5 things in Russia we see differenly after living in the US and China

[@NatashasAdventures]

These are the the conclusions that we came up to: 1. Attitude to smiling is different. Russia on average is less smiling than Asian countries or the US. 2. Internet in Russia is cheaper; 3. Food in Russia is cheaper than in western countries, but way more expensive than in China and Thailand. 4. After seeing the world we cannot accept returning to a small hometown because our values and needs have changed. 5. We start to appreciate our local sites more and now we want to discover it from the touristic perspective. Have you ever noticed anything like this when you returned to you homeland after traveling or living abroad?

[@maxwellwellmax878]

Agreed! I have realized how hard it is to live in some places and have a second look at my spending habits upon returning home, I also gained a healthy respect for other cultures and ways of life. I know its cliche but Traveling does expand your mind.

[@Saurabh529_]

What is your home town

[@uuganbatbaasanbileg1954]

Due to my years of exposure to the Russian culture I can say that Russians, especially boys from childhood are taught that boys don’t cry and they need to be tough. So eventually they forget how to express emotions but if they do express emotions they are looked down upon and lose reputation that no one respects him again. Thus, they are afraid to be vulnerable and try to keep a tough guy exterior attitude which only makes Russians too much masculine, serious, aggressive, assertive, harsh,direct, narrow-minded, unaccepting and very much critical. Russians are almost as if they are all from the military.

[@uuganbatbaasanbileg1954]

Like you always feel as if you need to prove yourself and your opinion to Russians otherwise no one would care. On the other hand, because American are so individualistic they are open, friendly, and pay a good attention to the person they are talking to by making a great eye contact, and asking for his/her opinion unlike Russian’s assertiveness.

[@uuganbatbaasanbileg1954]

I feel blessed to have gone out of my comfort zone and to be exposed to different cultures, languages and mentalities.

[@harrydecker8731]

Mark Twain traveled a lot back in his time, and he wrote: "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness."

[@s__n_ghs_w_j_g_r_v_4967]

What would he write today if he traveled to American neighborhoods where people are much more violent than WASPs like him ? Would he be considered a bigot if he wrote the truth ?

[@oldjunkvet]

I think what Mark Twain would have considered “bigotry” and what that term has been twisted to refer to today are two entirely different things.

[@PinoyAbnoy]

@@s__n_ghs_w_j_g_r_v_4967 truth? more violent? are you a white man who feel oppressed now? make america great again? lol

[@nightowl7261]

@@PinoyAbnoy LoL Spot on.

[@ashcarrier6606]

Was that before or after he wrote "The Innocents Abroad"? Because he hilariously skewers most every foreign convention he encountered while traveling.

[@NikiProshin]

That was fun making this video!

[@jamell-gk6bs]

She keep taken my post off

[@ChrisBattrick]

Great video and post, Nikki! Благословения во всех твоих путешествиях, Никита. Спасибо, что поделились с нами. Мне очень понравилось твое видео с Наташей. Молодец!

[@snuscaboose1942]

It was an interesting video and I wish you both the best in your travels.

[@gordonbrown5340]

I'd like to show you Oxford 🙏🏼🙏

[@s__n_ghs_w_j_g_r_v_4967]

@@jamell-gk6bs She likes censorship. She grew up in Putin's Russia, after all ! 😄 Just kidding ! You harass her apparently, according to your comment history ! 🥴

[@davidbeise7385]

Hi from Canada. You guys are a real treat to hear about your perspectives after travelling abroad. If you think internet is expensive in the US, try Canada. It's crazy expensive here. Keep up the good work sharing your videos. Looking forward to learning more about Russia it's people and culture. :)

[@seanibbott4791]

As a fellow Canadian, I completely agree with that statement. Some studies say it is the most expensive internet in the world.

[@balanchuk]

Decent internet in Alberta Canada...close to $100 per month .... thievery !

[@RBRTSWORLD]

yup we get ripped off due to the monopoly on the market

[@sluggo206]

US internet is expensive because of monopoly providers. Canadian Internet may have more of that. Also, the price of everything is generally higher in cold or isolated areas. Prices are high in Norway and Hawaii for example.

[@DenEz_TV]

@@balanchuk $5-10 a month in Russia. We really have good Internet bitrate here.

[@ChasingWaterfalls99]

Thank you for sharing! I’m from a small agricultural town in America. After I travelled to Europe I saw my hometown and the places around it with new “tourist’s eyes”. Small towns in America and Russia might not be very exciting but I have found an appreciation for the culture.

[@jeffjuhre1494]

I really like these 2 kids and I wish them the best. The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page. - Saint Augustine

[@arombob]

There is an American wisdom: "When you smile the whole world smiles with you." Smiling is one of those free things in life. The effect may be positively life changing.

[@dhdowlad]

Say that in American language please.

[@gregorygrooms7751]

Not with freakin mask

[@diegrinder6851]

Smile at people , it drive them nuts and make them think you are up to something....;-)

[@victorglaviano]

Ok Louie Armstrong... My hometown icon (New Orleans)!

[@DiegoWeissel]

i see where your wisdom has led your country to. Forcing a smile is hipocresy to me, even though i'm a pretty smiling persone, but whenever i catch myself forcing a smile I refrain. It needs to be genuine, or else is pure pretension. The world is now seeing all the tragedy you disguise with fake smiles.

[@RachelEliason]

Everybody else around the world: people in the USA are so outgoing, they always smile and say hi. My Brazilian friends: people in the USA are so reserved, they don’t even talk in the elevators. 🤓

[@tatianahawaii13]

For real ? That’s so funny !

