Frost, snow and magic: Russian winter through the eyes of foreigners
Frightening with its freezing frosts, yet captivating with its breathtaking beauty. We spoke to some foreigners, who shared their memories of their first encounter with the Russian winter.
Damien, Switzerland
“My first acquaintance with Russian winter happened in 2021 and I was very impressed!
Why? Because Moscow, especially the city center, transformed into a fairy tale, thanks to Christmas and New Year decorations. I was most charmed by the Christmas market on the Red Square. The ice skating rink, cozy wooden huts, traditional Russian music and the scent of mulled wine hanging in the air! It all created a fairy tale feeling.
“Moreover, December turned out to be snowy, which only intensified the magical atmosphere. Yes, the weather was cold and I wasn't used to such frost, but all it takes is buying a warm jacket and the problem is solved!”
William, Central African Republic
“Russian winter… It was a strong, yet beautiful shock. I learned the first lesson immediately upon arrival: No matter how hard I tried to protect myself from the cold, I was still freezing to the bone! I was freezing despite being bundled up from head to toe and what particularly amazed me was that Russians dressed much lighter, yet felt comfortable.
“Leaving the airport, I was struck by the beauty of the snowy landscapes. The first snowfall offered a mesmerizing sight: countless dancing snowflakes enveloping everything around in a white blanket. Every sound seemed muffled, every corner of the city softened and the world seemed to freeze in a shimmering, snowy dream!”
Juan, Spain
“My first Russian winter began in February 1990. I arrived at the Sheremetyevo-2 airport and immediately felt the first chill while waiting for the bus to the nearest subway station called ‘Rechnoy Vokzal’ (‘River Station’), as that's what students and those who couldn't afford a taxi did back then! I was not a “luxury” tourist…
I vividly remember my first walks across the Red Square when there were only guards and silence and darkness reigned; the ritual of taking off outerwear upon entering the institute and putting it back on when leaving, because it took several minutes; walks through the snowy Izmailovsky Park and the paths trodden by people; puddles from melting snow at the subway station entrance.
Lucas, Brazil
Upon arrival, I was amazed by the snowy expanses: As a Brazilian, I was used to sand dunes, so I felt as if I had landed in another world. This was my first encounter with frost and I had to bundle up in several layers of clothing to protect myself from the cold!
On the other hand, I was welcomed incredibly warmly. I also really like the local food, especially potatoes, meat and soups! Those flavors turned out to be surprisingly familiar.
The order and cleanliness of the city, the beauty of monuments, respect for history (especially for World War II), as well as the richness of Russian culture and literature made a big impression on me. I have already been to Russia three times and even married a Russian woman!
Ali, Syria
In 2024, I left my country for the first time and went to Moscow, a city known for its harsh winters. I was depressed and imagined spending my first trip abroad next to a radiator, with a bunch of medicines and sleeping in several sets of clothes!
As the plane was landing, I looked out the window and saw a frightening amount of snow. I expected that any moment the airplane door would open, icy air would hit my face and my ordeal would begin… But that didn't happen. Municipal services clean the roads of ice, heating works everywhere and sturdy, thick walls prevent the frost from getting into buildings.
The streets were illuminated with beautiful lights and buildings were painted in warm colors, brightening the long Moscow nights. I forgot about the cold and began to derive aesthetic pleasure from the amazing city life, spacious squares and elegant people.
Saurabh, India
I came to Russia at the end of September. It wasn't winter yet, but it was already too cold for me. I couldn't imagine surviving in such a climate.
During my preparatory faculty year, I only went out to the grocery store. Only a year later, I finally started walking around in winter. Six years have already passed and I've gotten used to the Russian winter and love going to the Red Square, which looks magical in winter.
Yunzi, China
Russian winter is brutal frost and deep, crunchy snow that never melts! It's a steaming ‘samovar’ kettle and candies that warm the body and soul. It's borsch and ‘herring under a fur coat’ salad, a bright palette on your plate. The Russian winter is so harsh that it stays in your memory forever!
