As in any large city in the world, there are some unscrupulous people who prey on foreigners in order to get money or other personal or economic gains. No matter how hard you try to blend in, to the experienced eye of such people you are conspicuously American because of your clothing, your glasses, your shoes, by the very way you walk down the street. Unfortunately, as a result of the bad economic situation in Russia now, there are people who make their living in illegal or quasi-legal dealings with Americans. They are often very attractive young people who speak good English and offer to take you here and there, show you museums, etc. Sometimes their persistence is just irritating as they follow you around a museum and want to sell you something. Sometimes, however, their attention is seriously unwanted, and you must be prepared to be extremely rude and tell them in no uncertain terms to get lost. Do not be afraid to shout or yell if the pestering gets to be unpleasant.
DO NOT BECOME PARANOID. Ninety nine percent of Russians who strike up a conversation with you are just what they seem -- nice people who are intrigued to meet an American. Despite all the increasing contacts and exchanges, you are still a notable novelty to most Russians who have hundreds of questions about the US. Be yourself and enjoy the conversation. If new acquaintances invite you somewhere, make it a group with other friends. If you want to invite new Russian acquaintances, invite them into a group outing with your known friends.
You will also see many beggars on the sidewalks and at Metro stations. If you spend time in New York or have traveled in European cities, you will be accustomed to this unfortunate urban scene. At first it will seem cruel and degrading to you, but do not fall into the trap of giving money to anyone. Say a firm "nyet" and keep walking. Gypsy families and children are everywhere on the streets, and the children will tug at your clothing, even spit at you, when you decline to give them money. When you are with Russians, let the Russians handle it (which they ordinarily do swiftly and loudly); if you are alone, do not say anything and keep walking.
Finally, a word to women about living in Russia. Many American women find the traditional chauvinism of Russian men bothersome, at times offensive. You will , no doubt, see evidence of this chauvinism in your host family's daily life in who does the shopping, cleaning, and cooking. You may have discussions in your family and with your friends about chauvinism and feminism, so be prepared to debate the issues. In social situations women may be put off by Russian men's behavior and women must assess the situation on the spot. Is this man merely following usual social patterns or is this behavior truly offensive? Speak your mind and let the man know if you find remarks or behavior insulting. Women will also discover that their host families will put more restrictions on them about going out in the evenings and will insist that a man or men accompany them home in the evenings. Previous students suggest that male company on the walk home at night after a party or theater is a good idea.
