The best beaches and amber: the Baltic Sea at the "Journey Across Russia" exposition

Today, on March 22, the Baltic Sea Day is celebrated. In honor of this event, the National Centre RUSSIA highlights how the Baltic Sea is represented at the "Journey Across Russia" exposition.

At the exposition of the Northwestern Federal District, visitors can learn interesting facts about the Kaliningrad Region and its main gem — the Baltic Sea. For example, only two beaches in Russia have received the prestigious international Blue Flag award, and both are located on the Baltic Sea coast, near the village of Yantarny.

"This award is given to beaches and piers that receive the highest rating according to a specific scale. Factors such as infrastructure, water quality, ecology, and safety are considered. The Baltic is known for its unpredictable weather — locals always carry an umbrella, even if the sun is shining and there isn't a single cloud in the sky. The sea rarely warms above 22-23 degrees even in summer, and if it does, it's considered a miracle. I spent my entire childhood at my grandmother's house in Jurmala, but even in the warmest summer, swimming there was almost impossible," said Janis Jakobsons, a guide at the National Centre RUSSIA.

The waters of the Baltic Sea are rich in amber, with 90% of the world's reserves located in the Kaliningrad region.

"Amber is fossilized tree resin. Millions of years ago, pine trees grew in this region, and they were the source of this precious material. It is also called the 'sunstone'," noted Lyudmila Zheludeva, a guide at the National Centre RUSSIA.

A dedicated cycling route is being developed along the Baltic Sea coast. It is planned to stretch over 100 kilometers, from the Curonian Spit to the Baltic Spit.

The interactive "Journey Across Russia" exposition showcases key achievements, innovative developments, as well as cultural, natural, and historical landmarks from all federal districts of the country.

Entry to the exposition is free as part of guided tour groups, which are formed through prior registration on the website russia.ru in the "Events" section.