The nicest thing I can say about Zen Coffee House near Byelorussky Train Station is that you'll never have to wait in line there. That's because even though there is room for at least 50 people, I've never seen more than half a dozen customers in the place. I suspect that's because their coffee is overpriced, even by Moscow standards. Another reason may be the unfriendly atmosphere. I recently saw a man come in to pick up one of the free newspapers that are on display by the entrance. The manager came from behind the counter and in a loud voice chewed him out, saying that these were for paying customers only. The reality is that in Moscow you can go into virtually any establishment that caters to foreigners and grab a paper and no one will blink an eye. But don't try it at Zen Coffee Shop unless you also want a free lecture.

Right across the street from Byelorussky Train Station

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An outdoor museum with many old buildings and churches, some of which have been moved here from elsewhere in Russia. Most are currently covered by scaffolding, but should be ready by the summer of 2006.

Excellent view of the Moskva River, pleasant river voyages in the summer. Nearby are lots of little places with shashlyk and beer at reasonable prices, but be prepared for long lines.

Nearest metro: Kolomenskaya, exit head of train, go left, then right. When you reach the surface and see the Orbit Cinema, you're in the right place. Keep going straight ahead to the park

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If you're adventurous enough to go outside the centre of town, try Long John Silver's restaurant. I recommend the wiener schnitzel – the portion is huge, enough for two. There’s a big plus in the summer: you can sit outside and enjoy the restaurant's own private zoo, complete with ducks, turkeys, rabbits and chickens. Those animals able to jump over the high fence will join you at your table. But they're very well mannered.

Otherwise you can look at the people entering and leaving the metro. There’s live music in the evenings and important football events are televised.

Nearest metro: Kaschirskaya, leave from the head of the train and exit right

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