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First Time To The FSU? Read This!
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Posted by: GoingToRussia

I was chatting on another thread about my first flight and visit to Russia and how unprepared I was. I thought I would start a thread for newbies so they know wha to expect. Below are the side effects of planning and arriving to the FSU.

1. "What if she's a scammer"!!! - I would say many people wonder about this when they first meet a FSU woman on-line. Once you feel she is not a scammer and you want to meet her, ask her if you would like to meet. If she says yes, then start planning your trip. Tell her your plans so you will give her some confidence of a possibly relationship. I have heard somewhere between 2 and 5 % of the men that e-mail Russian women actually go to the FSU to meet a woman ... and these women know it. Keep in mind that the women are also thinking potentially bad things about you (is he coming for sex only, does he have diseases, etc.).

2."What am I doing!!!" - HE HE HE!!! I think everyone I know says this at least once! So don't worry about it, it's normal. I was saying this to myself as I climbed aboard my plane to Moscow!

3. Culture Shock - I don't know if it was because I was in a resort town that had casinos, palm trees, and so many beautiful women but I felt like I was on a different planet, "This is Russia???". Not to mention a woman that protected me like a baby cub. The buildings ranged from beautiful to drab. So many new and diffent things my head was spinning.

4. The "Hooks" - If all goes well with the woman you are meeting and she likes you, YOU WILL KNOW IT!!! My girl, who is now my wife, made her intensions known that she wants this relationship to continue. The great part about this is that they do it in a most feminine way, yet aggresive at the same time! I know it doesn't happen to everyone but after a week, she sunk her "hooks" in me. I couldn't have thrown these hooks if I wanted to, they were buried deep!

5. Returning Home - If you think you can pick up your life where you left off after returning, you are mistaken. It was the first morning I woke up without her and I was misurable!!! I couldn't believe how much I missed this woman! It took about 2 weeks for the worst of this to subside to a managable level.

There is a thread on the RPM, http://www.russianmeetingplace.com/...66&page=1&pp=15, which talks about what to pack on your trip. I think it is worth checking out.

I know there is more but I'll let the other members have a turn.

Good luck first timers and Happy Landing!!!

Posted by: gonlaz

I tell you the truth, I am afraid that I will not be skinny enough for her. As I understand it, and from what I see in pictures, Euro dudes are all skinny rails, so many Russian women have problems with naything else. I am not hideous but I do have a gut working, so it worries me :/

Posted by: mistermopar

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

I tell you the truth, I am afraid that I will not be skinny enough for her. As I understand it, and from what I see in pictures, Euro dudes are all skinny rails, so many Russian women have problems with naything else. I am not hideous but I do have a gut working, so it worries me :/

Not all "Euro Dudes" are skinny rails.I seen men that were big,and had bellies on them.And on their arm was a very attractive lady.

If you are honest with the ones you are writing,(and don't send them pics of Brad Pitt)or just ask them if they are ok with it,I wouldn't worry to much about it.

Randy

Posted by: mistermopar

Hey GTR,one you for got,first timers may want to bring a neck brace for whip lash,so many good looking ladies they will have a sore neck.

Come to think of it,I could have used it on all of my trips to the FSU,not just the first time...LOL

Randy

Posted by: gonlaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by mistermopar

LOL! No, there is no misrepresenting going on, probably more of a "wow, she's totally hot and maybe I could have attracted this 10 years ago, but not now - not here in USA" I think that's it. But I should probably stop being a wuss about the whole thing. I tell ya, I flip flop back and forth, such a big step for me, just spending this money going overseas with the emotional risk involved.

Time for me to sack up though, for sure, lol!

Posted by: mistermopar

gonlaz,I have wrote to,and met women that I never thought would give me the time of day,really beautiful women.

When told by people here that I should find a nice local girl

,I go running the other way.

Randy

Posted by: chippie

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

Hey gonlaz,

I honestly think that these women are for the most part very interested in your "inner self". I know that this sounds crazy, but I think that it's true. They are looking for a man that will treat them well.

Chippie

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by mistermopar

Hey GTR,one you for got,first timers may want to bring a neck brace for whip lash,so many good looking ladies they will have a sore neck.

