Surviving the Russian Winter: A Guide for Foreign Students at HSE
It may sound strange, but sub-zero temperatures can be a concern for many students especially those coming from foreign countries like me, where the weather is relatively warm throughout the year. Even though it can be cold, hailing and otherwise uncomfortable, the Russian winter will amaze you if you prepare for it adequately.
Here is the list on how to remain warm and enjoy the beautiful snowy world around.
Dress like a local
When it comes to braving the cold, the Russians have mastered the art of dressing warm.
1. Invest in a good winter coat: Think heavy-duty down jackets or parkas. Faux fur-lined hoods are not just stylish but practical.
2. Layer, layer, layer: Thermal underwear, sweaters, and a scarf will be your best friends. Wool or fleece materials work wonders.
3. Don’t neglect your extremities: Waterproof gloves, insulated boots, and wool socks are essential. Frostbite isn’t just a myth.
4. A proper hat (or shapka): Keep your head warm with a fur hat or a beanie that covers your ears. Trust us, your ears will thank you.
Pro Tip: Stock up on warm clothing at stores like Decathlon or Sportmaster, or explore local markets like Izmailovsky in Moscow for unique winter wear. To be honest, I usually buy my things in a local store nearby and most times, it is usually cheap. You can do like me if you are not fixated to any brand.
Keep cozy indoors
Russians know how to create cozy spaces to counteract the cold outside. Here’s how you can, too.
1. Stock up on tea: Russian winters are synonymous with endless cups of black tea, often sweetened with jam.
2. Try hearty winter dishes: Warm yourself with borscht, pelmeni, and syrniki. Visit local cafes or try cooking these dishes yourself.
3. Warm your apartment: Invest in extra blankets and consider a hot water bottle for your bed. If your dorm or apartment has weak heating, a portable heater can be a lifesaver.
Embracing the outdoors for a fully fun winter activities
Russian winters aren’t just about surviving — they’re also about thriving! Step outside and embrace the season with many fun activities.
1. Ice Skating: Head to Gorky Park in Moscow, one of Europe’s largest outdoor skating rinks. In St. Petersburg, the New Holland Island rink offers a picturesque skating experience.
2. Snowball Fights and Snow Sculpting: Gather your friends for a classic snowball fight on the grounds of HSE or nearby parks. In Siberia, the annual snow sculpture festivals in Novosibirsk are a-must-see.
3. Try a Banya (Russian Sauna): Nothing beats the cold like a hot banya session. Visit Sanduny Baths in Moscow, a historic and luxurious experience, or the cheaper public banyas in smaller cities like Kazan, Novgorod or Perm.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding: The slopes of Krasnaya Polyana in Sochi, home of the 2014 Winter Olympics, are perfect for skiing enthusiasts. For those in Siberia, Sheregesh is a snowy paradise.
Do consider the following Specific Locations for Winter Adventures:
1. Moscow: Gorky Park for skating, Izmailovo Market for winter gear, and Sanduny Banya for warmth.
2. Saint-Petersburg: New Holland Island for skating and the city’s snowy canals for picture-perfect strolls.
3. Kazan: Explore winter-themed festivals and cozy banyas.
4. Siberia: Novosibirsk for snow sculptures and Sheregesh for skiing.
5. Sochi: A rare mix of snowy mountains and subtropical resorts.
Finally, Persistent cold or Russian winter involves not only the climate, but it is a welcome of a unique way of life that would include toughness and togetherness. Whether you are sitting with a cup of tea in front of the heater or on the icy floors of a winter wonderland with fairy lights on, do remember to look at the beauty of the winter. So, bundle up, head outside, and make memories that will last a lifetime. After all, as the Russians say, “У природы нет плохой погоды” (“Nature has no bad weather”).
Stay warm, stay cozy, and most importantly, have fun.
Shared by
