What was it like to visit Russia in 2023?
Our readers shared their unique experiences, ranging from the quietness of locals to the surprising sight of high-heels in snow and the ubiquitous tea culture!
1. Breaking prejudices & expectations
Travelers that we spoke to emphasized the importance of setting aside media-driven perceptions. Ari from Brazil has visited Russia more than 15 times in the last 12 years, advises: “Switch off your TV and ditch your prejudice.”
Rachael Weston from the U.S. echoed this sentiment. She found Russia to be vastly different from its portrayal in Western media when she visited Moscow for the first time in 2023.
Despite initial concerns about visa complications and diplomatic tensions, her experience at the Russian consulate was unexpectedly welcoming, she admits.
2. Moscow’s attractions & safety
Rachael explored Moscow’s famous sites including the Red Square, the GUM, the Kremlin, Gorky Park and Izmailovsky Bazaar.
“GUM and the Red Square were my favorites! I went there several times and especially liked them at night,” she says.
Due to sanctions, Rachael had to bring a lot of cash, which was initially stressful. However, she found Moscow to be very safe and had no problems.
Rachael used the subway and taxis to get around the city and felt safe, even when sightseeing alone. She was particularly struck by the quietness of the Moscow Metro: “I was surprised at how quiet people are, especially on the subway, where everyone kept to themselves, listening with headphones or talking softly with their partners. It was a really nice change from the subways in other major cities.”
3. Cultural encounters and language barriers
Ilaria from Italy, who visited her Russian boyfriend in Novosibirsk, jokes that the only thing she didn’t like about visiting Russia was having to leave. “I traveled to a lot of countries and I can confirm that Russians are amazing people!” she says. Despite her limited Russian, locals were eager to help.
However, Fateme from Iran had a contrasting experience in St. Petersburg, where she found communication difficult, due to limited English proficiency among locals. She suggests learning at least some basic Russian for a smoother experience.
Ari from Brazil notes significant changes in Russia since her first visit in 2011. She observes that the nation is evolving and becoming even more open to foreigners.
“They used to be colder and more reserved in the past. Now, I find that they are opening up a lot recently and becoming friendlier,” Ari shares. She is continuously amazed by Russian cultural traits, such as excessive tea-drinking, adding dill to every dish and wearing high-heels in snowy weather!
