The collapse of the Soviet police state has left vacuums in civil authority that, combined with the anarchy of embryonic capitalism, makes the former Soviet Union a much less safe place to travel than it used to be. But it is a matter of degree. It is a fact that previously instances of criminal acts against foreigners were extremely rare, now they are just rare. Travel in Russia and the CIS, while more hazardous than before, is still many times safer than travel to most major US cities. And it is utterly safe if you follow your better judgement and common sense.

It is a good idea, particularly if you are traveling independently and/or to the provinces, to notify the US Embassy that you are in the country. It is a fairly quick procedure and, at the very least, if you should lose your passport, having made such notification makes receipt of a replacement much faster.

 After dark, always use the buddy system for walking on the streets, particularly if you know no Russian. No exceptions.

Further, do not drink alcohol with people you don't know: There have been instances of foreigners being slipped a "mickey" and then being robbed.

Foreigners are honored guests in Russia. Yet, as in any society undergoing such profound social changes, there will be some who resent what they see as "rich" foreigners who remind them of what they do not have. Leave your Rolex, fur coats and expensive jewelry at home. Be discrete with cash, credit cards and Jewelry.

Make purchases at reputable outlets. Count your change carefully before leaving the cashier or the seller. Recount your change if the seller has recounted it a second time, to make sure you have not been tricked during the recounting. When deciding when and where to make your purchases or to change money, do not place convenience over your personal security.

Disperse your money throughout your garments. Remember the amounts in each location, and, when making purchases, retrieve the amount of money needed only for that purchase. Never display large sums of money. Disperse your money throughout your garments. Remember the amounts in each location. When making purchases, retrieve the amount of money needed only for that purchase. Never display large sums of money.

Do not rush a transaction and do not let anything distract you while you are carrying out a transaction. There have been reports of foreigners creating a distraction while a member of the local population rips you off. Another known seam involves deaf mutes who act ill or confused and seek the aid of a foreigner. While the latter attempts to help, he is robbed by members of the deaf mute's gang. Also be wary of gypsy and young teenage gangs who can "swarm down on you and pick your pockets or purse.

When out on the town, leave hard-to-replace non-essential items such as passports, credit cards, driver's licenses, and family pictures with the hotel security office or at home.

Incidences of robberies on overnight trains are on the rise. Always lock your cabin door at night. For good measure, you may also want to secure the door with a belt or other device.

Never patronize unmarked taxis and NEVER enter any taxi carrying unfamiliar passengers. Agree upon the price and destination prior to entering the vehicle.