Hi (smiles) I am Serbian who lives in USA, and I work with both Americans and Russians, yes Russians usually don’t smile here either but now when they know me longer time, they smile little bit when they see me. From Eastern European perspective because I was born and raised there, I can say I was very surprised in difference when taking picture for ID. In Serbia and I guess Russia too it’s extremely important to be serious; here in US they told me I may smile. Also in Serbia’s banks and all other official institutions people are deadly serious, that’s the standard, in US they are kind of chill. I saw guy dancing in the middle of the bank. One more thing in Serbia nobody was kind when you go to see a doctor. But medical bills are so small... in US you pay so much but people are extremely kind. Just wanted to share my personal observations. 😊
Although I've never been to Russia, we have several friends and acquaintances who immigrated to the US from Russia in the early 2000's. Over the years, their smiling seems to be increasing.
I can't express an opinion any better than this: theconversation com / why-are-russians-so-stingy-with-their-smiles-98799 It isn't a stereotype, it's just that in Russian culture, smiling is largely restricted to people you _know_ . Smiling at strangers is considered weird. Since people new to Russia, or Russian people, are going to be, in fact, strangers to the Russians they meet, they are largely only going to see Russians who do not smile much.
I would be thrown out of Russia, the Irish are very smiley. We have quite a lot of Russians living in Cork, Ireland. They are very hard working and very serious, but not easy to get to know as they come across as unfriendly. I did not realise that this was cultural. It is good to understand these things, thank you. You have some very beautiful countryside.
Oh, Russians are really friendly once you get to know them. I'm sure they would love to make friends with locals. May be they don't know how to do that. You should definitely come to Russia to teach Russians how to smile!
@@StPetersburgme I would love to visit once Covid is gone. I was due to come over in June 2020 but I had to cancel. I wish to visit not just the big cities but also the villages, I am very much a countryside person although I was city born.
As an American I believe WHERE you live has a big impact on how you interact with others. Another factor is age. I am an older person and have avoided living in big cities and consequently have been one of those who finds it easy to smile. Sometimes it is a head nod or small gesture. I no longer feel compelled to hurry. Consequently I meet others who reciprocate and brighten my day. I am a happy person. I understand that Russians have been carrying heavy burdens throughout history that we have not. Great channel!
That's right! I've been several times in Russia and I experienced it... until I met people and discovered warmth is within Russians' hearts. I love Russia and send you love from France. :)
Thank you for the video. There is a Brazilian version very similar to the Soviet saying that you mentioned. The version I grew up with roughly translates like " the one who smiles for no reason is either rich or fool" " quem ri a toa ou é rico ou é bobo" I smile a lot and I'm not rich 😂😂😂😂
I live in the USA and when I see people passing me and not smiling I just speak to them. Just saying "Hi" and a small smile goes a long way. I don't think they trust me but just a sign of being polite. I know cultures are different but it does work in other countries that I have visited. But just to say, it's okay if you don't want to smile. Just be polite...
When I was in school in Russia, most people I met thought I was Russian because did not smile until I actually met them; then they thought I was Ukrainian due to dialect learned from my teacher in the US. This happened several times over the years; it always gave all of us some laughs. Thank you so much for your efforts and your lovely smile !
Yeah, it took me few years to learn how to smile when I moved to New York from Estonia. Everyone was constantly asking me "why are you so serious", so I started smiling just to blend in LOL.
I smile and say Hello to strangers, because I like to think if they are down, a caring smile may cheer them up. (I'm not a fake person, I really do care about people) from UK
The only awkward moments I had when I was in Russia was that I do tend to smile at people who are working in stores, when I go to pay for something I like to smile at the person because I also worked in shops for many years and I know how awful some people can be towards people who are just working. So I just try to be nice to them. I got suspicious looks from some people, but others responded positively, I think it just has to do with the person. I thought Russians in general were very nice people, they were proud of their country and curious what we thought of it, and they were curious about where we came from. I would love to go back, St. Petersburg is a beautiful city!
for me it does not look sad, but more honest. And it's good for the psyche, because you feel that you can be natural, you can show sad emotions and people accept you for who you really are. I remember that when I worked in the Greek tourism industry, I had to learn how to smile at Western tourists. It was very hard. I took it as a lot of stress. and violence. It's like I'm being forced to be a hypocrite. I remember one young English tourist who smiled at me and I was really scared because only her mouth was smiling, not her eyes. Often I see this in Western people - their mouth is smiling, but their eyes are not, and it scares me. So I think that not always a smile helps to live. Only a real smile coming from the inside gives a positive, but a smile of politeness, in my opinion, acts destructively for the psyche
I have noticed you smile a lot. I am glad you are smiling so much. I didn't know this saying or stereotype actually. In Canada we smile a lot and it feels quite natural and good to do so! We smile at strangers in the shops (shop keepers) and on the street to other pedestrians. Especially we smile at strangers if you were the only 2 people to cross paths in a rural area / quiet street but not so much on a crowded busy / city street - you'd be too tired. It's not as expected then. Here a common saying would be that it takes more muscles to frown than it does to smile therefore smiling is easier and better! We also believe that you can trick yourself into feeling good from smiling. Even if you're sad, try smiling and the better feelings will manifest. I've been enjoying your channel. As a suggestion, I would like to see a video you do on music that is popular and any different kinds of Russian music. Traditional, popular, local radio? etc. I wouldn't know what any Russian music sounds like. Essentially, what do you like for entertainment?
