Good and bad manners in Russia
For the great majority of people Russia is a wild and cold territory inhabited by rude and unfriendly people, however it is completely wrong opinion. Russia is a big and multicultural country with a variety of nations and religions. It is often said that Russians are few emotional people. And this is a fact that I can’t deny. Russia is the northern country with a harsh climate and it’s really difficult to smile all the time while you are walking outside in -30’C)). Nevertheless, most of the people are very polite and highly friendly. And I hope you’ll be convinced of it during your trip if you follow my small tips of Russian manners below.
First and foremost, if you travel alone without tourist guide, you have to learn some Russian words, such as ‘spasibo – thanks’, ‘pozhaluista – please’ and ‘как мне попасть в … - how can I get to …’. Nearly nobody speaks English, especially elder people who had got an education during the Soviet Union time. Therefore if you really want to ask something, try to speak with the people of younger generation.
Secondly, if you meet someone for the first time, it is enough to call his name and just say ‘privet – hello’. However, you should use more formal language when speaking to an older person. For example, it would be better to call them by their first and second (their father’s) name. Then if you show interest in the cultural and spiritual values of the country, respect will be assured. Be careful and don’t mention about vodka because of your cultural holiday can stop at the time)).
Thirdly, if you are invited to someone’s house it is considered a good manner to take small present, like a bunch of flowers, some cakes or a bottle of wine. Moreover, always put on sneakers for visitors, which have in every house and wash your hands after coming.
Fourthly, cross the road without any fear. Every car will stop before crosswalk when you just step on it. However, never drive a car yourself not only due to traffic jams but also because
First and foremost, if you travel alone without tourist guide, you have to learn some Russian words, such as ‘spasibo – thanks’, ‘pozhaluista – please’ and ‘как мне попасть в … - how can I get to …’. Nearly nobody speaks English, especially elder people who had got an education during the Soviet Union time. Therefore if you really want to ask something, try to speak with the people of younger generation.
Secondly, if you meet someone for the first time, it is enough to call his name and just say ‘privet – hello’. However, you should use more formal language when speaking to an older person. For example, it would be better to call them by their first and second (their father’s) name. Then if you show interest in the cultural and spiritual values of the country, respect will be assured. Be careful and don’t mention about vodka because of your cultural holiday can stop at the time)).
Thirdly, if you are invited to someone’s house it is considered a good manner to take small present, like a bunch of flowers, some cakes or a bottle of wine. Moreover, always put on sneakers for visitors, which have in every house and wash your hands after coming.
Fourthly, cross the road without any fear. Every car will stop before crosswalk when you just step on it. However, never drive a car yourself not only due to traffic jams but also because