| When preparing to visit another country, it’s | | | | residence. This is done to help keep the host’s |
| always helpful to familiarize yourself with local | | | | residence clean. |
| customs and etiquette. Not only will you appear polite | | | | - Speaking of shoes, never show the soles as it is |
| and knowledgeable, but you are sure to make a | | | | considered disrespectful. To avoid making this |
| fabulous impression on local residents, especially the | | | | mistake, resist the urge to fidget, cross your legs, or |
| ladies. Travel guidebooks and websites are an | | | | rest your feet on nearby objects. |
| invaluable source of etiquette information, as are | | | | - Try to accept all food or alcohol offered to you. |
| friends or acquaintances from the country you plan | | | | Your Russian hosts may be offended by any |
| to visit. | | | | refusals, so come hungry and thirsty! |
| Planning a trip to Russia? Like every country, Russia | | | | - When traveling by car with a Russian woman, exit |
| has its own unique standards of etiquette. Whether | | | | the vehicle first so you may offer your hand to your |
| you’re visiting a special Russian woman or just | | | | female companion. Remember, Russian women love |
| touring the country for fun, here are a few tips to | | | | chivalry, so don’t be afraid to open doors, pull |
| make your stay go smoothly: | | | | out chairs, or offer to carry a woman’s bags. |
| - If you are invited to a private home for dinner, | | | | She’ll love it! |
| bring a small, appropriate gift such as wine, fruit, | | | | By following these simple tips, you are sure to make |
| cake, or other tasty treats. Flowers are also | | | | a great impression on Russian women and men alike. |
| acceptable (though be careful about color and | | | | This is by no means an exhaustive list of Russian |
| quantity). | | | | etiquette tips, nor should you worry if you slip up. |
| - If you are giving flowers, select an odd-numbered | | | | Most locals will forgive you for making mistakes and |
| batch as even-numbered ones are typically reserved | | | | will respond graciously to unintentional breaches. Just |
| for funerals. Also, avoid giving yellow flowers to | | | | treat people with common courtesy and you’re |
| Russian women as yellow flowers traditionally | | | | sure to do fine. Remember, it’s the thought that |
| symbolize the end of a relationship. | | | | counts. |
| - Always remove your shoes when entering a private | | | | |