Prevyet from Utah. When I stayed with Natasha in Rostov-on-Don, she told me that Russians don’t smile because the language with all of its consonants makes it too hard to smile. That made me laugh, but I don’t know if she meant it as a joke. You are a lovely lady with a beautiful smile.
No, it's kinda true. When we studied English it was really difficult for us to open our mouths as much and stress the sentences in the right way. For us it was unnatural, fake and even embarrassing, no jokes here. And our teacher gave us an advice to smile while we were talking. Our pronunciation get better, but our muscles got hurt after the class. And we were still too shy to speak this way...
I had a Russian best friend in childhood, and her parents didn't speak English. They seemed very gruff. My friend told me that they liked me very much. 😳 What they liked, apparently, was my attempt at Russian, saying please, thank you, and goodbye. It was a cultural difference! ❤ Oh, and this was in 1981 or so.
I have RBF ever since I was a teenager. I was told by a supervisor when I was a teenager that I needed to smile more (serving the public. So when he would come around I would smile, like an exaggerated smile that I thought for sure he would see it as “insincere”). I do think it puts off people, it’s not welcoming, people think I’m angry when it is just my relaxed face. It is an effort to smile, it does not come easily. I have had relationships where I get accused of “not being happy”, when that is far from the truth. So what is the solution? Smile when I know deep down I’m not smiling because of “something”? Or find an overlying motivation to smile like the Russian lady, that really isn’t a reason for joy or happiness, it’s an ulterior motive to what the smile is supposed to represent. I do have a really nice smile, straight and bright white teeth naturally. It’s a secret weapon ;)
I'm Canadian and we are known for our sense of humor, being friendly and smiling. It's also very cold here sometimes but most of us have good dental plans, so no sensitivity to the cold. I appreciate your explanations for Russians not smiling. I have definitely noticed. Often during the Olympic figure skating competitions the Russians don't smile even when they are winning!
I am an American and I do not smile very much myself. Although many Americans do smile, there are a good number who do not. Personally i get along fine with most people, but I could just as soon do without them. Just about any dog is a better companion than most people.
In Italy we usually smile and say hello to the peole we meet during our trips especially in areas not particularly frequented, for example in mountains during a walk and so on. It's a sign of respect
a smile and a nod at person in the store as you pass and they smile back, it lightens the day, we have problems and poverty in the usa too so-----------
Same here in England. I've experienced the same while out and about in Italy and in France too and on occasion even had long chats with total strangers in those countries. I speak the languages pretty well, and this is why, to be able to interact with the local people. Treasured memories of this kind are just priceless!
@Gabriella Girardi - same in Romania. We do NOT smile for NOTHING as the North Americans do or even people in the Western countries. In our country, a SMILE is SINCER, NOT fake.
Exactly true, I agree with you. But in this world it seems there is no “neutral” emotion condition. You must be happy, and if you aren’t happy, you must be sad, or angry, etc. Can’t I just be content?
Another wonderful video. This is good information to know. St. Petersburg looks like a beautiful city. Spaciba. My name is Erin and I live in the state Oklahoma, US. Take care.
Thank you for this lovely video. It's so important to see ordinary people in other countries, particularly places like Russia in the west we have over many years been told things about Russia and Russians, but now we can see ordinary people going about their lives just like us, struggling with medical bills, a place to live and the expense of daily life - those things are the same in many countries. Hopefully people will watch this and videos like it from around the world and realise that we are all the same and should help each other and not fight on the order of politicians.
I'm American, but I was in Paris/other parts of France for two months for school and whenever i smiled people looked at me like I was a big WEIRDO! And, sometimes they give a very strange look at me like " Why the F are you smiling at me!". Then, later when i googled "why don't french people smile" lol i understood it. As an American it's very very hard not to smile- it's just something my face does automatically if I pass by someone lol ( i even smile with my mask!). I don't do it in a fake way, but it's just out of politeness and so we don't look mean probably lol. Obviously, I don't go around smiling in unsafe places hahaha or if a person looks like they might not be normal lol. But, if I am grocery shopping or traveling on a plane/train i smile. Or if I let someone pass in front of me in a line,etc.
I’m not Russian, but Ukrainian- I migrated to USA 30 years ago- I smile now 😁 but growing up it was not polite to smile without a reason- what are you a village idiot? - Who smiles for no reason ? Unless you have intentions to make me laugh- telling me a joke- there is no reason for me to smile
I remember here in the US going to school, people would say to me “Smile” even if I was in a horrible mood. It seemed strange to me to smile if you don’t feel like it. It’s just like the greeting “How are you today?” And the customary “Fine” even if nothing is fine.😂
US or japanese fake smile is equal creepy to people from cultures which are very reserved. Your "fine" aspect is quite funny told by Rammsteins lead singer Till Lindemann when they had their first trip to the US and a small car accient and had been told it is "fine" but of course it was not 😂
Very nice video. Thank you. As you mention, here in the US smiling all the time is a cultural thing. We smile whether we’re happy or not. Personally I hate it, and I’m not much for shallow smiles, but you kind of get “bullied” into doing it when you’re young. I’m not a “smiley” type and can remember as a child constantly being told by adults, “why such a long face? Smile!” Or “If you keep frowning your face will freeze that way! Smile!” So after hearing this for years as a kid I think most people in the US just smile all the time to shut other people up. It’s stupid.
Been to your beautiful city of St. Petersburg last Jun-July 2019. And I love your city and people, amazingly friendly and very helpful. Stayed at Astoria Hotel and lots of parks to chill. I must say the places I have been to are people who smiles I lot. In Manila, a smile means friendliness and a sign of warm hello. Hope to visit your country again.
