Is It Safe To Travel To Russia?

Russia is the largest country in the world, stretched across two continents with a rich history, rich culture and magnificent scenery. As such, it has always been able to attract tourist across the globe. However, the recent Crimean annexation by Russia in 2014 and the continuous conflict in Ukraine make some tourists wonder whether Russia is safe for tourists in 2023.

The Risks

I can conclude that Russia is safe for tourists, if you follow several tips: use your common sense, study the chosen area, register with your embassy, and do not Acts recklessly. However, there are some risks to consider.

• Political Tensions: As for the political preconditions, there are some tensions with the west after Crimea, so the relations are not as friendly as in other cases. It is important to note that protests do sometimes occur in large cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg. These are often a sit-down protest, but it is always advisable to stay clear of them.
• Petty Crime: Like in any other large city, the most frequent type of crime are thefts – pick pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas and on public transport in Moscow and St. Petersburg. While violent crime is not at a high, it is still advised to be cautious.
• Scams: It is especially important to note that Russia has a rather high rate of financial fraud in relation to foreign citizens. Do not exchange money with the street vendors and always avoid those who approach you offering you fabulous offers or gifts.
• Discrimination: Russia has very strict rules regarding sharing any information related to the LGBTQ+ community and their relationships. But it is also important to remember that discrimination or even violence is possible, though not very frequent.
• Health & Safety Hazards: In rural regions, there can be a relative absence of infrastructure, medical facilities, and personnel, as well as emergency services. However, it is always advisable to do your homework in regard to the destination.

Mitigating the Risks

While Russia poses some risks to tourists, there are ways to mitigate them

• Don’t Discuss Politics: As I mentioned multiple times, do not engage in political discussions or even better do not bash Putin if you are not familiar with the company.
• Get a VPN: Connecting to the internet with a VPN guarantees privacy as well as a chance to visit sites that are blocked by Russian firewalls.
• Learn Basic Russian: It’s good to know and use at least a couple of Russian phrases to show local people that you respect their traditions and it also comes in handy when you are lost.
• Use Reputable Tour Companies: When it comes to complicated itineraries and the destinations that are hardly reachable, entrust a tour operator from Russia. They know the norms and laws of the local culture and potential dangers.
• Register with Your Embassy: Remember to report your travel intentions to the embassy/consulate of your home country.
• Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Obtain adequate health insurance that will allow for medical evacuation. This helps to guarantee that you are provided with quality health care in the event of an emergency.

Safety by Region

This means that, similar to any other place, the risks are not homogeneous, but differ across the zones. Here is a quick overview.

Magazines – Moscow & St Petersburg – Low Risk

The most popular destinations of Moscow and St. Petersburg are rather safe with well-developed tourist facilities. Many people go there every year without any problems. Exercise normal city precautions.

Russia – Golden Ring Cities – Low Risk

The “Golden Ring” located northeast of Moscow contains highly touristed cities such as Suzdal and Sergeiv Posad. Health care facilities may be scarce in between cities, though it is safe to say that there are native medical facilities.

Siberia – Moderate Risk

Siberia boasts exquisite and boundless landscapes that are sure to attract nature enthusiasts; however, the infrastructure is relatively poorly developed here. If you are planning on visiting Siberia, then you have to ensure that you use the services of a local tour company. Medical evacuation may be required due to some health complications that might arise during the trip.

Russian Far East – Low/Medium

The border area of the Far Eastern region is located between Siberia and the Pacific Ocean. It provides stunning nature but aside from several cities there are no tourist amenities to speak of. Like Siberia, one requires a good travel agency, which will organize wonderful and safe tours.

North Caucasus – High Risk

For example, Chechnya and Dagestan might sound rather exotic; however, the activity of extremism remains high in the North Caucasus and thus, traveling there is very dangerous. Almost all governments recommend that people do not go to this region at all. Do not travel here!

Thus, is Russia safe for tourists?

Yes – but only if proper measures are being taken. Russia has increased political tensions and risks relative to Europe; however, tourists can travel safely there with a higher level of caution. Millions of people travel to Russia to enjoy the beauties of the country – the nature, the color, the life, and the energy of the cities every year without any harm. If exploring outside Moscow, St Petersburg, and the Golden Ring, use licensed local tour services, inform your embassy, have adequate medical/evacuation insurance, and do not engage in unsafe activities. If you assume your own safety by applying your own specific logic, Russia can provide truly unique travel experiences. So does this mean you should avoid them? No, just be a little more cautious and plan ahead more.

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