English Dad In Moscow: Moscow FAQ's

100 Frequently Asked Questions-

Question Topics: renting, shopping, taxis, child care, pets, climate, TV, Kindergartens and schools for expats, metro, Stay at home dads, Moscow life and safety, health, gyms, travel, Russian holidays, IVF, haircuts, driving, language learning, medical, water, mobile networks, keep fit and other answers with some links.

Note: Some links may not not work, no one pays me for this shit!

What is it like being a stay at home dad? Answer: Hard but rewarding. It takes time to get used to. See article
What is it like living in Moscow? Answer: Very hot in the summer, cold in the winter and very expensive.
Do you miss the United Kingdom? Answer: Not really, only the seaside, the countryside and traditional English cooking and pubs. The England I knew has long since gone.
Is it easy to find a flat in Moscow? Answer: Yes but it all depends on your monthly budget. See rental guide but never trust any of the rental agencies here they have the landlords interests not yours. If you are unsure walk away, it's a competitive market here and there are many agencies to choose from. Flat owners like hard cash and collect it from you each month or if you are lucky enough to have your rent paid for, your life here will be a lot easier. Rental contracts are not very much protection in Russia. Find a landlord you can trust. See my section on renting on the blog roll.For Russian agent that is professional try Katerina.
Is it true most Russians drink Vodka? Answer: No this is a myth, all of them do. (I'm joking). Russians are very sensitive to their oversees image and have the belief that most foreigners think they all drink Vodka and that they have bears dancing in the street.
Do you get bored at home all day? Answer: I get bored with the endless routine however, I no longer stay at home full time, as I did when I first arrived here. I did stay at home here for almost two years looking after a small child. It was a hard job.
Is the metro system good in Moscow? Answer: Yes, cheap and efficient. See map.
What are the roads like in Moscow? Answer: Very big, very wide and very congested with traffic.
Are there many expats in Moscow? Answer: Yes many nationalities living in different situations.
Are there many schools and kindergartens in Moscow? Answer: Yes there are but they are rather expensive. If you want to use Russian state Kindergarten you will need to fill in a form online. The British International School is popular but rather expensive as is everything here. For a full list of international schools see here.
Whats Russian cooking like? Answer: Good. Many dishes all tasty but usually cooked in oil so you certainly won't get thinner. I highly recommend the traditional soups.
Are Russian women beautiful? Answer: Yes many are, tall and pretty but can sometimes seem cold. This is a cultural oddity and a form of protection mixed with vanity.
Is medical treatment good? Answer: Yes as with everything, it depends on your wallet and insurance cover.
Is terrorism a big worry in Moscow? Answer: Yes it is, every year there are at least one or two mass suicide killings in the metro, train or airport systems.
Would you recommend me to move to Moscow? Answer: Yes but I would stay only for a few years and a lot will depend on your circumstances, job and salary.
Is it easy to adapt to Moscow life? Answer: Yes and No, if you come from a big city, adaptation will be far easier and it will depend on your network of friends in Moscow.
Are there good shops and shopping centres? Answer: Yes there are many shops, luxury brands and shopping centres. Everything here is more expensive than the rest of Europe.
Are you happy in Moscow? Answer: Yes and No but I really do look forward to leaving here.
What is it like living abroad? Answer: See blog roll (Best Posts)
Is Moscow child friendly? Answer: Russians generally love kids, there are many play grounds but nappy changing facilities in restaurants and public places are bad or non existent. To go under every road in Moscow you will have to mostly carry your child in his or her pushchair down or up many steps. There are ramps but not all underpasses have them.
Can you drink the water? Answer: No but some Russians do they have strong stomachs. It is best to buy bottled water, you can have it delivered each month to your flat or house. Note: You can save money by using a water filter. The choice is yours and your health responsibility.
Is the mafia a big problem? Answer: If you do not do business with them or step on their toes, they are invisible in Moscow.
Is parking a problem in Moscow? Answer: No there few if any parking laws and its totally free. Moscow drivers park everywhere and anywhere. Note: If you park illegally you may be towed away. Many Muscovite's park on the pavements, on Zebra crossings and on road turnings.See examples here.
Can you get most food and vegetables? Answer: At the big supermarkets you can get cabbage, carrots, potatoes, courgettes, onions and most fruit. Anything other than those is considered 'luxury' and you can get a wider variety at one of the many luxury supermarkets here.
