29 Things You Should Never Do In Russia

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Never Refuse A Drink

Source: http://darkroom.baltimoresun.com

You might want to consider a different tourist destination if you have anything against drinking alcohol. In Russia, you can dress up just to go to the store or be brutally honest if you’re not okay when someone asks you how you are—but you never say no to a drink. Drinking is a central part of Russian culture, and refusing a drink is considered awfully rude and offensive. Don’t worry if you can’t hold your drink and find yourself slumped at the bar counter after two shots. Russians will look at you with more understanding and sympathy than they would a foreigner who politely says, “No, thank you. I’m sorry, but I don’t drink.” The only excuse Russians will accept for turning down a drink is for health reasons. Although with the number of times they’ve heard “doctor’s orders” as an excuse, they might not believe you. So, just embrace the culture and accept that glass.