Top 5 Countries to Leave Russia for During the Crisis

Contents:

• How to cope with anxiety in difficult times
• Current border closures for Russians
• Popular destinations for emigration

How to Cope with Anxiety in Challenging Times

In times of crisis, many people experience constant feelings of anxiety and panic. Clinical psychologist Grigory Kochetkov notes that these conditions are particularly acute in those who previously suffered from increased anxiety. It is important to recognize that such reactions are normal in response to abnormal circumstances. Understanding your emotions and seeking help from specialists can significantly alleviate the condition and help you cope with difficulties. According to the expert, an important step in reducing anxiety is limiting the time spent watching the news. It is recommended to allocate no more than 15 minutes a day to familiarizing yourself with current information. This approach will help avoid excessive mental stress and maintain emotional balance. Regularly reducing the time spent on the news can significantly improve overall well-being and reduce stress levels. Kochetkov emphasizes the importance of maintaining your usual activity during difficult times. Work, study, and daily tasks can provide support, allowing you to organize your thoughts and control your emotions. It is also important to follow recommendations for maintaining mental health: maintain a sleep schedule, eat a healthy diet, and avoid alcohol and psychoactive substances. These measures will help build resilience and improve quality of life in challenging situations.

If anxiety becomes unbearable, it's helpful to consider a change of scenery. As Kochetkov notes, "If you have the opportunity, it makes sense to spend time in a place where you feel safe." Traveling to visit friends or to nature can help restore inner balance and improve mental health. A change of scenery often helps reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.

Finally, it is important to note that in addition to practical recommendations, the support of family and specialists plays a crucial role in overcoming anxiety. Don't hesitate to seek help if you feel you can't cope on your own. Psychological support and professional advice can significantly improve your condition and help you find effective ways to combat anxious thoughts.

Current border closure for Russians

As of today, only four countries have suspended visas to Russian citizens: the Czech Republic, Latvia, Lithuania, and Japan. New Zealand has restricted entry for officials and those associated with a "special operation." The Belgian Minister of Refugees has proposed completely suspending the issuance of Schengen visas to Russians, but this proposal has not yet found sufficient support among EU countries. It is important to monitor changes in visa policy, as the situation can change depending on political decisions.

As a result of the airspace closure, approximately 40 countries and territories, including all EU member states, the United Kingdom, and Canada, have decided to restrict flights by Russian airlines. This has created obstacles to direct air travel with Europe. However, alternative routes, such as driving or flying via third countries, remain available. This opens up new opportunities for travel, although it requires additional time and planning.

The closure of European airspace has forced Aeroflot to suspend flights to the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Cuba, despite the absence of restrictions in these countries. According to Alexander Osauenko, director of the Tourpomoshch association of tour operators, this decision may be temporary and is due to the need to create new air routes. Flights are expected to resume, but a specific timeline has not yet been determined. It is important to monitor updates to stay informed about the air travel situation and plan your trips.

Eleven airports near the Ukrainian border have been temporarily suspended until March 8. This decision is due to ensuring security in the region. Airports affected by the restrictions will not accept flights until this date. We recommend that passengers follow the latest information and plan their trips in advance.

• Gelendzhik
• Simferopol
• Elista
• Anapa (Vityazevo)
• Krasnodar (Pashkovsky)
• Bryansk
• Belgorod
• Kursk (Vostochny)
• Lipetsk
• Voronezh (Chertovitskoye)
• Rostov-on-Don (Platov)

To get to the airports of the Krasnodar Territory, you can use trains or first fly to nearby cities and then continue your trip by public transport. For example, it is convenient to get to the Krasnodar Territory via Sochi, which is a popular route for travelers.

One of the sanctions imposed by the European Union is a requirement for air carriers to terminate contracts with Russian leasing companies. French company Airbus handles approximately 40% of air traffic in Russia, and Boeing has also joined this decision. These measures could lead to increased airfares and flight cancellations. In response to the sanctions, Aeroflot is considering options such as buying back aircraft or transferring its fleet to Asian jurisdictions. However, specific steps have not yet been determined. When booking tickets, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with changes in air travel.

Rosaviatsia strongly advises Russians to temporarily refrain from traveling abroad, particularly to European countries and Canada. This warning is due to the current situation and the risks that may arise during international travel. It is recommended to closely monitor news and updates regarding travel outside of Russia.

Rostourism has developed a memo with recommendations for citizens located abroad or at Russian resorts. It contains important tips for dealing with problems, as well as useful contact information for assistance.

Popular Destinations for Emigration

Despite the current sanctions and closed borders in Europe, leaving Russia is currently possible. The main aspect to consider is ensuring the possibility of return.

Russian citizens are able to travel freely throughout the CIS countries. Among the most attractive destinations are Georgia and Armenia, where the number of Russian emigrants and digital nomads is increasing. Belarus also remains a popular option, although the political situation there may raise some concerns. It is also worth considering trips to Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, where picturesque cities and resorts can distract from current events. One of the significant advantages of these countries is the ability to return to Russia by land routes, which is especially important in the context of possible restrictions on air traffic.

According to Alexander Osauenko, director of the Tourpomoshch association of tour operators, talks were held with the tourism ministers of Turkey and Egypt on December 28. During the meeting, a commitment to cooperation and maintaining a stable level of tourist flow was confirmed. This means that travel to these countries remains accessible and without significant restrictions. The United Arab Emirates and Qatar are also open to tourists, expanding travel opportunities.

Turkey offers more than just stunning beaches and rich historical sites. Istanbul, as a key hub, offers Russians convenient travel options to Europe. Schengen visa holders can easily organize their trips, significantly simplifying the travel process and opening up new horizons for tourists.

Accessibility to East Asian countries remains stable. On February 25, the coronavirus task force announced an increase in the number of flights to partially reopened Thailand. An increase in flights to India and Vietnam is also observed. Expert Osauenko is confident that travel to these destinations will not be a problem in the near future. The Seychelles, Maldives, and Sri Lanka are also open to Russians, making them accessible to tourists.

China is still closed to tourists, but, as Osauenko noted, Beijing plans to restore transport links with Russia on March 14. A full recovery of international tourism is expected by mid-summer. This opens the door to renewed travel and stronger ties between countries. Tourists will be able to once again enjoy China's culture and attractions, which will be an important step in the recovery of the tourism industry.

We recommend you pay attention to current issues.

• How will the financial situation change: what to do with loans without SWIFT?
• Where can I work remotely? 6 Most Promising Countries for Digital Nomads.
• How to Move Your Business to Europe: A Step-by-Step Guide for Startups.