Things you didn't understand about Russia - 7 weird Russian habits

These habits of Russians seem really strange for people from abroad. Why do Russians do it?
Timeline:
0:00 why I talk about Russian culture
1:35 men&women relationships in Russia
3:31 September the 1st in Russia
5:15 my 'first bell'
7:15 fastening safety seat belts not for the sake of safety
10:01 panick buying GRECHKA
12:00 the Old New Year!
13:54 ice bathing in winter, complaining about cold water in summer
17:15 Russians always mock everything about Russia
📌elinabakunova.com/russianclub - Russian Speaking Club where you can practice the Russian language. Join us from any level ;)
📍 More videos:
• Life in a provincial R... - Life in a provincial Russian town in the Urals | Perm
• Russian culture | Habi... - Russian culture | Habits you should adopt in Russia
• Slavic languages | Are... - Slavic languages | Are they similar and can you learn all of them?
___
📸 @elibakunova - more content about Russia, cultures, traveling, and my daily life
🤍 / elifromrussia - if you feel like supporting my channel through Patreon

[@johndavidlazaro1065]

Dear Eli, I am from India and in the 1970s I worked with Russian engineers in the Indian Navy. My life changed for the better because of the commitment and encouragement given to me by them. Their discipline helped me to start my own company that is today impacting the Indian economy. All my success is because of my exposure to good Russian men. Your channel is so reflective of the good in Russia - That is something the world needs to know. In my opinion you are a global citizen and more specifically a global peace maker. Please keep up your remarkable videos that are a benchmark for all video producers globally. Please take care as the World needs commited professionals like you, Eli 👍❤️👍

[@eugeneshenesky2033]

❤ very good comment.

[@IndoPakCanvas]

What a lovely post. May you go from success to success brother. ;~]

[@divaextraordinary]

How beautiful to read this. Thank you for sharing. I will visit Russia next 😊.

[@saketmeena9581]

Communist Russia developed or already had good culture. But not communist China.

[@julierowe1732]

Second this.

[@chuenyeelau]

Eli you have shown the world that the Russian culture is one of the most beautiful in the world - Intelligent, scholastic, elegant, artistic, strength and passionate. Long live Russia and all the Russian people. Cheers from Canada

[@xlspiorp]

Okay but what about sanctions?

[@chuenyeelau]

Talk to my stupid PM in Ottawa

[@user-dk9lm4ho1t]

@@xlspiorp Normal people don’t care it all government

[@dianablackman4528]

AMEN

[@stanleypomogiti8633]

@@xlspiorp lol you seriously ask the guy as if he was the one to make them

[@bikecyclejournal8949]

I am from Serbia and I'm amazed how many of these customs apply to Serbian people as well. We also carry bags for our women, flash when we see police, buckle up just not to get fined, we celebrate also old new year on 13. January (Orthodox new year), and we have inferiority complex as well, exactly as you described :). I think these are probably universally Slavic attributes. :) Love your channel! Please continue making videos about your culture because you are doing the right thing !

[@jelenakomlenac7096]

Are you sure men carry little pink purses for women in Serboa? :) not really... They do carry suitcases etc.

[@bikecyclejournal8949]

@@jelenakomlenac7096 I didn't say they wear pink purses, but bags, more like groceries.

[@lukaemi9595]

@@jelenakomlenac7096 kako ko , uglavnom si u pravu

[@TatjanaDimitrijevic]

I agree 😊 we are Slavic ppl and brothers. 14. Jan., 1 September, and all facts. So smilar we are. I can not se any strange fact in this video ☺ only we havn't bells on 1. September. I like Russian writers, composers, balley, painter, movies, way of life, dacha, e v e r y t h i n g and dont be silly had any comlex, especially in relation to Western culture. Russia is big, and the most interesting and beautiful country with great brave, clever, classy people . Greatings from Serbia 😘

[@minime7375]

It’s not a slavic thing, we do the same things in Romania. Except carry a purse if you’re a man.

[@ralphlohmann8549]

Hi Eli, I am a little bit older and grew up as a typical West German with parents coming from West Berlin flying with Pan Am to West Berlin to my grandparents. Eastern Germany and Russia was the breed of evil and all bad; then came reunification and we have seen surprisingly some more resistance from Thatcher than Gorbatchow to this; some 20 years ago I got known to my Russian wife, learned some Russian and visited and got known to Russia a little bit between Astrachan, krasnodar and St Petersburg (still nothing); with this emphasis, your own "Western" world turns to a new perspective. And especiaclly as a German I was never ever confronted by Russians about our crimes in WWII (unlike e.g. the Dutch in the 1990s still did); Russians are very generous, also as thes simply have no other one one to blame for their destiny. They alsways stand by themselves and know this. Nowadays. I am deeply in love with Russia, their kindness, and emphathy to others. Unlike in American TV, Russian TV is BY FAR more international and despite being the largest country, showing its people that there is a world abroad. I am happy to know Russians and to have two bi-lingual kids,

[@honesty3440]

Be proud being a russian. A great , beautiful, supertalented intelligent people . ❤️

[@mohamadali4864]

Круто

[@cleverlyblonde]

Greetings from Sweden. The september greeting in school was lovely. It is not corrupt at all, but a very positive and respectful sign of respect for the teachers and a great bonding experience. I loved learning of this :)

[@xlspiorp]

Sweden 😂

[@thor9563]

How do 'intelligent women' in Russy-a feel about grandmothers (babushka's) in Ukraine being bombed out of their homes? Their water plants, electrical plants attacked by Russy-an missiles with Winter coming on? About little girls 4 years old, hit by missiles, ripped apart by disgusting Russy-ans? About orcs invading Ukrainina villages, raping their women, stealing their personal belongings, can we go on and on and on? Russy-a needs to think about what Russy-a is doing in the world. Your 'men' run like chickens from Ukrainian men and women, flee to the 'Motherland' - HAAAHHAHHAA! Russy-an 'men run like chickens from conscription officals to countries Russy-a has been bullying for a hundred years. Russy-a's national symbol in their flag - a TWO HEADED CHICKEN!! Now the world understands!!

