Spanning eleven time zones and twice the size of the USA, Russia is not a country that can be rushed. Many travellers go no further than Moscow, with its historic old city and lively nightlife, or follow the Volga boatmen along the waterways of the Czars to the baroque architecture of St Petersburg. This, however, is just the tip of the iceberg and the best of Russia lies off the beaten track.
Mountain lovers can hike across the low-lying Urals or the more dramatic Caucasus, sandwiched between the Black and Caspian Seas. Intrepid explorers can lose themselves in Siberia, a vast country full of unique wooden villages, which defies its bleak reputation as a fierce and lonely wasteland. For some real alone time, try the Russian Far East; a sparsely populated mass the size of Europe where travellers seldom venture.
But perhaps the most rewarding Russian experience is to be found on the Trans-Siberian Railway. The longest unbroken rail line in the world, the full distance takes a week to cover, yet the joy is in the travel, not the destination. Nowhere is it easier to mix and mingle with Russians, Mongolians, Chinese, Eastern Europeans and people from places you’ve never heard of, as forests, lakes, cities and wilderness slip past your window. Hop off and explore as you wish or turn back home when you want; the journey sums up the vastness of Russia.
Getting there
The bulk of international flights go to Moscow, St Petersburg and Domodedovo. Trains link Moscow with many countries to the East and South. Buses are available but, considering the distances, not advised.
Getting around
The internal flight network is limited. Buses are cheap but impractical for long distance journeys given the size of the country. The rail network is extensive and comfortable; seats should be booked in advance.
Local information
Language: Russian; 27 regional languages.
Time: UTC +2 to UTC + 11.
Climate: Continental. Generally warm, wet summer and cold, drier winters. Temperature (Moscow): Max 24°C (July), Min -12°C (January). Rainfall: Max 77mm (July), Min 25mm (February).
Currency: Ruble (RUB)
Business etiquette: Wear business suits and make appointments as far in advance as possible. Established relationships are not essential for business but contacts with authority can help cut through red tape. The first meeting is often just to assess you or your company’s suitability.
Tipping: 10-15 percent
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 2l of alcoholic beverage; perfume for personal use; Gifts to the value of US$10,000.
Safety: Reports of extortion by police and other officials.
Laws: The alcohol limit for drink driving is zero. Penalties for drug offences are severe. Photography in public places is restricted.
Healthcare: Vaccinations required for diphtheria, hepatitis A and tetanus. Emergency treatment is free for travellers but ongoing care is not. Health insurance is recommended. A reciprocal health agreement entitles UK nationals to free care.
Socket type: Type C, Type F
