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"," commented one expat who made the move to 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)," remarked one expat in St. Petersburg, Russia.

"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," said one expat in Moscow.

"I chose to live as close to the office as possible. My colleagues helped me by giving advise and transporting me to some appartments to check them out and helping me negotiate," 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 in Moscow.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to Russia.

"The cost of housing in Russia varies greatly depending on the region and type of housing. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Russia is relatively affordable compared to other countries, while the cost of buying a home is higher. Prices for housing in Moscow and St. Petersburg tend to be higher than in other parts of the country," said one expat in 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," remarked one expat who made the move to Moscow.

"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," explained one expat living in Moscow, Russia.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," said one expat who made the move to Moscow.

"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," said one expat 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," remarked one expat 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," commented one expat living in 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," said one expat.