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Moscow, Russia – Myths V.S Facts!

Moscow, Russia – Myths V.S Facts!

Stop fearing the bears, the cold, and the infamous KGB and travel to Moscow, Russia ! It's time to sort out what's myth and what's fact. You don't really think there are bears roaming around Moscow, do you?

 

The Cold

Fact. Yes, Moscow, Russia is a cold place. Well, at least compared to Florida. But the Russian cold really isn't all that it's made up to be. If you're not keen on bringing your parka, just don't travel to Moscow, Russia in the winter. This is the only time of year that can be worth worrying about. The spring and fall of Moscow are usually rather mild. Summers are hot! The average summer temperatures are around 70-80 deg. (20-30 Celsius). Come in the summer, and you'll be surprised at how un-cold Moscow, Russia can be. As for the winter, if you like snow, ice and frost occasionally biting at your nose, you have nothing to fear. It's important to dress warm, but there's no need for anything that would exceed the list of things you'd take going to Colorado or Vermont in the winter. The only thing to really watch out for is ice. It is difficult to clean all the ice off the streets, since temperatures can change very quickly. Wear comfortable and stable shoes and you'll be ok. And watch out for icicles that form on rooftops. When everything starts melting the areas close to tall buildings are sometimes blocked off because icicles fall to the ground. Be sure not to walk in areas that are blocked off by special tape.

 

The Bears

Myth. The only bears you might see in Moscow, Russia are those riding motorcycles and doing handstands at the Moscow Circus. Even if you really want to see a bear and go into the darkest woods of the Moscow region to prove to everyone that there really are bears in Moscow, Russia, chances are- you will not see any at all! There are barely 3 squirrels in all of Moscow, not to mention bears. To make sure that the truth is spread throughout the world, purchase a “I've been to Moscow - there are no bears” T-shirt. They don't make those for nothing. It's jus that there aren't any bears in Moscow – believe it!

 

The KGB

Myth. There was a time in Russia when fearing the secret agents of the KGB may have been something to take very seriously. Today, the KGB building is a tourist attraction – a remnant of the daunting Soviet Empire which once was. Now, there are other institutions keeping the peace, but they won't put you in jail for listening to a Beatles record or reading anti-communist literature. Looking at Moscow, Russia today, it's hard to imagine that there was ever a time when Western music was banned, when capitalism was not the norm, and when there were lines stretching from every produce store in the city. It's all a part of history now.

 

The Neverending Vodka

Fact. Vodka is one of Russia 's most important goods. It's a stable product of a not-so-stable economy. It is a part of culture, a part of life, a part mentality, a part of history. What is not true is that Russian's consume more alcohol that all other nations. In Russia drinking is a social norm that is rarely penalized and is not as closely monitored as in other countries. But it is a part of socializing. Russian's are known to sit down with friends for a heart-to-heart and it just isn't the same without some vodka and, of course, zakuska (something to eat). Drinking vodka is a ritual that should not be underestimated. During the time of the tsars, army officers would drink to the tsar's health and throw the shot glasses against the floor so they would shatter and create immense noise. This was considered a very high honor. A more common way of drinking vodka is to take a shot and then take a bite of a fresh, whole cucumber or pickle. The combination of these two products is often depicted on humorous pictures and posters.

 

The Ubiquitous Poverty

Myth. Yes, there is poverty in Moscow, Russia. But, unfortunately, there is poverty in every big city of the world. It's impossible to eliminate the problem completely. The fact also is that the standard of living in Moscow if higher than in all other Russian cities. Even poor people in Moscow aren't that poor. Moscow is sort-of bipolar - there are the really poor and the really rich. You may be surprised at the amount of Mercedes Benz, BMWs and Audis in Moscow. While Moscow, Russia is considered to be one of the most expensive cities in the world, housing some of the best clubs, restaurants, boutiques, and cars, it has it's share disadvantaged people. The thing to watch out for are gypsies and people going around the metro asking for money. Don't let your compassion take over. While you search for change, you may get robbed. Pickpockets are common amongst gypsies, so try not to come in contact with any. There is a large amount of beggars in Moscow, Russia, but, in truth, not all of them are truly needy. Some make more money a day than the average Russian schoolteacher a month just by looking helpless and homeless.