In another article we tackle some prejudices and stereotypes regarding both Russians in general but also Russian women in particular.

Ironically this topic on the other hand forces us of course into generalisations, because how on earth could one possibly say some general thing about the inhabitants of a country populated by 142 million people from more than 190 ethnic groups without doing them injustice?

Nevertheless, there are a number of quite typical differences regarding the (dating) culture that are worth looking into. But before listing the ubiquitous "tips for dating a Russian woman" we have to first understand the mindset with which a Russian lady looks at a man. Because without understanding these underlying ideas some of the tips on this list might come across as weird due to their cultural differences.

So, what are the things people should understand what a Russian woman wants in a man?

Basically, they want their (potential) partner to be above all a 'real man'. And this oftentimes rather traditional outlook and gender view results in a few traits that a real man possesses:

1. He is strong and decisive

And with that we don't mean necessarily physically strong. Those toned gym-bodies aren't the most important thing a Russian woman looks for. She wants her (potential) partner to be a person who gets things done, makes decisions and is dependable. A proverbial rock on which you can build a life.

2. He is a provider

This actually flows from the first thing. Someone who is strong and decisive and has his shit together will be able to offer financial stability. Don't think that all Russian women are looking for a partner as a source of income! In most cases she will have a great education and Russian women know how to work and get things done. Your ability to be a provider just proves that you are strong and decisive. It doesn't matter just how much money you have – it is not about the amount of money but that you are a strong and dependable man who can be counted on in life.

3. He is someone to look up to, and where others can look up to as well

Allow us to first explain that an age difference in Russia oftentimes is seen as a good thing. A difference of about 5-10 years is optimal but even 15 or more is still considered ok.

Put this together with the previous aspects and you will come to see why you are more than just a 'boyfriend' or 'plaything' or whatever. Besides being a potential husband you are also a mentor and support. Be this person she can respect, admire and look up to.

4. He is caring

It is important to understand how in everything she is looking for someone who is strong, decisive and a 'real man'. This includes in how you care for her. The best (and easiest) way is to give her to right amount of attention.

We're also talking about evoking positive emotions in her and supporting her to be a better version of herself. Because Russian women are constantly looking for self-improvement and you as the strong man are her first source of inspiration and stability.

5. He is chivalrous and romantic

At heart Russian women might well be the most 'romantic' persons on the planet. Every one of them hoping for her prince charming to take her away to a happily ever after. So treat her like a princess, because when you do, you will get the best out of her. And isn't making her happy just what you really want to do, when you're in love or in a loving relationship?

To differentiate that role from that of "key" modeling when a modeling source moves behind the object it is typically called a "rim" or "accent" light. In portrait lighting it also called a "hair" light because it is used to create the appearance of physical separation between the subject's head and background.

To explain these simple concepts even better let's take a look at a popular Russian couple: Elena Perminova and Alexander Lebedev.

While they have an age difference of roughly 27 years what Elena said about meeting him at first explains everything said above:

'He looked like a real man,' says Elena of their first meeting in her beguiling Russian accent. 'Strong, fit, a real gentleman and super clever – like a walking encyclopaedia.'

Of course it helps that he is an Oligarch, but then again that just proves that he is strong, decisive, a provider and someone to look up to. Now women in Russia aren't all looking for an oligarch, they just want a man with the traits mentioned above.

Now, with all these things in mind, let's go to the actual dating tips themselves:

Since Russian women want their man to be decisive and chivalrous it is only logical therefore that the task of asking someone out on a date tends to fall to the men. It might happen that the woman at first rejects your overtures, but remain steadfast and strong while also staying classy. If she's playing hard to get you just proved to her that you might well be a real man.

And since you're showing her that you are also a romantic person, make the date something classy, like a restaurant or something else where her inner princess can feel at home. In other countries it might be ok to go for coffee or something on the first date, but you must understand that your behaviour shows whether or not you possess the desired traits she is looking for.

So just go the extra mile. Always.

It's what makes you stand out as a real man.

And who knows, this stroll in the park might very well also come after the restaurant visit or at a later date.

