Russia

Remove your shoes when entering someone's private home, as it is considered a sign of respect and cleanliness.

Always bring a small, odd-numbered bouquet of flowers if you are invited to someone's home, as even numbers are associated with funerals.

Avoid smiling at strangers in public spaces, as Russian culture often interprets unsolicited smiling as insincere or suspicious behavior.

Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites, with women covering their heads and shoulders, and men wearing long trousers.

Do not shake hands or exchange items across a doorway, as many Russians consider this bad luck.

Use formal titles or patronymics when addressing people you do not know well until you are invited to use first names.

Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, as police have the authority to check your identity at any time.

Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night and avoid wandering into unknown neighborhoods, especially in larger cities.

Use only official taxis or trusted ride-sharing apps, and avoid accepting rides from unlicensed private drivers.

Be cautious of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas to prevent pickpocketing and petty theft.

Avoid public demonstrations or political gatherings, as these can escalate and lead to legal complications for foreigners.

Keep emergency contact numbers for your home country’s embassy or consulate stored on your phone for immediate access.