I'm American. Keep in mind that we have a sort of facade to our personality that we put forward to others. It's sort of a conformity to our society. I wander is Russians are more up front with there true thoughts and emotions.
When I was in New York, I ran into many people who didn’t crack a smile. On the other hand, I have been to many Eastern Bloc countries, and the mere fact of greeting people in the local language has elicited a smile.
Your messages convey not only fascinating aspects of life in St. Petersburg, but also your core decency, respect and care for others. May you continue to prosper and enjoy a meaningful and vibrant life!
I think in any large city people don't just smile and greet random people. I live in Chicago and people won't just smile for no reason and they'll probably think it's strange if you just smile at them for no reason.
I visited St Petersburg in 1985 & despite the bitterly cold weather, down to -40 one day, loved every minute & found the Russian people warm & friendly. And I walk across the frozen river Neva! xx
Given the difficult moments in your nation's history, it affects people and smiles may not come easily. You though have a genuine, beautiful smile. I love that bridge....very similar to the Verrazano bridge in New York. And that park is beautiful. Thank you for another nice video.
I am from the UK and it's certainly a Slavic thing. The Polish are the same and I have worked with Russians and Poles for many years and I understand why they don't smile all the time. Honestly, I find smiling all the time very fake and I only smile for good reason. My Russian friend from Moscow, she smiles around me often but not much in public, so I guess that means she trusts me a lot :) Honestly, I am much the same as she is.
Great Video! I'm from the Midwest in the USA, Michigan. We are friendly as a greeting. It's just the norm. If I'm walking down the sidewalk and pass a person they get a smile and nod and a "Morning!" or 'Afternoon" etc... It's not that we ARE friendlier, we just use it with strangers. I also have southern relatives , who are also super talky friendly. So if you make eye contact you get a greeting. No eye contact, you get privacy.
Same here, Tamara. I'm in NE England, where we tend to smile at and chat with strangers - while waiting for a bus or browsing in a charity shop for example. I can't take a walk in my village without exchanging pleasantries with just about everyone else out there. My eyes wrinkle up more than ever when I smile these days, so even with the mask people know I'm smiling. But I would never smile like a fool at someone who was giving off bad vibes - my intuition is pretty good at picking them out!
Thank you for telling the truth about it. It is what I had decided was the reason.....all the sadness and difficult life. My family may have come from Russia. I am sorry for the difficult life for your people. Continue making videos. You are enjoyable.
Russia looks like a lovely country. Even here in the US, some people have a hard time smiling as well. Everywhere you go, there's places where the struggle is real, and sometimes people just aren't happy. I think you have a great smile. You look like a happy person. I love your forestry and nice green parks too!
Just found your channel. You’re very interesting. I’m Canadian, my grandparents all from Russia. I have many family photos from their time, not a single smile. I understand the funerals, but weddings and other family gatherings appear to reflect no joy. I’m a smiler and I say hello to strangers. I would not do well in your country.
Out here in America we smile a lot and we're going through a lot hungry people.. people who can't make ends meet.. but it seems like when you throw a smile to someone going through a lot of stuff that gives him hope... it makes them feel better.. I mean I go to the store and people walk by me and say good morning or good afternoon or I say it and it just makes someone feel like They're Not Invisible you never know what someone is going through you ..never know what a smile can do for someone who's going through something.. I'm a happy person even when I'm going through a lot in my life and I can't imagine not trying to make someone else feel good even if I didn't even know them. Just with a smile or a Good morning ... and personally I like it when someone says it to me
I live in the US. People will smile to say hello here. It depends on where you live though. I live near NYC and people are more guarded here. However if they know you then you get a smile. I find myself smiling when I say hello to strangers as well. I didn’t consider all the historical context you brought up about Russian history and some distrust of strangers. Good video!
Went to Krakow before pandemic....same there but I have to say they were the kindest sweetest people. I think your new expression should be ....Laughter is a blessing from God💕
As a Bulgarian, it was a shock when I realized Russians never smiles as an act of politeness and they don’t always get our jokes. That video gave me some idea why... thank you! Probably it is more specific to the Nordic countries, but not sure as I haven’t really interacted with such. The most common thing between us and the Russians I think is that we don’t smile to a random person on the street and we are very suspicious if someone approaches us smiling... I find this hilarious now and sometimes sad
I fished for Russians in Alaska. joint venture. never a smile, but sure ate a ton of cabbage, 400 cases to 10 cases meat, (we brought from Dutch harbor ) also a commissar onboard probably didn't help
It’s funny because if we’re talking about history being a reason I think of my dads country Honduras. They had and still are experiencing tragic history and they smile the whole time talking to you lol.
Did you know it takes more facial muscles to frown than to smile? Maybe in Russia even smiles aren't free? Ha ha. Joke. I visited St Petersburg a couple years ago--beautiful city, full of history and the people seemed fine to me. I like your videos--you're very likeable and give a lot of good information. Thanks for posting.
I'm a proud American, but in my opinion, we smile a little too much. I hate fake smiles or being told to smile when I am not in the mood. This is common in my country. We often order people to smile. In extreme cases, one can be severely punished or g through hard times and still be expected to smile about it. There is even am American song about smiling faces being a frown turned upside down.