Come to think of it,I could have used it on all of my trips to the FSU,not just the first time...LOL

Randy

- You are so right!!! I'm just glad Lana doesn't mind if I look at other women ... but I try not to!

I haven't forgot about the Sochi translator's e-mail address. Lana said she would send it to me.

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

Like Randy said, don't worry about your weight. I'm a graying over 50 average looking guy who is 50 pounds overweight. My wife is in her early 40s with a 4 year degree in business, owns 2 businesses in Russia, and did a little modeling in her youth. I mention the brains and success because some guys feel threatened by this also.

So who got the better deal ... myself or myself? LOL

Posted by: ira156

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

Dont Worry Gonlaz...once you are there and have to walk everywhere you quick lose weight....it was the first thing people said when i got back.

Posted by: nocomfortzone

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

the world!

You better be careful with that past tense wording :-)
Her youth is still in the present.
you two could still have 50 years of expierences together to look forward to. That's why she is going to wip you into shape when she finally gets over your side of the pond

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by nocomfortzone

LOL - You're probably right NCZ!!! I'm sure she will set her boundries in the house as soon as she sets foot in the house. At her apartment, I was not allowed in the kitchen except to eat or to talk to her or a visitor at the table. If I got close to the counter, she was in front of my face saying, what you what??? She is so cute when protecting her "territory"!!!

Posted by: Dave_N_Elvira

Some good advice there GTR.

Just would like to add few things to it.

a) First and foremost, determine whether you are in contact with a scammer or not. First timers should spend a day or two going through blacklists. Not only to see if the lady / ladies they are talking to are known scammers but to get an idea of the sort of scams they pull. Tell someone to avoid scammers is all well and good but knowing how they operate so as not to fall into their trap is a different thing altogether. www.russiantearoom.net is about the most comprohensive list you will find on the web of scammers.
b) Learn the language. Although this may sound daunting but learning to read Russian will make your trip so much easier. What I did is I learnt the russian alphabet. I learnt how to read things in russian and it only took two days to do this at a very basic level. Many words are pronounced similar in russian and english. Being able to read the cyrillic symbols is a big bonus. You don�t have to comprehend what you have read. Just simply be able to pronounce it. Many words you will understand as the are the same in english. Type �learn russian alphabet� into google and you will find a heap of sites with lessons on them.
c) Don�t wait forever to take your trip. One thing that will frustrate a woman more than anything else is if you spend months and months and months on correspondence. When you find someone you want to meet be decisive. Plan to meet with two to three months after knowing she is the one you want to visit. Don�t string her along for 9 months before finally planning to visit. She may move on from you.
d) Dress appropriately. Nothing more embarrassing than seeing a Western tourist decked out in their goofy travel gear. Russians dress well so make some effort and try not to stand out (baseball caps, sweatshirts etc)

Posted by: Dave_N_Elvira

Quote:

Originally Posted by ira156

Dont Worry Gonlaz...once you are there and have to walk everywhere you quick lose weight....it was the first thing people said when i got back.

LOL! True True.

Gonlaz, don�t worry about your weight. Quite a few of us here have a little extra padding. The russian women cant see past that to your inner beauty. With the russian women, you get back as good as you give. If you treat them well, with respect, love and kindness you will find they will reciprocate at the same level. Besides, most of them will get you up and about and active so as Ian stated here, you are likely to shed the kilos on your own.

Posted by: andreas

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

Dont sweat it, if she likes you and the hooks go in then be prepared for the next surprise. She will then turn you into a better man, trust me, part of looking after thier man is also your diet, health appearance etc

Natalie knew I was a smoker but while I was there she would question me every day how many I had and would also count them, I felt like a bloody child lol!

When I took antibiotics for my chest infection which surfaced in Turkey on the way home, she wanted to know what the name of the drug was so she could check it out. Lots of other things but really its stuff I was just too lazy to do anything about, tough women but in the nicest way

Posted by: andreas

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

No question GTR, she is a doll, but really you both look very well suited

Posted by: I/O

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

GTR Is certainly right. Who gets the better deal? We do I suspect. GTR I don't think her model days are completely gone yet and she looks soooooooooooo happy in that photo. I think you can take some credit for producing that fetching smile of hers.

