visa, flight booked, what to expect/bring

[phantom]

Visa here, flight booked to Moscow.  What can I expect at customs?  What items is ok to bring?  what is allowed?  Also, only for a week, I think I'll skip my bulky laptop.  Also, figured out the ladies gifts, and flowers. 

She got my mom a gift or two.  What would be good to get her mom, I met her on line, web cam.  Also, her father?

[TwoBitBandit]

You're allowed to bring $10000 in cash into the country without declaring it.

You should make sure any bills you bring are in great condition (no ink marks, all corners there, no holes, not excessively worn, etc.)  Customs doesn't care, but you'll have problems exchanging bills that aren't in good condition.

I've been over the 2 lites of alcohol a few times and still went through the green line and customs never called me on it.

They give you back the departure card you fill out on the plane.  Don't lose that card or you're screwed: you'll have grief getting out of the country.

I like to shop for gifts for Russian women at a chain store called "The Body Shop."  They have lots of pre-packaged gift sets with high-end lotions and soaps and stuff.  You can usually find this chain in larger malls.

If the father drinks, a bottle of nice cognac could be a good gift...

[Lee08]

Hello Phantom,

Don't worry about customs. In all my trips to Moscow I was only stopped once and I think that was because I had two bags that time. All they did was put them through an x-ray machine. I had several bottles of whiskey, food, and electronic items. No one said anything. Just be sure to go through the green line and don't even look at them while walking through. It's kind of a C shape at SVO if that is where you're flying into.
Once you exit customs you will be in the main lobby of the airport where the taxi mafia will be very aggressive toward you. Just say "nyet" and ignore them.
I hope your lady will be there to meet you or she arranged for a driver to pick you up.

During my first trip there to meet my wife, I gave my future in-laws some nice American perfume and cologne. They liked the gifts very much.

If you have any other questions or advice, please feel free to pm me.

Good luck!

[BC]

When going through customs, look for the shortest line which IIRC is for diplomats and such.  If the customs guy or gal starts giving flack just say Извините! (Izvinite) and then Спасибо (Spasiba) if you are let through or pointed to a longer line (which I kinda doubt).  Hey.. you're a dumb tourist so at least make the best of it.

Plenty of phrases on the net.. learn a few although many are a wee bit lacking,  example http://www.omniglot.com/language/phrases/russian.php

Good, and I mean good perfume always worked for the women as gifts. Armani Diamonds went over well with the older ladies.  My wife almost shot me when I bought it for her.. twice..  Must be one of those age gap things.. LOL  I really liked it.

TBB is quite right.. good cognac for the men, but don't expect it to last long.  If prospective FIL is a smoker might try some Cuban cigars or cigarillos if you're transiting in a major EU airport.  Always good to pack a few printed T shirts (i.e. Jack Daniel's or recognizable brand) and baseball caps for anyone that pops up and is left out (impossible to avoid) or kids.

Most of all relax and be yourself.. I hear stories about guys that start going to the gym to loose weight, take courses in self confidence etc... forget it if it's not you.  Best for her to take it or leave it in the long run.  Show what you are and not an image you can't hold up long term, especially when it comes to finances.
 

[Vinnvinny]

Take your own coat hangers as in my experience there appears to be a cronic shortage of them in the FSU. The most I have encountered so far is 5 …… of which 2 were broken. 

[groovlstk]

Visa here, flight booked to Moscow.  What can I expect at customs?  What items is ok to bring?  what is allowed?  Also, only for a week, I think I'll skip my bulky laptop.  Also, figured out the ladies gifts, and flowers. 

She got my mom a gift or two.  What would be good to get her mom, I met her on line, web cam.  Also, her father?

If you're renting a flat, be sure to bring along an LED keychain flashlight. As for gifts, it's always a conundrum of how much to spend - regardless, I'd think SMALL so you don't end up with an overloaded suitcase (maybe some inexpensive crystal?). Some token from where you live (specialty jams or candies, etc.) is also a good touch.

Good luck, Phantom.

[Vinnvinny]

If you're renting a flat, be sure to bring along an LED keychain flashlight.

