Covering more than one-eighth of the Earth’s land, Russia (or officially Russian Federation) is the biggest country in the world. Russia’s extensive history dates back to the first century. Once a powerful czarist empire and the birthplace of a Communist revolution, Russia continues to attracted curious visitors despite its tight bureaucratic Soviet-style visa process. Those who can cope with the crazy visa process are ultimately rewarded ten-fold with Russia’s cultural delights, impressive architecture, off-the-beaten track appeal, and friendly locals.
I never in my life thought that I would be traveling to Russia. Everything about my journey to this country was exciting – from the chaotic and somewhat scary visa process to its overwhelmingly beautiful architecture and lively culture. I love (love love love) Russia. I cannot wait to go back (and hopefully soon).

 

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Getting There And Around
Russia is like that forbidden fruit you must have. Almost every nationality needs a visa to travel to Russia. Be prepared to answer lots of questions (some really strange) and to submit your visa application and valid passport (and pay its heft fee) at a Russian embassy or consulate in person. It’s unfortunate that Russia’s extensive visa process is a traveler’s first experience with this country, but just think of the amazing things to follow – glistening gold bell towers, magnificent architecture and incredible food followed by ice-cold vodka. Travel agencies for package tours and special offices offer visa support for an additional fee, but I find it very important for a true traveler to experience this process alone. Don’t forget to take a picture of your visa (a sticker in your passport with important information) just in case of an emergency!
The country’s main international point of arrival is Moscow’s Sheremetevo Airport that was originally built for the 1980 Olympics. If you are staying in Moscow, take the Aeroexpress train into the city. Aeroexpress train will save you time and money.
Some European bus companies offer routes into Russia, but the rides are long, uncomfortable, and may require transit visas for travel through certain countries. Waits at ground border crossings into Russia are significant.
Trains arrive into Russia from Poland, Germany, and numerous Baltic countries. Traveling to Russia from neighboring European countries can be time consuming and uncomfortable. Traveling within Russia by train is relatively easy and offers some of the most scenic views of this vast country. The train ride from Moscow to Saint Petersburg is the most frequented and historic train route in Russia.
Russia is a large country, and therefore air travel is crucial for reaching certain destinations. The country’s national carrier, Aeroflot, offers internal flights at reasonable prices. I’ve flown this airline numerous times – the service on Aeroflot is fantastic.

 

Money
The currency used in Russia is the Russian ruble (RUB). The ruble is divided into 100 kopeks. Kopeks are coins in the denominations 10 and 50. One, two, five, ten and twenty-five rubles are also coins. Colorful banknotes that vary in size range from 50-5000 rubles.
It is customary to tip in Russia. Ten percent gratuity should be added to restaurant bills and taxi fares. Make sure to tip your tour guides!

 

Language
The official language spoken in Russia is Russian. It is not common for anything to be written in English or for anyone to speak English outside of the airports, so make sure to be prepared and pay attention!
Hello – Здравствуйте (sounds like “dras-vi-chia”)
Thank You – Спасибо (sounds like “spa-c-ba”)

 

Housing
Housing often has to be booked far in advance, due to Russia’s obligatory visa process (hotels are required to provide a tourist invitation for guests).
Accommodations available in Russia range from dorm rooms in hostels to opulent and luxurious five-star resorts. Prices for accommodations vary greatly by location, season, and star rating. Mid-range accommodations are the greatest bargain. During the warmer summer months, prices for lodging double. Impeccable deals can be found in the frigid winter season – especially last minute.

 

Food
Russia’s cuisine is as diverse and interesting as its people and landscapes. Considering this country didn’t have much of a casual restaurant atmosphere before the 1990s, Russia has come a long way when it comes to cuisine and dining out. Even today, Russians prefer to eat at home – so if you’re lucky enough to be invited to someone’s home, be prepared for an endless amount of food and vodka. Delicious traditional Russian dishes include solyanka (Russian meat stew), vareniki (dumplings filled with meat or potatoes), piroshky (small pies filled with ground meat), satsivi (chicken served in a spicy sour cream) and syrniki (fried fritters). No trip to this country is complete without a must-try bowl of borscht. If you happen to see Russian-style Navy Macaroni on the menu – order it. Russian-style Navy Macaroni is a huge, delicious, and fresh pasta dish with an indescribable flavor.
I’m sure you’ve heard about Russia’s love for vodka. Derived from the Russian word for water (voda), vodka means “little water.” Vodka is Russia’s social drink of choice. Make it a point to try some of this famous spirit while visiting this country. Click here to learn how to drink vodka like a local.

 

Save Cash
Be selective when choosing accommodations in Russia. There are many options available, ranging in quality and price. In order to get the best value for your money, make sure to shop around – you may be lucky enough to find a central, historic hotel at a killer price.
Russian food is delicious, no matter what you may have heard. Local cuisine is much less expensive than food at international restaurants. Make sure to indulge in some of the country’s delicious dishes – you’ll also save money in the meantime.
Take Russia’s incredible public transportation. The metro stations are works of art. In addition to being the most affordable method of getting around, public transportation provides a more local feeling of the city you are visiting.

 

Stay Fit
Russia has countless activities to offer all types of adventure travelers. From hiking, biking, trekking, climbing, rafting, and skiing – Russia has it all. This country is a land of natural wonders, especially the Siberia area. Siberia is an untouched wilderness unlike anywhere else and caters to outdoors lovers.

 

Stay Connected
To stay connected every minute while you’re in Russia, prepaid SIM cards may be purchased at any local mobile shop. Russian prepaid SIM cards will only work on previously unlocked tri-band mobile phones. If purchasing a SIM card isn’t necessary, Wi-Fi is available free of charge to customers at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants.
In Russia, two-prong 220V type-C/F electrical outlets are used. These outlets are similar to the outlets used throughout most of Europe.