Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Day of Reconciliation and Accord (formerly Revolution Day)
7 November
Safe Travel
Although street crime is on the rise, Moscow is a mostly safe city with few dangerous areas.
As in any big city, be on your guard against pickpockets and muggers, especially around
train stations and in crowded metro cars.
Always be cautious about taking taxis late at night, especially near bars and clubs that are in
isolated areas. Never get into a car that already has two or more people in it.
Always carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration stamp. If stopped by a
member of the police force, do not hand over your passport! It is perfectly acceptable to
show a photocopy instead.
Your biggest threat in Moscow is xenophobic or overly friendly drunks.
Taxes & Refunds
The value-added tax (VAT, in Russian NDS) is 18% and is usually included in the price listed
for purchases. Moscow also has a 5% sales tax that is usually only encountered in top ho-
tels.
Telephone
Mobile Phones
Local SIM cards can be used in European and Australian phones; other phones must be set
to roaming.
MOBILE PHONE
Beeline
MOBILE PHONE
Megafon
MOBILE PHONE
MTS
