Russian Federation🇷🇺
The Russian Federation, located in northern Eurasia, is the world's largest country by land mass, spanning both Eastern Europe and North Asia. It shares borders with several countries, including Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, China, Mongolia and North Korea. The country has diverse cultural, political and social landscapes, reflecting its expansive geography and complex history. Russia is rich in resources and has a robust economy, mainly driven by oil and gas exports. The relationships with neighboring countries are varied, with some tension due to territorial, historical, and geopolitical issues. From the historic Red Square and St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow to the stunning Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia is famous for cultural and architectural attractions. Natural wonders include Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, and the frozen landscapes of Siberia.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid criticizing the government or political issues, as this is a sensitive topic in the country, and can lead to unnecessary disputes.
- Avoid drinking tap water without filtering it first, due to the variability in water quality across the country.
- Avoid traveling to unstable regions or conflict zones, such as the North Caucasus region and the Crimean Peninsula, due to safety concerns.
- Avoid violating traffic laws if driving. Russia's road safety issues mean you must be particularly careful
- Avoid disrespecting cultural and traditional norms. Always treat locals and their customs with respect.
- Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated or poorly lit areas, as this can increase your chances of being a victim to street crime.
- Avoid discussing LGBTQ+ rights or displaying LGBTQ+ symbols openly, as these actions can attract negative reactions due to prevalent homophobia.
- When using public transportation, maintain close possessions to avoid pickpocketing.
- Avoid taking photographs of military or security installations. This is against the law and can lead to arrest or detention.
- Avoid participating in unauthorized protests or demonstrations, which can lead to detention or deportation.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Although Russia faces some level of criminal activities, in general, the country is relatively safe to visit if tourists take necessary precautions. Major cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg experience higher crime rates, including pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded places and public transportation. Drug-related crimes and organized criminal groups are also present, especially in larger urban areas.
Terrorism 💣
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Russia has faced several terror attacks over the years, with the most notable in modern history being the 2004 school hostage-taking in Beslan by extremists that resulted in the death of more than 330 people, including many children. The North Caucasus region, particularly Chechnya and Dagestan, have seen terrorist activities related to separatist movements and conflicts. However, strictly enforced security measures have since increased the country's ability to counter such threats.
War ⚔️
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Russia, as of 2021, is involved in ongoing conflicts particularly in areas like Ukraine and Crimea. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 has led to tensions with many western countries. The North Caucasus region also witnessed episodes of war and conflicts in the past but in recent years have remained relatively stable.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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The geographical size and diversity of Russia mean it is subject to various natural disasters. Forest fires in the summer and blizzards in the winter are quite common, particularly in Siberia. Russia is also prone to earthquakes, particularly in the far eastern part of the country. Major floods also occurred in the past, such as the devastating 2013 floods in the Far East region.
Medical Care 🏥
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While Russia has adequate medical facilities, this varies by location. In major cities, medical facilities are modern and well-equipped, but the standard often decreases in rural areas. The country has a free, state-provided healthcare system, and private healthcare is also readily affordable.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water quality varies greatly throughout Russia. While it can be safe to drink in some areas, it is generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water, particularly for those unaccustomed to the local water. In many cities such as Saint Petersburg, due to aging infrastructure and pollution, tap water may contain harmful bacteria and heavy metals.
Disease Burden 🤒
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The disease burden in Russia is average. Non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer are leading causes of death. Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS also pose significant health risks. Lifestyle habits such as high rates of tobacco and alcohol consumption contribute to these issues.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption remains a significant issue in Russia, occurring in many areas such as public administration, law enforcement, and business. Notable incidents include the 2014 Sochi Olympics scandal, involving corruption and embezzlement of funds. The country has made some effort to tackle it by imposing stricter laws and regulations, but progress has been slow.
Safety for Women ♀️
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While many women travel to Russia without incident, issues of harassment and discrimination exist. Solo female travelers should exercise caution, especially during the night or in less populated areas. It's important to be aware of cultural differences and take necessary precautions.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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LGBTQ+ rights are limited in Russia. A 'gay propaganda law' that bans the promotion of 'non-traditional sexual relationships' to minors has been used to crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights activism. Homophobia can be quite prevalent, particularly outside of larger cities.
Censorship 📺
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Russia has restrictive media laws and there are numerous reported cases of censorship and control over media, particularly outlets that criticize the government. Internet censorship has also seen a rise, with laws passed to censor social media and other forms of online expression.
Public Transportation 🚌
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The main cities in Russia have extensive public transportation systems, including subways, buses, trams, and taxis. However, some crowded areas, particularly in Moscow and St. Petersburg, are prone to pickpocketing and petty theft. Traffic can be heavy and driving rules are often not adhered to, making road safety a concern.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Safety varies throughout Russia and depending on your activities. Larger cities experience higher levels of crime, and terrorism has been a historical issue, particularly associated with separatists from the North Caucasus region. While major health concerns aren't typical, visitors should avoid unfiltered tap water. Politics are a sensitive subject, as are LGBTQ+ rights, while the public transportation is generally reliable.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are many embassies and consulates in Russia from countries around the world. The US Embassy, for example, is located in Moscow, with consulates in Saint Petersburg, Vladivostok, and Yekaterinburg. It's always a good idea to know the location of your country's embassy or consulate when traveling abroad.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Travelers are advised to be up-to-date on routine vaccines before visiting Russia, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and flu. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are also recommended due to the risk of these diseases through contaminated food or water.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Russia's diverse fauna does include some potentially dangerous animals, including brown bears, wolves, and venomous snakes found primarily in remote parts of Siberia and Far East regions. It's best to have a local guide if you are planning to venture into these wilderness areas.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visa requirements for Russia depend on your nationality. Many foreign visitors require a visa to enter. For short-term tourism, business, or humanitarian visits, one can apply for a 'single-entry' or 'double-entry' visa valid for up to 30 days. Requirements include an application form, valid passport, and a 'tourist confirmation' document.
💲 Currency
The official currency of Russia is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Exchange facilities are available at airports, hotels, and banks. It's wise to carry some cash as not all establishments accept credit cards, especially in rural areas.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in large cities and tourist areas in Russia. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards. However, cash is often preferred in rural areas or small vendors.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Russia offers ample opportunities for work and travel, particularly in sectors such as teaching English and tourism. However, the process can be challenging due to the necessity for work visas and language barriers (Russian is the primary language).
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of traveling and living in Russia can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and the regions you visit. Moscow and Saint Petersburg are the most expensive areas. It's possible to travel on a budget, especially by eating at local restaurants and using public transportation.