There is lots of comments about what Russian women will accept, age wise and looks etc. There is a very old adage amoung Russian women when looking for a husband, which is not entirely true but it does represent their inner thinking a little. "A little better than a Monkey is good enough".

Russian ladies have been criticised for marrying older or sometimes not so handsome men and it has been suggested that they will do anything to get out of Russia including accept a far less than desirable man.

This is completely Un True.......!!!! What this actually demonstates is the Russian ladies are far deeper in their thinking when it comes to a partner. The prize of the "Movie Star" is not important to them. They want the right man and if he comes in a less than perfect body it is of little importance to her.

If you have what it takes to be a real husband and partner for her she will focus on that and for sure she will knock you into shape in other ways, but she will never insult or criticise these aspects of you. She will consider it her duty to look her best for you and she will also consider it her duty to quietly help you be the best you can be.

Posted by: Cheburashka

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave_N_Elvira

d) Dress appropriately. Nothing more embarrassing than seeing a Western tourist decked out in their goofy travel gear. Russians dress well so make some effort and try not to stand out (baseball caps, sweatshirts etc)

Amen Brother!!!!!! So many Americans wonder why they were just "shaken down" by the militzia in Moscow, when it never dawns on them that maybe it was the cheap blue jeans, the "I heart NY" t-shirt, the gangsta bling, and their loud obnoxious talking which was an open invitation.

Posted by: Cheburashka

Quote:

Originally Posted by ira156

Dont Worry Gonlaz...once you are there and have to walk everywhere you quick lose weight....it was the first thing people said when i got back.

If you are overweight, plan on losing around 5-10 pounds a week. Seriously! The weight just falls off over there. Maybe it is all the walking, or maybe it is the food.

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by andreas

No question GTR, she is a doll, but really you both look very well suited

Thanks Andreas but a woman like this in America would not give me a FIRST look! What is so great about the RW I've met is that they do not think they are attractive. Lana thinks she is average looking. After knowing her for 11 months, I don't care what she looks like. She is a very intelligent, kind, and caring person with a zest for live and a great sense of humor!!! Her looks are just a bonus! There are so many beautiful women that are fiancees or wives of RMP members, including yours Andreas, and I would suspect they are the same or close to the way I discribe my wife.

We are very lucky men!!!

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by I/O

Yes she does look very happy, it was taken on our wedding day at the dinner. It is my favorite picture of us. In her own way she says she is happy because of me. It is just another RW trait, they make you feel like you can accomplish anything. They are very up lifting and give you confidense you never knew you had.

Quote:

Originally Posted by I/O

Russian ladies are far deeper in their thinking when it comes to a partner. The prize of the "Movie Star" is not important to them.

Very true and nicely said I/O!

Posted by: I/O

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

It is just another RW trait, they make you feel like you can accomplish anything. They are very up lifting and give you confidense you never knew you had.
Very true and nicely said I/O!

Right on here....!!! But I guess to be fair, being in love does kind of make you feel like you can do anything.

Posted by: gonlaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave_N_Elvira

Some good advice there GTR.

Just would like to add few things to it.

a) First and foremost, determine whether you are in contact with a scammer or not. First timers should spend a day or two going through blacklists. Not only to see if the lady / ladies they are talking to are known scammers but to get an idea of the sort of scams they pull. Tell someone to avoid scammers is all well and good but knowing how they operate so as not to fall into their trap is a different thing altogether. www.russiantearoom.net is about the most comprohensive list you will find on the web of scammers.

b) Learn the language. Although this may sound daunting but learning to read Russian will make your trip so much easier. What I did is I learnt the russian alphabet. I learnt how to read things in russian and it only took two days to do this at a very basic level. Many words are pronounced similar in russian and english. Being able to read the cyrillic symbols is a big bonus. You don�t have to comprehend what you have read. Just simply be able to pronounce it. Many words you will understand as the are the same in english. Type �learn russian alphabet� into google and you will find a heap of sites with lessons on them.

I just started another thread in this site somewhere, in the American Russian place i think, about that Language and how difficult it is for me

c) Don�t wait forever to take your trip. One thing that will frustrate a woman more than anything else is if you spend months and months and months on correspondence. When you find someone you want to meet be decisive. Plan to meet with two to three months after knowing she is the one you want to visit. Don�t string her along for 9 months before finally planning to visit. She may move on from you.

