So, you are heading to visit Russia? Be sure, you will enjoy your trip since Russia is a very beautiful country. However, it is quite different from other tourist destinations; that is why you need to plan your visit with special attention and care.

What is it the best time to come to Russia? With no doubts, it is better to visit Russia in summer from June to August. If your destination is Far East or Siberia, the best time to go there is in September. It is charmingly nice in winter time in Russia, but you better don’t do this, if you are not used to the temperatures below zero.

What to think of to take with you? Take an umbrella with you, since rains are usual in Russia during any season. Take warm clothes such as sweater and jacket even if you are travelling in summer, since the temperature can go down to +5C even in summer time in some parts of Russia. Remember also that shorts are not a good outfit when going sightseeing in Russia and courting a Russian woman.

Don’t forget about special presents for the people you are visiting in Russia and some small tokens of attention and souvenirs. If you are visiting your Russian bride it is recommended to take pictures of you, your family, home, city etc.

Organizing your trip… If you need a visa to come to Russia, you need to obtain it first. You can apply for a business, private or tourist visa. Tourist visas are less complicated to obtain. Ensure you have a good travel operator to provide you a wallet-friendly accommodation meeting your requirements. If an English-speaking person can meet you at the airport it is a good option. You will also need to register with Russian authorities upon your arrival. If you have a contact in the city you visit, you will have a great helper to sort any problems that can arise during your stay in Russia. If you stay at the hotel, don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Language… If you don’t speak Russia language, you will experience hurdles in Russia. Russian language has a different alphabet, so you won’t be even able to read sign boards and find your way. It is also hard to find a café or restaurant with an English menu.

You need to have your hotel card with you always, to show it in a taxi and get back safely. If you need to find a place, you better have its name and address written in Russian. If you have the possibility to hire your own translator, this is the best thing you can do. Besides, it will be your helper in the country, your consultant in local culture, cuisine, etc. Russian people are very helpful, and would be eager to help you even if they don’t quite understand you. Another option is taking an electronic translator with you.

Money… You need to know that credit cards are in no wide use in Russia, especially in small towns. However, if you travel to Moscow or St. Petersburg, you will be able to pay with your card or draw cash almost everywhere. Foreign currency is a forbidden means of payment in most of the places in Russia, but you can convert your currency in Russian at banks. You must have a passport with you for exchange. However, never ever try to exchange money anywhere, but at official places. It is wise to have money in cash or travel checks as well as credit card.

Crime… As long as you don’t show around big sums of money or walk alone at night time along lonely streets, you are safe. However, never keep big sums of money in your wallet since you can become a victim of pocket thefts at any place during day time too.

Food… Local restaurants and cafes offer a great selection of dishes of any world cuisine. So, you will find something to your taste. Try Russian cuisine and you will fall in love with it!

Attractions… Russia is a very beautiful country with long and interesting history. You will find many places to see, just make a research of what to see in the area you are heading to and enjoy your visit to Russia!