Safety tips for being safe in Russia

How to travel safely in Russia? Each tourist should worry about its safety in any foreign country. Going to Russia, you should know that this country doesn't hide behind the Iron Curtain. It's a modern state with its traditions, rules, and people. But there you will find all the necessary conditions for your comfortable stay. Moreover, the country has many interesting sights which are worth visiting.

Popular myths about Russia

The bears are dancing or walking in the streets. Don't worry. Any wild animals are afraid of people as you are of them. Russia is a civilized country without dangerous animals in the street and squares.
It's difficult to get a visa. The procedure for applying for a Russian visa is quite simple. However, to receive it you will need an official invitation from a Russian citizen or a tourist permit.
Russian people don't smile and many of them are racists. First of all, in Russia, one should not perceive the absence of a smile at the first meeting as a sign of sharpness or arrogance. If you communicate more closely, you will understand that the Russians are very friendly. The secret to friendship with the Russians is patience. Most Russians believe that all people are equal. But you shouldn't hurt their patriotic feelings.
A police state with a conservative mind. Some people are conservative, others are opened for everything new. The Russians love doing experiments. You can see that there are a lot of policemen in the streets. But it's done just for keeping the order and help the residents and foreign visitors, but not to restrict any freedoms.
The Russian mafia is dangerous and it's everywhere. Mafia had stayed in the 90s and Russia is not less safe as any other country. If you don't go to some dangerous places, keep tourist rules, don't have any deal with drugs or criminals, you will be safe.
It's too cold in Russia. Yes, it may be freezing. But you just need warm clothes. Don't forget that wintertime in Russia is one of the most beautiful periods.

Russia Travel safety tips

The centers of Moscow or St. Petersburg are highly safe places. But there are risks which everyone should know to make your trip comfortable.

Pickpockets. As in any other country, you must be aware of your things. Don't leave your bags, money, and documents on the open places and unattended. Don't carry expensive items that help the thieves identify you as a foreigner. Tourists should always keep an eye on them. Buy a belt wallet or hide your money into the clothes.
Avoid communications with aggressive groups of people. As in other countries, tourists should follow personal security procedures. Some nationalities can attract unwanted attention. In Moscow or St. Petersburg there are a lot of people of different nationalities. That's why discriminating against happens less often. Try not to go alone especially at night, stay in a group and always be polite.
Make a copy of the documents and take your ID or passport with. The police can stop you to check the documents. It is made just for protecting foreign visitors and the residents of the city. If someone says that there are some problems with your documents, don't leave your place and remain polite and calm. Stay there, ask for help from passers-by or call Embassy or your Consulate (or Touristic Police if you are in Moscow).
Use just licensed guides and taxis. Some drivers and guides are not honest and try to earn extra money. It's better to use taxi apps or ask your hotel to order a car for you. They can advise you about the best company with a good reputation. Don't put yourself in the risk situation to share a taxi with strangers.
Keep the rules of driving and at the pedestrian crossroads. There is heavy traffic in big cities and traffic jams are very often. Some roads between cities may be in bad condition. Just keep speed limit and driving rules. Also, don't pick up strangers at the roads, don't sleep in the car at the side of the road, be attentive at the crossroads because of some crazy drivers.
Use Google maps for looking the directions and routes. As in any other city, there some dangerous areas in Moscow and other Russian towns. Try to avoid them. You may ask locals, your guides or workers at the hotel about such districts.
Take some cash. Credit cards are accepted in Russia, but for some goals, you will need some cash. It's cheaper to use credit card Visa и Mastercard because of good exchange rates. ATMs are available in most areas.
Exchange money in authorized or reliable money exchange offices or banks. Check your currency before leaving the place. Never exchange money with street vendors. Remember, that the rate at the airports is always lower than "inside" the city.
New acquaintance. As it's said the Russians are very open-minded, generous and sociable. They like talking to tourists and advise them on special Russian drinks. But don't drink unknown drinks on trains or with strangers. Don't talk about politics with drunk people or in some provoking topics.
Don't drink tap water. In some places the water from taps is high quality, in others the quality is poor. To avoid any risks, avoid drinking such water. It's easier to buy a bottle and keep your health.

Traveling to Russia everyone should take care of yourself as it's done during visiting any other country. And you will have a wonderful time.