I have noticed this, Inna becomes frustrated with me when I waiver on when I want to go or not. First we were going to meet in Helsinki, but I changed my mind about the dates so much she said I have to go to Moscow because she was about to pay for her hotel, the last time I changed my mind. This is good to know, so Russian girls are like this?

d) Dress appropriately. Nothing more embarrassing than seeing a Western tourist decked out in their goofy travel gear. Russians dress well so make some effort and try not to stand out (baseball caps, sweatshirts etc)

Yes, and she has mentioned that I should "try not to smell bad and dress like homeless in dirty cloth" LMAO!! Those are her exact words, yes I am already buying better looking clothes for myself, although she knows very well, how I do dress and hasn't said that I look bad, just not to look bad when there. I am even bringing my Tux and suit, in case we have to do a formal thing at some point while there. Unless of course, you don't think I will need a tux or suit?

Posted by: Pin Boy

a suit would be nice for a night out. i'd skip the tux. better to travel light.

pb

Posted by: Dave_N_Elvira

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

I just started another thread in this site somewhere, in the American Russian place i think, about that Language and how difficult it is for me

Gonlaz, try this link: http://langintro.com/rintro.zip
This is what I used to teach myself how to read (at a very basic level) russian. Gets better with practice. This will basically give you a few skills that will make life easier. Will score big brownie points with Inna if you are able to read some cyrillic words. They love it and it shows them you have an interest in their culture. Just some advice though. Dont go over expecting to be conversant in the language. Its a very hard language to learn at a fluent level but the basics like rudamentary reading skills and some key words are easy enough to pick up.

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

I have noticed this, Inna becomes frustrated with me when I waiver on when I want to go or not. First we were going to meet in Helsinki, but I changed my mind about the dates so much she said I have to go to Moscow because she was about to pay for her hotel, the last time I changed my mind. This is good to know, so Russian girls are like this?

Its not really a unique Russian thing. Nobody likes to be strung along whether they be Russian, American, Australian, English or anyone else.

Quote:

Originally Posted by gonlaz

HAHAHAHA! Think we have all been through this. You might be in for a bit of a rude awakening when she effectively dresses you before letting you go outside. Had a few mexican stand offs in the past with the missus and still do even today when trying to wear my old comfy clothes.

Regarding the tux, probably a little over the top but take a suit nonetheless. Good to have if you go to the Bolshoi or to a snazzy restaurant. Try and do the Bolshoi as well. The Russian women love a night out at the ballet.

What not to pack�Forget taking sweatshirts, faded clothes or anything with holes in them. You simply don�t see people wearing such items except the homeless people. She wont let you out the door wearing any of them. Trust me from someone who has been there, done that and is still under the iron fist of his wife when it come to what I can and cannot wear

Posted by: sidney

Definately do the bolshoi. Moscow is my favorite city. Even the subway is artsy. Lenins tomb is free. There are many cheap and free places to go and things to do if on a budget. It's when you get into the better restaurants where tourists and new russians frequent that it gets pricey.
Sid

Posted by: I/O

Basics for dressing in Russia as a westerner. (In my opinion having been there a few times and to the east in general a fair bit) Ukraine, Moldova etc and Russia are not much different in this respect.

Nice slacks. Not necessarily expensive. Buy a poly cotton blend because they travel well and are very easy to wash and hang over the heater in your room, they'll be dry quickly and probably dont need ironing. 2 pairs will get you through a long period and they are light to package. Definitely dark colours. Very dark navy blue or black. Keep them clean...!!! She will notice.

Button down, long sleeve shirts. Again preferrably plain colours. Yes you will see colours and patterns, but remember you want to look a touch on the conservative side. No polo's and definitely no round neck tee shirts, although a round neck can be useful to wear under another shirt and look fine. Decent shoes or boots. Black or black. Henry Ford stuff here, any colour as long as it is black. You will see others, but black boots or shoes always look smart with anything.

A comfortable well cut dark coat. Avoid the colourful poly rain proof ones, although you will see them. I have a very very dark brown casual coat, almost black, which is slightly straight cut and say 3 gears better than a hiking jacket, but is not up to the level of a suit jacket. It is good enough to wear a tie with (Just) and dresses down enough to wear with jeans. It serves all masters and is quite good enough. Again light to carry, very warm and looks smart.

