I visited the USSR back in the late '80s with my grandmother and the peace group she joined. She invited me to join them on their first visit to their "sister town." And it couldn't have been more different than the Russia we hear about now. Back then it was under Gorbachev who had instituted more progressive policies, though he was stymied by the Russian hard liners because of President Reagan who never let up on Gorbachev, remember "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" But it was sure different than it is today, we met with other peace groups, after what they'd experienced during WWII fought on their own land, they never wanted to experience another war. And even people on the street were friendly, pleased to meet Americans. Sure is different from today - under Putin. 
Edit history
= new reply since forum marked as read