Types

• Although there are many sites devoted to the Russian single, many are narrowly divided into two categories: 1) How-to sites that provide step-by-step instruction for finding and securing a Russian bride. 2) Dating sites that allow users to create dating profiles for other singles to explore.
  The majority of these sites, in both regards, act as a database or profile system. To turn a profit, these websites charge male users a fee to access the profile of single Russian women and then request an invitation to establish communication with her through a secure email service in the event that there is a match between the two singles.
  Even the dating sites that spring up under the guise of dating-only activity are largely geared toward matching American men with Russian women living abroad. The website retains a large portion of the fees charged by acting as a liaison between the women and man and using strong security measures to protect the women against unwanted advances or aggressive pursuits.
  
  

Theories/Speculation

• There are many theories about why the Russian woman is so popular. For one, many of the on-line dating sites have created a fantasy of the Russian bride with manufactured images and tales of beauty, submission and sex. In other words, the Russian bride is offered as an easy alternative and solution to the complexities of real dating and equal right partnerships that many expect in the United States.
  Many sites use terms and phrasing like "a good-natured lady," "home-oriented," "romantic," "lots of them enjoy fitness to keep fit" and "Russian women love to cater to their men." According to the Dating RW website, "Russian women do their best to look almost like film stars." Experts believe this is the kind of language that creates ideals around the Russian woman and create illusions about the perfect woman.
  
  

Features

• Many sites offer user reviews, updated photos of the women being profiled, gift-giving services, easy and confidential transaction options, user comments, free and fee-based registration services, dating tips and forums.
  To access site features, a user is generally required to register. For most sites, registration is free, however, some require a credit card to file while a trial or "preview" period is used. This trial is designed to allow men to explore the catalogue and be inclined to contact a woman. To internalize the process, all contact must occur through the site and the man must be registered to do so.
  This requires that the man maintain involvement with the site and utilize services, like gift- giving and photo trading, as well as other site specific features to improve his dating experience.
  These resources can include, but are not limited to, information about what Russian women look for in a man and how to please her in a relationship, as well as how to initiate a relationship while abroad.
  
  

Identification

• Many online Russian "dating" sites include gay and lesbian sections as well as niche categories that cater to the wants and needs of almost any interested party. Other sites offer 100 percent free personals and registration. These sites promote "legitimate" dating services that seek to join Russian singles around the world. Known as regional dating sites, the sites offer on-line chatting and networking services to Russian singles looking to date other singles.
  This feature is designed to allow registered user to filter the singles by specific categories and orientations. Because the registered users are typically young singles with an interest in other Russian singles, these sites generally have active blogs and chat rooms.
  Because the users who frequent these sites are more open to meeting many different people and using the site for their general dating needs, users are more inclined to enter large chat rooms and explore networking on a larger scale.
  Whereas with other sites, registered users (who largely tend to be older) search for one, or a limited few, and then begin the process toward entering a relationship, discussing marriage or making arrangements to bring the person from Russia.
  Chat rooms at these sites are typically used to share information about what has gone wrong and what is working. Men usually use these chat rooms to ask other men questions about their experience with a Russian single or to obtain other useful information about dating Russian women.
  
  

Benefits

• Because it is difficult to travel to a foreign country in search of a bride or romantic partner, online Russian dating sites offer a great, convenient, economical alternative. From the safety and comfort of one's home, a registered user can search these sites for his perfect mate and then establish secure communication for a fee. In most cases, a user is charged a fee each time she communicates with a user by email or phone. The women profiled are instructed to use the site's secure communication resources to ensure that her identity is protected and that the user is charged for her services.
  
  Russian dating-only sites are a great way for singles to connect and learn from others who have in the past or are presently dating in the Russian community. Light and fun, these sites are set up as social networking tools that offer both men and women the chance to swap photos, chat and extend an invitation to other social networking.
  
  

Size

• Many online Russian dating sites boast a database of thousands of "hot" singles available for dating and marriage. This number can vary greatly depending on how active these members are as well as if the factual accuracy of the profile information provided. In most cases, Russian dating sites have a large number of registered users and can provide enough singles for a person to find several matches. Larger national sites will always have a large catalogue, whereas smaller or regional sites will be somewhat limited. For best results, register with several sites.