A long dark wool type of trench coat is quite common and looks really smart over everything when buttoned down. If you are going in the winter, it might be worth considering.

No belt bags or cameras around the neck etc. You will be a sitting duck like that. People give all sorts of advice about protecting your money etc. Frankly I have never had any problem or even looked close to having a problem. But if you dress High Viz, then I think you are asking for it in any big city or public place. I don't think Moscow is much different to LA, London or Sydney in this respect. If you hang it out there, someone is always ready to take it. (BTW I have crawled over a fair amount of Russia including some out of the way places)

Short neat hair is the way to go. I always have mine cut a touch shorter when I go to Russia and I wear it fairly short anyway.

I would suggest not buying a warm hat and gloves before you go. You will need them, but it is the perfect opportunity for you to suss her out a bit. If it is cold, she will (If normal) order you to buy such because she will be worried about you. Check out what the locals are wearing and tell her you think maybe you should do something about it. Tell her you were not sure what was suitable and therefore waited for her advice. If she is a normal Russian lady, you will then, spend the rest of the day in more places than you imagine, because she WILL want to get the best possible value for you. They are good negotiators where price is concerned, so let her do that part for you.

I carry my normal wallet, which is small and tucks neatly into the inside breast pocket of my jacket. This is about the hardest place for anyone else to get to and it is easy and polite to take it out of there when needed. Again, I like slacks for several reasons, not least, the deeper pockets which I can put my wallet in when I dont have a jacket. I simply walk with one hand in that pocket when in a crowded location, therefore nobody else is going to touch my pocket. In the open areas it is no problem.

Don't flash large amounts of cash. Obvious, but often forgotten. If you need to give her cash, don't make a scene of it. Simply roll it up without her seeing or obviously seeing and tuck it in her hand. It is polite and does not draw attention.

As for the suit and this type of apparel, I would boast that I like to dress pretty well and I have not yet taken a suit to Russia. Maybe for a high level theatre or function, but I still think nice slacks, tie and jacket will get you most places. Tux.........Nahhhhhhhh.

Posted by: Ade

Hi,

I disagree with a lot of the dress advice given out, from my experiences in Russia. Just wear what you feel comfortable in, that's the easiest way not to stand out.

Yeah, take some nice things to wear when appropriate, but jeans and a t-shirt certainly weren't out of place anywhere I looked.

Regards,

Ade

Posted by: Cheburashka

One thing is for sure: everybody OVERpacks on their first trip to Russia. You'll take things you won't wear once time. Then you'll get wise.

Posted by: clark

Quote:

Originally Posted by I/O

Basics for dressing in Russia as a westerner. (In my opinion having been there a few times and to the east in general a fair bit) Ukraine, Moldova etc and Russia are not much different in this respect.

Nice slacks. Not necessarily expensive. Buy a poly cotton blend because they travel well and are very easy to wash and hang over the heater in your room, they'll be dry quickly and probably dont need ironing. 2 pairs will get you through a long period and they are light to package. Definitely dark colours. Very dark navy blue or black. Keep them clean...!!! She will notice.

Button down, long sleeve shirts. Again preferrably plain colours. Yes you will see colours and patterns, but remember you want to look a touch on the conservative side. No polo's and definitely no round neck tee shirts, although a round neck can be useful to wear under another shirt and look fine. Decent shoes or boots. Black or black. Henry Ford stuff here, any colour as long as it is black. You will see others, but black boots or shoes always look smart with anything.

A comfortable well cut dark coat. Avoid the colourful poly rain proof ones, although you will see them. I have a very very dark brown casual coat, almost black, which is slightly straight cut and say 3 gears better than a hiking jacket, but is not up to the level of a suit jacket. It is good enough to wear a tie with (Just) and dresses down enough to wear with jeans. It serves all masters and is quite good enough. Again light to carry, very warm and looks smart.

A long dark wool type of trench coat is quite common and looks really smart over everything when buttoned down. If you are going in the winter, it might be worth considering.

