Money Advice For Travelers To Russia
It costs 270 roubles, or about $10, to visit Spasa Na Krovi
(Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood) in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Read on for the best ways to have enough cash on hand.
Photo: Emma Lee, Getty Images/Conde Nast Traveler
Question from reader Holly Bassett:
"I will be traveling to Moscow, Novgorod, and St. Petersburg in the middle of July. I have been hearing some horror stories about credit card and ATM fraud from Ukrainians who frequently travel to Ukraine and only carry cash. Is it safe to use ATMs and/or credit cards in those cities? Are the reports exaggerated? For currency, should I bring U.S. dollars or Euros? Should I bring some travelers checks as well? I'm concerned about carrying a large amount of cash, even if put into a hidden waist pouch. Please let me know what you would advise."
I knew Greg Tepper would have a good answer for this one. He's the president of tour operator Exeter International and Wendy's and my chosen expert on Conde Nast Traveler's annual list of top travel specialists when it comes to Russia and Eastern Europe. (He also helped plan Wendy's Iconic Itinerary of Russia). Here's what Greg told me:
"ATMs are now plentiful and easy to use in Russia, particularly in the larger cities like St. Petersburg and Moscow. We have never had a client encounter any fraud using ATMs in Russia and I myself use them every time I am in Russia -- which is several times a year. I would have to say these reports of fraud are exaggerated.
"I recommend using the ATM in your hotel lobby -- it is certainly the safest place to obtain cash. You don't want to bring too much cash into Russia; try to keep it under $1,000 to avoid loss or any discussions at customs when you leave. Russians are just as happy taking roubles, euros, or dollars, but avoid travelers checks as the fees on cashing them in Russia are very steep."
So, the moral of the story, Holly: I'm sure your friends mean well, but you're better off using ATMs in Russia than carrying large amounts of money over there.
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