[@xx420xxyolo3]

@Armando Problemas Some guy gave me the middle finger 10 seconds after entering New York lol, that city truly is full of rude people

[@chenxin5664]

That's true. But American have more social distance between friends comparing to most of other countries.

[@Josh729J]

@Armando Problemas ummm how many times did you go to new york before deciding never to go again lol

[@rbspider]

Last part so true. When two women talked to me in garage elevator I knew they were not locals

[@bobsacamano5334]

When you don't travel to other countries, you don't think about how different the world is or how similar the world is also. After traveling abroad, I was more surprised about the similarities than the differences.

[@TarekAbdelbarry]

You live exactly with the same problems we face here in Egypt. Except for the smiling issue 😂 Love from Egypt 🇪🇬

[@AleksandrSharashkin]

Very friendly people in 🇪🇬, but to be honest I was shocked by the poverty with which faces most of the citizens. Also had a chance meeting Egyptians in SolidWorks engineering community groups on Facebook, who were always been very friendly, helpful and polite 🤗

[@briiree]

I live in the UK. Barely any news comes here from Russia. I'm glad I found this channel. Looking forward to understand better the misterious Russian culture.

[@abbykickass3210]

That's because the establishment & it's media in the UK only publish negative stories about Russia. I would never trust the BBC especially when it comes to it's foreign news. It's very obvious that the establishment in the UK doesn't want to reflect anything positive about Russia to it's people, the same can be said about America.

[@Inquiring]

Joel It’s unfortunate that this is so.

[@geminiinc1042]

@@abbykickass3210 it's the same here in Canada. Everything in Russia is bad. It all carries from the cold war era and mainstream media.

[@abbykickass3210]

@@geminiinc1042 Yeah it seems to be the exact same rhetoric spread right through the Western world. It pretty much stems from America as they would love for Russia to have a puppet Government so America could tap into the Russians wealth of natural resources. Thankfully more & more people are seeing through this & don't let themselves be brainwashed by their governments divisive, patriotic politics.

[@geminiinc1042]

@@abbykickass3210 I agree. The internet has opened up the world to people if they care to take a look.

[@beardog1964]

No matter what country you're from we all want the same things in life like a nice home good transportation good job and no crime to raise our families. Always stay true to yourself be courteous and respectful to other's and you will be fine anywhere you go.

[@natedill9180]

What classifies a good home. ?

[@knuckledraggingneanderthal720]

@@natedill9180 a nice cave without bats or bears. No McMansion for me.

[@ByteMeCompletely]

Unless you get abducted and held for ransom.

[@gwho]

And all.fbe politicians always want the same - power, riches, domination, feeding their ego.

[@EricAlbin]

I'd really consider, if you were interested, getting a teaching job in the U.S. with enterprises doing trade with Russia. Your English is fantastic.

[@elzoog]

Any possibility of doing that in Chinese as well?

[@SevenCostanza]

yep , only people from borderline 3rd world countries would want to work in the U.S

[@stephsdlnthms3957]

@@elzoog Yes, there is absolutely the possibility to do that. Translators are very much needed in almost any industry here, and foreign language teachers are also in pretty high demand.

[@jchow5966]

It would be hard for her to do that due to current immigration tulrs. Fyi.

[@sjv9147s]

In my personal experience I observed that, generally, Americans speak well. They don't however write as well in terms of grammar, punctuation and vocabulary, etc.

[@gregorythomas2674]

These two are well spoken and their English is better than some youth in America! Damn! Well done! Great video! 👍🏻

[@ll-nm4fw]

it's only the blacks who speak ebonics in america. no other race does it.

[@blabswell3308]

@@ll-nm4fw I believe he meant more than just ghetto talk, latin-americans have a language full of spanglish jargon, young teens have their own language on the internet, im even convinced southerners dont speak english, etc.

[@miguel061]

@@ll-nm4fw you really had to bring up ebonics and blacks, huh? Go sit in the corner. I should've seen this 2 months earlier to comment this but here we are now.

[@berg8970]

@@miguel061 It is painfully clear these two have never traveled outside the U.S. Racism is still very strong in the U.S sad but true.

[@maximusextreme3725]

@@berg8970 Sure Karen, everything is racist. Just because he points out that a certain population in the U S speak differently doesn't mean that person is racist.

[@shodges7034]

I am American and lived in Syzran, Russia for one year in 1993-94. It was such a wonderful experience and I just love the Russian people so much. We have so many things in common. My reverse culture shock when returning back to the USA made me realize that we take so much for granted in America. It also made me hope that one day our countries could become closer. Today, I still make Russian food when I miss my time there and stay in touch with my Russian friends on facebook. Natalia, it is beautiful people like you that make this World a better place to live. Please continue to be an ambassador for global peace in what you do. За здоровье!

[@pbasswil]

Your ability to fluently express yourselves in English is very impressive - both of you!

[@anjanbhattacharyya8177]

Love to hear your slant on American people .I am from Minnesota an i am surprised you thought we were polite-. I have lived in several southern states and find they are super polite compared to northerners. I have a question about religious tolerance in Russia. Are Christian religions allowed to meet. I understand that Jehovahs Witnesses have been imprisoned because of their public preaching. Do you have a opinion on this?

[@pbasswil]

​@@anjanbhattacharyya8177 Your comment may get seen better if you put it in the field at the top, "Add a public comment..." You put it as a REPLY to my comment, so it's nested underneath mine - not what you want.