..... or better still, a medium sized Super Trooper if you have room. 

[Vaughn]

Phantom, I believe the posters before me covered all the high points. One thing I did not see
mentioned was - "Never, but never - take your attention off your wallet." If you're a
back pocket guy like most, you'll be spotted by the spoilers very quickly.

Bring family photos, maybe in a small album. They will likely be of great interest.

This is your first trip, right?   Enjoy yourself !!

Vaughn

[kryten41]

Excellent point about the wallet.  I have a billfold with a lanyard attached which I loop over my belt (got the idea from bikers who do the same thing with a chain so they don't lose their billfold if it falls out of their pocket while riding).  If you wear a jacket it hides the lanyard.  This isn't foolproof, but it causes a thief to have to spend a little more time. 

Also, if you are wearing something bulky, you can use a neck wallet which hangs around your neck and is carried under your shirt or sweater.  The neck wallet can be a bit inconvenient for regular use, so you might want to use it to hide your passport and the bulk of your money, while you keep the money you expect to spend for the day in your front pocket.

[GoodOlBoy]

Viagra??

Condoms??




GOB


FWIW....Just joking Phantom......Good luck and have a safe trip.

[phantom]

Thanks for the replies to this one, as this will be my first trip to the FSU, I'm looking very forward to it.  The gift suggestions were great, I'll get perfume for her mom, and I'll find out if her dad smokes.  If not, the Cognac it is.  I'll definatley watch my wallet.  Not sure how much cash I will be bringing, but also credit cards and check card.  The lady likes T-shirts, so I'll bring her some of those, and some lose gifts as well, as her brother and nephew may stop by.  

GOB, condoms and viagra would be a big plus!    I'm sure it's going to be a great trip.  Keeping my fingers crossed, hoping for the best with the lady.

[XMan]

Pack a roll of toilet paper in your carry on.  Handy to have when restrooms are lacking. 

Electronic translators are not great, but they are fantastic if you get stranded in Moscow due to flight cancellation, delays, or if you run into some other issue.  Basic sentences work quite well. 

A universal power adapter / transformer is absolutely necessary IMO.

I took a money belt (an actual, regular belt with a zipped compartment) with $500 in emergency cash zipped inside.  Had to remove it when going through the security stuff, but I just kept my eyes open so it wasn't lifted.  I think no one noticed the zipped compartment on the inside of the belt, but who knows.

Make a color copy of your passport.  Not sure how helpful it will be if original is lost, but it was recommended to me a few years ago and I figured nothing to lose so took it with me. 

[Faux Pas]

Pack a roll of toilet paper in your carry on.  Handy to have when restrooms are lacking. 

Electronic translators are not great, but they are fantastic if you get stranded in Moscow due to flight cancellation, delays, or if you run into some other issue.  Basic sentences work quite well. 

A universal power adapter / transformer is absolutely necessary IMO.

I took a money belt (an actual, regular belt with a zipped compartment) with $500 in emergency cash zipped inside.  Had to remove it when going through the security stuff, but I just kept my eyes open so it wasn't lifted.  I think no one noticed the zipped compartment on the inside of the belt, but who knows.

Make a color copy of your passport.  Not sure how helpful it will be if original is lost, but it was recommended to me a few years ago and I figured nothing to lose so took it with me. 

XMan, a little overkill there IMHO. I did all that on my first trip mainly because it sounded like some demm good advice I got from a forum like this one. I had read of a few horror stories about the toilet paper and the less than modern toilets. Maybe I was just lucky after all this time but I've never needed to use one that didn't have a decent roll of paper or a relatively clean place to sit and pinch a loaf. Sure the paper wasn't Charmin but it got the job done without much discomfort.

I've also spent a significant amount of time alone in several Russian cities and never used a translator. That is one item I never bought or took on a trip. Knowing some simple words and phases along with some quick wit seems to have worked well enough. Granted, it sometimes takes a while but it is possible to get my point across.

