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Bartering

 
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Way to Russia Talk Lounge Forum Index -> Russian Contexts, Myths and Truths
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Guest






PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2003 9:38 pm    Post subject: Bartering Reply with quote

Hello! I'll be traveling to Russia next week and will be in Moscow, Udomlya, Novgorod, and St. Petersburg. Some friends that traveled in Russia several years ago that cigarettes and jeans can be quite valuable in trade and that I should bring some with me. Is this good advice?

Thanks,
L.S.
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waytorussia
Frequent Guest


Joined: 17 Mar 2010
Posts: 14

PostPosted: Fri Jun 20, 2003 4:13 am    Post subject: Barter Reply with quote

Maybe, cigarettes can be good, but then you'll need to pursuade that they are western, "special" kind. Also, maybe some strage unique food items could be good as well as souvenirs (for example, I saw "cannabis-mills" in Amsterdam -- that could be good..)
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David-M-Rowell
Frequent Guest


Joined: 19 Jul 2003
Posts: 29
Location: Seattle, WA USA

PostPosted: Tue Jul 29, 2003 3:33 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

The kindest thing to say about your 'friend' is either that he is playing a practical joke on you, or else 'several years ago' means more than ten.

Western cigarettes are freely available in Russia, and cost about one tenth as much (no sin taxes).

Levis are also commonly available. You'd have as much success getting a Russian store to accept Levis in payment as you would getting a western store to also accept Levis as payment - ie, zero success. As for using them with a specific individual, if you don't have his/her size and color and style, then he/she will probably prefer to shop at the nearby Levi franchise store rather than buy from you.

Possible exception - Udomlya. I've never even heard of this place, so quite possibly Levis haven't heard of them either! Razz

Cheers

David.
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Brent
Lounge Lizard


Joined: 05 Jul 2003
Posts: 91

PostPosted: Wed Jul 30, 2003 1:39 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I must agree. In Moscow and St. Petersburg you will see blue jeans everywhere, and you will have nothing special to offer. Even a pack of the best quality cigarettes will only cost you 20-25 roubles at any kiosk.
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