[@zaynevanday142]

The best and quickest way to learn a new language is to live in the country of that Language

[@VadimBolshakov]

English is easy

[@pbasswil]

@@VadimBolshakov I'm a native speaker of English, and I find it infuriatingly irregular and inconsistent. And for foreigners, the spelling & pronunciation is _insane._ But I do appreciate that it doesn't have too many cases, and no impersonal noun gender.

[@gerardburns1165]

Your comments are very intelligent and your grasp of English is excellent. Russia seems better than expected.

[@sakibear4478]

Maybe Russia seems a little too nice? Its still Russia and Putin may be more dangerous because he never experienced the War like the Communist leadership had?

[@jimosage6499]

Comparisons are not the exchange of knowledge they appear to be, they are by nature judgmental. Everything is what it is, and stands alone.

[@bleedfrequency]

It's really nice to see such young and open-minded people from Russia. Hopefully you can help to shape a bright future for your country.

[@Deines7]

But not such mindless open-minded mentality such are in San Francisco or Portland... .

[@Иванпонимаете]

Russia is fine we don’t need another USA that is falling apart and on the verge of civil war

[@lyt1x219]

@@Иванпонимаете Russia isn't fine lol, as much as I think that usa isn't a good country russia is worse. (coming from a Russian myself so yea you should understand that I know it)

[@alphaone101]

It's good to see Niki smiling so much, it would be nice to see Natasha smiling more often. As an American I feel that smiling and greeting others I don't even know makes me feel better and hopefully those that I smile and greet in public.

[@LawrenceMeisel]

Your support and encouragement for each other is heartwarming.

[@pbasswil]

Natasha, you may not smile often, but when you do, it's lovely! :^)

[@r.davidpoehner4974]

I really admire you Natasha for doing such a great job. You are so articulate in English. It's very impressive. Please keep up the good work.

[@flaminglaughter]

Once you’ve traveled away from a small town and see the world your life will never be the same. It’s because it’s hard to even talk with people who have never been anywhere or had any interest in other cultures.

[@joycehaines34]

My family traveled when I was a child, an as an adult, now it has been hard for me not to travel since retired an can’t afford it anymore.

[@warrendourond7236]

I grew up an hours drive from the closest town of 3500 people in Northern Canada. When I graduated high school I moved to Australia for 6 years. I came back, then lived in Peru for a year. During that whole time I travelled South America and Asia. But eventually I got tired of my family discussions about events and people I didn’t know. There was a disconnect. So I came home. That’s when I realized that all the skills I learned as a child were only an asset at home. Else where they made me a weirdo. There was comfort in the familiar. It was nice to not worry about crime, great to know all my neighbours. If you were born without a connection to your home scape, then I understand the global drifters. But when you do grow up in a special place, to which you are deeply interconnected, you can meet great people everywhere, but you have to go home to find your kin. I feel sad for those without that connection. I know it is one of those pieces that they long for, but don’t know what it is. I hope for you all to find it one day. It took being away for so long for me to find it. Though I still travel 2-3 weeks a year. That which knows no change, will never grow. Love your channel, wish you luck and hope you find what you seek!

[@tyn6211]

It's sad that the in almost every country, the rural parts are getting hollowed out, but there's simply so few opportunities for the youth to make a decent life, yet as they pile into the megacities, the costs of living crushes them.

[@张恒-b3i]

true

[@Kingsman4101]

Its one thing I can sympathize with, I spent 8 years in the army and traveled all over the world. As a (then) 18 year old it was a shock to me to see how others lived, I think it makes you a way better person to break out of your shell and realize there are other cultures and belief systems other than the one you grew up in.

[@Die-sel13136]

King man , tks God you realised that!! U there, should b happy 4 what u have!!

[@hechla]

It would help a lot if everyone could spend time in other countries. People on the right have a lot of misconceptions about other countries.

[@epajarjestys9981]

@@hechla what it hav to do with left or right? bs

[@hechla]

@@epajarjestys9981 people on the right tend to travel less and stay around people just like them

[@jasonbenner7055]

Very good video, keep on traveling! I spent three years in Australia and I know how coming back home after living abroad can be. Travel as much as you can while you can, there is always time for settling down later in life.

[@Die-sel13136]

Youre righ,only if u don.thavea stroke ,like I had!, than ,u can sattle anywhere, on the spot!!

[@maryjo7679]

You will love your hometown more as you age, I think.

[@Vikingdescendent]

She rarely smiles and he never stops

[@desertweasel6965]

She is stunning IMO. Smiling is overrated and over played. She even makes video about smiles and how Americans smile just to smile and it was a little awkward at first for her. Where she comes from, people do smile, but they smile at something specific and not just randomly smile. She has a beautiful smile. Very lovely young woman.

[@jim7297]

@@desertweasel6965 I agree with you that she has a beautiful smile. I am speaking as a half Russian blooded American. When you are happy with your life it is easy to smile. When you are miserable it is difficult and seemingly stupid to smile. That is why when she said in another video that when she was in Hawaii she smiled all the time. I have been to Hawaii many times and felt the same way as she did. What really is funny to me is people from Eastern European countries think all Americans smile for no damn reason. Maybe just maybe they are happy with their lives.

[@Juanmore888]

I just watched your video with Niki from 2 years ago. How things have changed. I do admire both of you for providing interesting and honest opinions about travel to various places.

