Relax but be vigilant: Safety in Russia

One of the biggest obstacles to tourism in Russia today is the widely held perception, fueled almost daily by the Western media, that it is a dangerous place to be. True, urban street crime levels have skyrocketed since the fall of the Soviet Union, but they have skyrocketed from a level of practically zero and still remain well below levels in corresponding North American cities.

If you are thinking of a trip to Russia, fear for your safety should not hold you back. Still, you should be prepared. In general, the rules to follow are the same as for any city in the world. But as always, Russia has its peculiarities. Below is some advice compiled from the book, Russia Survival Guide, and veteran Russia travelers:

MIND THE COMPANY YOU KEEP. Avoid beggars, prostitutes, and suspicious groups of people (including groups of adolescents). Keep a special eye out for gypsies, who are the most likely to victimize tourists during their stay. Steer clear of them if you can. If not, never make eye contact, give them money, or speak English within earshot. Do not stop at night for strangers or people who ask for a light.

AVOID BAD AREAS. The areas of highest criminal activity tend to be train stations, open-air markets, airports, large public gatherings, cheap hotels or hostels, casinos and nightclubs. Stay away from parks at night.

BUY CAREFULLY. Whenever you pay for something, be it a cab ride or goods, do not flash around a wad of money (especially dollars). Keep various sums of money in different pockets, and try to discreetly separate out an approximate sum before you pay for something. Be discreet with your credit cards, and be sure to get them back after use. Don't sacrifice safety for convenience and don't allow yourself to be rushed. Exchange money only at banks and through official exchange points.

DRINK WISELY. If you are going to drink somewhere other than your hotel, it is wise to bring along a friend or two and be sure that one of you stays sober. Beware of new acquaintances trying to induce you to drink heavily and/or inviting you to their home. Stories about foreigners being "slipped a micky" and robbed have reached anecdotal levels -- this is a trick used by prostitutes in particular. Also, Moscow and St. Petersburg are not the best cities to stumble around in drunk at night, especially if you don't know them well.

KEEP YOUR OWN COUNSEL. Do not tell strangers where you are staying or what your plans are. Do not open your door to unknown persons. Be careful about accepting invitations to the apartments of new acquaintances. Be careful what cars you get into.

TAXI STANDARDS. From the airport, use only official limo and taxi services. Later at night, it is best to use official taxis or hotel cars (especially for women). Never, never get into a car that already has a rider. If your luggage is put into the trunk, don't get out of the car until the driver gets out and opens the trunk. Leave the passenger door open until all your luggage is removed from the vehicle.

SPECIALLY FOR WOMEN. Compared to the liberal, Western viewpoint on gender relations, Russia is still a very traditional society. Even if your stay is a protracted one, you will not change this. Women in public without male escort may attract the wrong kind of attention, especially in cheaper hotels and older, more "soviet" establishments. Women should never walk alone late at night off well-trafficked main streets. They should be especially careful when drinking, and should stick to hotel cabs in the later hours. If someone calls to you on the street, walk briskly and stare straight ahead. Be careful how you interact with Russian men. An ‘open’ manner can easily be interpreted as flirtation. If you are flirting, remember that "no means no" may not be understood.

IF YOU ARE MUGGED OR ASSAULTED. While this is unlikely if you heed the above tips, it is always a possibility. If you are victimized, get in touch with the police, the service bureau in your hotel, and/or your embassy. It will only serve to help others (and the police have a good apprehension record for crimes reported immediately). Never resist giving up valuables to armed attackers and never carry items that you can't do without.

Additional Tips for Safe Travel

-- Learn some key Russian phrases, like "help" (pomosh) and "fire." (pozhar) Learn to use Russian phones.

-- Pay attention. Street thieves in Moscow, as anywhere, usually seek distracted people.

-- Carry with you just the money you need. To deter pickpockets, keep your money in a front pants pocket.

-- Don't leave your purse, suitcase, or briefcase unattended. Ever.

-- Always walk confidently and at a steady pace. Criminals tend to prey on those who seem unsure of themselves.

-- Be wary of talking with strangers in the street. If approached by suspicious people, enter a public place.

-- Gangs of begging gypsy children are active near tourist areas, train and metro stations. They cling  to and distract victims while picking their pockets. Do not be soft on these kids. The best proven tactic is to be very physical and loud. Swing your arms and/or umbrella.

-- Avoid isolated cars in the metro (subway). Try to stand close to the exit in the car. Avoid standing at the far end of the platform when waiting for a train. Don't let anyone stand behind you on the metro platform. If you feel uncomfortable, lean against a wall.

-- Don't be afraid to attract attention by screaming, whistling, etc.