General Information

• Electric current is 220 V, flat "euro plugs" usually fit.
• It is recommended to drink only bottled water, as tap water is usually not potable. Bottled water is sold almost everywhere in Russia.
• Service money in cafes, restaurants and taxis commonly 5-10%. Chambermaids, cleaners and tour bus driver should be tipped too.
• Remember to check the price of taxi forehand, otherwise you may have to pay a lot of extra
• Currency is Russian ruble. 1 € is about 42 rubles (31.12.2009). Ruble exchange rate to Euro follows US dollar rate changes.
• Moscow time is 1 hour ahead of Finnish time. St. Petersburg, Vyborg and other nearby areas use Moscow time.
• You should avoid taking pictures in customs area. Also, some museums charge a fee if you take pictures.
• Most of the supermarkets are open daily 10.00 - 20.00, but some of them are open 24 hours a day.
• GSM-phones work in Russia, but calling and receiving calls is very expensive. (Approx. 2-3 € / starting min).