[@annablennow3889]

I had a little girl student from Lithuania and she gave me big flowers on September the 2. I was so surprised and also felt that Sweden have really come far away from respecting the school system and teachers. I don’t think there’s any other country with so much behavior problems at schools

[@eg8343]

We also do that in philippines minus the bell stuff instead we give them flowers and gifts sometimes depends on the students. Even parents of students sometimes organized a celebratuon in school bringing food to show gratitudes to teachers for educating their childrens. It is somehow show of appreciation to teachers. We call it "Teachers day". During that day also, teachers pick one of their students to substitue them in lecturing the other students in the class while the teacher is just observing how the whole class is going.

[@billtsirtsis7060]

Eli, you are a great communicator and a fantastic ambassador for Russia!

[@djholliday5132]

I love how Russians celebrate education & honor educators. This should be a tradition in every nation. Edit: In Texas we also flash our high beams to warn of police checking for speed. Although, it has lost popularity over the years as it could trigger road rage.

[@user-op2lb6ww2u]

I love how the children bring flowers to their teachers. That is so awesome! They value education and respect their educational institutions. Russia seems to have a beautiful culture. I would love to visit there some day. Sending Blessings from the USA!

[@janaaj1an889]

American herre. One collision at moderate speed was enough to make my believe in seatbelts. I hit the dashboard HARD! (are redheads common in Russia?)

[@uroszaric3497]

In Serbia we also celebrate Old new year. Someone called it Orthodox or Serbian new year.

[@kumlacharlie9076]

In Klingon we do it too!

[@costakeith9048]

It is the ecclesiastical new year in accordance with the Christian calendar. The first great feast of the year is the Nativity of the Theotokos on September 8th and the last is the Dormition of the Theotokos on August 15th, in between the two is the new year on September 1st. Of course, this is September 1st on the Ecclesiastical calendar, so if you're on the Old Calendar, as in Serbia, this should fall on September 14th on the Julian or civil calendar.

[@lettyschlieper7410]

Never lose your customs and traditions. NEVER.

[@UrielX1212]

Heavens no. The USA is rotting because we are letting it all go.

[@Daswars777]

What a beautiful country with such a unique culture and people. Its exactly traditions like these, that keep Russia so valuable.

[@johncochran5171]

I'm 72 and from Oklahoma. I was taught to stand when being introduced to someone, give up my seat to ladies, use manners like "Yes, Sir; Yes, Ma'm" "May I?"; offer to help carry for men and women. I was taught it's from our Southern tradition back to Tennessee. And all my family are blue corllar. Having manners is a virtue. There's far too many wealthy families that have trashy culture.

[@foobar6194]

I was taught those IN PUBLIC SCHOOL in New Jersey in the 50s and 60s.

[@danielasterling6936]

BARILOCHE USHUAIA ICE HOCKEY A R G E N T I N A

[@rebeccamarie4065]

I’m a millennial. My mom’s family is from the south and that was how I was raised.

[@tammylove8337]

What were you taught about being hospital maternity ward, churches, schools, and everything Jewish??? Clearly Russia's leaders were not taught the same!!! 😭😥😠

[@MikeOxlong-]

@@tammylove8337 ruZZia’s mix-mashing of church and state is just another tool of control over the populace. Even the not-Z master’s friend and patriarch Kirill is (or was) a kgb asset (or asshat)...

[@hk1435]

Keep up the good work! The world needs to understand one another. Don’t get the hatred defeat you. 👍👍

[@fifi23o5]

Amen to that!

[@chantschu]

Please don’t stop your channel. I love your channel since I’m learning Russian since one month. Ignore the haters. All the best from Austria 🙏🏼😊

[@MollyBethable]

That was adorable footage from your first bell. Thank you for sharing that.

[@RevLev06]

The 'first bell' sounds like a great tradition. Keep up this tradition.

[@danielasterling6936]

BARILOCHE USHUAIA ICE HOCKEY A R G E N T I N A

[@HvatKondrat]

@@danielasterling6936 Argentina vs. Jamaica - 5:0

[@tammylove8337]

I agree

[@andrejgulic6623]

I've travelled most of the world countries, and Russia quite touch me, I've seem north and south, love the people, the coulture, the history, the nature... i've love to come back one day... Greetings frim Slovenia

[@VHSKacceta]

