keeps on giving – and seeing as the democratic majority voted for it in 2016 , we shouldn’t actually complain when the man in the peaked cap at the airport sends us to the detention area and on the next flight back to where we came from. We’d happily do the same, after all.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Hundreds of British tourists with ‘remainer passports’ are getting caught out by a little known 10-year rule

Share this with

Be warned: if you still own a red ‘remainer’ passport, you’ll want to pay close attention to this post-Brexit rule.

Before the UK left the EU, UK passport holders were able to transfer up to nine months from an old passport over to a new one, including on 10-year passports.

But, if carrying this over has meant that your passport is now over 10 years old, you could find yourself caught out at the border.

What is the 10-year passport rule?

Before Brexit , the UK Passport Office’s policy was that passport holders that had time left on their existing documents could effectively transfer the balance to a new one.

So, if a document had three months remaining, those three months could be added to a new passport.

Under these rules, up to nine months could be carried over to a new passport, bringing the total for updated 10-year passports to 10 years and nine months.

However, as a result of this rule, data from the Home Office suggests that up to 32 million people could have passports that are now over 10 years old – which EU nations do not accept.

These rules also apply in the wider Schengen Area, including in Iceland, Norway and Switzerland, though UK visitors entering Ireland aren’t impacted by this rule.

Are red passports still valid?

The red remainer passports are no longer being issued after Brexit – the UK passport is now blue.

Red passports are still valid, though, as long as they’ve not expired.

Nonetheless, if you do still own a red passport, you’ll need to double check the expiry date.

Many countries require your passport to be valid for another six months before you leave for international travel – another rule that’s been slipping countless Brits up post-Brexit.

Countries and their passport rules...

70 countries that have a six-month passport rule: 

Afghanistan, Algeria, Anguilla, Bahrain, Bhutan, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Curacao, Cote D’Ivoire, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Guyana., Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Madagascar, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Myanmar, Namibia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Somaliland, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zimbabwe

41 countries that have a three-month passport rule: 

Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein., Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Senegal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Countries with other validity rules:

Bermuda (45 days upon entry), Eritrea (three months on arrival), Hong Kong (three months on arrival), Lebanon (three months on arrival), Macau (three months on arrival), Micronesia (four months on arrival), South Africa (three months on arrival), The Maldives (three months on arrival), and Zambia (four months on arrival).

Also known as the  ‘six-month validity rule’ , lots of people using old red passports (issued before  Brexit ) may run a risk of their documents not having long enough left – and being refused entry to certain countries.

According to  VisaGuide.World , there are 70 countries that follow the six-month passport rule, including the likes of  Thailand ,  United Arab Emirates  and many countries in Central America.

While another 41 apply the three-month passport validity rule – including lots of spots in Europe.

How long does it take to renew a passport?

Fear you’ll be caught out by the 10-year passport rule? Don’t worry: there’s plenty of time to renew before the summer holidays.

According to Gov UK, you’ll typically receive your new passport within 3 weeks. Take note: the processing time starts from when your documents are received – not sent off.

If the Passport Office needs more information from you, it could take longer – but they’ll let you know within the 3-week timeframe if they do.

However, if you are heading abroad this summer and need a new passport, you might want to allow extra time just in case. Better safe than sorry.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

MORE : This popular European city is about to get more expensive to visit

MORE : Extreme weather warning issued to Brits travelling to Canary Islands this weekend

MORE : Get out of here! Bag yourself a last-minute break with On The Beach (and for less than £440 per person too)

Get need-to-know travel news, inspiration and advice from Metro every week.

Sign up here....

Privacy Policy

To the gorgeous, well dressed, sandy blond guy with a Nordace rucksack who…

To the man with beautiful eyes and light-brown hair opposite me on the…

Enter your birthday for your free daily horoscope sent straight to your inbox!

Get us in your feed

Advertisement

Supported by

Visual Investigations

Videos and Online Profiles Link Suspects to Moscow Attack

Clothing and other details appear to show a connection between four suspects detained by Russia and the men who carried out the concert hall massacre of more than 130 people.

