Respect local customs

When traveling to a new nation, there are several things to remember. Russia has become more relaxed over time, but as a rather traditional nation, people still adhere to certain customs and expectations. When visiting a Russian home, for example, guests are required to follow etiquette, such as bringing a small gift.

In some restaurants and theaters, the dress code is also very essential. Of course, no one will stop you from entering, but it's better to be prepared than to show up amid a mob of nicely dressed people wearing jeans. Visiting Russian Orthodox churches also entails following a set of rules: ladies must cover their heads and wear long skirts (pants are usually permitted), while men must wear long trousers and remove any hat.

Few Russian customs are as sacred as drinking vodka, and any foreign ideas of mixing it with orange juice or tonic are frowned upon by the average Russian. If you need anything to wash it down, a lemon, a pickle, or possibly a separate glass of water would suffice. Vodka is consumed in quick shots rather than sipped. It's customary (and sensible) to eat something after each shot, so order some vodka nibbles as well.