[@Spritsailor]

That's one thing I noticed about the Russians here in S. Florida, they hardly smile at all and some are down right crabby. Many, though, are very nice and will at least talk to you. I always ask them if they are Russian spies which gets some of them to smile or even laugh a little.

[@porkchopsammies79]

well....it is Florida. lol. i'd be downright crabby too

[@TotalRookie_LV]

It's all fun and jokes until one of them feeds you to alligators for being a possible security risk blowing their cover. "Улыбаемся и машем!"(C)

[@crhu319]

Spies are higher status than money laundering mobsters. So you paid them a compliment.

[@thegracklepeck]

@@porkchopsammies79 it's the heat and humidity. Makes anyone crabby 😂

[@ScottMStolz]

I remember when I went to the Philippines. I'm from the U.S. I tend to be a very friendly guy and say hi and ask them how they are doing and even engage in conversation if they appear to be open with it. My wife, who is far less social than I am, would laugh and ask me "What, are you the mayor?"

[@TCFung0101]

Asian people are proud of our foods and cooking (no matter it is Japanese, Thai and no need to mention, Chinese foods), because we got lot of good foods and restaurants are every where in a very close distance - as one of the few Asians here, I m proud of it. :)

[@sinarius3669]

If you're ever in the Omaha,Nebraska area, you should message me and I'd love to show you around! Always nice to have new friends! ❤ Safe travels to you two!

[@choebaro]

You two are having very intelligent conversation. Me and my wife have through three cultures, Tibetan, Indian and American. We are now in Chicago. So if either of you happen to be in Chicago, we would like to host you. Just drop a line.

[@mikeohandley6765]

The first time I went overseas was when the Army sent me to Korea in 1977. I lived there two years and met my current wife there. When I finally returned to the US after 27 months in Korea, I walked out of the SeaTac air terminal outside of Seattle and experienced a lot of anxiety from culture shock. I felt so uncomfortable with the American civilians that I went back into the air terminal and spent the next three days camping out in the USO Lounge inside the airport. Finally, the manager of the USO lounge figured out that I wasn't waiting on a flight and that I was living there and he kicked me out. That forced me to get on a bus to Seattle and from there I took another bus to Texas to my mother's home. From there I went to my next duty station in Massachusetts. By the time I reached Massachusetts I'd gotten over my culture shock and my anxiety was gone.

[@elzoog]

I would strongly consider moving to Korea to retire. Korea is WAY different now than it was in 1977. It's a hell of a lot more modern and high tech now. Even more than the US is. Public transportation is really efficient there so you don't really need a car (you might want one to go to some of the more scenic areas of Korea though). Most everything in Korea is WAY cheaper than the US (I know of an ENTIRE HOUSE you could rent for about $300/month if you don't mind living a little bit in the countryside). Since your wife is Korean, her family might help you out. Hell, there's even a Costco in Korea now. In short, in the US, you pay a shit ton of money, for, quite frankly, shit. Whereas in Korea you can get pretty decent stuff for 1/3 or less of the price. If you don't believe me, try visiting Korea for a few weeks. If you do that, avoid Seoul (it's overrated) and check out cities like Gwangju, Daegu, Busan, maybe even a few not so "famous" cities like maybe Pocheon (near the North Korean border, but I felt pretty safe the two years I lived there).

[@mikeohandley6765]

@@elzoog - I believe you. Above, I talked about my first trip to Korea. However, after 41 years of marriage I've been back there many times.

[@elzoog]

@@mikeohandley6765 I lived in Korea from 2003 to 2011. When I had a few months off, I drove my car around Korea, so I got to know the country pretty well. My favorite scenic place is an island off the coast of Jindo (the area of Korea that's famous for dogs). You are a very lucky man. I wish that I could retire in Korea.

[@notthatdonald1385]

Thank you for your service.

[@davidmc1489]

I was a typical arrogant American when i was 20....went to korea in the army..and started my eye opening experience at that time...but...what i learned is love your country but dont bash others...we all have history and cultures that make us distinct...just apprieciate what you are experiencing...people are people no matter where you go...no matter what race...we all have more in common than not

[@PinoyAbnoy]

are alot of american brainwashed to believe other countries are evil/wanting to rid of their "freedom" ?

[@TeddyBearAssassin]

@@PinoyAbnoy The American mentality is that the way we do things here is the right way. That's why many American tourists, typically older/middle aged ones are like a fish out of water when they travel abroad.

[@Prairielander]

​@@PinoyAbnoy I'm not an American but I think you fail to understand Americans. They are not perfect, but the vast majority of their people truly believe in democracy, human rights, and freedoms such as speech, press, religion, and thought. Also the United States was a very isolationist country before. Until they were dragged into WW1. Then they sat by as Germany and Italy carved up Europe in WW2. They also watched as Japan invaded China and other Asian nations. They wanted to avoid a war. But then this all changed when Japan attacked the U.S. with Germany declaring war soon after. The U.S. then fought a bloody war that no body in America wanted and afterwards they did not return to isolationism. They helped create the United Nations, they pushed for decolonialization and free trade. The U.S. helped rebuild Europe. They opposed communism as they saw Stalin force eastern Europeans into a Soviet Empire. Americans do think democratic countries are more peaceful and do see totalitarian regimes as a threat to their freedom because they fought a world war against them. When the rights of people are in jeopardy it jeopardizes those rights everywhere. Trying to appease dictators failed in WW2 so Americans feel trying to do so now will also fail.

