Valuable tips for Western Tourists visiting Moscow

Moscow, the capital city of Russian Federation, is an amazing destination to visit. Some of the visitors who have spent 2 to 3 years staying in this incredible city say that you will get much more from the city than what you had really expected or asked for. Western tourists visiting Moscow are particularly enamored with the society, culture and lifestyle of the people here.

If you are among those lucky ones visiting Moscow from a Western country such as the United States, Canada and others, then you have undoubtedly made a perfect choice. But before visiting the city, it will just be prudent for you to adhere to the following valuable tips stated here. These tips are essential for you to make your travel and stay in the city comfortable and hassle-free.

Try learning native Russian language
Learning the native Russian language is indeed valuable for all those visiting Moscow or exploring the country itself. This will be helpful in getting around the city on the Metro train system. Knowing the language of the host country is always beneficial. It will help in figuring out the names of the destinations yourself, instead of taking help from others. This is also important if you decide to explore the city independently. Even a smattering of the language will do. People in Russia tend to speak in Russian language only. Even though they know English, they avoid speaking the language. You may however look up to youngsters in their 20s, who love speaking in English, for asking for directions or getting any other kind of assistance.
 
Avoid Tourist Traps
People from Western countries are often distinguished with the quality and style of their clothing and treated as non-residents. But you should be at ease when visiting Moscow as people here can be seen wearing western, highly-fashionable outfits, particularly youngsters. There is no particular dress code for Western or other overseas visitors. However, there is every possibility of tourists falling into traps when making their purchases, be it clothes or other items. If you are planning to buy classic Russian fur hat “Shapka” in order to look similar as native Russians, you just might be conned and offered an inferior quality cap. Self-respecting Russians will easily differentiate this and sneer at you for purchasing low quality cap. If you want to purchase clothes in Moscow, then just stop yourself unless you seek the help of a local guide to locate suitable and affordable shops. Moscow has a number of Italian, French and other expensive brand fashion houses. These might initially attract you, but if you don’t’ take assistance of a local guide you will end up paying heavily for these.

Western-style restaurants are yet other tourist traps that you will discover in Moscow. You should better avoid eating in such restaurants as the quality of food varies dramatically and they are high-priced as well. There are many great places to eat in the centre of Moscow. Most of the restaurants will produce inflated bills, while some of them are reasonably priced. Distinguishing between high-priced and affordable restaurants may become difficult for you when visiting Moscow for the first time. Seeking help from the local people is always beneficial. If you are on a budget, think of eating at a “Russky Bistro”, which you will find on most streets located in the centre of Moscow. You won’t end up spending astronomical prices when eating here.