Moscow Russia Facts V

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Eating out in a fancy restaurant is great, but you may still want a snack nearby in case you get hungry. You know that feeling when you're just dying to eat something, but it's not big enough to dress up and go out?

Take me for example - I'm a chocolate addict, and in every trip I have to have that tasty bar somewhere near my bed. Whenever we get to the hotel, first thing we do is go out and buy me some sweets - I go crazy otherwise! My wife tried to fight it and she lost miserably. I just won't let go of some things!

Snacks may not be all you need. If you rented an apartment - you obviously have to cook. Restaurants are still an option, but nothing beats home food!

In any case you need to go out and make some shopping. Try to get further than your hotel's lobby - there are plenty of shops there, I know, but they are expensive and don't offer that much choice. Plus, it's not fun!

Come on, be brave, get out of bed! I can't help you study Moscow Russia facts if you sit at home! Just don't forget to put on something - it may be chilly outside ;)

Eliseevsky store on Tverskaya, Moscow

"Eliseevsky" store on Tverskaya.
(by SergeyRod)

There are several major retail chains in Moscow. "Sed'moi Kontinent" is the most expensive one. I don't think there's a reason to shop there unless you need something special, like rare liquor or Belgian sweets. The prices are through the roof while the quality is pretty much the same as everywhere.

Several middle-priced stores strike a good balance of choice and price. "Perekrestok" and "Ramstor" are the well known ones, that's where we usually shop. I can honestly recommend them!

We also have couple of low-costers such as "Dixi" and "Pyaterochka". You'll see lots of Russian babushkas there because the prices are seriously lower. The choice is poor however, that's why those stores are only good for buying the most basic things.

If you aren't a fan of mega retailers, you'll find plenty of small kiosks, sidewalk shops and "Ma and Pa" stores around! Despite their size, they sell almost everything, and it has always been a mystery for me - where on Earth do they keep all that stuff??

Moscow sidewalk shops

The remnants of "Perestroika"
(by MelvinSchlubman)

Can I give you small advice, just in case? Pleeeaase? I really love doing that!

1) Look at the prices.

They differ from store to store, so don't overpay. That's especially true when you're shopping in a new place. Also, check the bills - there may be mistakes!

2) Check the "best before".

You can stumble upon expired goods almost anywhere. I bought them a couple of times myself, and it really pissed me off. I can't do anything about it - that's one of Moscow Russia facts! Pay attention to the expiry date, don't repeat my mistakes. Plus, always keep the receipt!

3) Mind the season.

I don't advise to buy fruits and vegetables when it's not the season. They're fertilized, de-vitaminised and really expensive! The only fruits you can eat all year round are oranges and bananas.

Moscow open fruit market

Pure vitamins...
(by ninette_luz)

If you can't live without veggies - buy pickled cabbage! Tasty and healthy - all the vitamins are still there. Marinated cucumbers are also a good choice, AND they make a great addition to any dish you can imagine!

When the summer comes, better go to the open market - the fruits there are cheaper and better than in any retail store! In addition, open markets are inseparable part of Moscow sights, so you'll be hitting two birds with one stone.

Now is it great or what?



P.S. If you need more tips on shopping in general - visit my Moscow shopping page. It'll help you fill in the missing parts of Moscow Russia facts!

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