Moscow, Russia Report of what it's like to live there - 10/31/17
Personal Experiences from Moscow, Russia
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
No, is is our third post.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Canada. No direct flights from Moscow. The length of travel depends on where you live in Canada.
3. How long have you lived here?
This is our third year.
4. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Government.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
We live outside the city in a gated community beside the Anglo American school called Pokrovsky Hills. Great for families. They are very sizable duplexes with a common area and small playground. Transportation is offered by the management of community to the subway system. The subway is very safe and reliable.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
We brought our favorites. However you can find many European brands. Many grocery stores to chose from. They have Metro which is very comparable to Costco at home. The cost of groceries can be high for certain products.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Chocolate chips, pizza sauce, Kraft peanut butter.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
All is available and as well some very good Georgian/Uzbek restaurants. Delivery of groceries is widely available.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
Embassy mail.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
It is widely available. Mostly Filipinos and some Russian help. Cost is approximately $10USD per hour.
3. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
We use the gym at the school that is included in our housing fee. There are local gyms as well: the cost varies.
4. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
We use our credit card all the time with no problems as of yet. We also use local ATMs but the fees are high with limits on how much you can take out. Citibank is here and one is available at AAS school.
5. What English-language religious services are available locally?
There are three Catholic (English) masses available. There is also a French church in Moscow. There is also a non-denominational church and services for the Mormon community.
6. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
One should try to learn the Russian alphabet before coming. English is not widely used. There are language classes available.
7. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Yes perhaps, but getting better with construction for FIFA World cup
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Yes, very affordable.
2. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
Any vehicle. Snow removal in Moscow is very, very good.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
We use a local provider but through our embassy.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
Yes. We have a dog. Our vet makes home visits. Very cheap. Our dog had a lump removed and cost less than 200CDN. Follow up care is good as well. I have been told that they will assist in importing and exporting of pets. Ticks are prevalent here but so are the drops. There are many choices available for dog food but it can be very expensive.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
None. However, the Anglo-American school offers teaching positions (as available) and substitute positions.
2. What volunteer opportunities are available locally?
American Women's association, International Women's. There are many. One can be as involved as they like at the school.
3. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Formal dress would be necessary if one attends many events. Formal wear is widely offered in the shops. Dress code would be business attire.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Sure. Just exercise caution as you would at home.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
Allergies in spring.
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
4. What do people who suffer from environmental or food allergies need to know?
Lack of sun. Vitamin D drops are available.
5. Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
Yes, the lack of sun can be depressing in fall/winter months.
6. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Summers are nice. Winters are not as cold as in Ottawa.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
The Anglo-American school is exceptional, offering many extra-curricular activities for both the young and old. It is equipped with three pools, a fantastic music and drama department, two gyms, three theaters and three playing fields as well as a tennis court. The two cafeterias offer a wide range of choices. The teachers are very hands-on and engaging. IB curriculum in the elementary and high school. School uniforms for the elementary and middle school.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
There is a Montessori inside Pokrovsky Hills. The school offers a wide range of after school activities.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
2. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Many clubs to choose from within the expatriate community.
3. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
Yes on all accounts.
4. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Probably not.
5. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
None that I am aware of.
6. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Travel. Aeroflot is cheap. Learning the history, museum trips.
7. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
Banyas, travelling locally to smaller towns, such as the Golden Ring.
8. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Yes you can purchase all sorts of local handiwork. On weekends and Wednesdays one can shop at Ismalova for these types of things...but don't forget to go hungry so you can enjoy the sheeslak(sp?) and a shot of Russian vodka.
9. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Travel.
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
To learn more of Russian language. The Russians appreciate it and are more accommodating if they see you trying.
2. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Yes.
3. But don't forget your:
Winter clothing.