Is Moscow polluted? Answer: Due to car fumes in the summer, the air can be yellow and stinks in Moscow.
Is Moscow safe? Answer: Depends where you go, but IMO yes its mostly safe.
Is petrol/gas cheap? Answer: Yes very cheap compared to the rest of Europe but be careful as not all fuel is clean at petrol (gas) stations.
Are Russians friendly? Answer:Yes and no depending on the day, time and who you speak to. Note: Muscovite's can be cold but Moscow is not Russia, get out of the city and people can more friendly like in any country. Note: If you can speak some Russian they can warm more to you.
Is customer service good in Russia? Answer: Mostly no, staff in shops, bars, hotels and restaurants can be very rude. They have a different mentality and attitude to the customer and his or her rights. This is not just towards foreigners but also to each other. Throw away your expected norms when buying anything in Russia and this includes renting anything and paying for any service.
Is Moscow a friendly city? Answer: Mostly no, as with any big city, you are very invisible and if you want to meet other expats, you will need to get out and join expat clubs. Expats stick together in groups or pairs and are rather suspicious of newcomers. There are a few clubs, mostly run by women for women. See: British women's club Moscow.
Why do women spend ages in the bathroom? Answer: I don't know.
Is it necessary and easy to learn Russian? Answer: Only learn Russian if you have learned a language before and/or if you plan to make Russia your home long term. Most under 30's speak some or very good English. A simple book of common language can be carried in your back pocket and will be enough to get by. One to one lessons would be best but are not so cheap. Note: Some people believe that you should try to learn the language but if you only speak your own language Russian will be very hard to learn. See question 28. For a good school see here or learn via Russificate a top language blog of 2010 online or directly contact Yulia Amlinskaya
Can you get to the main airports be car and metro? Answer: You can get to the main tow by metro but if you have a lot of luggage take taxi or drive. However driving time to the airports it long and unpleasant due to the heavy traffic. Allow at least two hours. A taxi will cost from 3,000 rubles return.
Can I get a hair cut at a barbers in Moscow? Answer: Yes but you will be charged expat prices. If you are rich no problem but if you look around you can find cheaper. A 'salon' will charge from 2,000 rubles. I pay 250 rubles as a local hair salon. Get an address and recommendation off a Russian. You don't need to speak Russian and can ask a Russian speaking friend to write down what you want on a piece of paper and just show to the man or woman who will cut your hair. Agree the price first!
Can I get food delivered to my flat? Answer: Yes try 'Utkonos' you can use Google Chrome to translate their website. They dont carry change and only accept the exact money in cash. Or try this site
Are there big supermarkets and stores in Moscow? Answer: Yes but as I have said before traffic is a nightmare. There is Auchan and Ikea. You can also find Decathlon for cheaper clothing. Note: There are others, I have listed the main well known ones.
Can I get good dental care in Moscow? Answer: Good is subjective but you can get most treatments here. Try American Medical Centre or Alliance Francaise Both are expensive so make sure you have good health insurance.
Are there any good guide books for living in Moscow? Answer: There is one main one, it's a dry read but has some very useful information in it. Try 'Living In Moscow' you can order it when you are in Moscow. If you cannot contact them via their web site, search for it on Face Book where you can contact the author directly. The book was written by an odd German woman and is very dry in style it has some occasional useful information. The book is not cheap and hard to find in any book shop. Google searches and this FAQ page may be faster.
Is it easy to enter Russia? Answer: Yes and No see Visas.
What are the best airlines to and from Moscow to Europe? Answer: IMO Flyniki but you can also use British Airways, Austrian Air, Lufthansa and others. For a full list of airlines.
Can I get TV packages in Moscow? Answer: Yes There about 3. I recommend Kosmos
Can you recommend a mobile phone package? Answer: I suggest Beeline. Its a 'pay as you go' system and will not tie you to any contract. If you take a contract for Russia and have to leave Russia, you will be tied to the contract.You credit the phone by cash at one of the may credit machines that are shops and in the streets in Moscow.
How will I understand websites in Russian? Answer: Just copy and paste the website link from Firefox or Explorer into Google chrome and select Russian.
I do not speak Russian how will I read the road signs when driving around Moscow? Answer: Try to learn a little Russian or at least the alphabet but the simplest solution is to use a satellite navigation system like Tomtom. It will tell where to go and will make life very easy for you in Russia. These days most phones come with a built in map system, so use that but please be careful when driving.
