Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Legal Matters
It's not unusual to see police officers
(politsiya)
randomly stopping people on the street to
check their documents. Often, the
politsiya
targets individuals who look like they come from
the Caucasus, and other people with darkish skin. But officers have the right to stop anyone,
and they do exercise it.
Technically, everyone is required to carry a passport
(dokumenty)
at all times. Such reports
have declined, but in the past travellers have complained about police pocketing their pass-
ports and demanding bribes. The best way to avoid such unpleasantness is to carry a photo-
copy of your passport, visa and registration, and present them when an officer demands to
see your
dokumenty
. A photocopy is sufficient, despite what the officer may argue.
Medical Services
Hospitals
Both the American Medical Centre and the European Medical Centre accept health insur-
ance from major international providers.
HOSPITAL
American Medical Centre
Mira)
Offers 24-hour emergency service, consultations and a full range of medical specialists, in-
cluding paediatricians and dentists. There is also an on-site pharmacy with English-speaking
staff.
HOSPITAL
Botkin Hospital
Begovaya)
The best Russian facility. From Begovaya metro station, walk 1km northeast on
Khoroshevskoe sh and Begovoy pr. Turn left on Begovaya ul and continue to 2-y Botkinsky
proezd.
MEDICAL SERVICES
European Medical Centre
Mayakovskaya)
Includes medical and dental facilities, which are open around the clock for emergencies.
The staff speak 10 languages.
