Russia Holidays

Perfectly so,  but they tend not to bother with a meter and charge extortionate amounts. Better to get one of the smartphone apps such as “Get Taxi” or Uber. Uber is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city and very cheap. Perfect for a visit to the theatre. The average ride costs £2. The cars vary and they can take up to eight minutes to arrive, but it works well.

Russia has a rich heritage of traditions, so it can be hard to remember everything. Here is a snapshot of our most favourite:

• Russians love flowers, so if you are going to dinner in private apartment flowers are a perfect present – always take an odd number of as even numbers are only for funerals! Next best to flowers is chocolates.
• Never give a gift of soap; it implies the person smells.
• Never show your back to someone, for example when entering a row of theatre seats, it is appropriate to enter facing the people already seated.
• Always take your shoes off when you enter someone’s apartment or house, there are usually slippers to wear.
• Don’t jaywalk, as the police will fine you.

In any country you visit, we always advise obtaining permission before photographing the locals out of courtesy. Photography of the Metro, train stations, airports, government and Military buildings and installations is prohibited so be aware.

Yes,
but driving in Russia is not easy, particularly if you cannot read Cyrillic.
Additionally Russian drivers do not always adhere to rules and driving is thus quite
problematic. It is easier to hire a car and driver.

Generally, no. Market traders will probably accept foreign currency, but restaurants and shops will only accept local currency which is the Russian Rouble.

In the main cities most shops, restaurants and hotels accept credit cards. Additionally, there are ATM machines everywhere. Move out of the cities or main tourist centres and life is very different, and you should ensure you have sufficient roubles.

All Russians are always required to carry official identification. The rules also apply to foreigners, so you should, technically, carry your passport when
you are out and about.

There is no denying that the Russian visa process is laborious. A lot of form filling plus a visit to your closest Russian Embassy visa office (London, Dublin or Edinburgh) to have your fingerprints taken. That said we have done this form many times, we keep up to date with changes and have an extensive crib sheet to make the process as simple as possible. Processing times are around 21 days or an urgent service is normally returned to you within the week, or pop back in to collect in person after three business days. The standard visa fee is around £100.

Travelling around Russia is as safe now as it has always been. Like with any destination, we always advise keeping an eye on your belongings, especially when out in busy, crowded areas and it is sensible to leave any valuables at home.

Russian women particularly take huge pride in their appearance and visitors to the country should pack something smart if visiting the theatre, ballet or high-end restaurants. When visiting churches, women must remember to cover their heads, so pack a scarf. Men should never put their hands in their pockets in church.