I live near Atlanta, GA in the Southern US. I smile at people to see if they ARE trustworthy. It is backwards for me. If I give someone a head nod, or smile-(if they make eye contact with me)and they don't return this to me, I feel that THEY are untrustworthy. I am a 2nd generation Russian immigrant. It is important to me, even with my mask on, to 'Smize': Smile with my eyes. If my eyes meet another I want them to feel welcome, know that I am friendly or brighten their day. 2020 was very hard in the US, and the world. Isolation is not in human nature. 2021 will be even worse.Alot of false hope for the first 6-8 months in the west atleast. IMO, we should all learn to drop our guard, nevermind the struggles past or present-and present someone with a friendly acknowledgement of their existence, whether it be a smile,smize, head nod, wave, etc. A little joy and surprise can be contagious. We must all learn to find our joy wherever we can;and in these times, in each other. No matter where we are in the world or in life. Strangers and friends. I love this video. Thank you for posting it.
I really enjoy your videos. It is fascinating to see how Russians live. It just too bad conditions are such that we cannot freely travel to each others country.
"Smiling without a reason is sign of foolishness"???? Omg.. I grew up in the opposite mood! In Greece we say " smile because the smiling is life n brings joy!"
Hola, como van?, Los mejores y más cordiales Saludos desde puente piedra, lima, Perú, ojalá que puedas venir en algún momento a mi país y que disfrutes de la solidaridad, amabilidad, y fraternidad para con la gente que no gusta de la guerra y sus consecuencias, aqui podras difrutar mucho de todo por aquí, con la familia y los amigos, felicidades por tus vídeos y que tú y los tuyos esten bien, sean bienvenidos siempre...
Isn't it the same everywhere in europe? Despite the not so positive reputation in the UK compared to other bigger european cities like berlin or paris I experinced londoners often as very helpful. Even without asking someone came and helpedwhen they saw me studying the underground map or price lists. ^^
i have a lot of Russian friends here in Tampa Florida they are great and smiling all the time. please keep on smiling you look so good with a smile on your face.
Ciao from Rome! We also have a similar saying in Italy: "Il riso abbonda sulla bocca degli stolti", meaning "laughter is abundant on the mouth of the fools" (but most Italians smile quite often, compared to the average Russian).
Interesting video. I wonder if Russian people visiting other countries where smiling is common find it very unnerving? It also makes me think about a similar question regarding old time photos of people in the West eg. 100+ years ago. Where they never smiled in the photo giving you (today) the impression they where unfriendly people. Yet it was because they took having their photograph taken as a serious event. And I guess that was expensive too.
Hi guys!! What do you think of the stereotype "Russians never smile"? What is your experience with smiles in Russia?
I love when you talk like Natasha on Bullwinkle cartoon, I loved that show when I was a kid. 0:20. You are funny! I mean comical. It's a compliment.
Hi (smiles) I am Serbian who lives in USA, and I work with both Americans and Russians, yes Russians usually don’t smile here either but now when they know me longer time, they smile little bit when they see me.
From Eastern European perspective because I was born and raised there, I can say I was very surprised in difference when taking picture for ID. In Serbia and I guess Russia too it’s extremely important to be serious; here in US they told me I may smile.
Also in Serbia’s banks and all other official institutions people are deadly serious, that’s the standard, in US they are kind of chill. I saw guy dancing in the middle of the bank.
One more thing in Serbia nobody was kind when you go to see a doctor. But medical bills are so small... in US you pay so much but people are extremely kind.
Just wanted to share my personal observations. 😊
Although I've never been to Russia, we have several friends and acquaintances who immigrated to the US from Russia in the early 2000's. Over the years, their smiling seems to be increasing.
I can't express an opinion any better than this:
theconversation com / why-are-russians-so-stingy-with-their-smiles-98799
It isn't a stereotype, it's just that in Russian culture, smiling is largely restricted to people you _know_ . Smiling at strangers is considered weird. Since people new to Russia, or Russian people, are going to be, in fact, strangers to the Russians they meet, they are largely only going to see Russians who do not smile much.
Beautiful people nonetheless!
I would be thrown out of Russia, the Irish are very smiley. We have quite a lot of Russians living in Cork, Ireland. They are very hard working and very serious, but not easy to get to know as they come across as unfriendly. I did not realise that this was cultural. It is good to understand these things, thank you.
You have some very beautiful countryside.
Oh, Russians are really friendly once you get to know them. I'm sure they would love to make friends with locals. May be they don't know how to do that.
You should definitely come to Russia to teach Russians how to smile!
@@StPetersburgme I would love to visit once Covid is gone. I was due to come over in June 2020 but I had to cancel. I wish to visit not just the big cities but also the villages, I am very much a countryside person although I was city born.
@@julibeswick-valentine3690 we just need to wait a little bit more! And then welcome to Russia!!
@@StPetersburgme Thank you
Irish are very smiley? Must be the whiskey!
As an American I believe WHERE you live has a big impact on how you interact with others. Another factor is age. I am an older person and have avoided living in big cities and consequently have been one of those who finds it easy to smile. Sometimes it is a head nod or small gesture. I no longer feel compelled to hurry. Consequently I meet others who reciprocate and brighten my day. I am a happy person. I understand that Russians have been carrying heavy burdens throughout history that we have not. Great channel!
That's right! I've been several times in Russia and I experienced it... until I met people and discovered warmth is within Russians' hearts.
I love Russia and send you love from France. :)
Thank you so much!
