Banking Hours
Banks in Russia are generally open from 9 a.m. to 17 p.m., Monday
to Friday. All the banks have a standard hour for lunch, which
is usually from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. or from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Most
banks are closed on Saturday and Sunday, as these days are common
days-off in Russia. In most banks in larger cities, like St. Petersburg
and Moscow, one can gain access to ATMs, cash traveler's checks
and send or receive money. Many Russian banks house Western Union
and MoneyGram offices. These popular companies allow you to send
or get money very fast.
Credit Cards and Traveler's Checks
Credit cards and traveler's checks are widely accepted only in
large cities. However one must remember that Russia is a country,
which operates mainly on a cash-only basis. So it-s recommended
that you always have some cash in case your card won't be accepted.
Moscow, St. Petersburg and other big cities have wide networks
of ATMs. To obtain money through automated teller machines won't
be a problem. However note that the most popular credit cards
in Russia are Visa, MasterCard and EuroCard. We recommend that
you withdraw money from the Savings Bank's ATMs as a commission
rate is lower than in commercial banks.
Currency
The ruble is the only legal tender in Russian Federation. There
are one hundred kopecks for one ruble. This is illegal to pay
for goods and services in establishments. But dollars, euros and
other hard currencies can be easily exchanged at currency exchange
offices. Large cities have wide networks of such offices, and
it won-t be a problem to exchange money. Russia, like
Gratuities
Tipping is usually required in restaurants and can be 5-10% of
your bill. Do not tip in fast food eateries and cafes. You don-t
need to tip hairdressers either (as they do in France or Britain).
As a rule, it is not required to tip taxi drivers and tour guides,
but you can always tip for a good service whatever it can be if
you really like the person and that job he or she does for you.
