Russia Pre-Departure Guide

Greetings and Social Interactions

• Use formal titles (Professor, Doctor) when addressing faculty until invited to do otherwise
• Handshakes should be firm and direct eye contact is important
• Remove gloves before shaking hands, even in winter
• Wait to be invited before using someone's first name
• Stand when greeting someone older or in a position of authority
• Avoid loud talking or laughing in public spaces

Dining Etiquette

• Wait for the host to begin eating or say 'Приятного аппетита' (Bon appétit)
• Keep hands visible on the table, not in your lap
• Finish everything on your plate - leaving food can be considered wasteful
• Toasting is important - maintain eye contact when clinking glasses
• Bring flowers (odd numbers only) or a small gift when invited to someone's home
• Remove shoes when entering someone's home

Academic Environment

• Arrive on time or slightly early for classes and meetings
• Stand when the professor enters the classroom
• Raise your hand and wait to be acknowledged before speaking
• Dress conservatively and professionally for university
• Address professors with their academic title and surname
• Participate actively in discussions when invited, but avoid interrupting

General Social Norms

• Smiling at strangers is uncommon - Russians smile when they have a genuine reason
• Personal space is valued - maintain appropriate distance in conversations
• Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical topics casually
• Dress warmly and appropriately for the weather
• Give up your seat to elderly people, pregnant women, and those with children on public transport
• Be patient with bureaucratic processes - they may take longer than expected