I was wondering, what would be a cheap place to live for a small time. there was a thread that 200$ for 2 weeks and to me that seems very expensive.

Are Rubles worth more than USDs'?

I hear that people will hurt, rob, Americans or even kill us. Is this true?
If so is there a way around this? possibly looking Russian? is there a certian style that I should choose so this dont happen?

My school might send me there to study and depending on how well I do, I might be there for 2 years.

"My native friend from St Petersburg says Americans and Russians dont think the same, but dont worry us Russians are great peoplean dyou'll learn that we have a great sense of humor" what does he mean? is there a way of thinking or something to work this out? Is his comment even true?

And is there anything I must absolutely need to know before going? dont worry I have plenty time to plan/study/gather funds.any help with this Is highly appreciated.

balshoi spacibo