It was about as hard as you would imagine.

The culture shock I experienced was intense as I went about setting up shop in a new land.

Moscowknowsbeauty and is home to some of the greatestnail artistsI have ever seen.

close ups of two manicures a pastel abstract colorblocked french tip on long almond nails and squiggly pastel lines on…

Courtesy Jungle Moscow and Nail Sunny

Below, six of the nail salons that have helped make my new city feel more like home.

Lovi Beauty Nail

This one was recommended by an in-the-know friend of mine here.

“The clients often come in with a design they love,” studio owner Karina says.

close up of a pale yellow manicure with black line details

Courtesy Lovi Beauty Nail

“The designs are really individual and tailored to the person.

Our nail artists aren’t afraid to really create.

The masters are professionals.”

close up of a long pale pink stiletto manicure with the ring finger nail pierced

Courtesy Lovi Beauty Nail

Best Nails

This cozy studio has quickly become another favorite.

With excellent manicure quality and a warm coffee-shop vibe, the studio and its artists are really inviting.

“I’m really inspired by the aesthetics of female beauty,” Vera, the owner, explains.

close up of an almond shaped manicure with some matte black nails and some matte negative space nails with gold foil and…

Courtesy Lovi Beauty Nail

“It’s important to emphasize each woman’s individuality.

In our studio, we really attempt to make every girl feel at home.”

The studio offers a range of designs that’s as far and wide as you could imagine.

close up of a nude manicure with light blue and white abstract details. the hand is outstretched and wearing one gold…

Courtesy Best Nails

“We take inspiration from our dear customers,” a rep from the studio says.

I consider their page a must-follow for inspiration.

“I wanted a place with character,” she shares.

close up of a pink matte manicure with a marble accent nail on long almond shaped nails

Courtesy Best Nails

“The main inspiration was to stand out in the big city of Moscow,” she explains.

“We really wanted to be a bit more unique.”

“Our masters can bring any idea to life,” she says.

close up of a nude manicure with two black and white marble accent nails on long round nails.

Courtesy Best Nails

The window display was enough to draw me in and want more.

Their talent is just as refreshing.

With flawless photos and impeccable designs and finishes, you’re going to want to fly over ASAP.

close up of a matte orange manicure on medium length square nails with one abstract white green and black accent nail

Courtesy Selfie Beauty Club

“The studio was founded three years ago after a trip to Bali,” the owner says.

“I immediately knew I wanted to create something inspired by it when I got back to Russia.

Our first studio was based on all-natural materials and an abundance of greenery.

close up of a multicolored pastel french manicure on long almond nails. the middle finger also wears a crystal nail ring.

Courtesy Selfie Beauty Club

The modern style is mature and calm yet with elements of luxury.”

The nail art they create typically more subtle designs matches that essence perfectly.

Nail Sunny

Nail Sunny is the salon equivalent of the most popular girl at school.

close up of a sheer navy ombre manicure on long almond shaped nails with silver star decals

Courtesy Selfie Beauty Club

Need even more nail art?

close up of a manicured thumb with a cartoon blue and pink spotted cat

Courtesy Choo Choo Moscow

close up of a tom and jerry themed manicure on long stiletto nails

Courtesy Choo Choo Moscow

close up of a long square manicure with green cartoon designs

Courtesy Choo Choo Moscow

close up of an abstract colorful french tip manicure on long almond nails

Courtesy Jungle Moscow

close up of a sheer purple manicure with a white snake design on short square nails

Courtesy Jungle Moscow

close up of an abstract colorful matte brush stroke manicure on mediumlength almond shaped nails

Courtesy Jungle Moscow

close up of a pastel squiggly line manicure on long coffin shaped nails

Courtesy Nail Sunny

close up of a pink black and white cow print manicure on long square nails

Courtesy Nail Sunny

close up of an abstract french manicure with green swirly tips. the nails are long coffin shapes and the hand has silver…

Courtesy Nail Sunny