One in Four Russians Actively Avoids Fellow Travelers Abroad, Survey Finds

A new survey reveals that a significant number of Russian tourists are deliberately steering clear of their compatriots while traveling internationally. According to data shared with the Telegram channel “Ostorozhno, Novosti” by the online language school Skyeng, roughly one in four Russian citizens now admits to actively avoiding other Russians during trips abroad.

The study highlights what locals and travelers alike consider the most recognizable traits of Russian tourists. Loud Russian speech tops the list, cited by 33 percent of respondents as the most obvious giveaway. Another 27 percent pointed to heavy makeup and eyelash extensions as dead giveaways, while 22 percent said they spot fellow Russians by the shopping bags from domestic marketplaces. A smaller share, 13 percent, noted telltale fashion choices—wearing flip-flops outside the beach or sporting heels by the shore.

When it comes to social interactions, only 36 percent of those surveyed said they welcome the chance to speak Russian abroad. Meanwhile, 19 percent admitted they feel awkward and hesitate to approach fellow Russians, and 7 percent confessed to pretending they don’t speak the language at all. The findings come on the heels of an earlier survey where Russians shared the habits they find most embarrassing among their countrymen overseas, with loud conversations in public places topping the list at 34 percent.