Hi @DieselYVR and @MSTeconomist,
Thanks a lot for the inputs!
1) Thanks for the inputs on Helsinki. I was assuming that I wouldn't need any visa either but I just wanted to double check on this forum just to be sure.
2) As for Russia, thanks for the inputs on getting an 'invite letter' from the hotel that I'll be staying. I normally stay only at 3-star hotels (you can say, budget accommodations). If I cannot get a letter from them, then I'll try a travel agency. My itinerary in Russia is not complicated. I'll be spending 3 days in Moscow (probably 2) and 4 days in St. Petersburg.