[@PinoyAbnoy]

@@Prairielander here we go again with america and their "freedom" . america has the highest prison population in the world. look at their student debt crisis. what is freedom if the people are overwork to their 9 to 5? freedom of speech? in america you cant even show a nipple by women or say fuck on tv. have you seen this before? if so is this a part of their freedom? www.raptitude.com/2010/07/your-lifestyle-has-already-been-designed/

[@David.b.nimble]

@@PinoyAbnoy freedom is only for righteous people. Wicked people are destined to be slaves.

[@NormanF62]

I keep thinking of the famous Russian explorer and photographer Sergei Proudkhin-Gorsky, who did a famous series of photos documenting life in Tsarist Russia before the First World War. So many things have changed and some haven’t. As for the points raised here, people who move abroad can get spoiled on seeing how life’s different there compared to their country. If you’re not happy with the way things are when you get back home, work to change things and make life better. If that can’t be done, then you have to reconsider how you want to live your life. Every country has its pluses and minuses and people who are objective make the best of it but we’re all individuals and we have to figure out what makes us happy, and lead our lives accordingly irrespective of where we ultimately wind up.

[@branscombeR]

I have some of his colour photos (among the first in the world) on my wall here in Australia! I've never heard/read anyone else mention him ... 😊

[@NormanF62]

@@branscombeR The Russian Railways a decade ago, if I remember correctly, sponsored photographers to go around the country snd update the entire series in homage to Proudkhin-Gorsky. For anyone who’s interested in him, the original work is with the US Library Of Congress.

[@TheMilwaukieDan]

It’s wonderful to see you have a friend that enjoys the same interests as you. You look happy with him. That’s good for sure.

[@kerrywilliams3753]

So good to see you both! Niki, I miss your hair from your newer videos. I'm from a very small town in America, old and retired, and my adventures are mostly wilderness, while I see yours are urban, even Omsk and Spassk are big cities to me. I love to hear from each of you, thank you. You both make the world a better place! I'm smiling because I really wish you well, always.

[@Kapalek84]

Traveling is good for young people, I did some traveling in my past and I can recommend it. One thing I could mention is that at the moment Asia is in fast economical growth, maybe you could try to take advantage of that? Living in Americas or Europe might not be easy or stress free like everywhere else. Good luck!

[@virginiasoskin9082]

We are from Florida USA and traveled to St. Petersburg for 8 days back around 2016. We LOVED it; usually in any cafe at least one person spoke enough English so we could be understood. And now with google translate it would be even easier. More Russians speak English than Americans speak Russian, that's for sure. We saw so many world class museums, palaces, and churches. It was at the end of the White Nights so we got to experience that, and we also got tickets to a ballet online before we even left on our trip. We also got roubles at our local bank prior to the trip. Things we noticed that are different in Russia than the USA: 1) Russians hardly ever smile except in souvenir shops. When we went through the visa checkpoint at Pulkovo airport, the man in the booth did not smile; he actually scowled. That was creepy. 2) it is hard for Americans or Europeans to blend in because many Russians wear leather shoes and westerners wear Nikes and other athletic shoes. Russians wore black leather jackets, leather shoes and jeans. 3) there is more of a police and military presence on Russian sidewalks. You generally don't see cops on American streets, but yes, in New York City, Los Angeles, and other large cities there are more police around, but never soldiers unless there are street protests going on. 4) St. Petersburg tap water tastes HORRIBLE and is probably filled with heavy metals, and pesticides. We boiled the water to brush our teeth with and drank bottled water exclusively. Generally water in the US tastes fine and is safe to drink. 5) it is interesting to go in Russian supermarkets. We were surprised to find many American brands like Oreos, Newman dressings, Budweiser, Hershey and Mars bars, and more. Sliced white bread is called American bread! 6) we were surprised to hear American jazz in shops and old Judy Garland movies on large screen TVs in restaurants. Western culture is quite visible in Russia, at least in St. Petersburg. 7) in the Russian Museum of Political History, Russian history is presented pretty honestly which was surprising to us -- Stalin was admitted a thug who murdered millions of Russians, and so on. That was a surprise to us. However, I would not be surprised if there were hidden microphones in our hotel room! But we were lowly tourists and not spies so they got no info from us. Ha, ha. I would love to go back to St. Petersburg since the Faberge Museum has opened, but I am afraid our trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

[@aussiewelsh]

It's amazing how much you can learn about your own country by leaving it for a while...

[@rafaeljoserorato6966]

You are the generation who will change to smiles face. It's like cutting a diamond. Take some time. Best wishes for you. Natascha and Nikki: keep walking on yours work sharing to us hoe Russia and Russians are. Regards from Brazil

[@ellyreginald6546]

I am forever grateful I grew up partially in Europe without TV. My culture shock returning and living in the United States was noticing the addiction to TV and ipods. I never watched TV news knowing it wasn't real, and am continuously amazed how people consider this news their only connection to the world. I've walked through whole towns where most people were glued to their ipods while passing beautiful parks, nature and buildings. It makes me very sad and feel different because of this issue.

[@clobberelladoesntreadcomme9920]

That, combined with the political divisions here have made it very difficult to establish an authentic connection with anybody. You get the sense that when you talk to people they either aren't really listening or they're prepared a stock response to whatever you are saying, based on whatever they've just read from their preferred news source. Where I am, I feel that people all talk as though they are being recorded. The lockdowns have made it so that the only people I see in person are my co workers and customers, who I can't be truthful with and so I have irrationally started to hate them all. If I even had the chance to go back to normal life, I don't know what I would say to anybody.

