Indoor smoking is more visible in some settings than many visitors expect. Law vibe is formal in institutions, with everyday life often more flexible.
Minimum budget: rural $500/mo, urban $800/mo. Medical insurance: $1,100/yr.
Auto: Russian licenses should be backed by an IDP, English translation; self-drive is practical only on selected islands and cities. Rentals are about $30-70/day for Vios, Mirage, Wigo class, with vans and drivers very common for tourist movement. No land borders: ferries between islands are the constraint, and rental cars usually stay on their island unless explicitly approved.
Smoking: Indoor smoking is more visible in some settings than many visitors expect.
Police / rules: Police and public-order vibe is variable: institutions can be formal, while daily life often runs through local judgment, negotiation, and context.