I will explain the tradition about flowers for the teacher. In Russia, from the very first grade to the ninth, the entire group of children is led by one teacher. She is like your second mother and plays an important role in the life of a Russian child. A "homeroom teacher" who takes care of his students, solves their problems and interacts with their parents, makes sure that everyone comes to school and does not skip. I had a wonderful teacher and we all loved her and gave her flowers not only on September 1, but also on her birthday, we also brought a cake and after school everyone drank tea with a cake congratulating our teacher on the holiday. When we graduated from school, she cried and was sad that our paths diverged. She will have to educate a new generation for 9 years. I am 24, I still remember her and she makes me warm in my soul, she really was a second mother for us and played an important role in our upbringing. Teachers in Russia play an important role in education and students and their parents express gratitude for the work of teachers, so they give flowers on September 1 and especially at graduation

[@olgaluna6447]

I remember how my father took me to his first classroom teacher - the teacher who taught him in grades 1-4. My father wars born in 1939, so these must be the years of 1945-1950. And we were vising her in late 1990s. The teacher was over 80 years old already at that time. This was such a touching meeting!!! This teacher loved my father and visa versa. All walls of this lady's apartment were covered with collective photos of her classes throughout her teacher's career. And she showed me a photo with my father's class and my father on it (he was 8 or 9 years old). We had tea with strawberry jam and we also brought flowers and a cake. The lady's daughter was there as well. And we had such a warm and pleasant time together.

[@maximwilson1482]

Interesting …is this the case in both urban and rural schools?

[@kathyfree5376]

Love that one teacher idea

[@miolllw8322]

@@maximwilson1482 yes

[@DenOfTen]

@@maximwilson1482 Yes, it happens everywhere. But in fact, you only have one teacher from class 1-4. is impossible, because one teacher cannot perfectly know the Russian language, History, Biology, Geography of the world, etc. And in Russian education, Mathematics, History of the world, Social Studies, Geography of the world, etc., plays a very important role. In college, I had more than 8 varieties of mathematics at all.

[@melanieespinoza4193]

I am from Texas and am only at 3:03 into the video but have already sent it to my dad. What you are explaining is EXACLY how Texas men act. My dad is definitely still in the "Cold War' mentality and refuses to listen to anything outside of western media about the 'special operation'. I am trying to introduce him to you, Eli, because you are the most 'Non Threatening" Russian person I have ever come across on you tube. I have watched you prior to the current difficulties and thought you would be a good ambassador to my dad. We shall see, tonight was the first time I forwarded your videos. I think I sent 3 or 4, so I probably overwhelmed him. He loves pretty girls, so I think he will survive! LOL

[@Daswars777]

Wonderful effort. Hope more people can reach their hands for a better world.

[@kaneru8593]

I also noticed that we have lot of things in common with texas guys. There's also one KZbinr from texas in Russia explaining common thing's.

[@user-pe3mp6nx5e]

Russia is what Texans wish America was.

[@frankjones5188]

​@@user-pe3mp6nx5e true

[@yomer355]

​@@user-pe3mp6nx5e so, a poor shithole with high crime rates, suicide rates, abortion rates, HIV-prevalence?

[@fannycharbon2065]

I just read your video and I have to say , as a french , we have a lot in commun. And when i was a little girl , my family was interested by Russia culture : ballets , music , songs , ice sports. I never heard a bad comment on Russian and luckily the anti - russian propaganda never entered my home ! ❤

[@williamfitzgerald2953]

I'm really happy to see your blog is still going strong. Don's worry about Ukraine situation. A large number, if not majority of Canadians, are very dismissive of the war propaganda.

[@TelmaFrege]

Ignore the haters! Your channel is so good and informative!

[@cooldogbearbutt3806]

What about merpiness, though?

[@davidjohnzenocollins]

@@cooldogbearbutt3806 Merpiness? What the heck is that?

[@TelmaFrege]

@Diane M not at all. She says in her videos she gets hate messages and threats. Why? Hers is not a political channel, she’s just showing us the beauty of her country. It doesn’t mean she or us agree with what the Russian military is doing in the Ukraine. Why are these trolls threatening her? What do they gain? Are they ending the war by doing that? Stop oversimplifying and stop attacking innocent civilians.

[@pekkajohannesvirkkula7473]

Is speaking truth nowadays forbidden? Hate is something what russisns are doing !!!

[@TelmaFrege]

@Diane M 🥱 I didn’t read even half your reply. I’m not interested🥱

[@coldsharkride]

Eli, after just a few of your videos, I can see that not only do Americans misunderstand Russian culture, we really know little-to-nothing to misunderstand in the first place. The tradition of carrying women's bags is laudable and in some ways even heroic. The tradition of having an 11th grader carry a 1st grader on his shoulders is so purely good on its face, it's hard to imagine anyone opposing it. What a great symbol of how one generation literally lifts up another! I can't see how giving flowers to ones' teacher could be thought of as bribery! Sheesh! We have a lot to learn from each other. . . but don't look to the American public school system for anything positive. Protect your kids and stay far away from this soul destroying machine!

[@paulgre3793]

I love the part where you rang the school bell as a little kid- that’s very cute. I like what you shared about some Russian quirks. This is what I presume will interest most people- showing the raw and real culture of Russia. Whether others like it or not, Russia is a vast country that is rich in history, resources and culture. I think you should continue to share that with us……the rich, the poor, the good, the bad, the beautiful and the ugly. Thanks for sharing 👍🙏🙏

[@FlintIronstag23]

Buying buckwheat during a perceived crisis seems pretty normal considering Russia is the largest per capita consumer of buckwheat in the world. Being a staple food that is inexpensive and non-perishable, I can see why people would stock up if they were worried about something. The panic buying of toilet paper in the spring of 2020 here in the US seems stranger to me.