[@ellyreginald6546]

@@clobberelladoesntreadcomme9920 Reminds us how alike most people are, no matter what culture, race or gender. We have a GLOBAL problem of disconnect to our environment!

[@angelacole5936]

I'm American and I smile when I'm happy, from emotion but also a smile can be something you give to someone. To acknowledge them or to cheer them up. You can smile for yourself or smile for others.

[@bethnewman4777]

They are delightful young people!

[@dianebooth745]

You guys are very special young people. I am also a world traveler. We'll, not too much now because of Covid. But I've visited Russia in the past including the Kremlin. Keep making great videos!🥰

[@christopherholland9498]

I am happy to hear you had a good experience in the USA 😊

[@whoeverwhoever400]

Yeah, come to Chicago and experience it.

[@christopherholland9498]

@@whoeverwhoever400 Like Baltimore in my state. I understand. It's a shame.

[@Bhibo115]

This is great video I really like the collaboration! I have been in Russia (St Pete) for nearly one week now and it’s funny everyone smiles to me...so far. And my favourite thing is how cheap internet is here. I already feel some of the topics you talk about haha

[@steveneardley7541]

As a ten year old American, I lived with my grandparents' in Italy for a year. It completely changed my values. I realized that there were many different ways of BEING. Italians were livelier, more open, more affectionate. This made me think more about the way I wanted to be as a person, and what was important in life. I did not fit in as well when I came back to the US, but I think I was a better person, and certainly more open-minded.

[@widjoh]

Such an interesting video... So great to hear from both of you, and your perscpective about Russia... I'm a Norwegian, being happy to have been travelling a lot around in Europe, also USA and UAE, but since 2015, my heart is somewhere in Russia. Russia has a great potentional for tourism, I'm so sure about that. I've been visiting Russia 7 times, since 2015 and now I just can't wait for my next visit... (of course due to pandemimc). Thank you again, both of you for sharing your thoughts and experiences about Russia and about staying abroad. Take care :)))

[@davidadomiak211]

Your “English” is so good!

[@ШИК-ь3к]

Вы очень молоды, в поэтому наивны. Видеть другие страны как путешественник и жить там (работать, заводить и содержать семью и детей) это разные вещи. Есть люди которые уезжают жить в другую страну поначалу довольны, но со временем многие понимают, что эта страна чужая, их тянет на родину, но уже не могут вернуться. Пока ты молод уехать легко, а когда у тебя есть семья, работа, кредиты, которые надо выплачивать, уже сложно. Есть хорошая поговорка - "Хорошо там где нас нет". Будьте счастливы, где вы есть. Главное - найти интересное дело и любимого человека. Всё остальное - мелочи.

[@migracion.la.gran.leccion]

Как сказал один плохой географ: "Родина - это там, где хорошо живётся"

[@ydjin6352]

Котигорически с вами согласен сэррр) У подростков розовые очки в чём они себе не признаются пока не повзрослеют. Я видел жизнь за бугром, видел русских которые оттуда бегут обратно, видел местных которые тоже мечтают сбежать в Россию, даже из той же канады молчу про америку. Есть куча иностранцев которые уже сбежали в Россию и ооочень этому рады. Я для себя давно решил что буду жить на юге России. Ну а эти двое пусть путешествуют пока молоды но не спешат выводами и важными решениями).

[@alexj7640]

@@ydjin6352 не знаю о каких русских ты говоришь, я прожил 8 лет в Англии и 4 в Канаде, я очень счастлив и доходом и жизнью. Как мне жить на родине? Когда по моей специальности я зарабатываю в 15 раз больше тут чем дома?

[@tatianak1408]

@@ydjin6352Ха-ха. Живу на Западе больше 20 лет и это самое лучшее, что я сделала для себя и своей семьи

[@tatianak1408]

@@migracion.la.gran.leccion Верно. Вы абсолютно правы

[@juliagorban413]

Ребята, вы такие молодцы! Вы делаете работу по улучшению имиджа нашей страны :)) в отличие от нашего МИДа :))

[@Borealopelta]

А в чём имидж улучшился? Те кто имеют перспективу и востребованные умения мигом едут в приличные страны отсюда, те кто на заводе пилят гайки - пьют пивко и орут что могут повторить. За границей не идиоты и понимают чем первые отличаются от вторых, имидж соответствующий.

[@johannwolf1]

Deeply touching. Thank you. Every thing you are experiencing is valuable, I noticed after decades of travel.... that at first we notice the differences, then we notice the similarities... after a while we experience the moment, where we are always the same, the characters are similar and the backgrounds change.... as though we never moved our bodies at all. Like a scenery change on the stage of an ever unfolding now. Keep going. Be fearless. Seek transformative experiences.... and grow yourselves.

[@66otnt]

THANK YOU NATASHA AND NIKITA !!!

[@billco73]

People in China like to smile, you just have to smile first so they know you're friendly

[@MiaogisTeas]

Yep, as a foreigner you always have to do all the work in China. First to open doors for others, first to pick up the trash, first to say thank you or line up properly. Then they start copying you, but only when someone is watching them. Then it's back to normal. Cut corners, ma fan, cha bu duo, mei guanxi, no it's not possible, can't go there, can't do that, not allowed, no why - just because. China aged me 10 years in 5 because of all the extra effort you have to put in thinking for others and explaining how it works just to get something simple done. And then they don't change - they just go back to how they always did it once you're gone.

