10 Secrets about Russia Only Locals Know
This huge country of 11 time zones, Russia, is famous for its impressive buildings, long history and mysterious culture. Travelers are fascinated by Russia because of the combination of old traditions and mysterious atmosphere found in its cities. While Russia Tour Packages introduce you to popular landmarks, the biggest fun is found by exploring what the locals enjoy doing. Off-the-beaten-path places and unusual traditions help to bring out and illustrate the soul of Russia which travel guides often miss. Below are ten tips about Russia that locals know which can make your adventure one to remember.
Here Are the Secrets about Russia Only Locals Know
1. The Metro Is a Cultural Museum
Beyond its use for transportation, Moscow’s metro displays art everywhere. Komsomolskaya and Mayakovskaya are known for their chandeliers, mosaics and stained glass. Residents think of it as a remarkable meeting place, sticking around to look at the art. A Troika card costs 50 rubles and saves time, while a single ride costs 60 rubles. Download Yandex Metro and come later in the evening when there are less people and you can enjoy the old buildings.
2. Banya Rituals Are a Way of Life
In addition to being a spa, the Russian banya (sauna) is a custom that is celebrated in prayer and with others. The locals often visit Sanduny (Moscow) or Degtyarniye (St. Petersburg) for saunas, spending about 1,500-3,000 rubles on a session. Bring a felt hat (about $2) to shield yourself and try the venik massage for 500 rubles. Most locals catch up over tea after the steam, so chat to feel included in the experience.
3. Dacha Escapes Are a Summer Staple
Summer vacations are spent by Russians in their dachas—country cottages they are fond of. These homes in the countryside are typically about an hour away from cities like Moscow and visitors can enjoy gardening and having barbecues. Various locals provide dachas as Airbnb rentals which charge about 2,000-5,000 rubles per night. If you come in July, you can go berry picking or share in a shashlik (kebab) with a local friend.
4. Street Food Is a Hidden Gem
Because it is so easy, many people in Seoul buy food from street vendors. You can enjoy a plate of Chebureki for 100 rubles and you can get shawarma for 150 rubles, in places just to the side of Red Square in Moscow. St. Pirozhok (stuffed bun) at Apraksin Dvor costs only 50 rubles. Find a stand with lots of customers because that means you’ll get fresh dishes and for only 40 rubles, order some kvass to eat like the locals do.
5. Secret Soviet Bunkers Exist
Under the city, Moscow has several bunkers from the Cold War and one example is Bunker-42 in Taganka which can be visited as a museum. People living in the city are familiar with hidden places like shelters found close to some metro stations which can be visited by taking a guided tour (at a cost of 2,000 rubles). Tour these spots by booking with Moscow Free Tour, since their guides have stories about the Soviet period not well-known to most tourists.
6. Nightlife Thrives in Courtyards
Instead of just clubbing, the nightlife in Moscow and St. Petersburg often takes place in dvory (courtyards). Places like Kamchatka, which boasts a Soviet-era décor and beers that cost 150 rubles, may be found in St. Petersburg’s Petrogradsky area. Look for “dvory” recommendations from local people or check the Time Out Russia app for event listings. Tourists can overlook these spots which sometimes bring in free live music.
7. The Golden Ring’s Hidden Villages
Many tourists visit Golden Ring cities like Suzdal and Vladimir, while locals seek tranquilly in tiny communities like Plyos. You can visit this small Russian town along the Volga River, a drive of four hours from Moscow and pay just 500 rubles to stay at a guesthouse. People from the village spend their days by the river or enjoy art exhibitions (100 rubles), avoiding the busier places.
8. Ice Fishing Is a Winter Ritual
Russians enjoy going ice fishing in the winter months when the lakes are frozen over, mostly in the Karelia region or around Lake Baikal. Omul or perch are caught by locals who drill into icy ponds. As companions drink vodka (200 rubles a bottle). It helps to join a local group with help from tour operators (for about RUB 3,000) or at guesthouses to get into this chilly kind of travel.
9. Local Festivals Are Free and Vibrant
Festivals such as Maslenitsa (spring pancake festival) and City Day in September (Moscow’s day) are loved by Russians. At these free events, you can get traditional street treats (blini for 50 rubles), enjoy dance performances and try out various arts and crafts. Small but popular events such as the Scarlet Sails in St. Petersburg, include free fireworks. Look up schedules on Culture.ru and participate in fun activities with the locals.
10. Babushkas Are Cultural Guides
Many people view babushkas, or Russian elders, as hospitable and amiable representatives of their culture. If you look around in the Danilovsky market, you can find homemade pickles (100 rubles) and hear funny or interesting stories from the shoppers if you ask. Practice phrases such as “Spasibo” (thank you) and they could invite you for tea which is a part of traditional Russian hospitality not everyone gets to see.
Conclusion
The secrets beneath its surface such as hidden bunkers and chats with babushkas, show there is more to Russia than just its important landmarks. Taking advantage of these local knowledge helps you enjoy both excitement and the cultural side of Russia. Reelin’ in trout on ice or taking a break with kvass in a courtyard are moments you’ll remember always. Russia Holiday Packages help you uncover top sights as well as repeat the secrets of the local area. Let yourself be surprised, pick up some Russian phrases and discover the hidden sides of Russia only local people know.
