1. Mail Order Russian Brides.

Mail order Russian brides don't exist - end of story. The idea that you can somehow browse a catalogue a choose a wife who will then arrive on your doorstep a few weeks later is just absurd. Finding your partner in Russia is largely the same as any other kind of courtship. Sure there are differences. But respect, romance and love must be there like any other true relationship.

2. Russian women will do anything for a foreign passport so they can leave Russia

Are Russian women attracted to the idea of living in another country (especially a warm country)? Yes. Does this mean that they want to lie about themselves and fake a romance to do so? No.

Like anywhere else, Russian women love and are proud of their country and their culture. Given a choice they would prefer to marry a Russian man. But there is a shortage of single men in Russia. Russian women are looking for love, first and foremost and will find it how they can. Just like anyone else.

3. Russian women just want to scam western men and get their money.

Do Russian scammers exist? Yes. Are they easy to spot? Yes. Do you need to worry about them? As long as you are sensible - no.

Use a good, reputable dating site and there will almost definitely be no scammers. Use one of the other sites then apply the old adage 'if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is'. So in the unlikely event a woman who looks like a supermodel proposes marriage within a couple of weeks, use your better judgement.

4. Western men on Russian dating sites are all losers who can't get a date otherwise.

A lot of people may want to believe this one, but it just isn't true either. There are many different reasons why western men are attracted to and are seeking a partner from Russia. Certainly there are differences in Russian culture that make Russia women more attractive to some Western men. As there are differences in Western culture that make Western women more attractive to Russian men.

Today we live in a globalized world. People use the Internet to find their niche wherever it is. Finding your partner in Russia is just another opportunity, another niche. Finding your partner on the internet is normal now.

5. It is difficult and costly to find your partner in Russia.

Is there a bit of extra cost and difficulty involved? Yes. Need this stop you? No.

Choosing a partner is the most important decision and act you can make - and the thing that can bring you the most joy and satisfaction in life. Considering this, do you really want to let this little bit stop you from finding the love of your life?