I think this is a good piece of info. I know the common American stereotype is that all europeans hate us - but this isn't really the case. I found people in Russia to be more curious about my background than prejudiced - and save for the angry women working the kiosks most people were pretty friendly and welcoming towards me.

To be honest I think the thing that helped me get along with people the most was that I knew at least a little bit of Russian. Granted, i'm not fluent by any stretch of the imagination, but I was surprised at how much people respected the fact that I at least knew how to make basic conversation. I think the best advice I have for anybody wanting to know what they can do to prepare for a trip to Russia is to at least learn the basics of the language. Not only will this help you earn the respect of other people - but i think you'll find that if you know the basics your knowledge of the language will explode after only a few weeks.

By the way, do you know in which city you'll be staying? Apologies if you've answered this already.

tdk