No belt bags or cameras around the neck etc. You will be a sitting duck like that. People give all sorts of advice about protecting your money etc. Frankly I have never had any problem or even looked close to having a problem. But if you dress High Viz, then I think you are asking for it in any big city or public place. I don't think Moscow is much different to LA, London or Sydney in this respect. If you hang it out there, someone is always ready to take it. (BTW I have crawled over a fair amount of Russia including some out of the way places)

Short neat hair is the way to go. I always have mine cut a touch shorter when I go to Russia and I wear it fairly short anyway.

EGGGScellent

Posted by: deccie

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave_N_Elvira

Regarding the tux, probably a little over the top but take a suit nonetheless. Good to have if you go to the Bolshoi or to a snazzy restaurant. Try and do the Bolshoi as well. The Russian women love a night out at the ballet.

Agree completely Dave. A lot of Russian women love the theatre and ballet and a suit and tie works well for this if your lady dresses up as she probably would.

The only time I wore my suit in Russia was for our night out to the theatre.

Posted by: ira156

I took a sh!tload of clothes. Jeans are fine but take some nice dress pants and classy shirts. I took my suit to the ballet and was overdressed. The main rule in Russia is NEAT CLEAN AND PRESENTABLE. Dont wear you JD or Harley t shirts unless you want to look like a tourist bogan. Just wear what you would if you were going to a slightly above average bar or club. If its a special occasion dress accordingly. By the way guys the Bolshoi is closed for the next 2 years...they still perform but the actual theatre is losed for renovations. Oh and dont wear cheap after shave...spend a few extra bucks and get some quality gear from duty free.

Posted by: I/O

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ade

Hi,

I disagree with a lot of the dress advice given out, from my experiences in Russia. Just wear what you feel comfortable in, that's the easiest way not to stand out.

Yeah, take some nice things to wear when appropriate, but jeans and a t-shirt certainly weren't out of place anywhere I looked.

Regards,

Ade

Oh yeah....??? Try being there when it's 20 below in jeans and a T shirt..........

Posted by: mistermopar

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ade

I will agree with you there Ade.
Where what you feel comfortable in.Bring nice things.
Also on my last two trips I found more Russian people dressing in jeans,t-shirts,and get this...white running shoes,I was fitting right in..LOL,and still getting in places as a Russian,as long as I kept my mouth shut.

But maybe differant parts of Russia still dress more the old way,dark clothing.

Randy

Posted by: mistermopar

Quote:

Originally Posted by I/O

Oh yeah....??? Try being there when it's 20 below in jeans and a T shirt..........

Hi I/O,I live in northren Ontario Canada,and we get -20 quite often here and I wear jeans and a t-shirt,of course I have a decent winter coat that helps keep the cold out,or maybe I am just use to it.
But if I was going out into the bush(forest) for the day I would wear a sweater under my coat.

Randy

Posted by: chippie

Quote:

Originally Posted by I/O

Oh yeah....??? Try being there when it's 20 below in jeans and a T shirt..........

This may be a dumb question, but here goes. I live in Southern Cal, and today it was 72 degrees. I will be going to Belarus January 1st for 3 weeks. Does anyone wear thermal underwear anymore??

Chippie

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by chippie

Yes but mostly if they work outside or are doing outdoor activities like hunting or snow mobiling.

Posted by: ira156

Quote:

Originally Posted by chippie

Hey Chippie, its over 100F here today and tommorow and i leave in 10 days .....yes thermal undies "expedition weight" ....

Posted by: GoingToRussia

I'm surprised more of you Aussies don't search for RW in Sochi Russia. When I was there last October, it was 90 and over 100 almost every day ... and humid too!!! Just ask Scotch, he was there about the same time I was. I'm sure he loved the weather!

Posted by: chippie

Quote:

Originally Posted by ira156

Hey Chippie, its over 100F here today and tommorow and i leave in 10 days .....yes thermal undies "expedition weight" ....

Thanks ira for the advice. I met an Australian gal today at a traffic accident. She was from Sans Souci. Anywhere near your neck of the woods. She didn't know that "Sans Souci" was French for "without worry".

Thanks!

Chippie

Posted by: ira156

Quote:

Originally Posted by chippie

I think you will find that San Souci is in the US not here. Im from Perth mate the most isolated capital city in the world...nothing is antwhere near here...he he. Closest is Adelaide about 2800 klms away.

