Life in Russia can be quite challenging. The climate is harsh and many cities have high levels of pollution. There is also a relatively high crime rate and a number of security issues to take into consideration.
- CON: Weather
As Russia is such a large country, the weather varies dramatically. No matter where in the country they live though, expats must prepare themselves and adapt their lifestyles for long, cold winters, and shorter spring, summer and autumn seasons. Winters can be harsh.
Life for expats in Russia is generally comfortable, with expenses such as groceries and utility bills being fairly inexpensive even in major cities such as Moscow.
Crime against foreigners is a serious problem. Harassment and assaults are prevalent, particularly against foreigners of Asian and African descent. Some victims have died as a result of assaults. Foreigners in the areas to which we advise against all travel are particularly vulnerable.
Eye Contact: Making eye contact is a show of respect in Russian culture and is highly valued. When conversing to someone, it is considered polite to keep eye contact and direct your look at the other person.
Friends may hug or kiss on the cheek to greet, but Russians are generally limited in their physical contact. Strong physical affection is generally only seen between couples of opposite genders.
There's a well-known Russian greeting tradition: the triple cheek-kiss. It's usually common between close relatives. Sometimes, it's shortened to two kisses. One cheek kiss is often used by girls to greet friends, or even close female coworkers.
Don't smile all the time
Easy! In Russia smiles are reserved for family members, friends and colleagues at work. It's just a typical Russian thing, and it's recommended you don't smile randomly at strangers while riding on public transport or going shopping.
Do not travel to Russia due to the security environment and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia.
Furthermore, completely lacking any understanding of the local language will not endear you to local residents anywhere in the world. In order to make the most of your time as an expat in Russia, not only on a social and intercultural level, but alsoin everyday life, you need to know at least basic “survival” Russian.
More than 60% of Russia is underlain by permafrost and this includes large urban areas and large ports, numerous pipelines and oil and gas installations. Such areas are therefore at risk from damage associated with permafrost melting.
International and Internal Migration. The majority of migrant workers in Russia are irregular migrants who are particularly vulnerable to modern slavery. The collapse of the Soviet Union has led many people from the Central Asian Republics to move to Russia in search of opportunities and employment.
However, large parts of Russia are uninhabited or uninhabitable because permafrost (soil that remains frozen throughout the year and is unsuitable for agriculture) covers more than 60% of Russia's territory.
Known for the attractions in Moscow, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural history, retiring in Russia offers some benefits for expats and can be a great country if you're becoming a grandparent abroad.
The Australian Government is removing COVID-19-related border restrictions. From 12.01 am AEST 6 July 2022, you'll no longer need to: fill out a Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration when entering Australia.
If you plan to sightsee on your own, you must have a tourist visa. A visa is also required if you plan to depart Russia by another mode of transportation. Cruise ship passengers in St. Petersburg should seek assistance from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow for all emergency and passport services.
Russia has a rich history and cultural heritage and this is reflected in its museums, architecture and monuments. The countryside also offers expats an opportunity to enjoy natural wonders such as Lake Baikal and the beautiful mountains, deserts, rivers and forests.
Hugs, backslapping, kisses on the cheeks and other expansive gestures are common among friends or acquaintances and between members of the same sex. Russians stand close when talking. Putting your thumb through your index and middle fingers or making the "OK" sign are considered very rude gestures in Russia.
If you smile at a stranger in Russia, he/she can smile back, but it can already mean an invitation to come and talk. Russians take smiling as a sign that the person cares about them. To smile at a stranger can raise the question:” Do we know each other?”
This is the simplest and most common Russian compliment for women. These two words are easy to remember. “Вы прекрасны!” means You are beautiful in Russian. It can also pass for “You are wonderful.”
Russian women appreciate it when men go the extra mile to dress nicely and are well-groomed. Compliments and romantic gestures such as opening doors and giving her unexpected flowers, especially roses are great ways to catch her interest.