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Russian-American Relations: safe to travel? Get Visas?

Russian-American Relations: safe to travel? Get Visas?

Old Feb 17th, 2015, 10:59 AM
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Russian-American Relations: safe to travel? Get Visas?

I'm planning a tripto the Scandinavia area this summer (mid-June) and would like to visit St. Petersburg and Moscow. I've been to Moscow before (2010) and I'm not really concerned about safety in regards to things like pick-pocketing or robbery (I know it's an issue, I see a lot about it, it's just not what I'm asking about right now). I am more worried about the visa process, and if it's wise overall to visit Russia right now. Has anyone been recently, or know someone who has? Is the feeling toward Americans particularly hostile? Visa tips? Your thoughts are appreciated!
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Old Feb 17th, 2015, 11:10 AM
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Given everything going on in Ukraine at the moment, and the continuing fighting despite the ceasefire, I would not be very inclined to book a visit Russia. Not because of personal safety, but because we have no idea what will happen in the next few months.
Travel insurance won't cover cancellation due to war or civic unrest, and we could well be heading for war I fear, especially if the hawks in the U.S. get their way and arm Ukraine.
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Old Feb 17th, 2015, 11:22 AM
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Of course there isn't hostility towards Americans! I would definitely book a trip to Russia, I can't predict what will happen and I am not going to stay at home & worry about it. Should I cancel my trip to Copenhagen next month?
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Old Feb 17th, 2015, 11:55 AM
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Ive been going to Russia since Cold War times, and NEVER did I ever feel people were hostile to me as an American. As an American, you will stand out. They know, but they like and admire Americans even if our governments battle for vain power.
In all those years, only once I found someone who wanted to argue politics. It was during the 90s war in the Balkans, and it was a civilized discussion.
Like Odin says, go...St Petersburg and Moscow are beautiful
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Old Feb 17th, 2015, 12:21 PM
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>

Whose feeling? Even the citizens of the Ninth Circle of Commie Hell didn't hate Americans.

And yeah, they'll know you're American - will clock it the first time they look at you. Happened in all the ex-Iron Curtain satellites I visited.
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Old Feb 27th, 2015, 06:22 AM
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It is safe to visit Moscow and St-Petersburg (my personal opinion that more safe if you compare with Paris or Berlin), just avoid bad reputation night clubs and heavy drinking. It doesn't matter are you from US or any other country.
Born in Moscow 60 years ago, so have an experience...
Sergey
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Old Feb 27th, 2015, 06:34 AM
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I'm in the process of getting my visa now, as I want to visit St. Petersburg in June. I'm not at all nervous about visiting there.

I think the likelihood of any kind of armed conflict between us and them is miniscule.
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Old Nov 17th, 2017, 07:15 PM
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I'm considering a trip to Oymyakon in January to experience the coldest spot on earth. I would fly into Khabarovsk Novy Airport and drive 900+km with a tour group to Oymyakon. Does anyone have experience with travel to that part of Russia
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Old Nov 18th, 2017, 04:40 AM
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This thread is two years old. You are more likely to get useful replies if you start your own thread, although sounds like an uncommon destination.
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