How much is wine and beer in Moscow? Answer: It depends on your taste and brand but in Moscow you can get a good can of Russian beer (larger, larger can) for about 50 to 60 rubles. An average wine in a non luxury supermarket, will cost from about 250 to 350 rubles.
Can I easily search for information about Russia on the internet? Answer: Yes but some sites get paid to promote places so read with caution. See below
Can you recommend any bars and restaurants in Moscow? Answer: See this excellent site Waytorussia
What is the exchange rate for dollars and sterling? Answer: See currency converter
Can you recommend any good moving companies? Answer: No, I have moved to two countries and used two different moving companies, AGS and another. Both companies damaged our possessions in the move. They make you take out insurance but their legal small print will say they will only pay for repairs not for replacement. The best way to decide which moving company to use is to get at least three recommendations before you decide and interview three different companies.For good tips on insurance see here and see About.com
What is the climate like in Moscow? Answer:It varies from year to year and due to climate change. It is not as cold in winter as it was 20 years ago. In the winter it can go from -9 to -30 and can be very icy with cold winds. In the summer it is hot, dry and baking with temperatures up to 35c. The city is very polluted and thick with traffic smoke in the summer months. At night it can still be light at 10.00 at night. See Temperatures.
Can you recommend any good expat website and guides? Answer: Google and this site.
Is food shopping expensive? Answer: If you shop on the New Arbat yes it's very expensive but if you go an Auchan it's almost comparable to the rest of Europe. I recommend to make a big shop once a month if you have a family and stock up on washing powder, toilet paper, rice, grains, frozen foods, meat, milk, dairy products, juices etc. As at 22/03/2011, the cost of a monthly shop for 3 people is around 250 to 300 euro per month. This is non luxury items and excludes any alcohol.
Is it wise to buy clothes and electrical goods in Moscow? Answer:IMO No, since you will pay over the odds for these things. If you need electrical goods you will have no choice but to buy them in Moscow but buy your clothes back home when you fly out of Moscow. You will save a lot of money. I don't know how up to date this is but see cost of living.
Can I bring my beloved pet to Russia? Answer. Yes. I arrived with 2 cats. If you can take them onto the plane in cat boxes you will make your life a lot easier when you arrive in Moscow as they will be classed as 'hand luggage'. This will avoid lengthy waiting at the airport where you would have to collect them as cargo if they go in the plane hold. See here for more information.
Will I have to think about child safety if I rent a flat in Moscow? Answer. Like anywhere, yes you will. Many flats in Moscow are high up. When you agree your rental contract insist that the landlord installs window locks on all the flat windows.
Is it easy to find a nanny (child minder) in Moscow? Answer: Yes, go to any popular play area in central Moscow and their are usually many girls from the Philippines. They work in Moscow as cleaners and baby sitters. They work hard and can be good but can also be bad. Interview 2 or 3 and then decide. They are good people and have a strong community here revolving around their church. Warning, don't pay more than the going rate per hour. Recommendations from other expats is the best option.You can also hire a Russian nanny but hey will cost more and rarely speak much English. See 'Living in Moscow' as explained in question 38. For a list of babysitting agencies.
Is it possible to keep fit or join a gym in Moscow? Answer: Yes it's possible but unless you live near a park, forest or outside the city central areas, I would not recommend running outside. There are wild dogs that can bit, dog shit and tramps in the garden rings that traverse the city. It would be better to join a gym near to you. I will not suggest any names as gyms open and close every few years and the chances are that when you read this blog they would have closed or changed names. Get good recommendations of other expats.
Is Moscow a nice city? Answer: People have different opinions. Some say you love it or hate it. As for me, I feel Moscow is big, dirty and very very expensive. If you don't mind using the metro, there is lots do for entertainment such as drinking, dancing and eating and some very big parks. Moscow is mostly safe.
What is eating out like in Moscow? Answer: In my opinion expensive, very average food, an average to bad service and not worth it but don't take my word for it. I prefer to eat at a shopping centre if I eat out as it's cheaper than restaurants in the city.See Moscow in your pocket.
Can I buy my favourite newspapers in Moscow? Answer: Yes but as with everything you will pay a crazy price. Don't bother just read the news online. Most papers these days have an online version.For example: The Telegraph Le Monde The Wall Street Journal The Times The Guardian Die Welt etc etc.
What is it like to do business in Russia and to work with Russians? Answer: People say Russians like to have the last word in negotiations and need to be told what to do if you are their manager. I have no experience of this and cannot agree or disagree, however I think this advert may answer this question.