Thank you for the video. There is a Brazilian version very similar to the Soviet saying that you mentioned. The version I grew up with roughly translates like " the one who smiles for no reason is either rich or fool" " quem ri a toa ou é rico ou é bobo"
I smile a lot and I'm not rich 😂😂😂😂
I live in the USA and when I see people passing me and not smiling I just speak to them. Just saying "Hi" and a small smile goes a long way. I don't think they trust me but just a sign of being polite. I know cultures are different but it does work in other countries that I have visited. But just to say, it's okay if you don't want to smile. Just be polite...
Michael your comment made .me smile , reading it
people do not know how to acknowledge one another
When I was in school in Russia, most people I met thought I was Russian because did not smile until I actually met them; then they thought I was Ukrainian due to dialect learned from my teacher in the US. This happened several times over the years; it always gave all of us some laughs. Thank you so much for your efforts and your lovely smile !
Yeah, it took me few years to learn how to smile when I moved to New York from Estonia. Everyone was constantly asking me "why are you so serious", so I started smiling just to blend in LOL.
Love how genuine you are! This was very informative and interesting. You have a beautiful (and genuine!) smile 😃❣️ - Wishing you a great week! 🌼🌼🌼
We get this in Alberta Canada too. The people who smile you have to watch out for. They are looking to rob you, hurt you or are just a little crazy
Love your videos! You are the best Russian ambassador ever. 👍🏻
I smile and say Hello to strangers, because I like to think if they are down, a caring smile may cheer them up. (I'm not a fake person, I really do care about people) from UK
That is so nice of you!
same from USA! Although, apparently we are well known for smiling. Especially here in the South.
Me too 😀
Me too Becky Maggie, I smile for the Same reason. Well said from Central Florida.
I love russians..they are good people.i work in st.petersburg for almost 2 years and counting..
Canadian here! 🇨🇦. I say hi and smile to everyone. It would be very hard for me to get used to this.
I'm polish, (Slavic), the same holds true for us. You don't show emotions publicly, and with people you don't know.
Is that why the Germans didn't like you.?
I am Czech,Slavic too the same holds true for us too
The only awkward moments I had when I was in Russia was that I do tend to smile at people who are working in stores, when I go to pay for something I like to smile at the person because I also worked in shops for many years and I know how awful some people can be towards people who are just working. So I just try to be nice to them. I got suspicious looks from some people, but others responded positively, I think it just has to do with the person. I thought Russians in general were very nice people, they were proud of their country and curious what we thought of it, and they were curious about where we came from. I would love to go back, St. Petersburg is a beautiful city!
Hi~🙋🏻♀️!
I just subscribed in Your Channel.
Thank you for share with us many interesstings points of your culture.
It seems sad, smiling and laughter is free and certainly seems to help British people get through bad times.
for me it does not look sad, but more honest. And it's good for the psyche, because you feel that you can be natural, you can show sad emotions and people accept you for who you really are. I remember that when I worked in the Greek tourism industry, I had to learn how to smile at Western tourists. It was very hard. I took it as a lot of stress.
and violence. It's like I'm being forced to be a hypocrite. I remember one young English tourist who smiled at me and I was really scared because only her mouth was smiling, not her eyes. Often I see this in Western people - their mouth is smiling, but their eyes are not, and it scares me. So I think that not always a smile helps to live. Only a real smile coming from the inside gives a positive, but a smile of politeness, in my opinion, acts destructively for the psyche
I have noticed you smile a lot. I am glad you are smiling so much. I didn't know this saying or stereotype actually. In Canada we smile a lot and it feels quite natural and good to do so! We smile at strangers in the shops (shop keepers) and on the street to other pedestrians. Especially we smile at strangers if you were the only 2 people to cross paths in a rural area / quiet street but not so much on a crowded busy / city street - you'd be too tired. It's not as expected then.
Here a common saying would be that it takes more muscles to frown than it does to smile therefore smiling is easier and better! We also believe that you can trick yourself into feeling good from smiling. Even if you're sad, try smiling and the better feelings will manifest.
I've been enjoying your channel. As a suggestion, I would like to see a video you do on music that is popular and any different kinds of Russian music. Traditional, popular, local radio? etc. I wouldn't know what any Russian music sounds like. Essentially, what do you like for entertainment?
Prevyet from Utah. When I stayed with Natasha in Rostov-on-Don, she told me that Russians don’t smile because the language with all of its consonants makes it too hard to smile. That made me laugh, but I don’t know if she meant it as a joke. You are a lovely lady with a beautiful smile.
No, it's kinda true. When we studied English it was really difficult for us to open our mouths as much and stress the sentences in the right way. For us it was unnatural, fake and even embarrassing, no jokes here. And our teacher gave us an advice to smile while we were talking. Our pronunciation get better, but our muscles got hurt after the class. And we were still too shy to speak this way...
Thank you for sharing! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️☺️
I am Russian and I always smile. It's wrong to say about nation overall, people within one nation can differ a lot.
Wow. Hi from San Francisco. Looks unfriendly from the camera but I'm sure most Russian people are nice like most people everywhere.
I had a Russian best friend in childhood, and her parents didn't speak English. They seemed very gruff. My friend told me that they liked me very much. 😳 What they liked, apparently, was my attempt at Russian, saying please, thank you, and goodbye. It was a cultural difference! ❤ Oh, and this was in 1981 or so.
