Saint Petersburg Safety

Saint Petersburg Safety is of primary concern to all tourists traveling to this historical city in Russia. Safety in St. Petersburg pertains to going around in St. Petersburg, handling cash, rights of foreign nationals, illness, petrol stations, and emergency numbers. Tourists to St. Petersburg are advised to adhere to the safety norms for their own convenience.

Going Around St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is best visited during the White Nights which extend from 23 May to 21st July. The days are long with darkness falling only after midnight during this time. Tourists while going around this city should keep the following tips in mind:

Most of the monuments and tourist attractions are in the city center or on the Neva embankments which are best covered by walking. The Neva is crossed by a number of bridges which open up at certain fixed times during night. This is a marvelous sight enjoyed even by the local residents. Tourists must be careful of remaining on the desired embankment since the bridges remain open for a significant span of time.
Tourists are advised to carry their personal documents (like passport, visa, work permit) while going around, and produce them when demanded by policemen with proper identity.
Visitors should not carry too much cash, but sufficient only for the outing. Change must be kept handy as they might be required in pay toilets or for paying fares.
While going through a desolate locality tourists should preferably hire a taxi rather than walking.
Tourists must desist themselves from buying lottery tickets or playing games for money in the railway and Metro railway stations.

Cash Handling in St. Petersburg

Cash handling is a major aspect for tourists traveling

to St. Petersburg. Tourists must keep the following guidelines in mind while visiting St. Petersburg:

Paying in foreign currency is not acceptable in Russian Federation. Foreign travelers must convert their currency to Roubles, since paying in any other currency is illegal in Russia. Foreign currency is converted by authorized money exchangers, banks, hotels, and large stores. Many exchanges, particularly in important locations, remain open round the clock.
Foreign currency must always be converted at authorized exchanges, and not from any individual.
Major credit and debit cards are accepted by most of the standard hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Travel Insurance in St. Petersburg

Tourists traveling to Russia St. Petersburg should cover themselves with a travel insurance. A travel insurance protects the tourist in events of accidents, hospitalization and medical assistance, loss of baggage, and cancellation of hotel and flight bookings. American Express, Essential Travel, and Good Health Worldwide are some of the leading travel insurance providers for St. Petersburg visitors.