Local Customs & Etiquette in Novosibirsk, Russia

All Topics about Novosibirsk All Cities in Russia

1. Novosibirsk Metro Etiquette

Always give up your seat to the elderly or pregnant women in the metro. Avoid eating or drinking inside the metro cars.

Respect for Elders: Demonstrates a strong cultural value of respecting and caring for the elderly
Cleanliness: Shows adherence to personal hygiene norms in public spaces
Social Courtesy: Highlights the importance of being courteous and considerate towards fellow passengers

Keep public spaces clean. Do not litter and always dispose of waste properly.

Environmental Consciousness: Promotes the importance of keeping public spaces clean and tidy for everyone's enjoyment
Community Responsibility: Encourages a sense of collective responsibility towards maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces
Cultural Preservation: Helps preserve the beauty and integrity of Novosibirsk's public spaces for future generations to enjoy

In restaurants, wait to be seated before sitting down. Avoid using your fingers to eat foods such as bread and sausage.

Respect for Traditions: Shows respect for the local customs associated with dining in Russia
Hygiene and Cleanliness: Prevents the spread of germs and maintains cleanliness during meal times
Cultural Awareness: Demonstrates an understanding and appreciation for the cultural norms related to dining in Novosibirsk

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are common when meeting someone for the first time. Close friends may greet each other with three kisses.

Professionalism: Helps establish a sense of trust and professionalism during business meetings or introductions
Friendliness: Shows warmth and friendliness in social interactions
Cultural Understanding: Promotes an understanding of local customs and norms when greeting others

When giving gifts, avoid wrapping them as it is considered unnecessary. Bringing a small gift for your host during social gatherings is appreciated.

Appreciation: Expresses gratitude and appreciation for the hospitality received
Simplicity: Emphasizes simplicity in gift-giving, focusing on thoughtfulness rather than extravagance
Cultural Sensitivity: Shows sensitivity to local customs and avoids potential misunderstandings or offense

Speak calmly and clearly when addressing a group. Avoid raising your voice or showing strong emotions.

Respect: Shows respect for the audience and fosters a peaceful and focused environment
Composure: Demonstrates self-control and poise during public speaking engagements
Effective Communication: Enhances the clarity and impact of your message when speaking in public

Patience is highly valued in Novosibirsk. Expect to wait in lines and follow the order of those already queued.

Patience: Promotes a calm and patient attitude when waiting in lines
Orderliness: Encourages an organized approach to queuing and waiting
Cultural Awareness: Demonstrates understanding and adherence to local customs related to queueing

Offer your seat to the elderly or those with disabilities on public transportation.

Respect for Elders: Demonstrates a strong cultural value of respecting and caring for the elderly
Empathy: Shows empathy towards those in need, especially the elderly or disabled
Social Responsibility: Encourages a sense of collective responsibility and consideration for others

Offer your guest tea or coffee as a sign of friendship. Be prepared to spend several hours socializing when visiting someone's home.

Friendliness: Shows warmth and friendliness in social interactions
Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of local customs related to hospitality and socializing
Gratitude: Expresses gratitude for the hospitality received by the host

Business attire is expected in offices. Modest dress, such as long skirts or trousers for women and covered shoulders, is recommended in churches.

Professionalism: Promotes a professional image and respect for the workplace
Religious Sensitivity: Shows sensitivity to religious beliefs and cultural norms related to dress in churches
Cultural Awareness: Demonstrates an understanding of local customs and norms related to appropriate attire

Use headphones when listening to music or watching videos on your phone in libraries.

Respect for Quiet Environment: Promotes a quiet and peaceful environment conducive to studying and research
Consideration: Shows consideration towards fellow library patrons by minimizing disturbances
Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates sensitivity to local customs and norms related to library etiquette

Give small gifts during New Year's Eve. Avoid giving red or black items as they are associated with mourning in Russia.

Holiday Tradition: Continues a longstanding tradition of gift-giving during the New Year celebration
Color Symbolism: Avoids using colors associated with mourning, showing respect for cultural customs
Gratitude and Friendship: Expresses gratitude and strengthens friendships during the holiday season

Avoid eating or drinking during public events. Clap politely after speeches or performances.

Respect: Shows respect for the event, its organizers, and participants
Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates understanding of local customs and norms related to public events
Politeness: Shows politeness and consideration for others during public events

Accept a business card with both hands. Study the card carefully before putting it away.

Respect: Shows respect for the other person and their profession
Attentiveness: Shows attentiveness to details, demonstrating a keen eye for important information
Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates sensitivity to local customs and norms related to business card exchange

In bars and nightclubs, it is customary to buy drinks for the people you are with. Be prepared to spend money on alcoholic beverages.

Sociability: Promotes a friendly and sociable atmosphere in bars and nightclubs
Generosity: Demonstrates generosity by buying drinks for those you are with
Cultural Awareness: Shows understanding of local customs and norms related to nightlife in Novosibirsk