MISCELANEUOS
Languages
Russian is an official language of the Russian
Federation. Many people speak or study English in St Petersburg,
Moscow and other big cities of Russia. You can have problems
with communication in smaller towns where people don't speak
English much. As of other foreign languages, German and French
are most popular. Use English in hotels, large stores, business
offices and don't hesitate to speak English in the street
if you need something. Most people are friendly to foreigners
in St Petersburg and will try to help (even if they don't
know a single word in English).
Safety
Perhaps, it is difficult to believe but most
Russian cities are much safer than large cities of the USA.
Most crimes suffered by tourists in Russia are nonviolent
and can be avoided if one will be aware of pitfalls of traveling
abroad (not only to Russia, but almost any foreign country).
Electricity
Electricity in Russia is 220 V 50 Hz. The
plug-and-socket connection is different from that in the USA.
Sockets require a European type plug (two round pins) or a
special adapter. If you want your devices work properly, do
not forget to take a converter and a plug adapter on your
trip to Russia.
Water
Tap water is chemically safe in Russia but
it contains elevated level of lead and other elements. So
it is not recommended to drink it without boiling. We recommend
that you buy a bottled water in supermarkets and use it.
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