Russians flock to France for New Year party

Russians flock to France for New Year party - Toronto Sun: "PARIS – Hotels across France are gearing up for an influx of Russians coming to celebrate their Orthodox Christian New Year in a country that is becoming a playground for millionaires from the former Soviet Union.
As Russia grows richer, more than half a million Russians are visiting France each year, according to French tourism development agency Atout France. Numbers peak each January when Russians celebrate their New Year according to the Orthodox Julian calendar, 13 days after the western New Year.
Well-heeled Russians favor the fashionable ski resort of Courchevel, Cote d’Azur resorts like Nice and Paris — where five-star hotels are busy lining up decadent Russian-themed soirees with caviar and vodka to mark the 2011 party.

Medevev sends Christmas greetings to nation

News.Az - Medevev sends Christmas greetings to nation: "Russian President Dmitriy Medvedev has sent Christmas greetings to all Orthodox believers and all Russians.
'Christmas brings us to the timeless values of love and kindness,' the president said.
'They have served through the centuries to strengthen the moral values and unity of the Russian people,' he continued. 'And at all times, [they] helped Russia to pass any test, save our land peace and harmony.'
'These values are the foundation of our society and its peaceful and constructive life and of the further development of Russia in the modern day too,' Medvedev said.

'May Christmas give everyone confidence in their own strength, joy and hope,' the president said."