subject: Russian Culture: A Primer [print this page] There are many differences between the West and Russia in terms of what is considered bad manners in public. The following are just a few things that are frowned on in Russia: standing with your hand in your pockets, showing the sole of your footwear when crossing your legs, whistling, putting your arm over the back of a chair, relaxing on the steps of a public building or eating lunch on the grass of a park. Careful preparation and planning will ensure that your trip to this fascinating country is a productive and enjoyable one.
