Question by Steve G: How are foreigners attempting to live and work in Russia regarded?
I love Russian language and culture. I think they have the best poetry and literature. How are foreigners who attempt to assimilate into Russia regarded by the general populace?
Answers and Views:
Answer by WB
Similar to America. If you look similar, and speak the language, then you should be OK.
Add your own answer in the comments!
katafot says
That will depend were u from, where you plan to live: in big cities like Moscow most foreigners will be ok…in small villages it will be very hard to assimilate and in most cases impossible. Also will depend what kind of people will surround you (I mean level of education which play huge role in Russia).
In general majority Russian people LOVE foreigners from Europe and USA especially if they truly respect Russian culture and customs and will help them fill comfortable and at home ( however exception do exist)
For foreigners from India and Africa it`s been a bit harder to assimilate (probably because they look different… dark skin is still smth unusual for Russia, especially in small towns and villages…
MARC says
first, a teacher earns about $ 400 in a city of 100,000 people. i am american, i speak POORLY in russian. i can ask for anything in the shops with the vocabulary i have and understand prices and change, and more. i can not really easily converse. the russian people i know, many in our city, will stop if not busy and talk with me as they do any acquaintance, up to 20 minutes and not even notice time. a few friends speak english and we can talk in english. i don't work during the half year we stay with my wife's family, but probably could. still wages are low unless you are specialised- like oil field. or a lawyer. or a businessman. many people likely don't realise i am not russian until i open my mouth. many times a car will stop and ask me for an address. sometimes with success as well as not.