Russia travel Tips
Travelling in Russia can be a fascinating and rewarding experience, and for the most part, relatively safe. However, a spate of separatist uprisings, attacks, and hostage-takings has incurred the need for tourist vigilance in public places, and travellers are strongly advised against visiting certain areas of the country that are prone to instability and violence.
-
The majority of Russian citizens follow the Russian orthodox religion, which is fairly conservative and demands that visitors to sacred sites dress appropriately. Men should wear full-length pants and shirts with sleeves, while women should wear long dresses or skirts and cover their hair with a scarf.
-
When selecting restaurants, choose places that are busy and look clean. Food poisoning is a major health threat in this part of the world. Never drink Russian tap water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth.
-
Health insurance is essential when travelling in Russia. Tourists are generally treated in private clinics that are extremely expensive.
-
Be careful of taxi drivers – some are genuinely lovely people, but others will not hesitate to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists.
-
Always remove your coat when you enter a building; it is considered impolite to do otherwise.
-
Always declare all electronic equipment when entering the country, or you run the risk of having it confiscated on the way out.
-
Avoid travelling to the unstable areas of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia, where violence, kidnappings and attacks are common occurrences.
Useful travel tips resources
Iexplore
Travel site with ‘do’s and don’ts’ for a wide range of places.
http://www.iexplore.com/dmap/Russia/Do’s+and+Don’ts
Lonely Planet guide to Russia
Incomparable resource on Russia travel from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.LonelyPlanet.com
Footprint Guides - Russia
Site providing invaluable travel information and advice for a plethora of destinations.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
More topics on this site…
Russia travel information
Russia health and safety
Russia maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: All visitors to Russia require a visa
Season: July – August
Money: Rouble
Language: Russian
Emergency #: Fire – 01; Police – 02; Ambulance - 03