I have RBF ever since I was a teenager. I was told by a supervisor when I was a teenager that I needed to smile more (serving the public. So when he would come around I would smile, like an exaggerated smile that I thought for sure he would see it as “insincere”). I do think it puts off people, it’s not welcoming, people think I’m angry when it is just my relaxed face. It is an effort to smile, it does not come easily. I have had relationships where I get accused of “not being happy”, when that is far from the truth. So what is the solution? Smile when I know deep down I’m not smiling because of “something”? Or find an overlying motivation to smile like the Russian lady, that really isn’t a reason for joy or happiness, it’s an ulterior motive to what the smile is supposed to represent. I do have a really nice smile, straight and bright white teeth naturally. It’s a secret weapon ;)
Thank you so MUCH for sharing...I feel I learned something new!!!
This was a excellent episode explaining how history affects people.
Thank you.
I'm Canadian and we are known for our sense of humor, being friendly and smiling. It's also very cold here sometimes but most of us have good dental plans, so no sensitivity to the cold. I appreciate your explanations for Russians not smiling. I have definitely noticed. Often during the Olympic figure skating competitions the Russians don't smile even when they are winning!
I learned a lot from your video. My, what a beautiful scenic area you live in and the bridge is absolutely stunning! Keep smiling! Blessings!
I'm Russian and my mom smiles ALL the time
I am an American and I do not smile very much myself. Although many Americans do smile, there are a good number who do not. Personally i get along fine with most people, but I could just as soon do without them. Just about any dog is a better companion than most people.
Loved your explanation of this! Great job!
I love to watch your videos and learn more about Russia. Your English is great!
In Italy we usually smile and say hello to the peole we meet during our trips especially in areas not particularly frequented, for example in mountains during a walk and so on. It's a sign of respect
a smile and a nod at person in the store as you pass and they smile back, it lightens the day, we have problems and poverty in the usa too so-----------
Same here in England. I've experienced the same while out and about in Italy and in France too and on occasion even had long chats with total strangers in those countries. I speak the languages pretty well, and this is why, to be able to interact with the local people. Treasured memories of this kind are just priceless!
@@carolyngetchman4437 agree
@Gabriella Girardi - same in Romania. We do NOT smile for NOTHING as the North Americans do or even people in the Western countries.
In our country, a SMILE is SINCER, NOT fake.
Really true what you have said
well, ar least when Russians smile at you, you can be sure that is sincere, not like in other countries people smile because they used to
Exactly true, I agree with you. But in this world it seems there is no “neutral” emotion condition. You must be happy, and if you aren’t happy, you must be sad, or angry, etc. Can’t I just be content?
Another wonderful video. This is good information to know. St. Petersburg looks like a beautiful city. Spaciba. My name is Erin and I live in the state Oklahoma, US. Take care.
Thank you for this lovely video. It's so important to see ordinary people in other countries, particularly places like Russia in the west we have over many years been told things about Russia and Russians, but now we can see ordinary people going about their lives just like us, struggling with medical bills, a place to live and the expense of daily life - those things are the same in many countries. Hopefully people will watch this and videos like it from around the world and realise that we are all the same and should help each other and not fight on the order of politicians.
I'm American, but I was in Paris/other parts of France for two months for school and whenever i smiled people looked at me like I was a big WEIRDO! And, sometimes they give a very strange look at me like " Why the F are you smiling at me!". Then, later when i googled "why don't french people smile" lol i understood it. As an American it's very very hard not to smile- it's just something my face does automatically if I pass by someone lol ( i even smile with my mask!). I don't do it in a fake way, but it's just out of politeness and so we don't look mean probably lol. Obviously, I don't go around smiling in unsafe places hahaha or if a person looks like they might not be normal lol. But, if I am grocery shopping or traveling on a plane/train i smile. Or if I let someone pass in front of me in a line,etc.
Ksenia, Thank you, your doing great.
I’m not Russian, but Ukrainian- I migrated to USA 30 years ago- I smile now 😁 but growing up it was not polite to smile without a reason- what are you a village idiot? - Who smiles for no reason ? Unless you have intentions to make me laugh- telling me a joke- there is no reason for me to smile
Your people have been through a lot to be sure. You folks have good reason to be a little stern, as well as proud. You’re a very strong people.
I tend to see people smile and wave hello more in a small town as opposed to a big city.
True
Smile more and thanks for sharing!
I smile everywhere. If I’m with another person or people it is rare I don’t get them smiling or laughing. I can’t go without social sunshine.
I remember here in the US going to school, people would say to me “Smile” even if I was in a horrible mood. It seemed strange to me to smile if you don’t feel like it. It’s just like the greeting “How are you today?” And the customary “Fine” even if nothing is fine.😂
Yes a smile is considered good manners here in US
US or japanese fake smile is equal creepy to people from cultures which are very reserved. Your "fine" aspect is quite funny told by Rammsteins lead singer Till Lindemann when they had their first trip to the US and a small car accient and had been told it is "fine" but of course it was not 😂
Very nice video. Thank you. As you mention, here in the US smiling all the time is a cultural thing. We smile whether we’re happy or not. Personally I hate it, and I’m not much for shallow smiles, but you kind of get “bullied” into doing it when you’re young. I’m not a “smiley” type and can remember as a child constantly being told by adults, “why such a long face? Smile!” Or “If you keep frowning your face will freeze that way! Smile!” So after hearing this for years as a kid I think most people in the US just smile all the time to shut other people up. It’s stupid.
Been to your beautiful city of St. Petersburg last Jun-July 2019. And I love your city and people, amazingly friendly and very helpful. Stayed at Astoria Hotel and lots of parks to chill. I must say the places I have been to are people who smiles I lot. In Manila, a smile means friendliness and a sign of warm hello. Hope to visit your country again.