[@ZER0ZER0SE7EN]

yes, and bottled water and big bags of rice by people here from Asia.

[@dergunter1237]

or the panic buying of gas where people filled plastic bags with gasoline was stranger as well

[@huge-s]

Yeah, toilet paper also disappears here in Russia as well as buckwheat.

[@alexoolau]

Angolo (Uk,USA) panic buy: toilet papers. (yeah, shit hits fans).

[@RifetOkic]

Oyea, the oh so wealthy developed Europe did the same… during a crisis they hoard toilet paper 🤦‍♂️

[@ernststeenberg7226]

What a very special tradition you have to start every school year. My wife is a teacher and she will absolutely love to be spoiled and appreciated with a bunch of flowers and just the whole celebration of a new years of learning.💙💙💙

[@danielasterling6936]

NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE A R G E N T I N A

[@HvatKondrat]

My first "1 September" was in 1985. I remember that the teacher's entire table and window sills were covered in flowers and the whole school smelled exclusively of flowers

[@radboog]

Yes, I loved to learn about this Russian tradition. It seems like a great way to meet your classmates before instruction starts for the year. I wish the United States had such a clear start to the school year. I never know which of my nephews and nieces start school in August, which in September, and some start on Monday, some on Thursday. It's so random!

[@kellyhughes5818]

Thank you so much for your content. My husband and I live in the US and find Russia fascinating! We have grown up with so many false narratives that it's an eyeopener to be able to see a glimpse of real life. Thank you again! May God bless you and your family ❤️

[@user-pe3mp6nx5e]

How wonderful!! I love the beauty and formality of Russian culture. Thank you very much for sharing this with me.😊

[@haldeverna4101]

Eli you may have been born , raised , and educated in Russia but your soul comes from every culture on earth . Thanks for sharing .

[@Z12IT]

Russia is wonderful! Greetings from Italy! 🙋🏻‍♂️❤️🇷🇺🇮🇹👍🏻

[@stanleypomogiti8633]

Bro Italy is amazing! I’ve been there in 3 cities. Loved them all 🔥

[@normansifford1481]

Dearest Eli, we are enjoying your videos of Russia. We love learning of different cultures. On comparing Russia, USA and others people are basically the same worldwide. Good and bad people are to be found in every nation. We feel the primary culprit of corruption is to be found in the various governments. Good work Eli! We are in South Carolina, USA.

[@jameswalley134]

In Australia we have been wearing seatbelts in cars since the early 1970’s. It’s become as automatic to put your seatbelt on as starting the engine of the car ….. and these seatbelts have saved thousands of lives, my own included. BTW … love your videos. Best wishes from Sydney Australia.

[@budharampatel5879]

Hi, dear, how r u??

[@Sdempsey2023]

Hi Eli, I live in the the Southwest of the U.S. and we flash our car headlights to warn other drivers of police too. But it is also common to report drunk drivers or other unsafe drivers to the police too. I don’t think people generally call in each other for not wearing seat belts or speeding unless the driver is jeopardizing others safety. Hope the helps explain….thx for sharing your culture.

[@ldcbossrob3938]

Dont forget Susan the high beam tap to move someone over from the left lane. Some states its, 'keep right except to pass'.. We sometimes turn our left signal on too until they move over.

[@jaimegomez3114]

Came to say same

[@pauloalbergaria]

Same behavior in Portugal

[@christophertyler8051]

Same here in the Uk too .........

[@robirisheureka]

Same in Australia

[@ernststeenberg7226]

Buckweed is one of the few foods on earth that has allmost everything in it to sustain you for a very long time. It is a super food that carried millions of Russians through very difficult times in history.

[@mohamadali4864]

Ghreshka?

[@Mary0Kule]

Exactly. Full of proteins, iron, vitamins e.t.c. 10-12 minutes to boil.

[@meganmodelia397]

Buckwheat. Not buckweed.

[@cristitanase6130]

Yeap, super survival food. And it can last for ever. Add some water and you can eat when you want.

[@user-su1es3wm1e]

Russians have good moral values; love most of them. Continue to talk about your country; you are doing a good job Eli.❤❤❤

[@Syammauryaz]

I love the fact the Russia and most Russians loves traditions and family values and respect the elders & teachers. Most of these traits are same here in India especially the warning about the police part and respecting the teachers. Food is a major difference between our cultures

[@dawidlach6251]

97% of 🇷🇺 eat meat and 53% of 🇮🇳 eat meat so its a difference.

[@robertspencer7498]

Thank you Eli so much for teaching about Russia. I am fascinated by your series and trying to see them all! Frank from Jackson, Mississippi, U S A

[@georgeboatright6635]

my wife grew up in what is now Slovakia in a small town in the north. many of the customs you discussed she has told me about: flowers for teachers, swimming in the winter, dachas (chata in Slovak). I enjoy your channel. thanks.

[@davidjohnzenocollins]

I'm wondering if the First Bell and flowers for teacher aren't an old Soviet custom.

