When you're in Russia, you'll likely notice that locals are quite superstitious. It's part of Russian culture. Here are some superstitions to know about (and respect) before you set off on a trip to Russia.

Never turn back halfway

In Russia, forgetting something at home is not a reason to turn back. Indeed, most people believe that misfortune could strike on the return journey, and Russians prefer to continue their route. However, if you absolutely must turn back, you should look in the mirror before leaving home again.

Make a wish when standing between two people with the same name

This custom may seem odd, but Russians do it every time this situation arises. And it happens more often than you might think. In the country, the most common names include Sasha, Sergey, Maria, Elena… Above all, don't tell anyone your wish, or it won't come true!

Never shake hands with someone at the doorway

If you visit a friend or acquaintance in Russia, don't rush to shake their hand or kiss them when they open the door, even if you're overcome with emotion. Wait until you're inside before doing so. Indeed, shaking hands or kissing while standing on opposite sides of a doorway brings bad luck. Evil spirits could take advantage of this moment of friendly exchange to enter the home. The same applies if you're leaving the house and saying goodbye to your friend or loved one…

Always check that your clothes aren't worn inside out

According to an old Russian superstition, putting on clothes inside out means you'll be hit by someone during the day. If this happens, you must turn your clothes the right way around and ask someone you trust to tap you on the back to avoid being hit again.

Never give sharp objects as gifts

When you give a present to your Russian friend, especially avoid giving them a sharp object, particularly scissors or a knife. This could offend them and an argument will be inevitable.

Only give flowers in odd numbers

Have you decided to give flowers to your Russian girlfriend or female friend? Don't give her a bouquet with an even number of flowers. Besides, most florists only sell bouquets with odd numbers of flowers. Flowers in even numbers are used at funerals.

And no yellow flowers either!

If you intend to give flowers to your Russian spouse, avoid yellow at all costs, as this color symbolizes infidelity. 

What to say in response to good luck wishes?

If someone wishes you good luck or «ni poukha ni pera» in Russian, tradition dictates that you don't say thank you, as luck could turn. People respond with «k tchiortou», which means «to the devil!»

Don't sit at the corner of a table

If you have the misfortune of sitting at the corner of a table, it means, according to tradition, that you won't find your soulmate and won't get married for at least the next seven years!

Don't leave an empty bottle on the table

When a bottle has been completely emptied, it's still customary in Russia to not leave it on the table. This old tradition is said to have originated during the war with the Napoleonic army. Make a wish by blowing into the bottle and seal it before disposing of it.

Don't whistle in an enclosed space

Whistling in a closed space like a house or apartment is something that simply isn't done in Russia. It's considered a summons to evil spirits or demons. In fact, if you whistle out of habit in a supermarket, customers, especially elderly people, will give you a dirty look!

Don't spill salt at the table

If you're asked to pass the salt at table, be careful and make sure you don't spill it. This means you're going to have an argument. Should the accident happen anyway, you must then take a pinch of spilled salt and throw it over your left shoulder while laughing. Maybe you'll escape the curse.