JFZ,
I started planing this trip last year.As far as advice ,get an apartment.My email is cliffordduke@bellsouth.net.Saint Petersburg was HOT.90F
If you get a place in city center you can spend time walking the canals and river.The hermitage needs weeks to get a taste.A day is just frustrating.If you are going by yourself,or even with someone,read everthing you can on the history of the city.Pick what will interest you and realize trying to do everything will drive you nuts.The history and sights will just overwhelm you.I met several of the guides and interpreters.It seems to be a close knit industry.I met the owner of one agency and came to trust him as well.I wanted to vist banya and found to really appericate it.It requires going outside SPB at least a day trip.My interpreter was Anfisa Breus,who also worked as a guide.She gained my respect and trust.I do not know if this sight will let that pass.Get some Russian currency as soon as you can.Have a driver waiting for you.The last thing you need after a long flight is a cab hassle.When you get off the plane...take a deep breath,let it out slow and relax.For more specifics mail me..Clifford