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MIT-Russia and Eurasia Resources

Here you will find a curated list of valuable materials on language, culture and all-things Russian. In addition, we include helpful resources and important tips for planning the logistics of your trip.

Language and Culture Resources

in russia

Video - В России (In Russia)

Three film makers from Germany go on a total of 4 trips, each spanning over roughly 10 days, that bring them to 6 distinct locations in 3 different seasons: Moscow in spring, Kamchatka in fall, St. Petersburg, Murmansk, Salekhard and Lake Baikal in Winter.

brown man in russia

Book - "A Brown Man in Russia: Lessons Learned on the Trans-Siberian"

A book about a young American's journey through Russia to Mongolia in the depths of the winter. Read this Moscow Time's interview the author, Vijay Menon.

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St. Petersburg Travel Guide

The sheer grandeur and history of Russia's imperial capital never fail to amaze, but this is also a city with a revolutionary spirit. 

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Moscow Travel Guide

During any season, at any hour of the day, Moscow thrills visitors with its artistry, history and majesty. 

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Online Resources for Russian Language

Please refer to the list of Russian language resources here.

Logistics - Resources and Tips

Flights

Recommendations for arranging flights for MIT-Russia and Eurasia programs.

Flights

Be sure to search for student fares, including resources like STA Travel, Student Universe, and CheapOair.

There are no direct flights from Boston to Russia, Kazakhstan or Georgia. 

Most students fly to Russia through New York or Europe. Most flights to Kazakhstan or Georgia will have two or three stops on the way, so get ready for a long trip.

Try using Hopper. This app will monitor prices for you and predict when the best time to book your flight is.

MIT students CANNOT connect through any country that is considered High Risk under MIT’s Travel Risk Policy. See list of countries here.

Accomodation

Housing in Russia, Kazakhstan and Georgia is usually provided by hosts. Here are some recommendations for finding housing!

Look for housing through AirBnB. Please stay in touch with your host to make sure you find something close to your work.

Look for housing within or close to the Circle metro line (Koltsevaya line).

If your host in Russia doesn't offer housing, you can also contact landlord Sergey Kirillov (contact MIT-Russia for details), who has been recommended by previous MIT-Russia interns.

Passport and Visa

Everyone needs a valid passport. Contact your MISTI program manager to find out whether you need a visa to enter. Be sure to stay organized and to submit all requested documents on time!

 

If you need a visa, your passport must have at least 2 blank visa-designated pages and be valid for at least 6 months after intended departure date from your host country.

Visa process for Eurasia can be complicated but don't worry! We work with a visa agency in New York, which will apply for a visa on your behalf. You'll just need to mail them your passport, visa application and photo around one month before your trip.

Please remember that you first need to receive an official invitation letter from Russia in order to proceed with applying for your visa. Everything can take about two months.

Local Transportation

Getting around Russia is easy, and with a little advance planning, can be rather inexpensive.

Public transportation is well developed in Russia. Its metro is one of the most beautiful in the world. Watch this video from Russia Beyond to learn how to travel in the Moscow subway.

Aeroflot is Russia’s largest airline. You can book your flight tickets here.

If you choose to travel by train, we recommend website TuTu.Ru. It's in English, with an easy interface and allows you to search for the best time and price.

Avoid private taxis! Instead, use YandexTaxi, Uber or GetTaxi mobile apps.

Contacting Your Host

At least 2 weeks before departure, contact your intership supervisor. Confirm any last minute expectations regarding the project and logistics.

Make sure you know when to show up and where, and give yourself plenty of time on your first day to arrive on time.

Packing Checklist

  1. Think ahead about clothes (make sure to have enough professional clothes)
  2. Good walking shoes
  3. Bring some snacks in case of travel delays
  4. Comfort foods, pajamas, music, books, movies, etc.
  5. Adapter
  6. Simple gifts for your host
  7. Copies of all your travel documents, including passport and visa
  8. Have copies of any prescriptions, including eye glasses
  9. Extra pair of glasses
  10. Extra medication, both prescription and non-prescription