Being one of the biggest cities and top tourist destinations in the world, Moscow has a reputation to keep. Recent polls say that the city has become much more comfortable, and residents and guests of the capital feel this. Moscow is approaching world standards, and somewhere even ahead of them. CCTVs are spread all over the city and the authorities are quick to respond. However, it is always important for each person to know how to be safe on their own too – especially if they come to enjoy Moscow’s nightlife but are foreign to the city. Here are 6 safety tips you can highlight for when you visit Moscow to have fun.
1. Do your research
It is important to know where you want to go at night, especially for clubbing, since there are hundreds of nightclubs in the city. It is not difficult at all to get recommendations and reviews of them. If it is your first time visiting Moscow, solo travelling, or not having any local guides – it would be better not to go to the wild side of the city. Find clubs with moderate ambience, surrounded by other public establishment, and quite near to where you stay.
2. Go with a local
It is definitely an advantage if you have a friend living in Moscow. Locals definitely can give you the best recommendation not to mention be great companionships. Going to underground clubs or places with private events would only be wise if you are accompanied by a local. They know the language, the customs, the habits of the people, and will definitely keep you out of troubles.
3. Drink wisely
Russia is known as the land of alcoholic drinks – vodka especially. There are so many cocktail bars around the city you can go to. Some of the cocktail recipes may be new to you, and if this is the case then you should first look into how much alcohol is in it. Most of the trained bartenders in famous cocktail bars know how to speak English – in case you don’t speak Russian. Ask them to explain to you what is in the mixture of the curious drink you are about to order. Getting too drunk in a foreign city is never a wise move.
4. Dress moderately
This tip is especially for ladies. It is true that Moscow is getting more and more comfortable and friendly for guests and visitors, but – as the saying goes – crime could happen when the chance is given. If you are a female solo traveler in Moscow wanting to enjoy its nightlife, it will be better to dress within the limit. Yes, Moscow is a capital of fashion where sights of women walking on the streets wearing stilettos and short skirts are nothing unusual. But, things may get a bit aggressive at night when music and alcohol are mixed in the scene. So, dress comfortably and respect yourself as well as the people around you while clubbing.
5. Stay in the open space
It is really easy to find nooks and private VIP establishment in Moscow at night, but if you are not a Muscovite nor familiar with the surroundings, it is always better to stay in public places where you can see people as well as the other way around. Good nightclubs will minimize the body contact or the crowds from getting too wild. Staying out in the open will help you to feel safe and keep you from getting snatched without anyone seeing.
6. Know the public transportations
Moscow has convenient selections of public transportations, from metro to taxi. You might want to go to the clubs quite far from your hotel, and if this is the case then you should know how to get there and return safely. This is another research you should do; find the safest mean of transportation you can use at night. Some metro lines don’t operate at night, as well as buses, which limit the option to taxis. Make sure you choose the one with good reputation in town. If privacy is not something you fuss about, then it will be good to let your hotel’s concierge know where you go.