The second Russian homeland: the most famous Russian regions around the world

Did you know that you can find small parts of Russia in the different areas around the world?

Nowadays it has become fashionable to go to other countries and stay for a little while, getting to know the people and culture. But for many people in the past, moving abroad was often the only way to survive. Even now, migration due to political, economic or personal reasons is a very common phenomenon. We've found out where the most significant populations of Russians can be found outside of Russia, so you might be able to get a taste of the unique country if you can't make it to the homeland itself!

1. Brighton beach, USA

The cradle of the Russian ghetto, "Little Odessa" was the refuge of migrants from the USSR, and it is now one of the most famous areas of New York. But few people know that this place was initially conceived as a prestigious resort village, which, unfortunately (or fortunately!) very quickly was taken over by Russians. However, at the beginning of the 21st century, Brighton Beach gradually began to see change again: rapid construction has now changed the original appearance significantly. Want to see it for yourself? Book one of our New York Hostels in the Russian Ghetto.

2. Marzan, Germany

In North-East of Berlin is another stronghold of socialism- the Russian district of Marzan. When you visit you'll find that you are in one of the old residential areas of Moscow.

Children's playgrounds have been made from the old Soviet booths which have been perfectly maintained. By the way, the distance between the high-rise houses was excessively big for the time they were built. There are also Russian schools, shops, eateries, cafes and so on. There are around 100,000 Russians and Germans living there now.

3. Toronto, Canada

In the "Russian" city of Canada immigrants from the USSR and Russia can be found in the following places: near the famousintersection of Bathurst and Steeles, as well as in the area of Mississauga. If you look around you can see signs of the Russian culture everywhere: notorious shops with Russian names and sings, schools, restaurants, stalls and the native speech can be heard everywhere in these areas. Here you can easily buy unlicensed software and buy goods from the '90s - gum, jeans and tape in bulk. In fact, the atmosphere on the streets seems a little like that of the times of perestroika-era! But, I think we can say that the accomodation options you can now find in Toronto are a little more modern - check out our cheap hostels in Toronto, Canada to see for yourself.

4. Dongdaemun, South Korea

The Russians have widely immigrated to various Asian countries and cities. One of such places was the Korean district of Condemn and, in particular, Russian Street. It is easy to find it – there is an abundance of signs and billboards as well as a pleasant smell of bread and other native goods. Especially noteworthy is the cafe "My friend" and the bakery" Corner", where everything is decked out in the traditional Russian style: colourful tablecloths, small tables, silk curtains, wildflowers in vases and even traditional music. The kiosks sell books, CDs, cheeses, sausages and chewing gum.

It is interesting to note that Koreans love trying Russian food and often buy souvenirs. What to see what the Koreans are crazy about? Book an amazing hostel in Seoul and see for yourself!

5. Bondi Beach, Australia

When you walk down Bondi beach you forget that Moscow or Odessa are far away, as everything is painfully familiar if you're Russian. Every other person speaks in native Russian, and the streets of the area are full of signs depicting "Russian Troika", "Russian fairy tale", "Delicacies", and you can often hear native Russian music being played. The Russians began to move here in Soviet times - it actually was a very popular destination for emigrating Russians. Today the number has significantly decreased due to the migration policy in Australia. It is, of course, an amazing place to visit, and if you're looking for cheap accomodation in Bondi beach, check out our incredible hostels!