Watched your video the mario music you put made me thing I was getting a text message, as this is my text tone. LOL
I'm American. Keep in mind that we have a sort of facade to our personality that we put forward to others. It's sort of a conformity to our society. I wander is Russians are more up front with there true thoughts and emotions.
Yes, Russians are straight forward on the whole. But sometimes people also hide their feelings. It depends on the situation.
@@StPetersburgme Thanks. Love your channel! It brings a big smile to my face.
That's certainly my experience.
When I was in New York, I ran into many people who didn’t crack a smile. On the other hand, I have been to many Eastern Bloc countries, and the mere fact of greeting people in the local language has elicited a smile.
That maybe for you! You can't speak for anyone else. Most Americans are genuine when they smile and say hello.
Your messages convey not only fascinating aspects of life in St. Petersburg, but also your core decency, respect and care for others. May you continue to prosper and enjoy a meaningful and vibrant life!
We just have been raised like that ... idk why other ppl get so upset abt it. To us it is not a big deal to smile or not smile.
And the reverse could be asked why do other cultures smile so much lol
It’s seen as incredibly rude in some cultures, that’s why to some people it’s a big deal.
@@adventuresofkatekat as it's considered fake positivity and nonsense with us so wdgaf
@@anneswen7080 you are right. It is often a fake smile, but such a cultural norm.
@@mariahsmom9457 Yeah some people here even decide that I am depressed if i didn't smile
I think in any large city people don't just smile and greet random people. I live in Chicago and people won't just smile for no reason and they'll probably think it's strange if you just smile at them for no reason.
A great video. I liked the Mario song scene it was funny. Very informative thanks
I visited St Petersburg in 1985 & despite the bitterly cold weather, down to -40 one day, loved every minute & found the Russian people warm & friendly. And I walk across the frozen river Neva! xx
Given the difficult moments in your nation's history, it affects people and smiles may not come easily. You though have a genuine, beautiful smile. I love that bridge....very similar to the Verrazano bridge in New York. And that park is beautiful. Thank you for another nice video.
I am from the UK and it's certainly a Slavic thing. The Polish are the same and I have worked with Russians and Poles for many years and I understand why they don't smile all the time. Honestly, I find smiling all the time very fake and I only smile for good reason. My Russian friend from Moscow, she smiles around me often but not much in public, so I guess that means she trusts me a lot :) Honestly, I am much the same as she is.
Great Video! I'm from the Midwest in the USA, Michigan. We are friendly as a greeting. It's just the norm. If I'm walking down the sidewalk and pass a person they get a smile and nod and a "Morning!" or 'Afternoon" etc... It's not that we ARE friendlier, we just use it with strangers. I also have southern relatives , who are also super talky friendly. So if you make eye contact you get a greeting. No eye contact, you get privacy.
We have had to wear masks in every public building, so I miss smiling at people and seeing their smiles.
Same here, Tamara. I'm in NE England, where we tend to smile at and chat with strangers - while waiting for a bus or browsing in a charity shop for example. I can't take a walk in my village without exchanging pleasantries with just about everyone else out there. My eyes wrinkle up more than ever when I smile these days, so even with the mask people know I'm smiling. But I would never smile like a fool at someone who was giving off bad vibes - my intuition is pretty good at picking them out!
Thank you for telling the truth about it. It is what I had decided was the reason.....all the sadness and difficult life. My family may have come from Russia. I am sorry for the difficult life for your people. Continue making videos. You are enjoyable.
Great video!! I have to admit I'm not comfortable at all smiling to people I don't know in my town just to be polite. I feel I'm being fake somehow.
Russia looks like a lovely country. Even here in the US, some people have a hard time smiling as well. Everywhere you go, there's places where the struggle is real, and sometimes people just aren't happy. I think you have a great smile. You look like a happy person. I love your forestry and nice green parks too!
Just found your channel. You’re very interesting. I’m Canadian, my grandparents all from Russia. I have many family photos from their time, not a single smile. I understand the funerals, but weddings and other family gatherings appear to reflect no joy. I’m a smiler and I say hello to strangers. I would not do well in your country.
I like your videos. I always learn something new.
Keep trying Ksenia. Let me tell you a secret: You have a beautiful smile!
The bridge reminds me of the Sunshine Bridge in St. Petersburg, Florida. Itis lit up atnight and it looks awesome from a distance.
Out here in America we smile a lot and we're going through a lot hungry people.. people who can't make ends meet.. but it seems like when you throw a smile to someone going through a lot of stuff that gives him hope... it makes them feel better.. I mean I go to the store and people walk by me and say good morning or good afternoon or I say it and it just makes someone feel like They're Not Invisible you never know what someone is going through you ..never know what a smile can do for someone who's going through something.. I'm a happy person even when I'm going through a lot in my life and I can't imagine not trying to make someone else feel good even if I didn't even know them. Just with a smile or a Good morning ... and personally I like it when someone says it to me
I live in the US. People will smile to say hello here. It depends on where you live though. I live near NYC and people are more guarded here. However if they know you then you get a smile. I find myself smiling when I say hello to strangers as well. I didn’t consider all the historical context you brought up about Russian history and some distrust of strangers. Good video!
I married a Russian lady she did not smile , she laughed & smiled when she got the divorce settlement payment.
Thank you for this. It really helps educate us about other cultures and create understanding.
