Local Customs & Etiquette in Novokuznetsk, Kemerovskaya Oblast’, Russia

1. Respecting Miners' Schedule

Novokuznetsk is a major mining city. Avoid noisy activities during the late afternoon and evening when miners are resting.

Quiet Hours: Respecting quiet hours from 4 PM to midnight
Work Culture: Understanding the hardworking and disciplined mining culture
City Rhythm: Adapting to the city's rhythm that revolves around mining activities

Restaurants often do not provide cutlery with traditional Russian dishes like pelmeni. Use napkins for eating.

No Cutlery: Being prepared to eat some meals without cutlery
Napkin Use: Understanding the common practice of using napkins for eating
Meal Sharing: Accepting and offering food during a meal is a sign of friendship

Banyas (Russian bathhouses) are popular in Novokuznetsk. Be prepared for high temperatures and a unique social experience.

High Temperatures: Preparing for the extreme heat, often over 100°C
Nudity: Understanding that banyas are typically used in the nude
Social Interaction: Embracing the opportunity to interact with locals and build relationships

Tipping is not customary in most establishments. Rounding up the bill or leaving small change can be appreciated.

No Expected Tip: Understanding that tipping is not expected
Small Change: Leaving small change, if rounding up the bill seems excessive
Exceptional Service: Tipping for exceptional service in rare cases where a service charge is not added

Public transport can get crowded. Give up your seat to elderly or pregnant passengers.

Crowded Transport: Being prepared for crowded public transportation
Seat Sharing: Sharing seats with others, especially elderly or pregnant passengers
Respectful Behavior: Maintaining respectful behavior and giving personal space when possible

Gifts are appreciated but not expected. Alcohol, chocolates, or small souvenirs from your home country are popular choices.

No Obligation: Understanding that gifts are a gesture of friendship, not an obligation
Appropriate Gifts: Choosing appropriate and culturally sensitive gifts
Avoiding Fragrance: Avoiding gifts with strong fragrances due to personal sensitivities

Some religious sites require modest clothing. Always carry a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders and head.

Modest Dress: Dressing modestly when visiting religious sites
Shawl or Scarf: Having a shawl or scarf to cover up if needed
Respectful Behavior: Behaving respectfully and following any additional rules at religious sites

A firm handshake is common. Addressing people by their first name followed by their patronymic (first name of father) is polite.

Handshake Firmness: Shaking hands firmly but not excessively
Proper Addressing: Learning the proper way to address people in Russian culture
Eye Contact: Making eye contact during introductions and conversations

Punctuality is crucial in business meetings. Dress code is formal and conservative.

Punctuality: Arriving on time for scheduled appointments
Formal Attire: Wearing formal and conservative clothing for business meetings
Patience: Being patient during long, detailed discussions in business settings

Haggling is common but not always expected in markets. Bargaining politely can lead to better prices.

Expected or Not: Understanding if haggling is expected or not for certain items
Polite Bargaining: Bargaining politely and respectfully with vendors
Knowing Fair Prices: Researching fair prices for items before bargaining to avoid overpaying

Alcohol is a significant part of Russian culture. It's common to be offered drinks, especially vodka, during social gatherings.

Alcohol Customs: Understanding the role and customs surrounding alcohol in Russian culture
Toasting: Participating in toasts, often involving a toastmaster leading the ceremony
Moderation: Practicing moderation when offered multiple drinks during social gatherings

Russian is the primary language. Learning basic phrases or using a translation app can help navigate conversations.

Novokuznetsk still carries elements of its post-Soviet past. Be prepared for some infrastructure challenges.

Infrastructure Challenges: Anticipating potential issues with roads, public transportation, and facilities
Historical Context: Understanding the historical context of Novokuznetsk as a post-Soviet city
Adaptability: Being adaptable and resourceful in dealing with any infrastructure issues encountered

Novokuznetsk experiences harsh winters. Pack warm clothing, boots, and other winter essentials.

Warm Clothing: Bringing warm clothing suitable for extremely cold temperatures
Boots: Wearing sturdy, waterproof boots to handle snow and ice
Additional Items: Bringing additional items such as gloves, hats, and scarves for extra warmth

Respect public spaces by disposing of waste properly and not littering.

Proper Waste Disposal: Disposing of waste in designated receptacles
No Littering: Not littering and keeping public spaces clean
Environmental Responsibility: Practicing environmental responsibility in public spaces