Safety & Personal Conduct:
On the whole, Russia is a safe country and most visitors do not experience negative incidents of any kind. It’s highly unlikely that you will be a victim of a crime (see section in chapter 6: Myths and Stereotypes about Russia), but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take some basic precautions.
Given the low level of foreign visitors to tourist attractions, you will thankfully be mostly free of any hustlers, pickpockets and scammers. Behave appropriately and chances are, you’ll have an enjoyable stay, be it for a few days or a few years.
Larger Russian cities, in particular Moscow & St Petersburg have become more multicultural in the past two decades, but are far away from being like Paris, New York or Dubai. If your appearance is clearly non-Slavic (& Russians will tell you that they can spot other, white foreigners from a distance), then you will stand out. This isn’t a major issue in itself, but avoid speaking too loudly in your native language and attracting too much attention to yourself, particularly at night, and on the outskirts of cities.
Technically, you are required by law to carry photo ID with you at all times while in Russia, ideally your passport. A photocopy should be OK, or (better), a screenshot on your phone. In theory, the Police are perfectly entitled to stop anyone at any time and ask to see their documents, although in recent years it has become less common for them to hassle foreigners for no reason. But it still happens at times, so if you are stopped, the best advice is not to panic but to politely comply. If it’s any consolation, Russians get stopped too, although the main targets are CIS citizens from the Caucasus and Central Asian countries – or anyone who looks like one.
Do not expect Police officers to know English, so if you are apprehended and you don’t speak Russian, the best solution is to immediately phone someone who does. Most companies in Russia will appoint a designated person whose job it is to handle such situations, and can interpret appropriately.
If you have broken any laws, regardless of how minor (ie, jaywalking), you may be required to accompany the Police to the nearest Police station. DO NOT sign anything which you don’t understand (forms will be in Russian only), even if pressured to do so. Once again, either your translator can coordinate this over the telephone, or perhaps can come in person to assist.
Minor infringements typically incur a small fine, which can be paid on the spot with cash or card, after which you will be given a receipt and released.
Almost all countries have an Embassy located in Moscow, and many have additional consular representation in a few other large cities, such as St Petersburg. Contacting them should be only for a genuine emergency, and as a last resort. If you’ve gotten yourself into trouble and it’s your own fault, don’t expect them to be sympathetic. Consular officials can give basic, limited advice in difficult situations, but they can’t get you out of jail if you’ve been arrested, and they certainly won’t buy you a ticket home if you’ve run out of cash. They can however offer help if your passport has been lost or stolen.