What is it like to move to and find work in Russia? Answer: Depends on the work, the location, on the pay and the package.
Are there many worthy charities that I can help at in Moscow? Answer: Yes you can contact "Living In Moscow" or make a search on Google. Google may be faster and easier. Note "Living In Moscow" is a book written by a man German woman, I don't recommend any direct contact with her, the internet may be a better information solution.
Is it possible to meet other expats and to network in Moscow? Answer: Yes, you can join a site called Internations, 'Living In Moscow' (see 63) or join many of the women's clubs, American Women In Moscow, British Women's Club etc. There are one or two very infantile expat forums but I would not recommend joining these. Be aware and cautious of online forums. Be warned, Living In Moscow is run by a very strange mad German woman.
Are there kids playgrounds in Moscow? Answer: Yes. They can be found in the gardens of most blocks of flats and in and around the central areas. The quality can be from very old and basic (circa 1960's)to new plastic play areas. The mornings are best for toddlers as in the afternoons there are often bigger kids who jump and crash around the play areas and this can be very dangerous for your little children. My advice is to go in the mornings and be careful in the afternoons.
Can I find out about Russian before I move there? Answer: Yes. By reading blogs like this and by researching before you move. I recommend listening to The Voice Of Russia for different narratives but if you listen to any expat that lives here full time, their opinion will usually be positive, if you can, speak to short term expats for a more balanced opinion.
Can I send and receive packages in Moscow? Answer: I have never sent any packages from Russia but it should be easy via the many international delivery companies.
Can I see all of the useful documents listed on this FAQ section in one place? Answer: Yes if you want access to all useful documents.
Can I take a train to St.Petersburg from Moscow? Answer: Yes it's, fast, modern and clean but it ain't cheap and is almost the same as an airfare in price! The advantage is you have no check or wait just turn up and go, see Best Posts..
When is the rubbish (trash/garbage) collected? Answer: A truck can be heard every morning between 1pm & 3pm emptying the main dustbins (garbage cans). It will wake you up if your flat is near the dustbins (trashcans). A point to consider when looking for a flat.
Should I rent a flat with air-con? Answer: If your bedroom and/or lounge (salon/snug/TV room/living room) faces the direct sun from noon, I strongly recommend air conditioning as it gets very hot in Moscow in the summer.
Is there a good market in Moscow ? Answer: I recommend Izmailovo. It is not as good as it was 10 years ago and can have a lot of tourist junk in it but further up the steps you can find some original souvenirs of Russia. Be warned as a foreigner you will be charged a higher price for most things. Take a Russian speaker or Russian friend with you if you want to save money. Cash is the only payment method.
Can I get IVF treatment in Moscow? Answer: Yes see IVF Moscow.
Can I get my car washed in Moscow? Answer: Yes There are several. The ones I use are located along the river. If you are driving along New Arbat (driving away from the Kremlin), turn right and drive by the White house and get on the road next to the river heading away from New Arbat (another right at the bottom of the hill). This is the road right next to the river that you take to the the world trade center and the convention center.
Can I see any videos on or about Russia? Answer: Yes take a look here at my channel on My YouTube video channel.
Is there good hot water and heating in Moscow flats? Answer: This may seem a strange question to ask but I'll tell you why. In Moscow the hot water is turned off every summer usually during May for pipe cleaning which means no hot water for about 7 to 14 days. When you rent a flat make sure it has a separate water boiler. In most flats, you cannot turn off the heating in the winter as it's communal and controlled by an unseen hand. Be ready to cook in the winter and open your windows to keep cool. See my blog post on renting in the blog archive or search under 'renting'.
How will my kids adjust to life abroad as expat kids? Answer: For excellent advice read this article contact me by email. and for a good website see Expat Kids Club.
Can I buy or sell old kids clothes in Moscow? Answer: Yes easily see Peek-a-boo-booshka.
From a Russian point of view, what do foreigners fear in Moscow? Answer: The cost of living in Moscow, cultural differences and language barriers.
What is it like to give birth in Moscow? Answer: For an expats experience for a full article contact me by email. See blog under 'Best Posts'.
Do you have any tips on being a SAHD? Answer: I have made a few posts on this on the blog (see bog roll) but these sites may help you further. SAHD stereotypes, dealing with isolation, top misconceptions about SAHD
Where to live in Moscow? Answer: This list was supplied by a local Russian friend. I have not seen these places so please make your own opinion. For a full list contact me by email.