[@venyz6035]

@@davidjohnzenocollins Also, we have last bell for people who end the 11th grade but not everyone ends the 11th grade because some children go to college for example

[@tommckellen342]

It's not about whether the gift giving is corruption in this context described. Its more that the mindset of, I give this gift, in this very ritual, almost superstitious way (most Russians admit they have this ritualistic, superstitious, non empirical mindset) for this or that service, becomes 'I give this gift for favours'. You already paid for this or that service, in the majority of cases so, whilst the giving of a gift might have hood intentions, empirically speaking, it is merely a fact that one person paid, say 2000 rubles + 1 gift and the next person paid 2000 rubles + no gift, and to think that a subtle barter system doesn't exist in the Russian mind is naive and insincere. So this is how it works in Russia. Russians slowly develop the habit of giving things for favours and this is why the country is as corrupt as everyone says. This young lady cannot even comprehend Putin's corruption, it would literally shake the foundations of what she knows is possible. Face and facade and the fake morality which the mediocre FSB agen leaders apply to their population, is hard to see through when you have mostly lived under Tsars, and similar, for your entire history.

[@kazgoz2529]

Your Russian and Slovak traditions are similar to Polish.

[@ako6252]

@@tommckellen342 i cant imagine a teacher who would feel like they need to "return the favor" just for a bunch of flowers on September the 1st. Its not a gift and it's not a ritual. Its a simple tradition. And most of these flowers end up in a trash (okay, sometimes given away to someone else), because there are around 30 kids assigned to 1 teacher and keeping so many flowers or even remembering who brought what is kinda impossible. To me, its a beautiful tradition, when the teachers are honored as they deserve. One can find dirt everywhere..

[@meinvornamemeinnachname715]

Greatings from Germany. Thanks a lot for doing these videos.

[@never-2-late997]

You are incredible, showing us the beauty and wonderful things in Russia. Here in the USA we not shown theas things. The people of Russia are just like everywhere, they want happiness and prosperity. A lot of things are so unique to your country and I enjoy learning from you and your videos. Please don’t stop, we need to know about the world

[@johnison76]

Loved this segment! The school tradition is very special and kudos to the Russian culture for their carrying on this tradition.

[@JohnSchwandke]

You could add... "Peeling a banana". I am from United States and on my first visit to the Caucus Mountain region was a guest in a traditional Russian home. On my first morning at the breakfast table I was surprised to see such a large group. Everyone, including the neighbors, wanted to meet an American. In 1998 it was unusual to have an American visitor in this region. When I began to "peel a banana" there was a huge gasp from the entire group. They pointed... they laughed... they all started talking to each other at the same time. I asked my host (the only English speaker other than me) what did I do? She said... "they want to know why you broke the handle?" In United States we break the stem and start peeling from there. In Russia you hold the banana by the stem... pinch the opposite end to break the seal... and peel the banana while holding the stem. The stem becomes the handle. It made so much sense to me, that since that day I peel a banana like a Russian. I Love Russia! I love their traditions.

[@hardmanst]

I would never have thought to do that. We can learn so much from each other if we are just prepared to be open and not stereo type others

[@ronaldl9085]

I peel my banana the "Russian" way too. But only after I learned that chimpansees do it like that too, and it's way easier and less messy to do it that way.

[@lancetschirhart7676]

yeah, peeling the banana from the stem is ineffective and ridiculous. I have no idea why I was taught this way, but I never went back obviously

[@robertnomok9750]

Idk, I live in Russia and I always break the "handle". Its just easier.

[@educetheme4175]

Stem peeler here, there is some junk at the other end I prefer not to eat or touch, which gets discarded with the peel, so there is that.

[@brendasusanchristensen7058]

I’m so glad you have kept showing us the culture of your country! Thank you from Wyoming USA

[@aegishjalmur8782]

WE LOVE YOU, ELI🌹🌿🕊️✨💖✨PLease Continue On With Your Interesting, Informative, &Beautiful Cultural Videos.✨❤️🤍💙✨

[@raymondnagel5431]

Loved every bit of this. The best road to peace is to learn about others and understand.

[@hardmanst]

Spot on Raymond

[@Borat_Kazakh]

Yes. And if that doesn't work, send your tanks, artillery, and missiles to destroy innocent people. Dead people are always quite peaceful.

[@vesnastojanovic2155]

I really agree with you raymond

[@JKCgrandpa]

I found the first day of school tradition endearing and admirable. Where I live, (near Seattle) we will also blink our lights to warn on-coming drivers of a police “speed trap”. But we will also call 911 to report drivers who are driving so recklessly that they are a real threat to others or themselves, (probably drunk).

[@paulinejensen7968]

Regarding blinking of your car lights to warn others of police, I believe it's mainly truckers that do this. Otherwise, it's done when other car still has "high beams" on when they should be turned off when there is an on-coming car (to avoid blinding them)

[@kimberlylay1005]

@@paulinejensen7968 if u make an up and down motion w ur arm, the trucker will honk his horn.

[@cwilliams3480]

@@paulinejensen7968 no, some of us still quickly flash the lights to warn a oncoming driver to slow down but it is also to let them know there's an emergency ahead. This is handy in the country where there's hills and other blindspots.

[@harrybarrow6222]

I love your videos, Eli. It is important for all of us to see how people in other countries live. There are differences, but so much is the same.

[@trekpac2]

Thanks, Eli, that was so wonderful to hear about the traditions of people in Russia. It is such a cool place and I’d love to visit and talk with the Russian people.

[@davidwagner6116]

My Grandad was Russian. Thanks for showing some good sides of Russian culture! That September 1 is really special.

