Moscow life

Some Basics about Moscow

Moscow is an intriguing city, people either love it or hate it. I'm pleased to say that I fall into the former category. Before I first came to the place I remember reading the lonely planet guide meticulously from page to page. It was quite useful but there is nothing like first hand experience to find out what the city is really like.

First of all, I'm sure that one of the most important things for a newcomer is the cost of living. The fact is that Moscow is not a cheap city but I think it is cheaper than London for example.

Accommodation is usually shared, either with another teacher or with a Russian family. Living with Russians is quite an experience and if you want to learn the lingo, then this is the best way. The average cost for shared accommodation is between 400 to 500 US dollars. If you wish to have your own place, this will cost between 800 to 1000 US dollars, depending on how close you are to the city centre. Be warned however, make sure that your flat has a washing machine; self-serve laundries are a rarity in Moscow.

Another major concern is the cost of food. Generally I find that supermarkets are quite expensive and to be honest, I find it more economical to go to a cheap cafe or buy a business lunch. Some good places to eat include Moo Moo (which has an obvious cow theme!) Krushka, Pelmeshka and Velki Loshka (Fork & Spoon), where the food is tasty and nutritious. I If you should go to a more up-market restaurant, be prepared to pay more.

The weather in Russia can be extreme, either hot or very cold, therefore it's difficult to know what clothing to bring with you. If you arrive in winter, be sure to bring a thick coat, gloves, a hat and some strong shoes (preferably boots with a good tread). These items however, can be bought quite cheaply at local markets. This winter, temperatures fell as low as -30C, but this was an exception. Usually winter ranges between -5 to -10C . On the subject of the weather, spring seems to follow a distinct pattern. At about the end of March, the snow begins to melt and everywhere is wet and sludgy. May and the beginning of June can be very wet and you will need to have an umbrella, there are also quite a few thunderstorms. Summers are generally quite hot and humid. Most people take their vacation during this time and spend time at their Datcha's. Autumn is my favorite season and I strongly recommend a boat trip down the Moscow River, where you can enjoy the wonderful colors of the Autumnal foliage and spectacular views of the Kremlin.

Whilst you are here, you will probably be entitled to paid holiday leave. One option is to take advantage of cheap travel to Egypt or Turkey. An all inclusive package can be easily obtained for as little as 300 US dollars. Recreational activities on the other hand, are more expensive if you are a foreigner. Museum entrance fees are about 4 times more expensive, but fortunately there is no extra cost for public transport. Train travel is great fun and usually involves sleeping over night, one reason being that most trains don't travel very fast!

One thing for certain, living in Russia is never boring. Life at times can be rather frustrating, and you'll have to remind yourself of the “Russian Rule of One”. If you achieve just one thing each day, you've really achieved something. Other days however, you'll be strolling down one of the many boulevards or standing in Red Square, thinking to yourself that you wouldn't be anywhere else in the world.

Carol Walker