Although Russia is developing at a rapid pace and one of the world’s greatest superpowers, there are still some elements to modern life that are steeped in tradition. Russia is a hugely multicultural country, and from the far east near Japan and Korea to the areas bordering Scandinavia, there are many traditions and superstitions that are still in existence today. Unless your Russian is very good or you have a grasp of the plethora of local languages, you will probably be unaware of what they are but your tour operator may be able to provide you with some inside information if you are interested.
The best way to experience Russia and its many cultures, traditions and superstitions is by taking a trip on the Trans Siberian railway. This world famous, if not the most famous, railroad in the world takes you through a number of time zones and an even bigger array of cultures and ethnicities.
As a Russia destination expert, your Trans Siberian Railway tour operator will provide you with all the information appertaining to the various points and places of interest on your journey. Along the way during your journey, you may be able to pick up tales touching on superstitions and even bits of information on the country’s tradition.
Relatively Well Know Superstitions
In a country as vast as Russia, it can be difficult to separate superstition and tradition. Local customs that have been practiced for hundreds of years could be viewed by many as superstition but for the local people, these superstitions are so old, they are generally regarded as traditions. See below a few of the superstitions/traditions still in existence in 21st century Russia.
• Mothers do not show their new-born baby to anyone except close relatives for 48 hours after the baby is born
• On the day of an exam it is thought unlucky to make up your bed, wear any new clothes or cut your nails
• Birthdays should be celebrated on the actual day or after the day, never before
• Returning to the house to pick up something that is forgotten is considered bad luck. If it is essential to return home and pick up the forgotten item, one should look in the mirror before leaving the house again
• It is considered bad luck to give a person sharp objects such as knives or scissors as a gift. The bad luck can be avoided if the recipient offers a symbolic payment of one Russian ruble or similar
• Presents for a new-born baby are always bought after the birth, not before
• Unmarried people (particularly girls) should not sit at the corner of a table otherwise they will remain single
• Whistling inside a house is said to bring bad luck to a household
• People should not shake hands or pass something through a threshold
There are literally thousands more superstitions/traditions like the ones listed above. If you’d like to find out more about the Russian people and immerse yourself in their unique culture(s), booking a trip on the Trans Siberian Railway is a good place to start. There are many knowledgeable tour operators out there who can help you look further into mother Russia and her great traditions.