[@thor9563]

How do 'intelligent women' in Russy-a feel about grandmothers (babushka's) in Ukraine being bombed out of their homes? Their water plants, electrical plants attacked by Russy-an missiles with Winter coming on? About little girls 4 years old, hit by missiles, ripped apart by disgusting Russy-ans? About orcs invading Ukrainina villages, raping their women, stealing their personal belongings, can we go on and on and on? Russy-a needs to think about what Russy-a is doing in the world. Your 'men' run like chickens from Ukrainian men and women, flee to the 'Motherland' - HAAAHHAHHAA! Russy-an 'men run like chickens from conscription officals to countries Russy-a has been bullying for a hundred years. Russy-a's national symbol in their flag - a TWO HEADED CHICKEN!! Now the world understands!!

[@IStandWithRussiaZOV]

I'm an American everything I see and know about different Russian culture is beautiful

[@donnawest866]

I love the idea of celebrating the new year of knowledge at the beginning of the school year! I would love for us to adopt this custom in the USA. Very interesting video Eli! Thanks!

[@stark2568]

I too like it, it is a great tradition and kind of sense of good feeling for the student community help each other! Every country should follow this!

[@danielasterling6936]

TEXMEX

[@danielasterling6936]

@@stark2568 TEXMEX

[@namekik]

Eli, you are a beautiful soul. Thanks for enlightening me more about Russian culture. It is a beautiful culture and your small town background is a lot similar to my experience growing up in my village in Nigeria although I now live in the US.

[@amandabillingsley9436]

My ballet teachers were from St. Petersburg. I wouldn’t say they were cold just very formal. Like I spent every day with them and they were still formal and serious. Hard workers, they taught me hard work!❤️

[@DailyJAB]

This was great Eli. A lot of people here in the US do the same thing with the seatbelts and the flashing of the headlights (depending on where you are). We mock our government all the time lol. The first bell footage was adorable and the men carrying things for the ladies was sweet.

[@elgasalme9331]

She do not mention that in general Russian men treat women like piece of sh... They never do houseworks, never spend time with children, women are never taken seriously.

[@jamesbond8608]

I don’t like the idea of eating baby horses 🤮

[@marekgarbowski2364]

As someone who grew up in Poland in 80's and part of 90's I can understand first 4 points. It took me a while to adjust to western culture where some of those habits which I viewed as "good culture" were seen as strange (opening doors for ladies, giving up bus seat for females or elderly, first and last days of school being a huge deal etc.). Keep up good work on bringing understanding of Slavic culture to the rest of the world. When we understand each other hopefully we will fear each other less.

[@cwilliams3480]

Yeah our younger generations are slack lol I guess they wasn't taught?

[@elgasalme9331]

What is western culture? Putins vocabulary. Only in Scandinavia you can meet these door issues, never experienced in Europe. But they help women with house works and childern a lot. Russian men rarely do it and in general they treat women like sluts. So opening doors do not show any respect at all to feel proud about that habit. At home after opened doors woman is beaten.

[@apdjr5758]

What about us who live in the Far East, the ASEAN REGION. Our cultural heritage stem from the same route your ancestors came. We also practice those "strange" rituals ourselves (opening doors for ladies, giving up bus seats for female and elderly, 1st and last days of school year is a big deal. YES, YES, YES we experienced exactly all those virtues. I'm 76 now and have those root feelings in my veins... and in our country. We treat our women and elderly with respect, and beat our children with sticks. But not anymore in 2022. Life changes.

[@lickedcat]

russia culture of giving flowers to teachers only looks corrupt to westerners where the education system is used to confuse children and do devious things to them without their parents knowledge.

[@aarondilley5266]

@@apdjr5758 we had the same things in the US when I was young but it has changed.

[@nurnu349]

Thanks for sharing this! I'm very interested in everything Russian. Greetings from Spain!😊😄

[@curtake]

Eli, Thank you for all your human and knowledgeable programs. They both warm and give me facts about Russia, which is not allowed in my country Sweden, where I live. I both understand and enjoy the Russian habits and your culture, the respect between men and women, the family traditions and the respect for teachers, school and knowledge. In Sweden, such values are unfortunately set aside and silenced by the state and the mass media. I would love to give You a flower if I could reach out with it.

[@dlawn19]

The September 1st tradition is absolutely precious. I loved seeing that. And how adorable were you?!! 💐🥰

[@mixwellnz]

Hi Eli, so cute of you sharing your childhood video with us. Growing up have studied in both China and New Zealand, I think western culture don’t respect their teachers as much. In China we also start school on the 1st of Sept every year (I think we learnt a lot from the Russians back then) and I think around 10th Sept it’s teachers day which we bring gifts and cards of appreciation to the teachers.

[@michaelmcclafferty3346]

I love the 1st September tradition. Many of your traditions are very similar to Scottish people.

[@elausraliano]

I love the school traditions! In Australia everyone wears their seat belt, even in some buses. No exceptions. the state of Victoria was the first in the world to make seat belts compulsory (due to the high road accident mortality at the time) in 1970, I think, only for driver and front-seat passenger and, in 1982, it became compulsory for rear seat passengers as well. Victoria was also the first place in the world to make windscreen wipers compulsory in 1932.

[@rebecca.m6068]

I love the school tradition you all have. I wish we did that in the US!

[@jerryfischer3988]

Love your tradition of treating your women by carrying their things. But the flowers and bell ringing September 1 is fabulous!

[@lizonalexis9776]

Russians are humble people, they can laugh about themselves, that s awesome! French people can't do it. I think that the best tradition in Russia is buying Grechka; it's the proof that you are really rational and that you can adapt to any treat that comes. In Eu, few country's people accept to adapt to difficulties nowadays!