• Share full article

By Aric Toler ,  Malachy Browne and Paul Sonne

When four men were detained by the Russian authorities in connection with the massacre at a concert hall outside Moscow last week, they were dressed in the same attire as the assailants seen in videos of the attack, according to a New York Times analysis of footage from the hall, social media profiles and images leaked or released by Russia.

The identical clothing and other corresponding details suggest they carried out the attack. A video of one of the suspects being detained, for instance, shows him wearing a light brown T-shirt with a distinctive logo on the left breast and pants with a Boss label: Those details match the clothes worn by a gunman in propaganda footage of the attack released by the Islamic State, a.k.a. ISIS.

In addition, the Times analysis shows, the car that the suspects were driving when they were apprehended is the same color and type as one seen in footage from outside the concert hall during the attack.

The four suspects in the assault that left more than 130 dead were identified in a Moscow court hearing on Sunday night as Saidakrami M. Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, Muhammadsobir Z. Fayzov and Dalerjon B. Mirzoyev. They were charged with committing a terrorist act and remanded to custody until May 22.

Three of the suspects told the court they were from Tajikistan, and in interrogation videos reviewed by The Times, at least two men spoke Tajik. The videos show some of the men being beaten during their detention, and two of the men had clear injuries when they appeared in court. The fourth suspect appeared in court in a wheelchair with apparently limited ability to respond; a leaked copy of his passport suggests he is also a citizen of Tajikistan.

U.S. officials said the attack had been conducted by the Islamic State, which claimed responsibility and released photos of what it said were the attackers and video of the attack itself. President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia blamed the assault on “international terrorism” but did not mention the Islamic State. Russian state media laid the groundwork for blaming Ukraine, which denied any involvement.

Despite carrying out one of Russia’s deadliest terrorist attacks in decades, the gunmen seen in the footage did not appear to be highly trained, according to Rob Lee, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, which is based in Philadelphia. He said the men seemed to be grouped together during the attack, instead of spreading out and potentially inflicting more damage.

The suspects also did not change their clothes after the massacre, and appeared to have fled in the same vehicle they used to arrive at the scene, both of which would make it easier for the authorities to track them down and link them to the scene.

Russia’s Investigative Committee, a top law enforcement agency, said on Saturday that the suspects had been detained near the city of Bryansk, about 230 miles southwest of Moscow, and that weapons had been recovered from a Renault car. Mr. Putin claimed the men had been trying to escape toward the border with Ukraine.

A video verified by The Times shows at least one suspect, Mr. Rachabalizoda, being marched through the woods to the M3 highway near Bryansk. A photograph also verified by The Times shows a heavily damaged white Renault nearby.

Mr. Rachabalizoda was filmed being detained in the woods, a couple of hundred yards from the car, and identifying himself under questioning. A video of his arrest shared on Telegram shows men cutting off a part of Mr. Rachabalizoda’s right ear and stuffing it into his mouth before leading him out of the woods. State media later published a video interrogation of Mr. Rachabalizoda that shows his ear is heavily bandaged.

In each of the videos, he is wearing clothes identical to those worn by one of the Crocus City Hall attackers.

Mr. Rachabalizoda wears the brown T-shirt with the distinctive logo and pants with a Boss label; they match the clothes worn by a gunman in the Islamic State video and photograph.

The Russian authorities identified a second suspect who was detained and interrogated as Mr. Fariduni.

During his questioning, Mr. Fariduni is seen wearing a gray collared T-shirt matching that worn by one of the four men in the Islamic State photograph.

The shoes worn by Mr. Fariduni during his interrogation also match those worn by one of the assailants seen in the Islamic State video of the attack; they bear the same distinctive white marking and thick soles.

Mr. Fariduni says during his interrogation that he traveled to Russia from Turkey on March 4, the footage showed. Several photographs posted to what appears to be his Instagram and Facebook accounts in February showed Mr. Fariduni at the Fatih Mosque in Istanbul.

A third suspect, Mr. Fayzov, is a 19-year-old barber who appears to have lived in Russia since last year, according to his profile on the Russian social media platform VKontakte. A short video that circulated on the Telegram social media platform shows him being interrogated in a hospital room, where he speaks Tajik and discusses receiving documents at an airport.