Travel and money to do it, THATS WHY I LOVE VIDEOS LIKE THIS ONE. You can see places that you can not go and hope to 1 day (if they allow us to)
Went to Krakow before pandemic....same there but I have to say they were the kindest sweetest people. I think your new expression should be ....Laughter is a blessing from God💕
As a Bulgarian, it was a shock when I realized Russians never smiles as an act of politeness and they don’t always get our jokes. That video gave me some idea why... thank you! Probably it is more specific to the Nordic countries, but not sure as I haven’t really interacted with such. The most common thing between us and the Russians I think is that we don’t smile to a random person on the street and we are very suspicious if someone approaches us smiling... I find this hilarious now and sometimes sad
That’s the brightest 3 am I’ve ever seen in my life.
I fished for Russians in Alaska. joint venture. never a smile, but sure ate a ton of cabbage, 400 cases to 10 cases meat, (we brought from Dutch harbor ) also a commissar onboard probably didn't help
Here in Canada Russian, Ukraine people are very quiet and don't smile very much even while living a nice life in Canada.
Hello from Portugal. I agree with russian people: we smile when you know and love someone. And so I do.
It’s funny because if we’re talking about history being a reason I think of my dads country Honduras. They had and still are experiencing tragic history and they smile the whole time talking to you lol.
Did you know it takes more facial muscles to frown than to smile? Maybe in Russia even smiles aren't free? Ha ha. Joke. I visited St Petersburg a couple years ago--beautiful city, full of history and the people seemed fine to me. I like your videos--you're very likeable and give a lot of good information. Thanks for posting.
I didn’t know about this, where I grew up people are the opposite they always kid around and smile a lot even if times are rough
Their smile seems genuine unlike the fake western meaningless grimacing that passes for “a smile”.
sorry you get such fake smiles. maybe different crowd.....
@@bjornjenssen6700 that is western spirit, just like your fake “sorry” reply.
@@INTEGRITY273 why is my reply fake ?
@@bjornjenssen6700 it reads like an involuntary gesture, something you were conditioned to rather than a genuine true act of being empathetic.
I'm a proud American, but in my opinion, we smile a little too much. I hate fake smiles or being told to smile when I am not in the mood. This is common in my country. We often order people to smile. In extreme cases, one can be severely punished or g through hard times and still be expected to smile about it. There is even am American song about smiling faces being a frown turned upside down.
Very entertaining experiment!
Thanks, I learned something new today.
We need more people...and Americans...like you!
I live near Atlanta, GA in the Southern US. I smile at people to see if they ARE trustworthy. It is backwards for me. If I give someone a head nod, or smile-(if they make eye contact with me)and they don't return this to me, I feel that THEY are untrustworthy.
I am a 2nd generation Russian immigrant. It is important to me, even with my mask on, to 'Smize': Smile with my eyes. If my eyes meet another I want them to feel welcome, know that I am friendly or brighten their day. 2020 was very hard in the US, and the world.
Isolation is not in human nature. 2021 will be even worse.Alot of false hope for the first 6-8 months in the west atleast. IMO, we should all learn to drop our guard, nevermind the struggles past or present-and present someone with a friendly acknowledgement of their existence, whether it be a smile,smize, head nod, wave, etc. A little joy and surprise can be contagious. We must all learn to find our joy wherever we can;and in these times, in each other. No matter where we are in the world or in life. Strangers and friends. I love this video. Thank you for posting it.
Very honest and accurate analysis
I really like your channel and am very interested in the topics you choose. Thank you!
I really enjoy your videos. It is fascinating to see how Russians live. It just too bad conditions are such that we cannot freely travel to each others country.
Your own people are not strangers to each other. You should trust each other. Smile.
Canadians smile and say hello to people they meet. Especially in small towns
Do you: smilling say "Zdrazvuite", it's abnormal. (American 'Hi' abnormal too! )
"Smiling without a reason is sign of foolishness"????
Omg.. I grew up in the opposite mood! In Greece we say " smile because the smiling is life n brings joy!"
🤣 I like super Mario music, good job on the video
Hola, como van?, Los mejores y más cordiales Saludos desde puente piedra, lima, Perú, ojalá que puedas venir en algún momento a mi país y que disfrutes de la solidaridad, amabilidad, y fraternidad para con la gente que no gusta de la guerra y sus consecuencias, aqui podras difrutar mucho de todo por aquí, con la familia y los amigos,
felicidades por tus vídeos y que tú y los tuyos esten bien, sean bienvenidos siempre...
hi Dear Im living in Alanya Turkey and every Russian smiling here bcoz of the weather I think.
In London, you do not go around smiling at random strangers either. In fact these days, most people have headphones on, and are starting at a mobile.
Isn't it the same everywhere in europe? Despite the not so positive reputation in the UK compared to other bigger european cities like berlin or paris I experinced londoners often as very helpful. Even without asking someone came and helpedwhen they saw me studying the underground map or price lists. ^^
i have a lot of Russian friends here in Tampa Florida they are great and smiling all the time. please keep on smiling you look so good with a smile on your face.
Ciao from Rome!
We also have a similar saying in Italy: "Il riso abbonda sulla bocca degli stolti", meaning "laughter is abundant on the mouth of the fools" (but most Italians smile quite often, compared to the average Russian).
Interesting video. I wonder if Russian people visiting other countries where smiling is common find it very unnerving? It also makes me think about a similar question regarding old time photos of people in the West eg. 100+ years ago. Where they never smiled in the photo giving you (today) the impression they where unfriendly people. Yet it was because they took having their photograph taken as a serious event. And I guess that was expensive too.
I’m from the American midwest and smile, wave and talk to everyone. Those who aren’t used to that are sometimes taken aback, but I win them over.