SO you want to visit Russia… how hard can it be? Maybe the most difficult and time consuming visa process you will encounter in the Northern Hemisphere, but it’s totally worth it… here’s your guide to visiting Russia for the first time.
Russia has always seemed a mystery to foreigners. A great number of stereotypes and controversial facts arise in mind when a person hears the word Russia. These stereotypes, cultivated to a great degree by mass media, may even scare a foreigner who has never visited our country. When one tries to find answers to all the questions about Russia one may have, he may face a lot of difficulties. Russia is not behind the iron curtain any more, nevertheless, people from other countries cannot understand Russian way of living, Russian strange but so wonderful character.
The Russians are very helpful and many people speak English, especially in bigger cities. But those who are preparing to visit Russia should at least learn the Russian alphabet to be able to read the names of cities and towns, metro stations, street signs and other important information. Even basic knowledge of the Russian language show respect and is warmly welcomed. Besides, Russian is very helpful for making good bargains at street markets and dealing with taxi drivers.