Experience in Moscow, Russian Federation by Olga

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What is it like to live in Moscow? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I don't want recommend it and the only reason is the weather. For instance in autumn all the time it's rainy and we don't see sun at all! In winter- the same thing but with snow instead of rain. And actually summer is only 2 months (June and July only). For those people who adore sun Moscow is not the best option. Moreover, here, there are not a lot of places to visit (only 2-3 familiar and well-known places).

What is the student lifestyle like in Moscow?

I can say that the young generation is very active in Moscow (they are participated all the time in different parties, activities, etc. ). Students from all over the Moscow can meet altogether in different events, such as "Bike's night", when students meet in one place and during the whole night they are riding in Moscow (according to the route).

How much does it cost to live in Moscow?

It's not so expensive, I suppose. Because this spring I was in Paris and I could say that Paris is much more expensive city than Moscow.

In numerical number, for instance, (if you are a student) you need approximately 2 000 $ / month (including flat rent and transportation and food costs). And this sum of money is the maximum, so in fact you can spend here even less than 2 000 $. It's possible.

But many students prefer not to pay for the flat but stay with their friends from different countries (which they met during their Erasmus experience). So in that case, you will need only money for food and transport, and it's not so much amount.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Moscow? Is there any advice you can give?

When you are abroad and trying to find accommodation in another city - of course, it's difficult. But here in Moscow it's not a big deal. Unfortunately I don't know any web-sites where you can find a flat or apartment, because I’m living in my own flat (so I never had such question), but it's not a big problem to find it here.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Unfortunately I can't say that we have some special traditional dish, like for instance burrito in Mexico or "escargots" in Paris. But still the food in Moscow is quite good at any restaurant or cafe. My favourite dish is meat with potato (but according my grandmother's recipe). As you know potato is very popular in Russia (thanks to Peter I).

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What places would you recommend visiting in Moscow?

• The Kremlin
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum
• Red Square

I think that's all (because St. Petersbourg I think is more beautiful tan the city of Moscow).

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Is it good to eat out in Moscow? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Except McDonalds? No.

I really don't know, maybe it's different kinds of cafe (where you can order coffe with cakes or pancakes). It's difficult to say, because the majority of people prefer fast food like McDo or KFC.

Is the nightlife good in Moscow? Where is good to go?

Personally I prefer to go to pubs. Such pub which is called SPB is very good. About parties I don't know a lot, because I like to go out with my friends just walking or driving in night Moscow.

What advice would you give future students heading to Moscow?

• Don't be afraid of homeless people (you will see a lot of them) in Moscow.
• Don't be sad about the fact that all people are very gloomy (sullen) - it's typical Russian character.
• Visit Moscow only in summer (because of the weather of course).
• And finally! Don't be afraid to ask information from us (especially youngest generation), because we know English better then adults. If you are lost or something we are willing to help you at any case!

Good luck!

I hope my advices will help you!

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