Is it dangerous to travel to Russia right now?

Answer 1

Russia is probably one of more dangerous places to go in Europe.

There's no EU to protect your civil liberties and human rights in Russia. Vladimir Putin is basically an old-fashioned communist dictator in all but name. And that means you have to deal with a very powerful and corrupt bureaucracy that can become fustrating for even simple, normal activities (like securing a visa or hotel registration).

The violent crime rate is also shockingly high, and the police tends to turn a blind eye. That is, when they're not the ones commiting crimes themselves!

Aside from regular greed-motivated crimes, Russia is a hotbed of racism. If you don't look like a "white European", be especially aware of your surroundings and stick to well travelled public spaces. The country has a horrendous problem with neo-nazism (ironic, given its history in WW2). Completely random and unprovoked attacks on foreigners are not unheard of.

My comments are backed up by the U.S. State Department:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1006.html

Answer 2

WOW. alot of repressed anger as well as people spewing stuff from questionable sources.
Reality...as a russian it is absolutely safe due to the fact that there is no language barrier and you can size up a person pretty fast.
As a foreigner...if you were actually given a visa by the russian govt then you have an itenerary and a reservation at a hotel. Basically stay away from illegal cabies, just like they tell you in NY, Atl and all major cities. Is it expensive? YEP, so is Tokyo. Did you think you would hitchhike? Generally the army/cops are everywhere and with some exceptions they are friendly and more then patient with the fact that you cannot speak a word of their language. Lucky YOU most russians paid attention in class and will be able to help you.
However, if it is your intention to travel in rural areas you should have a native speaker with you because the country is vast and you do not want to get stuck or lost.
Bon Voyage.
P.S. when in doubt scream HELP. Russians are not cowards and WILL come over to see what the hell is causing all the raucous

Answer 3

I agree that SF dude is over exaggerating a bit. i dont speak a word of Russian, but nevr had any problems except for the language barrier in some places. I guess it all depends where in Russia you'd like to travel. Moscow and St. Pitersburg are beautiful and very civilized cities...very expensive too :)
The corruption i believe is present in all metropolises, such as Tokio, New York, Moscow, etc.

Answer 4

I travel to Russia annually. I think the United States is worse. i was walking around moscow on my own at 2am... i didn't get mugged or anything. Probably not the safest thing to do anywhere. Nonetheless, Moscow is no more dangerous than any other city in Europe.

Answer 5

The U.S. State Dept has excellent information about travelling abroad, dangerous areas, etc. Search "Travel Warning"

Answer 6

When I traveled I was safe, enjoyed it a lot and look forward to visit this great country again and again, if possible! There, you feel that this country is a superpower, full of gentle educated people, who are going through some economic reform, with vast and excellent nature, superb cities, ...

Answer 7

No.
Russia is no more dangerous than USA or Europe...
There are actually a lot less crimes, since there no uneducated blacks and few Muslims+ most of the land is unpopulated.

Answer 8

Yes. But a little bit less so if you are russian. they do resent the foreigners and you will be in more danger if you show very conspicuosly that you are american or etc

Answer 9

It's not any more dangerous than in any other country, now the most danger is the hot stuffy weather.

Answer 10

my gosh seriosly calm down people, i travel there frequently have never had any problems

SF dude doesn't know what hes talking about