Pushing, smiling, and driving in Russia

by Loring
(Zephyrhills, Florida, USA)

Us in Red Square, Moscow

My experience in Russia is that they need less personal space than in the USA, especially in crowds. On a crowded street or metro station, they will push you from behind. They would be surprised if you were offended by it, and they would not be offended if you push them.

I also found that people do not smile and laugh on the street much. They will open up and be very friendly in their homes, however. Hospitality means they will invite you to sit around the table, no matter how small, and will offer you the best treats they have, usually pastries and tea. A typical American party where everyone stands around and chats and drinks would be rare.

Female friends occasionally hold hands or link arms in public.

Moscow is very different than other parts of Russia, and the protocols there tend to be more European in general.

If a policeman waves at you when driving, pull over! Some places the "fine" is paid immediately, others you take the ticket. In rural places they often have checkpoints where the officer stands near the road. You only need stop if he signals you. There are not often police cars patrolling rural roads. There are, however bus stops in quite rural areas, and maybe a crosswalk, so be aware. When driving in a city, understand that the lines, as in many countries, seem to be more like suggestions than rules, until you get to an intersection, where cars spread into lanes to wait.