Experience in Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation by Melissa

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

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Saint Petersburg is an amazing city. Full of culture, beautiful architecture, museums, art, history, theater, ballet and spectacles everywhere. I think it is one of the most beautiful cities I´ve ever been to. The way the buildings are lightened up during the night to embrace their beauty is breathtaking. All the interesting things you can do are related to art. And of course the magical real winter, cold, cruel but very very beautiful.

How much does it cost to live in Saint Petersburg?

If you have the Erasmus support or any kind of support in Euros or Dollars, life in Saint Petersburg is not expensive at all. For European students it´s ideal. Economically speaking for the Russian people the situation is very difficutl but for exchange students life is not expensive at all.

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

It is a bit difficult. I would really advice you to look for something near the center and to not to afraid to rent a room in a shared apartment with other people, called "Komunalka". It is difficult at the beginning, but people are always nice and it´s the easiest way of practicing your Russian and getting to know the real Russian culture.

My advice would be to compare prices before accepting a cool, ideal place for only 200 euros with its own kitchen and living room. Because for Europeans it´s nothing, but once you realize that for Russian standards it is unbelievably expensive I think it´s not worth it. You can totally find less expensive places in very good condition as well. Eyes wide open.

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

The food is amazing. They have so many interesting and good dishes. My favorite is the red caviar and the salmon with the "blinis", it´s like a kind of thin pancake. It´s amazing! And of course their famous salads, Vinaigrette, and soups like Borscht. I would also recommend trying Kozinak, a very typical sweet combination of honey and seeds. And lastly of course Russian vodka. Strong and warm.

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What places would you recommend visiting in Saint Petersburg?

I would of course recommend the downtown area near Gostiny Dvor and Nevsky Prospect. A good long walk from Ploshchad Vosstaniya to the Ermitage, visiting the churches and getting lost at the Fontanka and Moyka river. I would also recommend you to visit the area of the St. Issacs Cathedral and the Mariinksy Theater. I like getting lost, so sometimes when I have the mornings free I get on the subway and I choose a station from where I start walking. Just to see where it takes me. You always find beautiful new places.

Is it good to eat out in Saint Petersburg? Can you tell us your favorite spots?

Yes, you can always find good cheap places with typical food or any kind of food. I would recommend Club Kebab at Ploschhad Lenina, a good Russian restaurant in front of the Mariinsky Theater (I forgot the name), Prekrasnaya Selonia near Fontanka big circus, the Circus Cafe near Upsala Circus (amazing and fun place highly recommended on weekends and summer so you can go visit the circus afterwards), and also Sushi Wok (not expensive at all and you have them every two steps).

What advice would you give future students heading to Saint Petersburg?

Don´t be afraid of the winter or the Mafia. The winter is cold yes, but if you´re well-dressed you can always go on with your normal life and it´s a wonderful once in a lifetime experience. Regarding safety just try to not be completely alone during the night far from the downtown area and stay alert. The worst that can happen to you is a drunken old Russian trying to talk to you, just ignore them and go somewhere else. Don´t be scared! If I were you I would definitely choose Saint Petersburg, it´s seductive, beautiful, alive, interesting, warm hearted, and fun. Come to Saint Petersburg and see it for yourself.