Eurovision Chat

I have recently spoken to a friend of mine, who lives in Moscow. She’s been working in the Russian capital for a year now and is also trying to bribe me into going to Moscow too. It’s such a paradise, she often says. I guess it’s true, but it’s also true that Moscow is of the most expensive cities in the world as well. Still, my friend assures me that you on live on about 1000 Euros per month, if you pay for bills, transport, etc, well, basically, live on the cheap and still okay.

As you are probably planning a Eurovision trip, you might be interested in some tips on how to financially survive in Moscow. Here is a piece of UNcommon sense to make your life easier in Moscow, if you still have any doubts whether to go or not.

• coach surfing: CouchSurfing is a very popular method of travelling in staying abroad. It is a worldwide network for making connections between travellers, tourists, students, adventure-seekers… and local people in the places they visit.
• hitch-hike: If you are a lover of hitch-hiking, this method will help you move round without paying. I know a person who got from Portugal to Ukraine hitch-hiking, but he is an extreme case. A way to travel better still is..
• low-cost flights: you don’t need to be told that the second best way to travel is with a low-cost air company. (The ultimate best is the free trip, of course)
• sandwiches to go: you can make your own sandwiches while in Moscow – buy and bring the lightest foods, suck as packed cheese, and you’ll make it!
• volunteer as part of the Eurovision organisation: get in touch with the organisers of the contest. They might need volunteers. Chances grow if you speak more than two languages.
• get something to do in Moscow: you should have already done this… at least a month before the show. Ideally, if you can afford a place to stay, you can combine a part-time job and watching the rehearsals.
• drink a lot … and you won’t be able to care less where you are.
• Have a go with Moscow famous museums, libraries and bookstores.. These are free places, where you can spend hours on end, not spending a single ruble, having some time away from the Press Centre.
• don’t miss the countries’ parties every night – but choose carefully! Most countries offer food, but others rely on buffet only. Select the countries with the best PR and the most massive promo campaign – they are sure to spend money on the promo party at the Eurovision village as well

and finally…

• marry a Russian girl / boy. If they are rich – all for the better!

Now you are equipped with all necessary skills and information for a successful survival in Moscow. Good luck!