When it comes to travelling, everyone always wants to explore a country that’s new, unique and maybe a bit challenging. Countries with lots of history, great food, and welcoming people are always a bonus, so many people often go for the tried and tested locales like Mexico, Thailand or Greece. Many don’t usually consider the delights to be had in Eastern Europe, and namely in the enormous country of Russia. Sound like something you’re up for? Check out this great article for some tips for a first time visit to Russia.
Get Your Visa Before You Go
One of the most important things to do before heading off to Eastern Europe is to check out visa requirements. For Russia in particular, as well as many of its neighbours, visas are required and many don’t often provide visas on arrival. Therefore it’s a great idea to look into getting your visas before you go, to avoid getting delayed or rejected from entering the country altogether. There are a number of ways to do so, such as going to the embassy or consulate yourself, but getting a Russian visa online is so much easier, cheaper and far less hassle. Not only that, but you can be sure that your application is in the hands of professionals who do this kind of thing for a living, so you don’t run the risk of missing out something important from your application.
Choose Your Destinations
Russia is HUGE! And we do mean HUGE! It spans the gamut from the border with Ukraine in the west, with Russia’s westernmost borders being directly north of the likes of Turkey while in the east it borders China, the Bering Sea and North Korea. It goes to show just how enormous this country really is, so you need to make decisions as to your destinations while inside. Coming from the UK, it’s often quite a hefty trip, so sometimes you might stop off in Krakow or other nearby cities to connect to flights to Russia. Why not make the most of your time in Krakow and book a taxi to see the sights of the city before your flight? Before you get to Russia though, consider which cities you want to visit – the possibilities are huge!
Food Options You Have To Try
When people think of Russian food, they might be surprised to learn that it’s not bland and just consisting of potato as is the stereotype. Russian food is varied, delicious and is some of the best in the world. Beetroot soup known as Borscht, often with chunks of beef, lashings of sour cream and sprinklings of dill is one of the most delicious soup options you can go for. Small, half-moon shaped dumplings known as varenyky are delicious as well, especially when paired with sour cream. Sausages, pies, and baked goods are numerous and varied. In short – we’re sure you won’t starve in Russia, especially if you’re open minded and like to try new foods.
So if you’re looking for a cool, slightly challenging place, consider Russia for your next getaway. It’s more than worth it and you’ll be left wondering why you didn’t go sooner. Enjoy!