So take charge of the first date like you own it. Choose the venue and the time and then ask her whether she will be available. That is the best way for you to be assertive. Remember to be the classy and decisive kind of man, sure of what you want to do next. Don't be an aggressive asshole.

Because dating takes time. Women in Russia only find it normal that a man that is interested in her can wait. So if you think you can take this gorgeous girl to your place after the first date, think again. Remember, you are showing what type of person you are. And if you really think that paying someone dinner (more about that later) gives you the right to their body, you might not have understood what a real man is for a Russian woman.

Going on multiple dates allows you to show her how you are in control of yourself and your desires, and that you are caring. Since you are putting her comfort and wellbeing above your own.

So give her all the time she wants and needs. Because she'll be worth it.

Your Russian date has been thinking about what to wear since the minute you asked her out; hours spent on preparing makeup and hair. So make sure you are also dressed the part. Because even if men don't always realise it, a woman needs only a second to look you up and rate you. So make sure you are well groomed with clean hands and a good hygiene. And don't take any shortcuts with this because it marks you out as someone who can't properly care for himself, and if you can't do this why should you be able to care for her?

After all, you want to ultimately get physical with her. And who would want to get physical with someone that smells or looks bad?

We thought so…

It might seem weird that after the Kingsman movies this still has to be said, but there is no better way to show you possess the desired traits that mark you out as a real man than by your behaviour.

So yes, that means that you should buy her flowers. An not just on the first date. Make it a habit for the rest of your life.

It means that you realise that all Russian women are always young. No matter their age. She is at heart a princess, so you make her feel like this.

It also means that you carry the bags and open doors to her. No deal, you're a big boy and you can handle yourself.

And yes, it also means you pay. Always. It is normal for Russian men to pay on dates, in fact they would feel offended if a woman asked to split the bill, as if she didn't consider him man enough or something like that. Because, remember, for her a real man is a provider and someone who is caring, chivalrous and romantic. So if your ego can't stand it to always pick up the bill then simply don't date a Russian girl at all because she is going to see you as "not man enough", stingy and possibly even greedy.

And with this we don't mean you try to get into her bedroom. We mean just that: that you take her home safely. Remember, you are the strong, chivalrous and caring man she wants to be seen with. And that means that you are supposed to make sure she has arrived home safely, accompanying her to the door of her building and then going home by yourself. You do this even if she lives a long way away from you own place, inconsequential of the extra time and energy it will cost you. Because you are a real man.

And yes, this also means not trying to kiss her. However there is one type of kiss that is allowed, and it is kissing her hand as it is considered a respectful gesture in Russian culture. Also, if done correctly is marks you out as a perfect gentleman. Best to give this kiss at the end of the date so you leave her with this lingering feeling of surprise, amazement and pleasantness. Be decisive about it and don't expect it to change into something else, but in this way you can show your romantic and chivalrous side even more, if you haven't done that enough already.

And if you really wish to find out how the woman feels about you, just try to simply whisper something in her ear instead of an overt attempt of giving a kiss on a cheek or a hug (don't even think of kissing her on the mouth after the first date!). If she doesn't move away, it's a good sign. If she moves closer, then it's a very good sign.

Ok, so you have your ideas and opinions on politics and society in Russia. Just like everybody else. But you think it best to share it with her?

Think again.

Because she doesn't care about your opinions on Putin and politics, law or traditions.

Russians are really patriotic so if you want to score some bad points there is no better way than to start critiquing their country. Remember, it isn't called "Mother Russia" for no reason. And slagging off someone's mother is a big no.

Russian people speak their mind. It's one of their great characteristics if you can handle it. So be sure that she will speak her mind and voice her opinions. Accept them and encourage them – because you are a strong and caring man. Also don't be intimidated by her. Yes, she will be beautiful and she may appear like a cold-hearted woman with a resting bitch face, but remember it's just a façade. She wants you to be a strong man, and that means being able to handle her death stare. And to do it graciously.

And if you'd like some further reading you can always listen to some tips Russian girls give on how to pick them up.