Where can I go to drink with other expats? Answer: I don't go to bars here as it's too expensive but try here.
What is Russian customer service like? Answer: It's not all bad but generally not good. This guide is the best advice I can give you. See guide.
Can you live cheaply in Moscow? Answer: Not really but it is possible with effort if you look around, local Muscovite's can tell you where to look.
Do I need a work permit to work in Moscow? Answer: If you want to work at a top international or multinational company or as a doctor or other professional profession, then yes you will need a work permit. If you just want casual work and can work as a teacher, cook, waiter, driver, nanny, cleaner, barman etc, then you certainly won't need any permit as you can be paid in cash. The downside is you will have no employment contract and no employment protection.
How hard is to get married and have a baby at a state hospital in Russia? Answer: This guy did it, for a great account see Post cards from Moscow
Are there any good Russian sayings and Proverbs? Answer: Yes have a look here.
Can I get a cheap haircut in Moscow? Answer: Yes by asking a local Russian where to go. Don't go to the centre of town you will be changed anything from 800 r to 3,000 r. I pay 300 r and I'm keeping the location a secret. If possible, go with a Russian friend. See my blog post by looking in the blog roll.
Why have you repeated some questions here and why are you helping people for nothing? Answer: I have repeated some questions because I can't scroll through them all, its too boring. I help people with this FAQ section as I know how hard it is to move to a new city and country and I am a good guy, (or I try to be!).
When are the main Russian public holidays? Answer: Have a look at this link here.
What is it like to visit a private Russian medical clinic? Answer: You can read an article here in Passport Magazine.
Should I bring anything from home that I am not sure of finding in Moscow? Answer: Yes, if you have a baby or young kids bring any baby products or children's medicines that you know and trust. Bring with you warm clothes for winter to include: tights (long johns if you are male),warm hat, leather gloves, scarf, warm water proof coat, water proof winter boots. Bringing these things will save you money in Moscow and give to peace of mind when moving to Moscow.
What is one main medical issue for kids living in Moscow? Answer: A nebuliser machine is one bit of equipment that you will be asked to have by your Russian doctor. Every expatriate family should have one in Moscow. This machine will help with lung infections, lung issues and common child breathing viruses.
How can I find a list of swimming pools in Moscow? Answer: Try here
Warning on Moscow water: Solution: This may seem unimportant and a stupid warning about Moscow but it's more important than you think for you and for your children. Since arriving in Russia, I have endless problems with my feet. My skin often resembles the outer layer of an old French cheese. This is caused by the water in Moscow. They treat the water with enough Chlorine to strip the paint form a battleships hull. If you have young babies, be careful when washing them. Their skin will become dry and they can get Eczema. You can put large quantities of baby oil into the bath water or use a Russian product called 'Romashki Svetki'. This is a powder, that comes in a green box with daisies flowers on the box. Put some into the bath water. You can use vitamin F on your feet, try 'Scholl' foot cream. Always oil your kids after washing and use a mild shampoo.
What should I pay for a nanny or cleaner? Answer: As of 2012, the average rate for a Filipino cleaner is about 250 rubles per hour. The average rate for a Russian nanny is about 300 to 400 Rubles per hour.
Can I get to the airport by train from the centre? Answer: Yes, Its called the eroexpress, its fast, clean but not so cheap but cheaper than our British equivalent. I strongly recommend it if you don't have kids or heavy baggage.
Is is possible to survive in Moscow without a car? Answer: In my opinion, no it is not but some people I know don't have a car and go shopping every few days by bus or metro. I could not survive in Moscow without a car, simply becuase if you have a family, you can go to a large supermarket once a month and get all your shopping for one month. There are some online delivery services but service is unreliable and the choice is not so wide.
What is it like driving in Moscow? Answer: See blog roll (Best Posts) but generally it's a different experience. I have driven in cities all over the world, including Italy and Bangkok and I can say without doubt that Russian drivers are the rudest and the worst I have ever seen. They are aggressive and don't thank you if you let them in, they don't usually signal or let you in front of them. lane sharing is common and expected. Adapt to how they drive and be assertive and aggressive. Try to avoid driving in Moscow during the week, always carry your papers with you.

Note: These answers are based on my individual experience and may not be everyone's opinion. If you disagree with any answers and are living in Moscow or have lived in Moscow, please let me know and I will try and amend my answers, if I agree with you! Thanks.

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