Formerly known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), Russia is a country that stretches over a large part of eastern Europe and northern Asia. It gained its independence after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in December 1991.
There is diversity amongst the Russians with the majority of the population belonging to Russian ethnicity and over 120 ethnic groups with different languages, religions, and cultural traditions.
For every country, it is important to know the level of security available to a tourist before traveling to the country, and it is no different for Russia. Traveling to Russia is not uncommon among Americans, as there are different reasons Americans have for visiting the country.
On us-reviews.com, users give detailed opinions on their experiences visiting Russia, and how safe they think the country is for Americans.
There are also hotel companies’ online reviews on the internet of the list of hotel companies available to tourists visiting Russia.
Safety of Traveling to Russia as a Foreign Tourist
Tourists are welcome in most parts of the world, and Russia is not exempted from the countries that are open to tourists, regardless of their nationality.
Like with every other country in the world, Russia is not crime-free but it is generally a safe place for foreign tourists to visit.
These are some things you should know about your safety as a foreign tourist in Russia.
Avoid Risk Areas
In any country you visit, there might be places that are generally advised not to go, largely because they are high-risk zones. As a foreign tourist in Russia, there are zones (The border with Ukraine, the North Caucasus, and the territories of self-pronounced Republics of Donetsk and Lugansk) you should avoid going to. These zones are highly volatile and to ensure your safety, you should avoid going to those places.
Security in Large Cities
Cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg have the same similarities to large cities in America or any part of the world. It is important to know that these cities, despite being troubled during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, are now safe for people and foreign tourists. In these Russian cities, there is also a significant presence of police on the streets to ensure people’s safety. There was also an improvement in the police system with the introduction of tourist police in Moscow in July 2014.
Obey Local Laws and Customs
To ensure your safety in Russia, you must pay attention to the local laws and customs guiding the activities of foreign tourists, and abide by them. Dress appropriately, avoid confrontations or getting involved in fights and you can be guaranteed maximum safety throughout your visit as a foreign tourist in Russia, like in every other part of the world.
Conclusion
Crime exists in all parts of the world, and tourists need to be informed of the security level of any country they plan to visit. In Russia, it is safe for foreign tourists to visit, as long as they have the necessary information required to stay safe while in the country.