I took a money belt on my first trip as well. It was a leather under the shirt type belt that cleared all of the detectors. I found it too cumbersome and aggravating to keep up with. Something I also did on my first trip was left my billfold at home. I bought a leather money clip that also held an ID and a few credit cards. It easily fit into my front pocket. I did have some emergency cash stashed in several places on my person as well as the money belt. Maybe because I am a relatively big guy but never once did anyone stake me out or attempt to steal from me. Still haven't to this day. I can't say the same for the U.S. although I have never successfully been robbed.

The only electronic item I took other than laptop and cell phone was an adapter plug. I had no problems as my stuff is relatively up to date thus, no transformer needed.

I do keep a copy of my passport "just in case". It has been said that a copy will expedite a replacement if lost or stolen. I guard mine with my life but again, no problems there either.

I don't state any of this for Phantom to let his guard down. Quite the contrary, stay alert and prepared for any event while traveling and especially out of country. But some of this info equates to nothing more than old wives tales. If you have money in the FSU you can buy toilet paper and most anything else you need. From my second trip on I was packed a lot lighter and was the better for it.

One thing I do highly recommend is take a carry on travel bag with limited toiletries and a change of clothes.

FWIW

[phantom]

I got an adapter for the cell phone, didn't figure I'd take my laptop, it's rather bulky for a week.  That's good to know about the toilitries, I pack a bag with shaving cream, tooth paste, etc.  One roll of TP. 

Also, taking extra batteries for my cameras, digital and film, plus film.  I speak a little Russian as well as knowing the alphabet, so, it may take awhile to figure the words, but I should do ok. (I hope) and of course take precaution as I enjoy myself and her company.

Fuax Pas, great idea about the money belt, never thought of that.  She'll be meeting me at the airport.

Now, a question, her mom don't like to wear face cream or basalm?  Right spelling?  Her dad smokes, and has been wanting to try cigars.  I will be flying nonstop from the US, so no side trips to EU countries.  What about King Edward?  Too cheap?  What about her mom? 

[chivo]

Phantom, Are you going to be staying only in Moscow during your time here?

[phantom]

chivo,

I'll be arriving in Moscow, SVO, the lady will meet me there, and we will travel on to Kazan.

[chivo]

chivo,

I'll be arriving in Moscow, SVO, the lady will meet me there, and we will travel on to Kazan.

Thanks for your reply. Customs and pasport control will be a breeze. I'm guessing that you're taking the overnite train to Kazan. The gift suggestions have been solid and since Cuban cigars are available here in Moscow, you can get that for the father before you head to Kazan. You should have some time if indeed you are taking the train, or have your lady get them beforehand.

I wouldn't worry so much about bringing this or that. If you have your mobile phone situation worked out, the rest will be easy. Forget about the toilet paper, flashlight (have never needed one in my 6 years here), etc. and pack light.

It's much different in Russia now than even a few years ago with regard to the availability of goods. If the situation arises that you do need something, you'll have no problem finding it.

I would pack a few semi-warm clothes (light jacket for instance) because the weather is starting to change, take a carry on with a change of clothes as suggested in case your baggage gets lost, and bring no more than a $1000 cash, 1 credit card with a very low credit line, and an ATM card only for emergency purposes. Let the banks involved know that you'll be in Russia before you leave also. I haven't carried a wallet since I was 16, but if you do, leave it home. I carry my documents in a small handbag when I travel.

The rest will be easy. I think you mentioned Kazan before now that I think about it, and having lived there, I say...just relax and take it all in. Believe me, time is going to fly by.

Kazan was the first city I visited when I made my first trip and I brought too many clothes and things I didn't need (could have used the toilet paper then though ). This was back in 2000 when you couldn't find anything, and I exchanged my money in some back room of a warehouse 1930's Chicago style or right in the hotel I was staying at from some shady looking guy in the hotel lobby.

I had a blast and it was an incredible overall experience. I also came for a month then. Since you'll be here only a week or so, your head will just be clearing before you have to leave.

I will warn you though, get ready to be hooked. Good luck with that  

chivo

[chivo]

One more thing, make sure the credit card is only a Visa or MasterCharge.

