10 Things To Never Do In Russia

Russians are a unique kind of people. I mean, sure, no one is truly the same and, given the size of the Earth, that makes sense. What doesn't make sense is how just crossing a border can cause things to change so drastically. Up until 2013, Russians used to consider any kind of alcoholic beverage below 10% to be a soft drink. That means anyone could drink beer anywhere they wanted. That's one of the huge reasons that people say Russians refer to alcohol as water, but another huge one is the fact that vodka comes from the Russian word "voda," literally meaning water. Yes, they named a strong liquor after water. But, since Russians are still people, they have things they like and dislike, right?

As a result, they have rules. Do you really want to anger people who drive tanks around for fun? Here are 10 things to never do in Russia.

1. Russians aren't keen about jokes involving family members. While this is kind of universal, we tend to casually use insults towards family members.

2. If you asked someone out to dinner, you better be paying. Russians frown upon splitting the bill.

3. Don't disrespect the elderly... Ever. That also means you need to give your seat up to the elderly, as well as pregnant women.

4. Don't give a wallet or purse as a gift unless you plan on adding a little somethin' somethin'. Russians see it as wishing financial hardships upon the receiver.

5. Don't take the last of anything. Apparently my brother has some Russian in him because he always leaves one cracker/chip inside of every box/bag.

6. Shaking hands? Not with gloves, you're not! 

7. Don't shake hands in doorways, either. Arguments are expected to be the result of a handshake that takes place in the doorway.

8. Chivalry definitely is NOT dead in Russia. If you're with a woman, you're expected to carry her bags and pay for her.

9. Finally, smile only if you have a reason. Unnecessary smiling is no bueno in Russia.

10. Unless you're planning on drinking more, don't leave your glass empty. Russians have a tendency to fill up empty cups, so you're better off leaving a glass half full.

Yeah, there are quite a few rules that don't match up to us over here. Maybe that's why we don't get along?

[h/t Destination Tips]