Moscow Unfiltered: A Local’s Guide to the Real City

Additional Practical Tips:

Check Scooter Condition: Before riding, check the scooter for any damage, tire pressure, and brake functionality. Battery Level: Monitor battery levels in the app, and plan your trips accordingly. Be Aware of Pedestrians: Yield to pedestrians, especially in shared pedestrian and cycling zones. Ride Defensively: Be aware of vehicles, potholes, and other road hazards. Report Issues: Use the app to report damaged scooters or safety problems.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Geofencing: Pay attention to the app notifications. Geofencing might be used to slow you down in a pedestrian zone, or stop the vehicle if you enter a forbidden area. App Stability: Like all technology, the app could have periods of instability. Make sure it’s working before you start your trip.

IV. Pre-Trip Checklist

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, make sure you have covered all these key points: Visa: Check your visa requirements, and begin the process well in advance. Passport: Make sure that your passport is valid and up to date.

Flights: Confirm all your flight details, and check for any changes or updates. Accommodation: Check your booking, and keep a record of all your booking details. Travel Insurance: Check that your travel insurance is fully up to date, and covers all the activities you plan. Medications: Make sure you have all the prescription and non prescription medications that you require for the whole trip. Currency: Ensure you have access to local currency, and consider ordering some before your arrival. Travel Apps: Download all of the required travel apps, such as the Moscow Metro, Yandex Go, Citymapper, etc.

Copies of Documents: Keep copies of your important documents, including passport, visa, booking details, etc. Packing: Pack clothing that is appropriate for the season. Pack comfortable footwear, and all the other items you will need for a comfortable trip.

5. Safety in Moscow: A Realistic Guide for 2025

Moscow, while generally safe for tourists, requires a nuanced approach to personal security. This guide provides specific, updated advice to help you navigate the city safely in 2025.

General Safety & Awareness:

Urban Landscape: Moscow is a large, dynamic city. The level of safety can vary significantly based on location and time of day. Maintaining a heightened awareness of your surroundings is essential. Confident Demeanor: Displaying confidence and purpose while walking makes you less of a target for petty crime. Walk with your head up, looking around, and avoid appearing distracted by your phone. Secure Your Valuables: Always keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables in secure, zippered pockets, or inside a closed bag worn close to your body. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Be especially cautious in crowded areas, on public transportation, and at popular tourist sites, which are prime locations for pickpockets. Avoid Unlit and Secluded Areas: This is particularly crucial after dark. Steer clear of quiet alleys, poorly lit backstreets, and isolated areas. This includes some of the smaller streets in the center when they are not full of people. Be Cautious of Strangers: Be wary of overly friendly or persistent strangers offering help or initiating unsolicited conversations. These interactions can sometimes be a prelude to scams or theft. Politely decline any offers that make you uncomfortable. Scams and Tourist Traps: Be aware of common tourist scams, such as people offering “deals” on souvenirs or services near popular attractions. These are often overpriced or fraudulent. Emergency Contacts: Pre-program all relevant emergency numbers into your phone: 112 (general emergencies), 102 (police), 103 (ambulance). Also, have your hotel’s address and phone number readily available. Keep a list of your embassy or consulate’s contact details.

Tourist Police: Your Dedicated Assistance: Moscow has a dedicated Tourist Police unit specifically trained to assist visitors. These officers are stationed in popular tourist areas and are easily identifiable. Multilingual Support: Tourist Police officers generally speak English and can assist with various issues, including: Directions and Navigation