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Is Russia safe for an Asian tourist traveling alone?

Way to Russia Talk Lounge Forum Index -> Russian People

Author	Message
Thai-in-USA Just Starting Joined: 13 Mar 2009 Posts: 4	Posted: Fri Mar 13, 2009 5:31 am    Post subject: Is Russia safe for an Asian tourist traveling alone? I'm a Thai currently studying in the USA, and I'm planning of going to Russia sometimes around August. However, the racism situation in Russia really is a big concern for me. My itinerary will be the following St. Pete -> Novgorod -> Moscow -> Khazan -> Irkutsk -> Vladivostok -> St. Pete I heard that cities other than Moscow and St. Pete are fine, but Moscow and St. Pete are quite notorious for the skinhead gangs and the neo-nazis. Will I be fine if, say like in St. Pete, I travel around the main tourist attractions? Do I have to be very cautious, or just use the basic common sense is enough? I'm studying somewhere near Chicago, so are Moscow and St. Pete more dangerous than Hyde Park, the place where I can't walk alone in the night? One more question, if I'm stopped by the police for the document check, if I am certain that everything is fine but the cops insist me to bribe them, should I just bribe them, or tell them that I'll call my embassy? Please, please answer. I love Russia and really want to go there once in a lifetime, but the security concerns really dampen my plan. Thank you in advance.
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darthvader WayToRussified Joined: 09 Dec 2005 Posts: 427	Posted: Fri Mar 13, 2009 6:13 am    Post subject: I don't think its a good idea to travel too widely in any country - alone - if you don't have the language skills (if you indeed do not). This, no matter what race you are. Its not improbable that you will be taken advantage of, or worse, if you naively undergo such adventures without taking adequate precautions. For the most part, you really need to be under the care of a bilingual professional guide, or, be part of an organised tour group. Then, all should be fine. I wouldn't walk in any unknown place, alone, at night.
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IREN Frequent Guest Joined: 03 Mar 2009 Posts: 61 Location: Россия, Москва	Posted: Fri Mar 13, 2009 4:18 pm    Post subject: Re: Is Russia safe for an Asian tourist traveling alone? Thai in USA wrote: One more question, if I'm stopped by the police for the document check, if I am certain that everything is fine but the cops insist me to bribe them, should I just bribe them, or tell them that I'll call my embassy? Thai in USA, hi! Read this theme, in it it is a lot of about it it is written: http://www.waytorussia.net/TalkLounge/viewtopic.php?p=85984&highlight=#85984 Way to Russia Talk Lounge Forum Index <index> -> Travel Advice (Practicalities) <viewforum> To the deepest regret, neo-nazis exist. It people inadequate and mentally abnormal (IMHO) . The authorities can struggle with this phenomenon, toughening laws, but for some reason do not do it. And much that does not do, though it is necessary. P.S. In Thai was 2 years (January 2007 and 2008). The fine country and very affable people. And always to all smile. Having arrived after holiday home, having seen unfriendly persons - at once it wanted to return in Thai . Excuse for my bad English
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Thai-in-USA Just Starting Joined: 13 Mar 2009 Posts: 4	Posted: Sat Mar 14, 2009 2:15 pm    Post subject: Thank you darthvader. To me, this is the full backpacker experience. I'll never know what's on the road ahead, and have to be cautious all the time, while having some fun. Thank you IREN, Thai people in Thailand are nice, even with all the demonstrations going on nowadays. If you feel like you want to escape Russia's winter, then come visit Thai beaches is a good idea. Russians and Thais have the bilateral agreement for the visa exemption, so both Thais visitting Russia and Russians visitting Thailand don't need a visa. So come and enjoy our hot and humid weather and beautiful beaches and temples!
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Ender WayToRussified Joined: 23 Aug 2006 Posts: 498 Location: Urals	Posted: Sun Mar 15, 2009 7:52 am    Post subject: Re: Is Russia safe for an Asian tourist traveling alone? Thai in USA wrote: I heard that cities other than Moscow and St. Pete are fine, but Moscow and St. Pete are quite notorious for the skinhead gangs and the neo-nazis. Will I be fine if, say like in St. Pete, I travel around the main tourist attractions? Do I have to be very cautious, or just use the basic common sense is enough? Basic common sense is enough. Racist topics are greatly exagerated. Thai in USA wrote: I'm studying somewhere near Chicago, so are Moscow and St. Pete more dangerous than Hyde Park, the place where I can't walk alone in the night? Don't walk alone in a dark place. It is a part of common sense. Thai in USA wrote: One more question, if I'm stopped by the police for the document check, if I am certain that everything is fine but the cops insist me to bribe them, should I just bribe them, or tell them that I'll call my embassy? Don't give any bribes because it makes you a criminal. Do you remember that old good time 5 minutes ago when you were clean? In order to give a bribe you should clearly understand what you are doing and what will be results.
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