Moving to Russia

"Do not come here if you don't speak Russian. Expect to robbed and ripped off, so don't complain when it happens. You must make a lot of contacts with locals to avoid this. This is not like America. There are no "bad neighborhoods"," replied a member in Moscow.

"You should have a trustworthy Russian mentor... someone affiliated with your company, or somehow known to someone you know. Either that or a very experienced expat contact. Deal only with a well-established reputable house agency recommended by your trusted contact. Don't be dazzled by an amazing-looking flat in a historic district without first checking out what'a available for groceries etc. nearby. Find out what public transport is available nearby. Try to locate walking distance to a subway (tube)," commented one expat who made the move to St. Petersburg.

"Traffic is usually terrible in Moscow so you should choose an area that's convenient for work, school and anything else you do regularly. We preferred living in the centre as we like going out and being close to the theatres, music and concert halls etc. Some people prefer living out of town in the compounds, mainly for the children. There are some lovely family friendly areas in town too. It's basically about reaching a convenient compromise for your whole family," remarked one expat in Moscow, Russia.

"Expats should be aware that Russia is a large and diverse country with a wide range of climates and cultures. It is important to research the region you are moving to and familiarize yourself with the local customs and laws. Additionally, it is important to obtain a visa before entering the country and to register with the local authorities upon arrival. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Russia can be high, so it is important to budget accordingly. Finally, it is important to learn some basic Russian language skills to help with day-to-day life," said one expat in Russia.

"We chose a family friendly area - Chisty Prudi - and used Evans estate agent for our first two apartments and Penny Lane for our last one. We used others too but Evans worked out to be the most reasonable overall and their agent actually listened to what we wanted, rather than showing us a whole load of rubbish. Penny Lane did a great job helping us find our last apartment," remarked one expat in Moscow, Russia.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Russia is to use online resources such as websites and classifieds. Websites such as Avito, Cian, and Domofond are popular in Russia and offer a wide range of rental options. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as VKontakte and Facebook. You can also contact local real estate agencies, which can help you find a place to live in Russia. Additionally, you can ask friends and family for recommendations or look for rental postings in local newspapers," said one expat in Russia.

"Apartment. Yes, in town it's almost always an apartment. Some expats prefer to live in the compounds out of town, which are usually town houses," said one expat who made the move to Moscow.

"2 room furnished appartment outside the city center, but inside the city. I pay for my own housing. Most expats get a (large) budget from their company and thus rent an appartment in the citycenter or a house outside the city," explained one expat living in Moscow, Russia.

"Expat homes and apartments in Russia tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and modern appliances. Many expats choose to live in larger cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, where they can find a wide range of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Expats may also choose to live in smaller cities, where they can find more affordable housing and a slower pace of life. In general, expat homes and apartments in Russia are well-equipped and comfortable, providing a great place to live and work," said one in Russia.

"Higher, mainly because it is a furnished appartment. I pay $350 a month. I know of many people (for who their company is) paying $1200 or even $5000 a month," remarked one expat in Moscow, Russia.

"Much higher. I could rent a house on the beach in South Carolina for the price of a 2 room flat here. Expect to pay $1200-1800 a month if you live alone," said one expat in Moscow.

"Buying a home in Russia can be a great investment, as the country's real estate market is growing rapidly. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area you are looking to buy in, as well as the cost of the home itself. Renting a home in Russia can also be a great option, as it can provide more flexibility and allow you to save money in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Russia should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," replied a member in Russia.

"You can pretty much get everything in Moscow now (although some basic things are still ridiculously expensive!), but I would take Marmite and Pimm's. We left most things at home due to customs as we didn't want any hassle when leaving the country in terms of additional paperwork," remarked one expat who made the move to Moscow.

"When moving to Russia, it is important to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop to below freezing in the winter. It is also a good idea to bring a few items of formal clothing, as Russians tend to dress more formally than in other countries. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as some may not be available in Russia. It is also a good idea to bring a few items of home comforts, such as books, photos, and other items that will help you feel at home in your new environment. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as visas, passports, and other important paperwork," explained one expat living in Russia.

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Russia. It is important to be respectful of the Russian culture and to avoid making any offensive or inappropriate comments. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the Russian customs and to avoid discussing politics or religion in public. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the Russian etiquette and to avoid being too loud or boisterous in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the Russian language and to avoid speaking English in public unless it is absolutely necessary," replied a member in Russia.

"Russia offers expats a unique cultural experience, with its rich history, vibrant cities, and diverse population. The country also boasts a low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, Russia is home to some of the world's most beautiful natural landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Ural Mountains to the vast steppes of Siberia. With its vibrant culture, low cost of living, and stunning natural beauty, Russia is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," commented one expat living in Russia.

"Healthcare services in Russia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Russia is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital care. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Russia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," stated one expat who made the move to Russia.

"Medical services in Russia are generally of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. The country has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, providing a range of treatments and services. Many of these facilities are equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by highly trained professionals. In addition, there are a number of specialized medical centers offering specialized treatments and services. Russia also has a number of private medical facilities, which offer a range of services at a higher cost," wrote one expat living in Russia.