Travel Tips

Traveling overseas or for long distances can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with it. There are a few things that you should always be aware of when visiting the Former Soviet Union.

Have all Your Documents in Place

Make sure your travel insurance, passport, and cash are all in a safe place on your person. Don’t trust anyone with these! Most of the FSU does not accept credit cards or debit cards. You must pay cash for everything. And if you have American dollars, make sure the bills are crisp and new. Many places won’t accept any money that looks worn, because of the high amount of fraud and counterfeiting in the FSU.

Make sure someone back home knows where you are, how to reach you, and what your itinerary is. That way if you get sick, have an accident, or some such, that person will know to start searching for you. Also, be sure to let them know if you change your plans or are delayed!

Safety First

Some areas of the FSU aren’t safe to be heard speaking English after certain hours, at least on the street. It’s always good to have a local contact who can help you. This can be an interpreter that you hire personally, or someone through one of the agencies. Of course, if you have been in contact with your lady for a very long time, and are 100% confident in your meeting with her, then much of these issues are moot, and she can help you a lot. But most people are not in that situation!