[@evilsquizz]

@@MiaogisTeas your meaningless typing shocks me

[@__hjg__2123]

I wish this young lady all the luck in the world.. watching these videos - seeing the honesty and the challenges has been a humbling experience...

[@carlsapartments8931]

Natasha it seemed you were trying to stop yourself from smiling in this video, I like your smile! Niki just smiles a lot that makes him happy.

[@tridentigerly]

Wow, I get a bit of Chinese accent in the Russian man Niki's English! I came from South Korea, have been to 12 countries including Russian Far East, and having been living in the US for many years (for graduate schools). I enjoyed your video. Such an interesting topic.

[@adrianobanak2824]

Guys, you can't even imagine how expensive mobile internet is in EU. In my country-Croatia, i pay 20$/month for 8GB. And unlimited tarif is around 35$/month. So it's great to see how cheap it is in Russia. It gives you a lot of oportunities, especially for you, younger people. Way to go Russia👍

[@PkPvre]

It surprised me how cheap it was. And I believe Niki said that broadband for a whole year was 60 dollars in China and he thought it was a lot! That's what you pay here in the Netherlands for 2 months if you're lucky haha

[@MrElliotc02]

Such lovely young people facing such difficulties not of their making...I wish all your dreams come true

[@MarieCLalande]

How lovely to hear your thoughts about your own country after travelling abroad, and your hopes about your future. I wish you both many other exciting and nourishing travels!

[@krolson502]

Travel with a purpose and keep on smiling

[@duncan5176]

Natasha your cheekbones are amazing) Very pretty girl Also, cool video! I can't wait to be culture-shocked when I go to Russia from US

[@NatashasAdventures]

tnx!

[@abdel-qadeercoubadja4750]

@Jake Johansson hmmm.. not quite. She's a Russian after all. The wall is real. After 35 the wheels come off.

[@migracion.la.gran.leccion]

@Jake Johansson and this type of comments is the stupidity of men... women are not an object!! Don't be superficial

[@Morussian]

@@migracion.la.gran.leccion вы из пуританской страны?

[@migracion.la.gran.leccion]

@@Morussian Я из разных стран, если тебе это интересно. Но не думаю что эта информация поможет тебе узнать тип моего мышления.

[@salvatoretrombetta243]

Compliments You Both speak a good english!

[@mekvanthoff4775]

Interesting conversation! How the world, and your lives has changed since then… Good luck to you both.

[@meursaultscourtroom8886]

The song from WWI keeps rolling through my mind while watching this, "How Ya Gonna Keep'm Down on the Farm (After they've seen Paree?)". And it's true, I felt the same way the first time I left the US and saw Europe.

[@347573]

In Italy the perception we have of Russians is that all of them that we see here have an enornous amount of money to spend! LOL

[@ogc9649]

Corrupt politicians and oligarchs

[@DenEz_TV]

It is russian minority, 95% of russians have never been abroad.

[@janecuper5709]

@@DenEz_TV em... no. maybe only 5% were in italy but a looot of russians go to vietnam, turkey or india

[@amandaxnara]

Моя преподавательница русского всегда улыбается, даже больше, чем мы, латиноамериканцы, которые улыбаются больше, чем американцы. она из благовещенска. Надеюсь, однажды я смогу поехать в Россию, чтобы перестать улыбаться, как старик из мемов

[@NatashasAdventures]

😂😂

[@marvinbush5278]

What a great video. This was truly a great format. I feel as though I have become much more "enlightened" just listening to you two.

[@jaxturner6896]

Hello from Texas, USA! Great information! Thank you to both of you! KEEP SMILING 😊

[@christianlibertarian5488]

I have traveled all over the world, to every continent except Antarctica and South America. I fall in love with each place I visit. I encourage people to add Australia and Japan to their lists. Oz is a bit out of the way, but absolutely wonderful.

[@da7heaven]

Really enjoyed this conversation! Niki's channel introduced me to Natasha's. Best wishes and big smiles to you both! 😁

[@wingdingdmetrius8025]

bump bump bump this was one of your best. love from california

[@The-Truth-Seeker1]

I'm student in Russia from Sudan, I disagree with your speech, I do believe Russians are very nice people

[@MiaogisTeas]

Compared with Sudanese, yes they're a barrel of laughs. At least you've embraced secularism but it will take a couple of generations to change.

[@kennyj851]

I wish they had told me not smile when I spoke to Russians, asking them for directions. Now the whole of Russia thinks 'm a clown :-)

[@krightonzilon9140]

🤣🤣

[@fredknezevich8075]

My third video Natasha-so impressed with you and Niki-smiles are courageous-not a bad disease to have!!!

[@peter-sr1zd]

Love your videos. I've learned more about Russia than I ever new. Most people are the same no matter where they come from. Keep up the good work. Pete from Florida USA.

[@firstlast9198]

"Once you travel and stay for a long time"... The key point is staying for a long time. Being a tourist one learns nothing. Staying in a hotel and seeing tourist attractions one learns nothing.

[@firstlast9198]

@@MrZog-yv3be - I hear you had the same experience in school.

[@1911bladeguy]

What a great name Natasha. You smile just the correct amount.

[@olgierdogden4742]

I like the way you both supported each other. A very mature and respectful attitude.

[@tortozza]

What Russian city would you recommend for a stay for learning Russian language? Something with a good balance of cost of living, student life etc that isn't Moscow or St Petersburg.

[@NatashasAdventures]

Maybe Kazan or Novosibirsk. Basically any Russian large city besides Moscow and St Petersburg will be great!