Posted by: chippie

Quote:

Originally Posted by ira156

ira156,

Just went to mamma.com and searched Sans Souci. It's in New South Wales. Sorry but my Australian Geography is non-existant!

Chippie

Posted by: mistermopar

Quote:

Originally Posted by chippie

Well like GTR said,unless your out on the snowmachine or working out side all day,nope I don't.
Light weight jackets are made with modern tecnology that are supost to be better than the old heavy bulky jackets of the other centry.

Randy

Posted by: Cheburashka

I took thermals once and never wore them. Every place is well heated. And when you are outside you are walking. Leave them at home.

Posted by: chippie

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cheburashka

I took thermals once and never wore them. Every place is well heated. And when you are outside you are walking. Leave them at home.

Thanks Cherburashka,

Room in the suitcase is at a premium!!

Chippie

Posted by: Ade

Quote:

Originally Posted by I/O

Oh yeah....??? Try being there when it's 20 below in jeans and a T shirt..........

Don't see the problem....done it in a suit!

Of course, I was well fortified at the time

Ade

Posted by: I/O

Quote:

Originally Posted by chippie

ira156,

Just went to mamma.com and searched Sans Souci. It's in New South Wales. Sorry but my Australian Geography is non-existant!

Chippie

I wouldn't worry mate. New South Wales is not particularly important anyway.....

Forget the thermals for Russia if you are a jeans man. I tend to like slacks as I have mentioned and in this case as they are not so warm, there is times when "Long Johns" are useful, but certainly no thermals on the top half. When you go inside the heating kills you.

Posted by: 1eyedjack

The wallet thing. Try putting a rubberband around your wallet. Almost impossible for anyone to touch it without you knowing. I normally don't carry a wallet. I use a large passport case with a money section and one rubberband keeps it in place. Most jackets/coats have a security pocket nowdays anyway. Ah, one more thing, always carry a few large paperclips with you to secure tourist cards, etc in your passport. I lost a landing card once in Chile and after over an hour of grilling I never wanted to do it again.
Jack

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Go to any search engine website like google or yahoo. Type in the woman's name, city, age, and any other data you know about her. Look at the results to see if she's on a blacklist or a registered scammer. Sometime the website that has a bad reputation could be a tip off but not necessarily.

Good Luck!

Posted by: broncosfan

First for the newbies: Expect some insane driving. It is like the freeways in Mexico but on ice. I am nervous flying. I was so happy to reach my destination. Then came the 7 hour taxi ride. Oh man I live in the mountains where we get snow and black ice. I always drive cautiously. So to do 120 kilometers per hour on ice, I think my fingerprints are still engraved in the armrest.

Now to the dress code. I think it depends on your age. I wore ball caps, sweatshirts, and jeans. I am not in my 40's or 50's either though. I brought some nice clothes, but only wore them to dinner. The only thing she seemed not to like was polo shirts. You will have to learn the style a little though. Adidas is big, and makes alot of soccer "football" aparel. So for something with a brand name, I now wear this. Also, If I wear this type of clothing, I stick with black, dark grey,etc. Sometimes I will wear black and red. Some of the girls I met wore ball caps as well. She insisted that I buy a beanie to keep my ears worm this time, so I bought a solid black one with a small red logo. I would never wear some Air Jordan track suit or something like that, but I saw no problem with keeping it casual. Oh, but be warned, at the casinos and many restauraunts, they will take your coat and hat. One night I went to the casino. I wore italian leather shoes and tan slacks. I had on a nice black suede coat, and underneath just long underwear topped with a fruit of the loom white t-shirt. I looked good wearing the coat, but when they removed it at the door, I looked like a complete slob.

Posted by: royalpalace774

My 1st trip to the Ukraine was Oct 25th -Nov 1st 2006.

My 1st shock was getting off of the plane and entering into a very old bus that was in my guess from the 1950's. It was very worn in condition. I thought it might fall apart any second but it was probably built like an old chevy with a lot of metal.

My 1st thought when I got on this bus was "WHERE THE HELL IS THIS GONNA TAKE ME". I was actually a little afraid when I got on this bus. I had thoughts going through my head like WHAT IS THIS , AM I ON THE RIGHT BUS, and to add to that everyone that got on this bus had no smiles. It seemed very serious. Almost like you were being taken to a prison.

