Russian Hospitality: How to Be a Perfect Guest in Russia?

When I first visited Russia I booked myself into a couple of hotels and hostels scattered around Moscow, Tver and St. Petersburg. At the time I didn’t know anyone who could have hosted me, and consequently had no idea of how to enter a Russian house.

This time, though, as soon as I planned to come here for my three-months internship program, I decided to find myself a room in a shared flat, and I eventually ended up in the apartment of a friendly, genuine Russian guy. That’s when I first experienced Russian hospitality, and I was pleasantly impressed. 

Russian hospitality follows precise rules and rituals. So let me tell you about all the behaviors and good manners which are suitable for when you arrive at the house of a host family or any Russian person.

Rules

Rule number one: take off your shoes. As soon as you step through the door, you’ll find a shoe rack or a closet where you can store your shoes. This is a really smart solution because, by doing so, you won’t dirty up the floors. Moreover, every good Russian host has slippers for their guests, especially for women, so you can wear them and keep your socks white.

Rule number two: bring a present. It’s customary to bring a small present for your host family. It does not necessarily have to be anything big or expensive. A small gift made with the heart, and which is perhaps typical of your country, will be fine. And remember: many flower shops in Russia are open 24/7, which is great for last-minute invitations!

Rule number three: show appreciation and gratitude. Okay, this is probably a rule that applies in any country. However, in Russia it is particularly recommended to show appreciation for what is offered to you, especially when it comes to food prepared by your host themselves. If the table is set with lots of delicacies, this means that your host has probably spent hours cooking for you. Thank them for their hospitality.

Tips

Tip number one: show up on an empty stomach. Whether you’re going to meet a Russian friend for lunch or for an afternoon tea party, be prepared to be given a lot of food. When it comes to hospitality, Russians always pay a lot of attention to their guests. They want to make them feel at ease and this means…a lot of food!

Tip number two: read a lot and be curious. Get information on the latest news and bring knowledge and curiosity. Russians like to entertain themselves with long and interesting conversations, and will often prefer a serious, topical subject to a more frivolous one. Comparing ideas while sitting around a banquet is very common here.

Tip number three: do not overdo it with the vodka! Everybody knows that in Russia a bottle of vodka (or more than one) on the table is a must while dining with friends. Locals usually drink it in small glasses, all in one sip, toasting to a million different things. I think it’s fair to assume that the Russians have developed greater resistance to the effects of this drink… so do not be intimidated! If you don’t want to have your glass filled once again, just say it kindly and nobody will be offended.

Now that you have a collection of rules and pieces of advice regarding Russian hospitality, you’re ready to enter the host’s home equipped with everything you need and enjoy a pleasant stay. The experience will be one of a kind!

Posted by Anna Passarella

Hello! My name is Anna and I'm a student and intern at Liden & Denz. I like to say that I came from Venice to the Venice of the North, the magical Piter. Join me on this adventure!