Lucien Jack

On the first day, to our horror we had an exam to assess our standard of Russian. It was quite hard, but not too difficult for us! After the exam, we joined different groups. My exam wasn’t especially good, so I joined the bottom group.

There is a lot of xenophobia in Russia, so finding people to converse with is difficult. Leading on from this, there are many shaven heads and a lot of Nazi graffiti around the city. At night, don’t speak English loudly as Martin and I were unfortunate enough to receive shots at us. Luckily, they were only BB guns, but when one hit me, it was painful and terrifying (and funny 10 seconds later!). Be self aware, and respectful of other people.

Helen Key

If you find yourself in Russia in an emergency, don’t panic, and think firstly if the problem can be solved by talking to a friend. If it is more serious, as in the case of illness or crime, contact the appropriate emergency services

When going abroad, people are often not aware of important facts, such as who to contact in an emergency within the city, where to change money and how expensive things are likely to be. This guide therefore, aims to offer concise information about services within the city, and useful phrases for navigating Saint Petersburg as a tourist.

Jędrzej Kowalczykowski

  We have to remember that we are foreigners and guests and that is why we should respect Russian customs and behave as Russians. For instance, it is not a good idea to scream in English when coming back from Nevskii Prospekt (the main street of St. Petersburg). What may be not paid attention to in England, may not be approved in Russia. It will not cause a skinhead’s attack but, do not be surprised to hear some swearing word!

  -  when buying a ticket to museum, don’t pretend to be Russian – they can easily tell you’re foreign from your accent as well as from your look.

          • If you have a chance to see some of your idols playing in Russia – don’t hesitate. The prices are good for shows, and you will experience the Russian atmosphere. Last year in July, you could see Aerosmith, for instance.

Victoria Leonard

 I found that the most important thing in Russia is to be open-minded, and to speak lots of Russian.  The culture shock is inevitable, and the food is of a different style, but your hostess will welcome you with open arms.

Katie Malkin

The cost of a token which is used for one journey is currently 14 roubles. I recommend buying either a travel card or a metro card rather than paying for separate journeys because it will be cheaper. You will also have to pay a small deposit for the card which will be returned, when you hand your card in.

Martyna Ryszkiewicz

* If you live in one of the islands and decide to have a long night out and do not manage to catch your last underground train, you might get stuck as all the bridges are opened for the night to let the ships go.

Andrea Smith

When I stayed in Russia last year, it was a cultural shock, because the food in Russia differs from the food in England. In my opinion, it is important for students who would like to go to Russia, to find out about Russian food, and know how to order food in restaurants.

Russia is very famous for vodka, but Russian people like to drink Tea with lemon or jam, but in Russia it is not the tradition to drink Tea with milk!