I was there in 1972. Things have changed a lot. Where are you going in Russia. It’s a big place. Leningrad is beautiful for most people and has the Hermitage, perhaps the greatest collection in the world. When I was there, the canals smelled all oily, and that didn’t do it for me.
I hear the nightlife is crazy these days. The Russian women are extraordinarily beautiful, and many are inclined to be friendly to westerners—for a price. So hold onto your wallet.
Organized crime is rampant, but it may not affect tourists. Russians will probably be very warm, however, if you meet them at home.
Have fun, and let us know what your experience was like.