trans-siberian express advice
Although I confess my advice is not authoritive or all embracing, I outline some of the things worth considering if the journey is something you wish to do.
1. Bring a wash hand basin stopper. It's important as filling up the sink is impossible without one and therefore washing yourself is too. Develop a routine for washing.
2. Take ample reading material. I read a book per day!
3. The train stops 5-6 times each day. Some times for as little as 4 minutes, sometimes for up to 45 minutes. Use the timetable to plan when to jump out and stretch the legs. Also, to buy provisions.
4. The daylight hours are for looking out the window. Night for reading or whatever.
5. It's a state of mind to be on a train for so long. Take every thing as it comes, do things slowly, savour it.
6. Don't expect too much. Whether it is the condition of the train itself, the dining carriage, the level of service, the lack of English speakers. Remember it's Russia, not your home town so act accordingly.
7. Writing is pretty difficult. The train rocks and swerves all the time so discount it as a method of passing time.
8. Take a map so you can figure out where you are. I see little merit in guide books. It's not a sightseeing exercise, more of an experience.
Not a definative list, I know but it may be useful to others. In short, I enjoyed the journey and the experience despite the challenges. I'm very glad I did it.
1. Bring a wash hand basin stopper. It's important as filling up the sink is impossible without one and therefore washing yourself is too. Develop a routine for washing.
2. Take ample reading material. I read a book per day!
3. The train stops 5-6 times each day. Some times for as little as 4 minutes, sometimes for up to 45 minutes. Use the timetable to plan when to jump out and stretch the legs. Also, to buy provisions.
4. The daylight hours are for looking out the window. Night for reading or whatever.
5. It's a state of mind to be on a train for so long. Take every thing as it comes, do things slowly, savour it.
6. Don't expect too much. Whether it is the condition of the train itself, the dining carriage, the level of service, the lack of English speakers. Remember it's Russia, not your home town so act accordingly.
7. Writing is pretty difficult. The train rocks and swerves all the time so discount it as a method of passing time.
8. Take a map so you can figure out where you are. I see little merit in guide books. It's not a sightseeing exercise, more of an experience.
Not a definative list, I know but it may be useful to others. In short, I enjoyed the journey and the experience despite the challenges. I'm very glad I did it.
posted by Ciarán at 12:16 p.m.
2 Comments:
Jim says the guys from Quebec tend to be very very friendly ... so be careful and don't drink too much vodka.
Having trouble getting back to your site ... what is the correct EMail address
You, me and Fred could get together at your next port of call.
Jim
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