[@Lonewolf-gr2nh]

Thank you for sharing your culture. Beside your beautiful your intellect shines. ❤

[@bogdankyuchukov4001]

I‘m from Bulgaria and we also have very similar traditions, like the Epiphany bathing. I did it myself! But you really win and totally got me with the ice bathing part when it‘s -54 degrees. Now I want to visit this part of the world and do it myself.

[@markprior6009]

Good to see you again Eli. You’re a lovely lady and believe me when I say that you’re breaking down cultural barriers ❤️. Keep up the fantastic work xx

[@danielasterling6936]

NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE NIEVE A R G E N T I N A

[@plyjhny]

She is an arm of the Russian state media apparatus

[@milagrotorres5960]

I have a new friend, and he is russian and I am trying to learn his culture. Everything is so different from what I have been told all my life. I'm falling in love with this culture :) it's so exciting!

[@naveedhasan5365]

Always stay awesome, Eli

[@hestia6016]

Plz do more about russian habit and culture. I'm craving for that.. also the russian body language please

[@Xx-ib6bf]

Wow! I learned so much that I Never heard of before! The Sep. 1st custom is Beautiful. You should be very proud. Acknowledgement of learning, teachers, & community is beautiful. Everyone should be proud of their unique culture, & traditions, and heritage! From a woman in the US. Salutations and God bless.

[@bobalicious2696]

Eli, good job on sharing Russian culture with the rest of us. In the U.S. we normally tend to panic buy milk and bread when hurricanes come, but in 2020 when Covid came, people panic bought toilet paper. I don't, and still can't, understand why they did this. But I do remember that for like 8 MONTHS toiled paper was unavailable in this area. Also, people were stealing the toilet paper from our work bathrooms. It got so bad that you had to go to the boss to get a toilet roll for your bathroom trip, and then bring it back. It was horrible.

[@malikelapitsoanthonylephot6639]

Wow! First time I heard of that. I can just picture that. So have you found out why people bought toilet paper? Hahaha! Greetings from South Africa.

[@charliemays8503]

Great videos, Eli. You always come across as so pleasant. People around the world. We all share so much in common in being human but unfortunately, we aren’t taught to relate to one another all that much anymore. Life is so quick. It’s a shame to waste it not getting along with your fellow brothers and sisters around the world. Don’t let yourselves be dived.❤

[@danilopeznafoofan1888]

Me gusta Rusia saludos desde México 🇲🇽🤝🇷🇺

[@sen0093]

Hi Eli,I am from India and I have gone through all of your travel videos where you have visited the different provinces in Russia. I found this country is so beautiful and so big.I don't know whether I will get a chance to see your country but I wish may be someday I will visit.. Love from India🇮🇳🇮🇳❤️❤️

[@Svafne]

As someone with Russian heritage I find your videos very interesting! Thank you for showing me what my ancestors county is like today :)

[@user-mz6eq9js8r]

Eli, You have a great sense of humor.

[@chrystalholley5545]

Eli, my husband and I watch you all the time. We love you! Please don't listen to people who complain. As Americans from Texas, we can tell you that people here flash their lights to warn people about police. People everywhere have customs that do not always make sense. My family comes from Finland originally, so much of what you show of the Sami and Northern Russia fits my family. Keep up the great work.

[@kumlacharlie9076]

Ooooh, chrystal, your so special. I wont tell you what 100% of all of my Finnish friends think about Ruzzkyies and your v´comment, cuz it wouldnt be anything nice - hugs and kisses. Doint miss next train to Ruzzkyie land - god speed!

[@danielasterling6936]

RUSSIA ARGENTINA POLAR NATIONS USHUAIA ANTÁRTIDA ARGENTINA AURORA AUSTRAL

[@danielasterling6936]

@Diane M RUSSIA ARGENTINA POLAR NATIONS USHUAIA ANTÁRTIDA ARGENTINA AURORA AUSTRAL

[@danielasterling6936]

@@kumlacharlie9076 RUSSIA ARGENTINA POLAR NATIONS USHUAIA ANTÁRTIDA ARGENTINA AURORA AUSTRAL

[@lonelyyoutuber5740]

@Diane M you’re mad. Why bring nato to a nice conversation warmongers

[@gary62or45]

Eli, thank you so much for this video. It is so heart warming to see some of your traditions, a lot like those in USA. Loved the ribbons in your hair during your first bell…..Gary from the USA

[@gaggleesyt]

People shouldn't be sending you threats. Governmental decisions do not represent the public. Your people are amazing. Please ignore the haters!

[@1rober2]

What a beautiful school opening ceremony you have.❤

[@Nastiazik]

Eli, hi from Moscow!🇷🇺 I love your video so much

[@wisewizard1029]

Thanks Eli, as usual your video was very interesting and informative. Russia is a great Country and I’ve had the pleasure of visiting your beautiful Country a few years ago.

[@angiemartin6364]

Hi from Colorado in the United States! I love your channel, and I love learning about your country and culture! Thank you! I especially loved your video about the Russian history. 😊

[@sagayagambrun5149]

You're a blessed soul!Blessings!x

[@luke_mayernik]

In 🇺🇸, we also flash other drivers here to warn people of the👮‍♂️. Ты молодец, Эли! ❤️🇷🇺❤️☦️❤️🇷🇺

[@ZER0ZER0SE7EN]

Yes, I was thinking this too. I have only seen it in the US only outside of the cities on the highways.