So after about 1 minute of being on this vehicle that I thought would take me to WHO KNOWS WHERE, I asked a man in a very soft voice. Does this go to the terminal and baggage claim. He just made a gesture with his head going up and down meaning yes. He did not answer me with words.

So I then felt a little better. I then got off of the bus at the terminal with everyone else and got on a line to present my passport and a form that I filled out with info they requested.

I then get to the window and I am looking at a women who stares right thru me. She is in a milatary uniform. No smile, no expression.

And I am just wanting her to give me my passport back quickly so I can get my suitcase from the claim area and greet the girl who came to meet me with a driver that I hired in advance.

I felt like I was in another world. I had a million thoughts going through my head about things that I heard to look out for and I was truly out of my world that I was used to.

So when I was greeted with my driver and the girl I came to meet I had a breath of relief. I got into a car that was probably 15 years old but ran good.

I was now excited looking out the car window as I was also with the girl I came to meet. The driving to the apartment was like a race through Manhattan. I cant tell you how many times I was expecting us to get in a accident . My driver was like a Indy car racer. Dodging everything in sight.

As far as the way people dressed. I would say that 95% of the women walking in the street looked like they were ready to do a photo shoot. They were so up to date in fashion . I did not see one person all week with ripped jeans.

Now , where I live ripped jeans are known to be cool and in fashion. A kind of cool rock & roll thing. But not in Odessa.

I also noticed that I did not see any obese women . Very thin waisted on most of them

All I can say is that I would gladly do it all over again. And I will!

I loved Odessa. I think anyone who hasn't been there should give it a visit.

I can tell you so much more of what I observed but it might take a couple days.

So the next time I know what to expect. Thats a good feeling !

Posted by: GoingToRussia

HE HE HE - Yes definitely insane driving. Be sure to bring extra pairs of underwear!!!

Before you go, you also might want to regester with the closest U.S. Embassy in the FSU country you are visiting. It is for your protection, The U.S. government will have you on file for specific days in case you need their services.

Posted by: Raka

It's normal, It's the Ukraine !

Posted by: royalpalace774

Here is the Odessa Airport shuttle bus to and from the aircraft.

This takes you from the aircraft to the terminal and the terminal to the aircraft.

I was a little scared at 1st. Thought I was going to be taken to a prison. But it turned out just fine. This is what they use. Now the next time I will look at it as normal and fun at the same time.

You can read about my 1st trip to Odessa. I talk about this bus on POST #51 of this thread.

Posted by: mistermopar

Thanks for the photo RP,I never seen a Airport shuttle bus like that one before.

Randy

Posted by: GoingToRussia

Quote:

Originally Posted by mistermopar

Thanks for the photo RP,I never seen a Airport shuttle bus like that one before.

Randy

Looks like a poor man's jurrie rigged shuttle!

It's definetly not a Mopar Randy!

Posted by: GoingToRussia

One more travel tip. Call your credit card company and tell them you are going to Russia, Ukraine, etc. This way you don't run the chance of getting your card denied.

Posted by: mistermopar

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

Looks like a poor man's jurrie rigged shuttle!

It's definetly not a Mopar Randy!

LOL..Most definetly not..

Randy

Posted by: GoingToRussia

I did see a late 60s/early 70s Dodge Dynasty in Sochi on my first visit ... I was quite surprised and it was in very good condition!

Posted by: mistermopar

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

I did see a late 60s/early 70s Dodge Dynasty in Sochi on my first visit ... I was quite surprised and it was in very good condition!

Humm,I just maybe racing over there.LOL

Randy

Posted by: freebird

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoingToRussia

One more travel tip. Call your credit card company and tell them you are going to Russia, Ukraine, etc. This way you don't run the chance of getting your card denied.

Good advice, GTR - and find out if they have a "help line" available in the FSU. Also you should check with the bank first if you plan to use an ATM card.

Posted by: JamesB

Good post, its just scary not knowing what to expect the first time.I was lucky because i was with a film crew so i felt cushioned but in Jan when we go back to

Posted by: JamesB

Good post, its just scary not knowing what to expect the first time.I was lucky because i was with a film crew so i felt cushioned but in Jan when we go back to siberia i wont feel so good because Berdsk reminds me of hostal the movie hehe.