JJC in Moscow: A Hard-Earned Word on How to Survive This City

September 28, 2025
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I arrived in Moscow roughly a year and a half ago. Let me tell you, those first few months were a string of embarrassing and confusing occurrences.

I was the very definition of JJC (‘Johnny Just Come’). One look at me back then, and you probably could have guessed I was new in town. I didn’t know anyone, so I had to figure out a lot of things on my own. It wasn’t easy, but with time, I started to get the hang of it.

I just want to say, no city in Russia is like Moscow. Moscow is a beast, but you can tame it. I’ll be sharing some common pitfalls, street-smart tips, and general advice on how to navigate and truly survive in this concrete jungle. Shoutout to those in other Russian cities. You’ll definitely find these tips useful when you come visit!

1. The Metro Is Your Friend… But You Need to Learn Its Language

You know how people say “the police is your friend” back home, but in reality, it’s the opposite? That’s how I felt about the Metro the first time I used it. I was so convinced whoever designed and controlled those lines was a wizard. Because, seriously, how?!

The lines, the crosses, the colours, the twists, and the turns can be confusing at first, but trust me, with time it becomes your most reliable friend. The secret is just preparation.

Your essential kit: Always get a Troika card and download a map app that works for you. Check your destination and the route before you leave your house. The older trains are noisy, but all trains are fast.
The GPS wahala: Please, cross-check your map against the actual address! I was once directed by my map to a place that was an hour away from my actual destination. With the recent network issues and the reliance on VPNs, GPS can be faulty. Don’t trust the blue dot blindly; confirm the building number and street name in the correct area.
The VPN reality: Recently, a lot of apps and essential sites have become blocked. To gain access, you need a VPN. Look, I know the free ones are tempting, but this is your lifeline to the outside world, and sometimes to your money. Paying for a quality VPN service is becoming a necessity, not a luxury. Don’t sleep on this. Ask your friends/CL.

2. Transport. Don’t Even Try to Be Smart

The Moscow transport system is massive, organized, but it is constantly watching. Don’t let the thought of saving a few rubles lead you into a problem with the law.

The bus surprise: I used to think the bus was the one means of transport where you could get away with skipping the payment. I was wrong. One day, a woman carrying a small electronic device randomly entered the bus and started checking if people had paid. I was internally yelling, “Thank God I paid!” I’ve heard too many stories from people who tried to skip payment, and it was never funny. They were fined, detained, and generally had a terrible experience.
Listen to the bus: On some newer bus routes, after tapping your card upon entry, you also have to tap your card again when you exit to complete the journey and finalize the fare. The payment terminal will alert you, so you must be attentive. Don’t exit without tapping out, or you might be charged the maximum fare.

3. Your Documents and Your Money. You Must Survive

Moscow might shake you a little, but two things will keep you steady: being legally prepared and financially ready.

Your passport should always be on you: You can be stopped by the police or immigration officers at any point, on the metro, in the mall, or on the street, and asked to present your documents. Always have your registration and other important documents on you too. Have physical copies and keep photos on your phone as backups. Failure to present valid documents will attract “stories that touch” (serious consequences) that you absolutely want to avoid.
Always have extra cash (The Shine Your Eye Rule): Yes o! You never know what emergency you might have to attend to. One time, I miscalculated my timing and would have been late for a crucial appointment. I had to take an express train, which is much more expensive than the regular one, and then a taxi. Had I not had the extra cash, that appointment would have been ruined. This city requires you to be sharp and attentive. Be ready for the unexpected.

Living in Moscow has taught me to toughen up and become resilient. The city demands your focus, and it will humble you quickly if you are not prepared.

It is tough, but you’ll be fine. Welcome to the hustle!

What is the one thing you’ve learned since moving to Russia that you wish you knew on your first day? Share your story!

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