[Daveman]

I will warn you though, get ready to be hooked. Good luck with that  

chivo

Um, 5 years ago and tens of thousands of dollars ago I would have scoffed at that statement.... better sign up for the 12 step program prior to your departure... seriously!

And one other piece of advice not yet mentioned... do NOT register your visa at the police station -- I don't care what your lady tells you.. don't listen to her.. just go to a hotel and pay the money ($30-$50) and be DONE with it, or if you/she are somehow dead set on doing it yourselves, then follow SJ's example and go to a post office (with all your lady's documents.. SHE will be registering you and will be required to provide copies of all HER documents along with yours, but you don't even need to be present -- the post office will have a copy machine there to handle that in one trip)

Good luck with the visit.
Dave

[XMan]

Faux P --

To each his own.  I was in several bathrooms with zero toilet paper.

I got stranded in Moscow when my flight was canceled.  I couldn't find someone who could speak enough English to get me to a hotel.  Without the electronic translator, I would have spent the night in the airport (or who knows where).

THe money belt I used looks like a regular belt (as in for pants).  Since it was a regular belt, no problems, no discomfort.  I've worn it all 6 trips.

Depends upon what your level of comfort is. 
I like backup.

[Faux Pas]

Faux P --

To each his own.  I was in several bathrooms with zero toilet paper.

I got stranded in Moscow when my flight was canceled.  I couldn't find someone who could speak enough English to get me to a hotel.  Without the electronic translator, I would have spent the night in the airport (or who knows where).

THe money belt I used looks like a regular belt (as in for pants).  Since it was a regular belt, no problems, no discomfort.  I've worn it all 6 trips.

Depends upon what your level of comfort is. 
I like backup.

Agreed. It wasn't my intention to sound like I was pooh poohing on your advice. I wasn't. I realize many guys making that trip need that extra level of comfort. I thought I did on my first trip and for me much of it became more of an inconvenience and downright hassle. I was well prepared on the first time over and quickly realized (for me) it was serious overkill. I routinely travel light anyway. Other than passing through and by some villages all of my experience is in the cities. I haven't really found anything that I needed that wasn't available for sale. On my first and second visit I had to pay pricey extra weight charges on luggage due to that overkill and gifts. As you said, to each their own.

[XMan]

I definitely understand the travel light scenario. 

I know a gentleman who took 4 suitcases and hauled them all over creation. 
For me, one rolling suitcase, one light carry on. 
I regretted not taking a laptop last time.  Harder to find Internet cafes now. 
Next time -- a Macbook Air squeezed into my carry on.

[SteveOR]

One more thing, make sure the credit card is only a Visa or MasterCharge.

And, don't forget to call each credit card company at the 800 number on the back of the card to inform them of your travel plans, dates of travel, where you will be, etc. prior to leaving.  Same goes for your ATM card.  Also make sure that you have the local phone numbers, access codes and procedures for calling your credit card issuers and banks in case cards are lost or can't be used.  If you don't do these things it is unlikely that your credit or ATM cards will work which could leave you in a bind.

. . .

[phantom]

Thanks for all of the information.  One suitcase will suffice, as I have an old good sized one, I'll pack clothes accordingly, for different weather situations.  Thanks for the added info about the credit cards and atm, never thought of that, steveor.  I'll throw in one roll of toilet paper to be on the safe side.  Then, just toss my shaving bag in the suitcase.  I was thinking of taking a plane to Kazan, as she bought her ticket to fly to Moscow.  My laptops bulky, so I'll leave that at home, this trip.  Thinking of a netbook. 

I'll let any hotel take care of the reporting to the police.  She may suggest we do it, as she's a lawyer, but I'll do it by way of the hotel.
Glad Cubans are available in Moscow.  I wonder if I can bring some back to the US, without getting caught.    Got a charger to take for the cell phone, and will get a sim card there, only a week, but don't want a high bill.  Got the gift suggestions noted, got her a couple of T-shirts, as she likes Ts, and got some extra.  She's bought some gifts for my arrival and to take home to my mom. 

Looking forward to this trip, and many more to come.  Hoping all goes well with her. 

[Faux Pas]

When do you leave?