A leaked copy of his passport — bearing a face that matches one both in the VKontakte profile and in videos of the detained suspect — suggests he is from Tajikistan. The passport notes that he recently arrived in Russia and lived in Ivanovo, which corresponds with his VKontakte profile.

After his detention, Mr. Fayzov was photographed wearing a green T-shirt with a distinctive, dotted logo on the left breast, the same T-shirt worn by one of the men in the photograph of the assailants released by the Islamic State. Mr. Fayzov also wears the same T-shirt in a photograph posted to his VKontakte account.

A fourth suspect, Mr. Mirzoyev, spoke Tajik through an interpreter during an interrogation that was broadcast on Russian state television. The bearded man also appears to have been beaten during his detention, and his cheek, nose and forehead were bruised and bloodied.

In the video, Mr. Mirzoyev is seen wearing a long-sleeved, crew-neck green shirt, bluejeans and a black belt; they match the attire of one of the attackers in the Islamic State video.

In the ISIS video, the assailant slices the throat of a victim who is lying on the ground, apparently unconscious.

Dmitriy Khavin and Oleg Matsnev contributed reporting. David Botti contributed production.

Aric Toler is a reporter on the Visual Investigations team at The Times where he uses emerging techniques of discovery to analyze open source information. More about Aric Toler

Malachy Browne is enterprise director of the Visual Investigations team at The Times. He was a member of teams awarded the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting in 2020 and 2023. More about Malachy Browne

Paul Sonne is an international correspondent, focusing on Russia and the varied impacts of President Vladimir V. Putin’s domestic and foreign policies, with a focus on the war against Ukraine. More about Paul Sonne

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• March Madness
• AP Top 25 Poll
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Good Friday

Brazil’s Bolsonaro requests court permission to accept Netanyahu’s invite to Israel

FILE - Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro speaks to the press outside his home after Federal Police agents carried out a search and seizure warrant in Brasilia, Brazil, May 3, 2023. When asked about the search of Bolsonaro’s home in Brasilia, the Federal Police press office gave a statement saying officers were carrying out searches and arrests related to the introduction of fraudulent data related to the COVID-19 vaccine into the nation’s health system. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)

• Copy Link copied

SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro has requested federal authorities return his passport and authorize travel to Israel so he can accept an event invitation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit in May, Bolsonaro’s lawyers said Thursday in a statement.

The attorneys submitted Bolsonaro’s request to the Supreme Court on Monday, the same day The New York Times published security camera footage revealing that the former president spent two nights at Hungary’s embassy in Brasilia . His stay, in February, came just days after Federal Police seized his passport during a raid related to an investigation into whether he and top aides plotted to ignore 2022 election results and stage an uprising to keep the defeated leader in power.

The revelation of his stay sparked widespread speculation he may have been attempting to evade arrest, as agents would not have jurisdiction to enter embassy grounds due to diplomatic conventions restricting access.

Bolsonaro’s lawyers denied that was his intent, saying in a separate statement it was “illogical” to think he was seeking asylum or avoiding authorities. The stay formed part of his political agenda with the Hungarian government, with whom he has “well-known alignment,” the statement said.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Israel’s Netanyahu, both leaders of a global far-right movement, are key international allies of Bolsonaro. By contrast, Netanyahu in particular has had frosty relations with Bolsonaro’s rival and successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Last month, Israel’s foreign minister said Lula would not be welcome in his country until he apologizes for comments he made comparing Israel’s war in Gaza to the Holocaust , accusing him of a “very serious antisemitic attack.” Netanyahu said Lula’s comments “trivialized the Holocaust” and “crossed a red line.”

In his petition to the Supreme Court for authorization to travel to Israel from May 12 to 18, Bolsonaro’s lawyers said the proposed trip wouldn’t jeopardize the ongoing legal processes he faces , as he has scheduled appointments after his planned date of return.

The request didn’t specify which event Bolsonaro aims to attend, but the proposed period coincides with Israel’s Independence Day.

“As is public knowledge, part of political activity involves international relations as well as expanding dialogue with global leaders,” Bolsonaro’s lawyer Fabio Wajngarten said on X, formerly Twitter.

The Supreme Court’s press office said it will analyze the request and that there is no deadline for a decision.

Follow AP’s coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america