Russian culture is rich in history, with empires that began in the 10th century. Today, while Russians enjoy a variety of Western traditions like fast food and Hollywood movies, there are still many customs and rules of etiquette that are uniquely Russian.
Russian Culture
Russian culture is defined by its family rites, food, drinks and entertainment. Family is extraordinarily important to Russians, evident by the respect paid to "babushkas," who are elderly matriarchs. Russians generally live and die in the towns or cities they were born in; they do not move around like Westerners do, although they are free to do so. The elderly members of families often provide child care to the younger generations, and generally live with their children into old age.
Russian food is heavy on meats and starches, with soups like borchst enjoying continuing popularity. Russians also pride themselves on their famous vodkas, and also brew several brands of popular beer.
Russian entertainment is based on live performances. The ubiquitous Russian ballet is seen by every generation, and even small towns in Russia have local playhouses where folk dancing and puppet shows are performed.
Russian Etiquette
Westerners visiting Russia for the first time may experience culture shock when encountering typical Russian behavior. For example, Russians reserve smiles for things that they find amusing, or for greeting close friends. Unlike standard U.S. politeness, where strangers and service people smile generously, Russians view excessive smiling as suspect.
Another curious Russian custom is the phenomenon of "close talking." People in the United States generally have a "comfort zone" of four to 12 feet, depending on whether they are talking to friends or business acquaintances. Americans visiting Russia might be uncomfortable speaking to Russian strangers, because their comfort zone is considerably less: several inches.
This comfort zone applies to lines (or queues) at supermarkets, drug stores, theaters and everywhere else. While Americans who queue up at their local stores will leave a space of a few feet in between themselves and the people in front of them, Russians get up very close to one another in lines. If a Russian appears to be "cutting" in front of a tourist, it is because the Russian actually has no idea that tourist is actually standing in the line. Russians line up by almost touching the person in front of them.
When visiting a Russian's home, visitors should note that hands are not shaken until the visitor has passed the threshold of the doorframe. Guests should always remove their shoes immediately upon entering their host's home. It is considered mandatory for guests to bring something to their hosts when invited over for dinner. It is also customary for Russians to drink shots of vodka in between meal courses; these vodkas are never sipped, always gulped.
Visitors to Russia should not be excessively worried about offending Russians when visiting; Russians are very accustomed to Western culture and are forgiving when Westerners make mistakes. A good tip for all people visiting Russia is to ask the locals about Russian customs. In most cases, the locals are happy to share.
More information on Russian etiquette can be found at Russian Etiquette: 12 Etiquette Tips for People Visiting Russia.