[@NatashasAdventures]

tyjghjghhh I think any Russian city will be safe for you, if you just don’t go to sketchy bars and districts at night.

[@NatashasAdventures]

tyjghjghhh in small cities like Ussuriisk there’s nothing interesting and many gopniks. They are not hostile to foreigners but just speaking of safety, it’s better to be in a more developed city. Vladivostok is great for foreigners, in VVSU and FEFU there’re a lot of foreign students.

[@guspires6951]

@@NatashasAdventures Thank you so much for your recommendations ^^

[@Wondwind]

After you visit enough places, you just see that the difference between countries is just the level of insanity held by the general population.

[@davidblank9043]

Your English is exceptional. Would love to visit Russia but that’s not going to happen so this is the next best thing. Keep up the good work.

[@keithfucious7067]

This is awesome. An absolute honest assessment of your experiences and analyzation of our similarities and differences both geographically and culturally. Rare to see such true and honest research. Very enlightening and much more needed than you probably realize! Thank you, please keep up your work, it is very much appreciated.

[@TomTermini]

That was a great video, thank you! I really enjoy the range of subject you cover, and your adventures abroad are intriguing. Please keep up the excellent work … you are helping to bring cultures together, while being entertaining and informative!

[@stupendouslife8128]

As soon as I see this video, I noticed that Natasha was smiling, it is awesome 👍😃

[@CyberSpider35]

I wouldn't call higlhy restricted Chinese Internal Network - The Internet. :)

[@lAsteriosl]

You actually can go to outside Internet thru VPN if you want. But not looks like many Chinese did it. Otherwise, we will see Chinese comments on everything all over the internet.

[@sombrero4316]

@RTX3090 SLI owner yes but also I can call my government clowns...in fact I could even say the leader of my country looks like Winnie the pooh and not go to jail

[@sombrero4316]

@RTX3090 SLI owner google "arrested for insulting ccp"

[@CP-ir3ft]

@@drcornelius8275 no it definitely happens in other countries in different forms

[@xuchen4012]

@@drcornelius8275 I like the way how your media brainwash you. Hat off to their effort, making you from dumbass to dumberass. LMAO. ppl out of China always think they know China better than Chinese or those who really visited China.

[@viperstinger77]

I think you guys should work together more. Watching you guys i think there is a potential for you two to start a tourism business like taking tour guides around Russia or showing people around your city. Just a thought

[@jxph7]

amazing ! the perspective of russian on russia after travelling.. really honest point of view..

[@BerlinBo]

Good geography lesson, that the Far East is not part of Siberia.

[@สุวัฒน์ต.วรพานิช-จ8ฎ]

Keep smiling Natasha, from the land of smile!

[@Roberto-REME]

Excellent video and very well narrated. I loved the narration and you both did a great job in the production.

[@ШИК-ь3к]

You are very young and therefore naive. Seeing other countries as a traveler and living there (working, starting and maintaining a family and children) are two different things. There are people who leave to live in another country, at first satisfied, but over time, many understand that this country is a stranger, they are drawn to their homeland, but can no longer return. While you are young it is easy to leave, but when you have a family, a job, and loans that need to be paid off, it is already difficult. There is a good saying - "It's good where we are not." Be happy where you are. The main thing is to find an interesting job and a loved one. Everything else is little things. (Sorry - Google)

[@Ken-hw1et]

I agree. When you are young the foreign and different are all very exciting, but as you grow older the comfort of familiar surroundings and old friends and family are so much more important.

[@tommybudell9327]

Natasha, thank you so much for your videos. You are a very intelligent and talented young lady. You must have lived in America for a brief period of time as you speak excellent English. I am an American having traveled extensively in my life. I have visited in my lifetime a total of 37 countries outside of America. I have traveled briefly to Russia only once. I have been only to Saint Petersburg for a brief business meeting. I spent only 2-nights stay. I was working in the clothing industry at this time. As you know, Saint Petersburg is very modern and western in culture. I didn't see many differences between that city and perhaps Helsinki Finland. But again, I had so little time. Meetings all day, dinner with prospective clients, and go to bed. Nothing more. I am fascinated by Russia and have met in my travels many Russian people over the years. Very kind and generous people. We are no different. We all want the same things in life. Good education, healthcare, and opportunities for ourselves and our families. No difference. I appreciate you showing us a closer look into your world. Thank you.

[@jaslll4396]

Thanks for the great video.

[@Hsfgd08]

Yeah, "Coca-Cola" is the same thing everywhere ☺

[@Die-sel13136]

Coca cola is a bit different around the world, in some eastern EU contries is not so sweet!

[@Hsfgd08]

@@Die-sel13136 ... if you think so ☺

[@Die-sel13136]

@@Hsfgd08 martin I don.t know what urrefering at can u!? Pls!!!

[@Die-sel13136]

@@Hsfgd08 : relating what!!???

[@Die-sel13136]

@@Hsfgd08 if is about coke, I tasted it in parts of worl , i can make the difference!! That.s I expose my opinion!! But, I m old My taste could b wrong!!

[@davidwatson8142]

The Russian phone and internet come with free government monitoring.

[@resourcedragon]

Do you have to pay for NSA monitoring in the US? (Not saying the Russians aren't monitored, just saying that the Russian government is not unique in doing so.) Just mentioning the NSA will probably ping some surveillance software somewhere, although, after that, they'll probably decide I'm not a threat for now.

[@GospelOfTimothy]

In the United States the internet and phones come with government monitoring and we have to pay a high price for it.