When you travel in Russia, you should remember that this is a country that has its own set of survival rules for proper behavior and conduct in public. It is important to follow these rules, if you want your trip to be enjoyable and trouble-free.

        Probably one of the most important survival rules is: Do not take pictures of militia (Russian police), people in uniforms or military objects. Having to deal with police in general is undesirable, unless there is an emergency – policemen can check your documentation, and they do not need any special permit for that. If your visa is expired or you do not have proper registration, you may have to stop your travel in Russia. However, you should have your visa and passport with you all the time, otherwise you will be arrested until your identity is confirmed.

        Try not to talk loudly in a public place because in Russia there are some people that discriminate against foreigners. Blending in and trying to look like a local while you travel in Russia is wiser than trying to show your foreign origin.

        Do not make eye contact with strangers very often. Eye contact in Russia is not such a common practice and may be considered offensive.

        Many people can take advantage of unsuspecting foreigners. That is why when you travel in Russia try not to shop or buy something from stranger out on a street corner. First of all, it is illegal. And second of all, you never know what you get.

        Do not eat meat products sold by sidewalk vendors – they may be spoiled.

        Buying cheap Vodka in Russia may be dangerous because there are many cases of poisoning due to a large number of fake vodka on the market.

        Showing your homosexuality is highly inadvisable because it is not widely accepted in Russia yet. People that dress to display their homosexuality or act like homosexuals can be threatened and even beaten up.