I'm an American who kind of grew up really liking Russia, although I have no idea why. In the past year and a half, I've gained two things worth noting for this conversation.
-The option to spend a year in another country.
-Russian/Slavic friends.
Now, again. It's another country, it doesn't have to be Russia. It's whatever the AFS program offers. But the leader in my area seemed pretty okay with me going there.
My Slavic friends? Most are... Well.. Pretty against it, some straight out asking why I would even want to go there. And with the things with the Ukraine, now almost /everyone/ is frightened by the idea.
My best friends mother spoke to me about it, (she works there quite often. Kind of a uppity rich lady though.) She talked to me about how she finds the place depressing. It's dirty, bad to children, and nothing to see except Siberia during certain months. She only says the people are good, although "simper".
She regarded me as strange for considering Russia.
Now, again. I am merely spitting out things I've heard, by no means are these my opinions. Although I do agree with the laws maybe being stricter, I don't have the experience to call it bad.
so.
1- Should I try going to Russia? Why?
2- If not... suggestions on other places?
Thank you! :)
I'd strongly advise against it. I've studied 20th century history extensively and I find the similarities between Hitler and Putin truly frightening. If the worst happens, it will not be at all pleasant for foreigners inside Russia.
Also, there are completely different ideas in Russia about what is acceptable and what is not. For instance, a very close friend of mine was studying at the Rimsky Korsakov Institute in St. Petersburg. He came home in a coffin because drunk driving is not frowned upon there as much as it is here. You will also find that most of the cars there have dashcams. This says something about both the way they drive and their habits concerning insurance fraud.
I'm looking for my Girl friend
Russia is a depressing place, but if you want to study there go on ahead.
Yeah, you should go if you want, because why not. Travelling "broadens your horizons".
http://youtu.be/K3SUPPeuRdU
