Russia should be on the travel bucket list of wanderlusts especially these exceptional places like Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Lake Baikal in Siberia. If you are visiting Russia for the first time, here are some essential things to note before you step foot into this biggest country in the world.





Things to Know Before You Go

1. Visa Requirements

2. Currency Exchange

3. Spoken Language

4. Prescribed Medication

5. General Safety Rules Russia can be susceptible to petty thefts such as pickpockets, like any other places in the world. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at crowded areas including touristy attractions and taking the metro. Stay alert, and keep watch of your belongings at all times. Also, do avoid going out alone at night.



6. Taxi Services Taxi scams are common in Russia, please avoid riding on an unofficial taxi. If it is required to take a taxi, you can look out for the registered taxi companies.





7. Health Precautions

Remember to find out the visa requirements before entering Russia. If your home country is not included under the visa-free policy, please apply for a Russian Tourist Visa before travelling.All travelers must register for their visa within 7 days upon arrival in Russia. If you are staying at the hotel, the hotel staff will assist with the visa registration where you have to provide them with the necessary travel documents such as passport and migration card.The official currency is Russian Ruble. USD and EUR are accepted for currency exchange in Russia. Do verify that the Russian Rubles notes received at any situation are in good condition (not torn or worn out).Russia has its own official language. We did not have much issues with communication when we were at Saint Petersburg. Most of the Russians we met (fortunately) can speak some English. Nonetheless, there are some other regions in Russia that speak only the local language. It is therefore useful to pick up some basic Russian phrases, and standby a translator tool.If there is a need to bring any prescribed medicines into Russia, please keep the official receipt or the prescribed drugs label (including the traveler's name, drug name and prescriptive amount) as a legally obtained proof.It is advisable not to drink water directly from the tap to prevent a stomach upset. You can purchase bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.Have a safe and enjoyable trip in Russia! :)