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not so efficient. If you try underground (it is called metro' and is cheap) be prepared for a sight of big crowd of hurrying people. You need to have an idea of how your destination is spelled in Russian to find out which way to go. I would recommend you still to try this trip, as Moscow metro is a famous sightseeing place too. You will be surprised to see that the stations look like palaces.

Traveling by train is convenient and comfortable in Russia if you travel first class. You will have two berths in the cabin, relatively clean bed linen, table and washing facilities. There are two toilets on either side of the train car, and a conductor (service man on every car) serves tea and coffee. On a distant travel there are restaurant cars on the trains.

Food in Russia is not that much exotic, so do not be afraid to try dishes you do not no names for. Beetroot and pickled herring are the only exotic things I can think about which Russians eat often. If you are still worrying you have a choice of American fast food cafes.

A separate point is vodka. Russians do not drink as much as they are though to, however be sure that your hosts or friends will indulge you (and themselves) on the occasion of your visit with a lot of vodka. Do not buy it yourself, unless you are recommended some particular stores and brands, or in Duty Free. There are many places where they sell fake vodka which might be dangerous for your health. Your hosts will certainly provide you with the best one, as it is within the tradition of Russian hospitality. There are some rules of drinking vodka to be safe, as follows:
- it is better to eat something before starting the vodka party;
- always eat after each drink;
- never try wine or bear after vodka;
- remember that you are not obliged to drink every shot of it if you are asked to, even if others do this (they are more experienced and may be genetically tolerant);
- if you start filling unwell the best thing is to drink a tea with lemon.
Vodka party is nevertheless an interesting experience, as drunk Russians are good storytellers expressively kind to others, just do not fall under their will as they most probably would like to give you more of this staff that is needed. This is not a bad intention, but just their vision of hospitality.

Deeping into this or that circle of people is on itself a great thing to do in Russia if you are interested not only in sightseeing but also in understanding Russia and Russians. Being rough on the streets, in services and shops, they are very kind and careful about those who are in their circle and about their guests. To start loving Russia try to find at least one friend there either in advance or when you actually are there.

I wish you a breathtaking but safe and pleasant trip to one of the most mysterious parts of the world.

Learn more about this author, Irena Vorgul.
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