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Moscow: First Impressions

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Discover Moscow, Learning Russian in Russia

30 June 2016

The title of this post is actually a little misleading. This is actually my second time in Moscow. I was first here aged 17 in 2012 on a school trip. I was incredibly lucky to visit Russia, but I was overwhelmed by Moscow. I found the city so busy and different to others I had visited that I was a little intimidated. Additionally, I spoke no Russian so found the Cyrillic everywhere intriguing but confounding. When I had the opportunity to return to Moscow, as an intern at Liden and Denz, I was excited, but also a little nervous.

So what’s different this time?

Firstly, my teachers are not shepherding me around! Before arriving, I was worried about finding my way around the city and public transport alone. A few days in, however, I feel independent and confident to navigate my way around the city. I am fortunate to be staying with one of my closest friends – she and her family have been welcoming and kind in my first few days. Staying with a family has given me a different perspective on Russian life.

St Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square

This time, I am (a bit) older and wiser! It’s only 4 years since my last visit, but I would consider myself better travelled than when I was last here. Since 2012, I have visited new cities and continents. In 2014, I lived in Budapest for three months alone (although I soon made friends!). This time, I feel much more ready to embrace Moscow’s unique atmosphere, having explored more around the world.

Russian…in Russia

Finally, this time I am in Moscow to learn Russian. The language barrier is an opportunity, not a difficulty. I am lucky to have this opportunity to immerse myself, which I hope will really improve my language skills. As I walk down the street I catch snippets of Russian conversations and read signs and shops. I am here to learn as much as I can and as a result, I have thrown myself into Russian life as much as possible!

What to expect in Moscow?

Come to Moscow with an open mind. There is so much to see, hear and try. Speak Russian whenever you can! I have only been here a few days, but people have been patient and eager to help you. Bring a curious mind and plenty of questions! Russians are keen to share with you everything about their culture.

Most of all have fun!

Megan Beddoe, currently studying Russian in Liden & Denz.

Posted by Megan Beddoe

Hi! I'm Megan, a university student from the UK, currently studying Russian at Liden & Denz Language Centre in Moscow. My parents live in a small village in Kent, but I go to university in London. I started learning Russian just nine months ago, but I never dreamed I would be spending summer in Moscow studying it! I study history at university, where I have become very interested in Russian history, especially Peter the Great, the Decembrists and Siberia throughout Russian history, so I hope to write about everyday history in the city while I am here. My month in Moscow is the perfect way to absorb as much Russian culture and history as possible, so I can go back to university ready for my final year and to write my dissertation on Siberian Exiles in 17th Century. Outside the classroom, I enjoy playing sports - I have fenced for England and Great Britain and I am captain of the LSE Women’s Basketball Team - and I also love to travel. My favourite places (aside from Moscow of course!) have been Cape Town, for its immense natural beauty, and Budapest, for its fun atmosphere! I love to try local food wherever I go, so I hope to be blogging about the culinary delights of Moscow during my stay here.