Thanks for the great info okko. ^ ^

Great minds think alike () - that Hotel was what I saw was best suited to me. Looks pretty modern, in apparently good beach location with balconies, and price a lot lower than brand names.

allrussiahotels emailed me yesterday saying their web rate was gone but for double it I could have a room. I'll try elsewhere, as rate seems to be all over the place for that Hotel.

For things like taxis did you pay in local money or $US cash?

One report I read said if taxi guy argues, just hand over a couple of $$ notes for city fare, get out and walk away and all will be cool.