Welcome to Russia 😊

Quick Facts About Russia

Money and Finances

The currency in Russia is the Russian ruble (RUB). Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 rubles, while banknotes come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 rubles.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns in Russia. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, ATM networks can be limited.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are accepted in many businesses in Russia, especially in major cities. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, while AMEX may be less widely accepted. However, it is still advisable to carry cash as a backup, as some smaller businesses may only accept cash payments.

Internet and Phones

In Russia, the average internet speed for downloads is around 50 Mbps and for uploads is around 12 Mbps. There are no significant government interferences in internet use in the country.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several major telco companies in Russia, including MTS, Beeline, and MegaFon. The average cost of a mobile phone plan in Russia is around 500-800 RUB (roughly $6.50-$10.50 USD) per month. There are no major sim compatibility issues in the country.

Dialling to Russia

To call Russia from another country, use the international dialing code +7. When within the country, use the area codes 495 and 499 for Moscow, and 812 for St. Petersburg.

Transport Around Russia

Air Travel

Russia has several major airports, including Moscow's Sheremetyevo International Airport, Domodedovo International Airport, and Vnukovo International Airport, as well as Saint Petersburg's Pulkovo Airport and Sochi International Airport.

Train Travel

Russia has an extensive inter-city train network, including the world-famous Trans-Siberian Railway. Example tickets for the Moscow to Saint Petersburg route start at around 2000 RUB ($27 USD) and take around 4 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

Russia has several metro systems in major cities such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Kazan. These underground trains are a convenient and affordable way to travel within the city. Example ticket prices start at around 55 RUB ($0.75 USD) and journey times vary.

Buses

Russia has a limited bus network, with most long-distance travel done by train. However, there are some regional and suburban bus services available, such as those connecting Moscow with nearby cities like Tver or Smolensk. Example tickets start at around 700 RUB ($9 USD) and journey times vary.

Rideshare

Russia has several rideshare companies, including Yandex.Taxi and Citymobil. Average travel prices can vary depending on the location and distance, but a typical ride in Moscow might cost around 400 RUB ($5 USD).

Driving by Car

Driving in Russia can be challenging due to heavy traffic, particularly in large cities. Speed limits vary depending on the location, with typical limits on highways being around 90 km/h (56 mph) and in urban areas being around 60 km/h (37 mph). Russia uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Russia, it is not common to tip in restaurants or cafes, but it is customary to tip hotel staff and tour guides. When greeting each other, locals may shake hands or kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity. In more formal situations, a slight bow may also be appropriate. When speaking with strangers, it is common to use formal titles like 'sir' or 'madam' until a more casual relationship is established. Men and women generally address each other by their first names.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Russia has a public healthcare system that provides medical care to all citizens and permanent residents free of charge. However, the quality of care varies widely and wait times can be long. Private healthcare is available and generally provides better quality care, but at a higher cost. An average visit to the doctor in Russia can cost around 1000-2000 rubles (about 13-26 USD). It is recommended to have travel insurance, as medical costs for foreigners can be expensive.

COVID Situation

Russia was one of the first countries to develop a COVID-19 vaccine, but the rollout has been slow. As of September 2021, there have been over 7 million confirmed cases and over 190,000 deaths. The current vaccination rate in Russia is low, with only about 20% of the population fully vaccinated. Travelers should follow all recommended safety measures and monitor any updates from the local authorities.

Common Health Risks

Common health risks in Russia include air pollution, food and waterborne illnesses, and tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. Malaria is not present in Russia, but it may be a risk if traveling to other nearby regions. It is recommended to take precautions such as using mosquito repellent and avoiding undercooked foods and untreated water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Russia, the legal drinking age is 18. However, the country has strict laws on alcohol consumption and public intoxication. It is punishable by fines or even imprisonment to be publicly drunk or to sell alcohol outside of certain hours. There are also restrictions on the sale and advertising of alcohol.

Recreational Drugs

Russia has some of the strictest drug laws in the world, with possession or use of any type of drug being illegal. Penalties for drug offences range from fines to long-term imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

In Russia, premarital relationships are not illegal, but the country has strict laws against activities related to prostitution and human trafficking. As a result, commercial sex work is illegal and punishable by fines and imprisonment.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

In Russia, same-sex relationships are legal but face significant social and legal hurdles. The country has introduced legislation banning 'propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations', effectively making it illegal to express support for LGBTQ+ rights or relationships in public. LGBTQ+ individuals in Russia are also subject to discrimination and harassment.

Firearms / Guns

In Russia, gun ownership is legal but highly regulated. Individuals must obtain a license to own a gun, and the country has strict rules for the type and number of guns one can own. There are also restrictions on where and when firearms can be carried.