[@mfmayes]

here in California, it is illegal to flash drivers to warn of police

[@ZER0ZER0SE7EN]

@@mfmayes I'm in California too. I didn't know that, or forgot. I have never heard of anyone getting cited for it. I'll ask my retired CHP friend. We are supposed to drive with headlights on during rain, but I don't know if that's done much.

[@tomifost]

Where are you guys from in the US? I've never correlated flashing lights with anything other than communicating that the other persons headlights arent on.

[@SpiritDK]

same here in Denmark

[@lextrombas]

Eli thank God your men do these things! The respect the men in Russia have for women is seriously lacking in other parts of the world! We should be so lucky!

[@xaramanesiotoy9872]

More or less same here in Greece!!! I loved the festivities on September 1.

[@datathunderstorm]

Giving flowers to your teachers in Russia on 1st September is not corruption by any stretch of the imagination. It is a sign of gratitude and respect towards your educators. I was a foreign student in Minsk and observed this first hand. There is nothing remotely corrupt about this great tradition.

[@mongolian50cent]

don't worry Eli most of us know that Russia is a beautiful country and it's people are nice and welcoming

[@andrewlesterthomas5581]

The majority support Putin.

[@mongolian50cent]

@Connard Cyndi nope

[@mongolian50cent]

@Diane M Mongolians duhh

[@customfantasyhotwheels]

"...and *its** people."

[@mishaa7263]

I am Russian and I know this is not true now, they kill our cousins 😑😑

[@MagicGreenSquid]

One of your most interesting videos, Eli. Drivers in Australia also flash their headlights to warn others that police are nearby. If they catch you doing it, you will be in trouble, though!

[@DerekDavis213]

In USA, Google Maps will warn you of 'police speed traps'. Very helpful.

[@pamtv9344]

Great Eli... Blessings

[@Tammy-zr9zw]

Sharing this type of info was a brilliant idea! You made it so interesting and humorous at the same time. I greatly enjoyed it! (Houston, Texas)

[@robclarkson3697]

Maddly in love with you! The first bell is a great tradition. I also like the russian family values. I was so impressed at how every one watches out for the children. I often saw small children like 5 or 6 with a note from mom and some money to pick something up. My russian isn't good but I got the gist when the cashier pointed at the note and said Net about what ever they were asking for.

[@vickimaddox8711]

I love the first bell for school children learning more about children and their education is very interesting. Thank you

[@attackfive8659]

Ellis always very insightful.

[@kujetube-uh6ix]

Hi Eli, You bring a stream of positive feelings and energy in this troubled world. I enjoy tapping in it even more, as Russian is one of the languages I'm fluent in. There is something to share on your question about cars in US flashing their headlights to warn about street police. For many years now I have been driving a big truck all over US, Canada and Alaska. Here tere are a lot of Slavic ruck drivers from eastern Europe like miself , as well as from all over what was the CCCP. Naturally we brought our headlight flashing habit with us. Years ago only among ourselves we understood this signals but as time progressed more and more American truck drivers started responding and using it. Now I often see even cars flash their headlights. It is becoming popular to do it also to warn others not only about speed traps, bot also accidents, fallen on the road objects and so on. Another form of cultural exchange between the East and the West, isn't it? And you are a big time contributor to it. Thank you for that! I will perefease the quote from the end of your klip. Here it goes - "You can not understand Russia with your mind, you can feel it with your heart. And the same goes about the entire human kind". Thanks again! Keep going!

[@malgorzata3124]

Thank you Eli. Love your channel! Wish you all the best! I'm Polish, I do relate to almost all what you say. It feels so good to know we are so alike 😊 we also has tradition to give flowers to teachers. Wouldn't think about it as corruptive behaviour ever. I would consider it as Respecting and Rewarding thing. On the East we still respect teachers while on the West teachers are very disrespected. That put on danger future generations educational needs. Sadly East pick up this respecting behaviour on the westers friends. Believieng in westernies superiority and Our inferiority. Hopefully we wake up one day and start to appreciate good thing about ourselfs. Have a lovely summer Eli.

[@kumlacharlie9076]

Yack! Wish you a lovely Ryúzkyie spec operation visit in the near future, hugs and kisses.

[@danielasterling6936]

RUSSIA ARGENTINA POLAR NATIONS USHUAIA ANTÁRTIDA ARGENTINA AURORA AUSTRAL

[@danielasterling6936]

@@kumlacharlie9076 RUSSIA ARGENTINA POLAR NATIONS

[@lMrRedl]

Maybe it is soviet's influence. Like grandpa Lenin once told "Learn, learn and once again - learn" to all soviet people, so there some kind of traditions were started to honor teachers.

[@plyjhny]

She is an arm of Russian state propagand

[@johnvsymons]

Thanks Eli for this fascinating vlog today. You would make an excellent professor of Russian history. I studied Russian history years ago and have always been interested in your history and culture. I appreciate all that you do to make your country's history, culture and gorgeous scenery a little bit more familiar to foreigners who basically know nothing about Russia. Take care and have a pleasant and rewarding week. 👍🤗❤️🙏🌎

[@danielasterling6936]

BARILOCHE USHUAIA ICE HOCKEY A R G E N T I N A

[@plyjhny]

She is an arm of the Russian state media apparatus

[@sharonbos9837]

Thank you .Have a great day.