1

hi....

5 days in Moscow is nice. It's a huge wonderful city and there's plenty to do with that amount of time.
It doesn't 'Have' to be expensive though. Sure, like any capital city, there are the pricey things.
However with a bit of homework, it can be done cheaply.
It's well known that there are many people living in Moscow who don't have much money.
They still live there, go out at weekends and have fun. So it is possible to enjoy it without a bucket of cash.
The locals know where the good cheap eateries and bars are. Ask at tourist info, or follow a few.
You're right though, it will be very cold and also dark early. Wrap up warm and you'll be fine.
I don't know who's told you that people in Moscow are not friendly.
There are, for sure, grumpy people in every city. However, I find Moscow very friendly generally.
Hope you have a really nice time.

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Thanks

3

You're very welcome.
A few more people will be along shortly with more ideas, for sure.

4

If you are a student be sure to bring an ISIC (international student identity card) as this will get you some admission discounts but understand that many admissions will cost you dearly perhaps an average of 10+ USD for some places.

Learn to read the Cyrillic alphabet and learn some menu words or invest in a phrase book or language map so you aren't tied to eating in places with English language menus.

Ruth

5

There are plenty of chain cafeterias offering cheap russian eats, you can also by food at supermarkets such as noodles, salads and breads.

Personally I loved Moscow its such an interesting city, I don't know why some people find it unfriendly, certainly compared to other major capitals such as London or Paris we found muscovites friendly.

The metro is a cheap way to get around.

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Thanksssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss