TRANS

SIBERIAN

2007/2008
Russia Experience
TRANS
SIBERIAN 2007/2008
Contents
your complete guide

Dare to Journey 4/5

Epic Trans-Sib 6/7
Mammoth Trans-Sib 8/9
Ultimate Trans-Sib 10/11
Outer & Inner Mongolia 12/13
Dr. Zhivago 14/15
Gobi & Gulag 16/17
Big Trans-Sib 18/19
On Board the Train 20/21
Three Capitals 22/23
Stops on Route 24
Destination Info 25/28
Stops on Route 29
Original Trans-Siberian 30
Trans-Manchurian Classic 31
Super Trans-Sib 32/33
Snow Train 34/35
Westbound Departures 36/37
Starting Your Trans-Sib Trip in St Petes 38/39
China 40/43
St Petersburg Hotels 44
Moscow Hotels 45
Spicing It Up 46
City Excursions 47
Countdown To Your Trip 48
Frequently Asked Questions 49
Above Centre: Xi’an, Great Goose Pagoda
Booking Conditions 50 (photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience)

Booking Form 51 Below Left: Moscow Kremlin, Assumption Cathedral

(photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience)
Below Centre: Mongolian horses
(photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience)
Below Right: Beijing, Forbidden City
(photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience)

02 Contents
 Russia Experience was started by travel fans whod ridden the Trans-Sib Rails themselves,
and wanted to share this amazing experience with others. Sidestep the herd instinct and
abandon passive gawping - our trips are about active immersion and involvement in
destinations that are shrouded in myth and mystery, and best discovered for yourself

Russia Mongolia China

The world’s largest country, starting in Europe and
reaching to the Pacific, and stretching from the Arctic
icebergs to the deserts of Central Asia. Come for the
legendary sights of the Kremlin or the Hermitage - stay
for the unexpected experiences of nomadic peoples,
siberian saunas, wild nightclubs and yummy
restaurants. Forget the cold-war cliches and meet the
country that’s out-pumping Saudi Arabia on the oil
markets, and whose favourite soccer team is “Chelski”.
Britain would fit into Mongolia six times -
but Mongolia’s population (2.7m) wouldn’t even
equal a London borough. In the middle of the
emptiness of the Gobi Desert the Steppe nomads
tend flocks in a way Genghis Khan would
find largely unchanged - but alongside that,
Ulaanbaatar has a wild, wacky and new-agey
lifestyle where buddhism meets broadband.
The sleeping giant is waking-up - now’s the time
to catch China’s unique cultural heritage, before
the economic boom sweeping the country
paves and mirror-glazes the entire nation? The
astounding contrasts between the pagodas of ancient
Xi’an and the skyscrapers of Shanghai will leave your
head spinning - so lie down and have a traditional
Chinese massage before supper... satay-sticks from the
Night Market, or Peking Duck at a slick eaterie?
 Dare to journey beyond
conventional boundaries.

“At 9001 KM... it’s the longest

lunch you will ever have”
NEIL MCGOWAN

NOVOSIB

ST PETERSBURG PERM
EKATERINB

MOSCOW

04 Dare to Journey
 VLADIVOSTOK

HARBIN

ULAN-UDAY
IRKUTSK
HUHEHOT
ULAANBAATAR BEIJING

SHANGHAI
IRSK

XI’AN
HONG KONG
BURG
GUILIN

GUANGZHOU

HANOI

Dare to Journey 05
EPIC TRANS-SIB
lake baikal plus mongolian gobi

WA T
CUSTN TO
YOUR OMISE
Mongolia: Erdenezuu Monastery photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience SEE P TRIP?
from AGE 4
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9
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full on itinerary
T T R
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£1,275
O S E
U - E

DAY 01 We whisk you by car directly to your hotel -

P

your first night in Moscow.

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet
D

17 nights/18 days you at the hotel, to whiz you round the

18 nights/19 days highlights. This is using public transport to
familiarise you with the city centre and help
operational season smooth your path… at least until lunchtime!
May-Sept Afternoon and evening free to explore.
DAY 03 A free full day - take your pick...
DAY 04 The Trans-Sib line leads you past Kazan
and Ekaterinburg…
DAY 05 Then onwards into Siberia itself,
via Novosibirsk…
DAY 06 Across the River Yenisei, at Krasnoyarsk…
DAY 07 Arrive in Irkutsk: Take your choice of
program from the two options.

Left - Baikal: lakeside trek Above - Ger Camp

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

Above - Mongolian friends at Elstei

photo: Aimie Conning/Russia Experience

06 Epic Trans-Sib NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
2 Moscow sightseeing with local expert
Moscow MOSCOW:
Transfers on arrival and departure.
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station Two nights stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast
included. 3 hour personalised walking tour
4 On board the Trans-Sib, through the Urals Mountains
with local expert.
5 On board into Siberia, crossing the River Ob at Novosibirsk LAKE BAIKAL:
Rural options out of the City gives you
6 On board - across central Siberia and crossing the Yenisei
the option to chose from two all-inclusive
7-9 Arrive Irkutsk, CHOOSE EITHER: Siberian Village, with mini-trek, scuba, programmes.
walking options OR Adventure Trek MONGOLIA:
Walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
10 Return to Irkutsk, free time to explore, then eve depart by train
All transportation. Two nights camping with
11 On board, around Lake Baikal then southwards to Mongolia
Irkutsk Nomads, full board. Two nights tourist
Ger Camp, full board. One night 3* Hotel
12 Ulaanbaatar city walk, depart to Bayan Gobi, nomad stay in Ulaanbaatar breakfast included.
Sleeping bags are provided.
13 Onwards to Karakorum site, overnight stay with nomads

14 Sightseeing in Bayan Gobi, arrive to Elstei Ger Camp

Ulaanbaatar VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA
15 Free day at Elstei for walking, optional riding, or just relaxing
trip price:
16 Return to Ulaanbaatar, free time to explore, and overnight 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
17 Depart to Beijing by train, midnight border crossing
Beijing FULL ON £1,575 £1,375 £1,275
SPICING IT UP
18 Pass the Great Wall of China, and arrive in Beijing
1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
Upgrading to Hotel
Irkutsk City £40 £30 £30
baikal programmes Choose either Siberian Village or Adventure Trek Upgrading to
2-berth Rail £399 £399 £399
EITHER (1) SIBERIAN VILLAGE OR (2) ADVENTURE TREK these are the dates when
DAY 07 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to Only available to two or more passengers travelling together this itinerary works:
Listvyanka Village on the shore of Lake Baikal. between 15 June and 1 September.
18-DAY ITINERARY
Stay in an authentic Siberian log-cabin (izba). Lunch. DAY 07 Arrival in Irkutsk transfer to host family. Shower 2007
See the village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife and breakfast, prepare for trekking (you can leave
Museum with your friendly local expert. Then get it all May 01, 15, 29, June 05, 19, July 03, 17, 31,
heavy baggage in Irkutsk). At 18.00 hrs you will depart August 07, 21, September 11
off your chest the Siberian way in the sauna! (banya) by public bus to Goloustnoe Village (2hrs). Short trek
You’ll be ready for your home-cooked supper after all 2008
(3km). Set up camp on shore of Lake Baikal.
that, then sleep like a log in a log cabin. May 13, 27, June 03, 17
DAY 08 Breakfast. Trek along the Baikal shore (25 km).
DAY 08 Choose one activity from the list, it’s all 19-DAY ITINERARY*
Picnic lunch along the way. Set up camp at Sennaya
included in the trip price! 2007
Bay, supper and overnight.
(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest, with a May 07, 21, June 11, 25, July 09, 23,
DAY 09 Breakfast. Trek onwards to Bol’shie Koty Village
Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and August 13, 27, September 03
(9km). Ride the city hydrofoil service to Irkutsk. Free
lore of the Taiga. (May-Oct). 2008
time to visit the city. Overnight with host family.
(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA in Lake Baikal (they say you May 05, 19, June 09, 23
gain a year of life if you dive in!) with qualified CMAS-
instructors (requires PADI-1), 2 dives included.
(May-Sep). Extra night for Siberian village in Irkutsk City.
(C) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take off on a Extra night for Adventure Trek in Listvyanka.
Cliffside walk, or mosey around the village, or take a ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN *Supplement per person for the extra night is £45 for one,
dip in Lake Baikal! Supper, then maybe try the local REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE £30 for two or more.
bar? Overnight with host family. OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
DAY 09 Breakfast. Free time, supper and overnight www.trans-siberian.co.uk
with host family.

DAY 10 Breakfast. Transfer to Irkutsk City. Return to family stay and be reunited with your baggage.
Free time to visit the city. Transfer to station and depart by overnight train to Ulaanbaatar.
DAY 11 On board to Mongolia. (Midnight border crossing).
DAY 12 Early morning arrival in Ulaanbaatar. Chance for a quick shower, then a guided Walking Tour of the city.
Depart to the Bayan Gobi, on arrival supper and accommodation with local nomads in ger tents.
(NB: This is not a tourist camp, you are the guests of the nomads).
DAY 13 Onwards to ancient Karakorum (modern Harhorin) 8 hrs off-road driving. Picnic lunch en-route.
Supper and overnight with local herdsmen in ger tents.
DAY 14 Sightseeing in the Bayan Gobi. Picnic lunch during 6-hr drive towards Ulaanbaatar, accommodation at
Elstei Ger Camp (this is tourist-type accommodation - unlike with nomads). Supper and overnight.
DAY 15 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp for walking, horse-riding (arrange/pay locally) or relaxing.
DAY 16 Back to Ulaanbaatar. Internet cafés, bars, restaurants and nightclubs are waiting for you to let your hair
down Mongolian style. Overnight 3* hotel.
DAY 17 Transfer to your departing Beijing-bound train this morning. Midnight border crossing and onwards
into China!
DAY 18 Thunder on across China past the Great Wall. Mid-afternoon arrival into Beijing Central Station.
Your trans-siberian journey comes to an end. For services in China and beyond please see pages 40-43.
Yum yum - dehydrated potato
photo: Roy Thornton

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Epic Trans-Sib 07

MAMMOTH TRANS-SIB
the legendary stops combined on one itinerary

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CUSTN TO
YOUR OMISE
Mongolia: Gandan Lamasery photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
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from
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9
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full on itinerary
T T R
G UR AN
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£1,800
O S E
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DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow.
P

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you at the hotel, to whiz you round the highlights.
This is using public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path…
D

21 night/22 day trip at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.
22 night/23 day trip DAY 03 A full free day - take your pick of the best of Moscow! Maybe take a city excursion today see page 47.
Mid-afternoon we take you to your waiting train to Siberia!
operational season DAY 04 Full day on train through the Ural Mountains, arrival late evening in Ekaterinburg, transfer to Hotel.
May-Sept DAY 05 Walking Tour of Ekaterinburg with local expert. Afternoon and evening free to explore further.
DAY 06 Please choose one of the following fully inclusive day trips.
(D) SIBERIAN COUNTRYSIDE & HISTORIC VILLAGE
Visit to an old village now under a Preservation Order
160kms each way. Includes home-cooked lunch,
exhibitions of local crafts, horse cart riding. Duration;
8-9 hours. No physical exertion involved. Year round.

Option to either remain at your hotel until 02:00 or

check-out early evening and chill-out at the Vodoley
Leisure Centre (admission tickets and bar-bill are yours,
but we take you there and back) and then directly
(with luggage) to station. Depart 04:00 eastwards...
DAY 07 & 08 Onboard, onwards via Novosibirsk and
Krasnoyarsk to Irkutsk.

Mongolian herdswoman
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

(A) ROMANOV GRAVES (Europe & Asia Border 30

kms each way Monument en-route). Car excursion to
site where the Romanov bodies were hidden. Duration;
5-6 hours. No physical exertion involved. Year round.
(B) HIKING TRIP IN THE URALS
Outdoor adventure in an area which is a designated
nature park. Car transfer then 15km walk where you
will see a variety of flora and fauna and learn about the
indigenous species of wildlife. No special equipment
needed. Duration; 8-9 hours. Lunch provided.
15 Jun-15 Sep weather permitting
(C) SIBERIAN WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Combined soft raft (6km) and Forest Hike (12km)-optional
Above - Alice Crane in national
costume of Burayatia
cave visit. Good fitness required. Duration; 9-10 hours. Listvyanka: village house
photo: Aimie Conning Lunch provided. 15 Jun-15 Sep weather permitting photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

08 Mammoth Trans-Sib NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation Moscow 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
2 Moscow sightseeing with local expert
MOSCOW:
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station Transfers on arrival and departure.
4
5
By train through Ural Mts, eve arrive Ekaterinburg & accom
Walking tour of Ekaterinburg & free time to explore
Ekaterinburg Two nights stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast
included. 3 hour personalised walking tour
6 Your choice of Ekaterinburg/Urals activities (see full itinerary) with local expert.
7 Onwards by Trans-Siberian via Novosibirsk, cross River Ob EKATERINBURG:
8 Onwards by Trans-Sib via Krasnoyarsk, cross River Yenisei
Transfers on arrival and departure.
Two nights stay in a 2* Hotel, breakfast
9 /10 EITHER Siberian Village Stay (options for scuba, mini-trek, walking)
included. 3 hour walking tour, day trip.
OR Adventure Trek (camping)
11 Car return to Irkutsk, free time to explore, dep to station Irkutsk LAKE BAIKAL:
Rural options out of the City gives you
12 Arrival Ulan-Uday, fam stay, Buddhist Monastery & Buryat Village the option to chose from two all-inclusive
13 Visit Ivolginsky Buddhist Datsan & Eastern Medicine Centre programmes.
14 Depart by train towards Mongolian Border (midnight crossing) Ulan-Uday ULAN-UDAY:
15 Ulaanbaatar city walk, depart and overnight with nomads Transfers on arrival and departure.
16 Trip into Bayan-Gobi, picnic en-route, stay with nomads Two nights stay with a local family, full
board. Including excursions as per itinerary.
17 Onwards to Karakorum site, ger-tent stay with local nomads
18 Scenic desert drive back, arrive at Elstei Ger Camp
Ulaanbaatar MONGOLIA:
Optional walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
19 Free day at Elstei-relax, walk, activities, optional horse-riding
All transportation. Three nights camping
20 Return to Ulaanbaatar, free time to explore, overnight with Nomads (full board).
21 Depart by train to Beijing, across the Southern Gobi desert Beijing Two nights tourist Ger Camp (full board).
22 Pass the Great Wall of China, arrival in Beijing One night 3* Hotel Ulaanbaatar,
breakfast included.
Visas required for:
baikal programmes Choose either Siberian Village or Adventure Trek RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA

DAY 12 Arrival early morning to Ulan-Uday, transfer to trip price:

EITHER (1) SIBERIAN VILLAGE
Family Stay. Guided trip to Atsagatsky Buddhist 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
DAY 09 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to Lamasery. After the monastery, try cuisine of Buryatia FULL ON £2,200 £1,900 £1,800
Listvyanka Village on the shore of Lake Baikal. for lunch with a village family. Return to Ulan-Uday.
Supper and overnight. (Option to upgrade to 3* hotel). SPICING IT UP
Stay in an authentic Siberian log-cabin (izba). Lunch.
1 person 2 people 3-9 people
See the village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife DAY 13 Visit to the Ivolginsky Datsan (a much larger
Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
Museum with your friendly local expert. Then get it all monastery). Lunch. Visit to Centre of Eastern Medicine
off your chest the Siberian way in the sauna! (banya) (optional consultation). Supper and overnight. Upgrade to Hotel
You’ll be ready for your home-cooked supper after all in Ulan-Uday £110 £65 £65
DAY 14 Early transfer to the station and depart for
that-then sleep like a log in a log cabin. 2 night stay
Mongolia-midnight border crossing (with halt
DAY 10 Choose one activity from below its all included for formalities). Upgrading to Hotel
in the trip price! Irkutsk City £40 £30 £30
DAY 15 Arrival in Ulaanbaatar. Transfer and freshen up.
(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest, with a Upgrading to
Guided walk of the old city centre. Depart from city to
Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and 2-berth Rail £449 £449 £449
stay in Gers with herdsmen (nb: this is not a tourist
lore of the Taiga. (May-Oct). camp you are the guests of the nomads). Traditional
(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA in Lake Baikal (they say supper, and overnight. these are the dates when
you gain a year of life if you dive in!) with qualified DAY 16 Sightseeing in the Bayan Gobi (all meals this itinerary works:
CMAS-instructors (requires PADI-1), (May-Oct.) 2 dives. included). Supper and overnight with herdsmen in Gers. 22-DAY ITINERARY
(C) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take off on a DAY 17 Onwards to ancient Karakorum (modern 2007
Cliffside walk, or mosey around the village, or take a Harhorin). 8 hours off-road driving, picnic lunch en route.
dip in Lake Baikal! Supper, then maybe try the local May 11, 25, June 15, 29, July 13, 27,
Supper and overnight in gers with local herdsmen. August 03, 17, 31, September 07
bar? Overnight with host family. DAY 18 Sightseeing in the Gobi. Picnic lunch.
DAY 11 Transfer to Irkutsk Free time to explore on foot 2008
Return towards Ulaanbaatar, drive to Elstei Ger Camp. May 09, 23, June 13, 27
(we watch your bags) until evening departure to station Supper and overnight. (This is tourist-style
and on by overnight train to Ulan-Uday. accommodation-unlike with nomads). 23-DAY ITINERARY*
2007
DAY 19 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp-for walking,
horse riding (arrange/pay locally) or relaxing. Supper May 03, 17, June 07, 21, July 05, 19,
OR (2) ADVENTURE TREK August 09, 23
and overnight.
Only available to two or more passengers travelling together. DAY 20 Return to Ulaanbaatar. Day free to explore the 2008
between 15 June and 1 September. city. Overnight at centrally located 3* hotel. May 01, 15, June 05, 19
DAY 09 Arrival in Irkutsk, transfer to host family. DAY 21 Transfer to your departing Beijing bound train
Shower, and breakfast, prepare for trekking. (you can this morning. Midnight border crossing and onwards Extra night for Siberian Village in Listvyanka.
leave heavy baggage in Irkutsk). At 12:30 hrs you will to China! Extra night for Adverture Trek Irkutsk City -
depart by hydrofoil to Goloustnoe Village (2hrs). Short DAY 22 Thunder on across China past the Great Wall. option to upgrade to a hotel.
trek (3km). Set up camp on shore of Lake Baikal. Mid-afternoon arrival into Beijing Central Station. Your *Supplement per person for the extra night is £45 for one,
DAY 10 Trekking along the Baikal shore (25 km). trans-siberian journey comes to an end. For services £30 for two or more
Picnic lunch along the way. Set up camp at Sennaya in China and beyond please see pages 40-43.
Bay, supper and overnight.
DAY 11 Trek onwards to Bol’shie Koty Village (9km).
Depart by public bus to Irkutsk. Free time to visit the city.
Return to your host family and collect your bags, before ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN
transfer to the station for your Ulan-Uday bound train. REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE
OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
www.trans-siberian.co.uk

Mongolian herdsman
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Mammoth Trans-Sib 09

ULTIMATE TRANS-SIB
mountains, mongols, monasteries - the ultimate t-sib trip

WA T
CUSTN TO
YOUR OMISE
Katun River, Altai photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
D

N PA GU
D ES
AT

9
O R A

from
E

full on itinerary
T T R
G UR AN
R E T
O S E
U - E

DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow.

£2,690
P

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you at the hotel, to whiz you round the highlights.
This is using public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path…
D

at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.

25 night/26 day trip DAY 03 A full free day for you to pack in the rest! Mid-evening transfer to the station for your Siberia
bound train!
operational season DAY 04 Full day on train through the Ural Mountains, arrival late evening in Ekaterinburg, transfer to Hotel.
June-August DAY 05 Your choice of the following programs (one choice is included in your trip, no surcharges!).

(A) ROMANOV GRAVES

(Europe/Asia Border Monument en-route). Car excursion
to site where the Romanov bodies were hidden.
Duration; 5-6 hours. No physical exertion involved.
(B) HIKING TRIP IN THE URALS
Outdoor adventure in an area which is a designated
nature park. Car transfer then 15km walk where you
will see a variety of flora and fauna and learn about the
indigenous species of wildlife. No special equipment
needed. Duration; 8-9 hours. Lunch provided.
15 Jun-15 Sep weather permitting
(C) SIBERIAN WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Combined soft raft (6km) and Forest Hike (12km)-optional
cave visit. Duration; 9-10 hours. Lunch provided.
15 Jun-15 Sep weather permitting
(D) URALS MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE
Trip to start West of the city. After a short drive you start Wild horses on the Mongolian steppe
your bike trip on a professional bike for 2-3 hrs. Lunch. photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Duration; 5 hrs. 15 May-30 Sep. Weather permitting.

DAY 06 Onwards towards Barnaul.
Overnight onboard.
DAY 07 You will be met by your guide on arrival into
Barnaul then travel by public bus service (6 hrs) to
Chemal Village in the heart of the Altai Mountains.
Late lunch. This afternoon you will go on a guided
walk during which you will learn about the local
Altaic people. Sauna and supper then overnight
in local Guesthouse.
DAY 08 After breakfast, excursion to site of ancient
cave and cliff-paintings. Picnic lunch will be provided.
There will be an opportunity (small local cash payment)
to ride Altai Mountain Horses. Then learn more about
the ancient Chuisky Tract the route of Genghis Khan’s
messengers. Supper. Overnight in local Guesthouse.
Left - Buryat musician playing the
Muurin-Khur Horse-Head Fiddle
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
DAY 09 Transfer to rafting launch point. After receiving
a safety briefing set off (with instructor & guide), some
white-water rafting. Picnic lunch stop along the way.
This afternoon continue rafting the Katun River.
Then set up camp, followed by supper around the fire.
DAY 10 Today you will continue rafting along the
Katun River. Picnic lunch at the riverside. Return by
road to Chemal. Free time, sauna, supper overnight
in local Guesthouse.
DAY 11 After an early breakfast depart to Novosibirsk
by road (7-8 hrs). Own Lunch & Supper.
Overnight in 3* Hotel.
DAY 12 Guided sightseeing walk of Novosibirsk, then
free time (own lunch and supper arrangements). Late
evening transfer to station for your Siberia bound train.
DAY 13 Continue eastwards on the Trans-Siberian
towards Irkutsk.

10 Ultimate Trans-Sib NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1
2
Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation
Moscow sightseeing with local expert
Moscow 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
MOSCOW:
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station
Transfers on arrival and departure.
4 By train through Ural Mountains, evening arrive Ekaterinburg & accommodation
Two nights stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast
5 Your choice of Ekaterinburg/Urals activities (see full itinerary) Ekaterinburg included. 3 hour personalised walking
6 Onwards by train through Southern Siberia tour with local expert.
7 By road from Barnaul into the High Altai Mts (picnic en route)
8 Visit ancient cave-painting site, optional horse-riding
EKATERINBURG:
9 Cast off on Altai river-rafting trip, overnight camping Altai Transfers on arrival and departure.
Two nights in a 2* Hotel breakfast included.
10 Second half of rafting, return to Altai Village B&B, sauna
3 hour walking tour, and excursion included.
11 By road to Novosibirsk, picnic lunch, evening free in Novosibirsk
ALTAI:
12
13
Sightseeing in Novosibirsk, free time and evening train depart
On board Trans-Sib eastwards, cross the Yenisei River Bridge
Irkutsk Accom: in Chemal, family-run guesthouse
14 EITHER Siberian Village Stay (options for scuba, mini-trek, walking)
with HB and picnic lunches; during rafting,
camping in tents with FB camp meals; in
OR Adventure Trek (camping)
Novosibirsk, tourist-class hotel with breakfast
15 Your choice: trek, scuba or walking options at Lake Baikal Ulan-Uday only. Transport: Barnaul Chemal by intercity bus,
16 Free time in Irkutsk for exploring, evening train departure
all other transfers by private car.
17 Arrive Ulan-Uday, Buddhist monastery & Buryat Village trip
(Bring suitable clothes and footwear for rafting.
18 Trip to the Ivolginsky Buddhist Datsan + Eastern Medicine Central
19 Early depart by train, en-route for Mongolian border Ulaanbaatar All other gear & sleeping bags provided.
Vegetarians must advise in advance!).
20 Ulaanbaatar city walk, departure to Bayan-Gobi, nomad stay
21 To Karakorum site, stay in gers with local nomads LAKE BAIKAL:
22 Staying out of the City, up at the Lake gives
23
Scenic desert route back to UB, stay at Elstei Ger Camp
Free day at Elstei for walking, activities, optional horseriding
Beijing you the opportunity to choose one of our
24 Return to Ulaanbaatar, central hotel, free time for exploring
all-inclusive programmes. (Sleeping bags
are provided where necessary)
25 Depart by train to Beijing, across the Southern Gobi desert
26 Pass the Great Wall of China, arrival in Beijing ULAN-UDAY:
Transfers on arrival and departure.
Two nights family stay, all meals included.
Excursions as per itinerary.
baikal programmes Choose either Siberian Village or Adventure Trek MONGOLIA:
Walking tour of Ulaanbaatar. All
transportation. Two nights camping with
EITHER (1) SIBERIAN VILLAGE DAY 17 Arrival early morning in Ulan-Uday, transfer Nomads. (full board) Two nights tourist
to Family Stay. Guided trip to Atsagatsky Buddhist Ger Camp (full board). One night 3* Hotel
DAY 14 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to
Lamasery. After the monastery, try cuisine of Buryatia for Ulaanbaatar, breakfast included.
Listvyanka Village on the shore of Lake Baikal.
lunch with a village family. Return to Ulan-Uday. Supper Sleeping bags are provided.
Stay in an authentic Siberian log-cabin (izba). Lunch. and overnight. (Option to upgrade to 3* Hotel).
See the village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
DAY 18 Visit to the Ivolginsky Datsan (a much larger RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA.
Museum with your friendly local expert. Then get it all
monastery). Lunch. Visit to Centre of Eastern Medicine
off your chest the Siberian way in the sauna! (banya)
(optional consultation). Supper and overnight.
You’ll be ready for your home-cooked supper after all
DAY19 Early transfer to the station and depart for trip price:
that-then sleep like a log in a log cabin.
Mongolia- midnight border crossing with the usual halt 2 people 3-9 people
DAY 15 Choose one activity from the list, it’s all
for formalities. FULL ON £2,790 £2,690
included in the trip price!
DAY 20 Early morning arrival into Ulaanbaatar. Chance SPICING IT UP
(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest with a
for a freshen up, a guided walking tour of the city. 2 people 3-9 people
Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and
Depart to Bayan Gobi. Accommodation with local Extra Night Moscow £50 £50
lore of the Taiga.
nomads in ger tents. Supper. (This is not a tourist camp Upgrade to Hotel
(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA a freshwater dive in the world’s - you are the guests of the nomads).
Greatest Lake, with CMAS-qualified instructors and in Ulan-Uday B&B £65 £65
DAY 21 Onwards to ancient Karakorum (modern 2 night stay
pro-level gear (requires PADI-1). Includes two dives.
Harhorin) 8 hrs off-road driving. Picnic lunch en-route. Upgrading to
(C) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take off on a Supper and overnight with local herdsmen
Cliffside walk, or mosey around the village, or take a 2-berth Rail £449 £449
DAY 22 Sightseeing in the Bayan Gobi.
dip in Lake Baikal! Supper, then maybe try the local bar?
Picnic lunch during 6-hr drive towards Ulaanbaatar. these are the dates when
Overnight with host family.
Accommodation at Elstei Ger Camp (this is tourist-style
DAY 16 Transfer to Irkutsk. Free time to explore on foot. accommodation unlike with nomads). this itinerary works:
(we watch your bags). Evening transfer to the station, Supper and overnight.
for your Ulan-Uday bound train. 26-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 23 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp-for walking, 2007
horse-riding (arrange/pay locally) or relaxing. June 04, 18, July 02, 16, August 06
OR (2) ADVENTURE TREK DAY 24 Back to Ulaanbaatar. Internet cafés, bars, 2008
Only available between 15 June and 1 September. restaurants and nightclubs are waiting for you to let
June 02, 16, 30
your hair down Mongolian style. Overnight 3* hotel.
DAY 14 Arrival in Irkutsk, transfer to host family. DAY 25 Transfer to your departing Beijing-bound train
Shower, and breakfast, prepare for trekking. (you can this morning. Midnight border crossing and onwards
leave heavy baggage in Irkutsk). At 12:30 hrs you will into China!
depart by hydrofoil to Goloustnoe Village (2hrs). Short
trek (3km). Set up camp on shore of Lake Baikal. DAY 26 Thunder on across China past the Great Wall.
Mid-afternoon arrival into Beijing Central Station.
DAY 15 Trekking along the Baikal shore (25 km). Picnic Your trans-siberian journey comes to an end. For
lunch along the way. Set up camp at Sennaya Bay, services in China and beyond please see pages 40-43.
supper and overnight.
DAY 16 Trek onwards to Bol’shie Koty Village (9km).
Depart by public bus to Irkutsk. Free time to visit the city.
Return to your host family and collect your bags, before
transfer to the station for your Ulan-Uday bound train.

Altai Mountain Musician

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Ultimate Trans-Sib 11

OUTER & INNER MONGOLIA
the secret history of the mongols

Mongolia: Local Naadam Festival Photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

from
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The rugged beauty of Outer Mongolia combined with almost-unknown Inner Mongolia
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£1,249
(now within China’s borders) - more richly endowed than its Outer counterpart by the
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Chinese Emperors.

full on itinerary
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17 nights/18 days
22 nights/23 days DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow.
operational season DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you at the hotel, to whiz you round the highlights.
May-Sept This is using public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path…
at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.
DAY 03 A full free day for you to pack in the rest! Have you been to Pushkin Square? “The” place to meet
friends or Izmailovsky Flea market for souvenirs? Perhaps you have pre-booked one of our city based
excursions for today? (see page 43 for details) Mid-evening we take you to your Siberia bound train.
DAY 04 The Trans-Sib line leads you past Kazan and Ekaterinburg…
DAY 05 Then onwards into Siberia itself, via Novosibirsk…
DAY 06 Across the River Yenisei at Krasnoyarsk
DAY 07 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to Listvyanka Village, a typical Siberian Village. Stay in an
authentic Siberian log-cabin (izba). Lunch. See the village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife
Museum with your friendly local expert. Then get it all off your chest the Siberian way in the sauna!
(banya) You’ll be ready for your home-cooked supper after all that, then sleep like a log in a log cabin.
DAY 08 Choose one activity from the list, it’s all included in the trip price!

(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest with a

Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and
lore of the Taiga.

(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA a freshwater dive in the world’s

Greatest Lake, with CMAS-qualified instructors and
pro-level gear (requires PADI-1). Includes 2 dives.

(C) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take off on a

Cliffside walk, or mosey around the village, or take a
dip in Lake Baikal! Supper, then maybe try the local
bar? Overnight with host family.

Left - Railway track to Irkutsk

Photo: John Pannell Inside a Mongolian ger tent photo: Roy Thornton

12 Outer & Inner Mongolia NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
1 Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation TRAIN:
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
2 Moscow sightseeing with local expert
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station
Moscow MOSCOW:
Transfer on arrival/departure. Two nights
4 On board the Trans-Sib, through the Urals Mountains 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
5 On board into Siberia, crossing the River Ob at Novosibirsk personalised walking tour with local expert.
6 On board across Eastern Siberia and across the river Yenisei LAKE BAIKAL:
7 Arrive Irkutsk, by road to Lake Baikal & Listyvanka Village Stay
Irkutsk (Applies to trip via Irkutsk only).
All transfers are provided.
8 YOUR CHOICE: options at Listvyanka incl walking, scuba, mini-trek
Three nights family stay accommodation.
9 Free day at Lake Baikal to explore independently Meals as stated with your host family.
Free excursion on day eight.
10 Return to Irkutsk, free time to explore the city, evening train depart
11 On board-around Lake Baikal then southwards to Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar MONGOLIA:
12 Ulaanbaatar city walk, free time, overnight in Ulaanbaatar Optional walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
One night 3* centrally located hotel,
13 Bayan Gobi trip, sightseeing in Gobi, overnight with nomads
includes breakfast. All transportation.
14 Onwards to Karakorum site, overnight with Gobi nomads
15 Sightseeing in Gobi, arrival to Elstei Ger Camp
Huhehot Two nights camping with Nomads, full board.
Three nights tourist Ger Camp, full board.
16 Free day at Elstei camp for walking, relaxing, optional riding Sleeping bags are provided. One night
3* centrally located hotel, includes breakfast.
17 Additional free day at Elstei, relax after Gobi trip
HUHEHOT:
18 Return to Ulaanbaatar, free time to explore, overnight stay
Beijing Two nights 3* hotel, includes breakfast.
19 Free time to explore UB, car transfer, train dep to Huhehot Guided City tour.
20 Arrival evening in Huhehot, transfer to hotel VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
21 Guided sightseeing in Huhehot (incl Wuta-Si Pagoda) RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA.
22 Free time to explore Huhehot independently, eve dep by train
23 Past Great Wall of China, arrival in Beijing trip price:
1 person 2 people 3-9 people
OUTER & INNER
DAY 16 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp for walking, MONGOLIA £1,649 £1,349 £1,249
horse-riding (arrange/pay locally) or relaxing. Breakfast, VIA IRKUTSK £1,749 £1,449 £1,349
lunch and supper are included during your stay at the SPICING IT UP
Ger Camp. 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
DAY 17 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp. Breakfast, lunch Upgrading to
and supper will be provided. 2-berth Rail £349 £349 £349
DAY 18 Back to Ulaanbaatar. Internet cafés, bars, Upgrading to
restaurants and nightclubs are waiting for you to let 2 berth Rail via Irkutsk £399 £399 £399
your hair down Mongolian style. Overnight 3* hotel.
DAY 19 Free time to explore Ulaanbaatar. Transfer to these are the dates when
the station, for evening departure to Huhehot.
Overnight on board. this itinerary works:
DAY 20 Late evening arrival into Huhehot, transfer to 19-DAY ITINERARY (NO STOP IN IRKUTSK)
your Hotel. 2007
DAY 21 Guided city tour of Huhehot, Capital of Inner May 07, 14, 21, 28, June 04, 11, 18, 25,
Mongolia. Free time, overnight. July 02, 09, 16, 23, 30, August 06, 13, 20, 27,
DAY 22 Day at leisure before making your own way September 03, 10
to the station for the evening departure to Beijing. 2008
(NB: 2-berth cabins are not available on the Huhehot May 05, 12, 19, 26, June 02, 09, 16, 23, 30
to Beijing service.)
DAY 23 Early morning arrival into Beijing. For services 23-DAY ITINERARY (VIA IRKUTSK)
Mongolian Herdsmen
in China and beyond please see pages pages 40-43. 2007
Photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
May 03, 17, 31, June 07, 21,
DAY 09 Free day at Lakeside village -Listvyanka. July 05, 19, August 09, 23, September 13
Breakfast & Supper included. Overnight with your 2008
host family. May 01, 15, 29, June 05, 19
DAY 10 Transfer to Irkutsk to stay with host family.
Day free to explore the city. Overnight with host family.
DAY 11 Early morning transfer to the station to board
the train to Ulaanbaatar.
DAY 12 Arrival in Ulaanbaatar. Transfer and freshen up.
Guided walk of the old city centre. Evening free to
explore Ulaanbaatar’s nightlife. Overnight 3* Hotel.
DAY 13 After breakfast depart into Bayan Gobi. Lunch.
Stay in authentic Gers with herdsmen. (This is not
a tourist camp you are the guests of the nomads).
Traditional supper, and overnight.
DAY 14 Onwards to ancient Karakorum (modern
Harhorin) 8 hours off road driving, picnic lunch en-route.
Supper and overnight in gers with local herdsman.
DAY 15 Sightseeing in the Bayan Gobi.
Picnic lunch during 6-hr drive towards Ulaanbaatar.
Accommodation at Elstei Ger Camp (this is tourist-style
accommodation unlike with nomads).
Supper and overnight. Inner Mongolia-Wuta Si Pagoda
Photo: Neil McGowan/Russia Experience
Sunny day in Irkutsk
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Outer & Inner Mongolia 13

 The rumble of another train came from behind, bursting into a
deafening thunder and obliterating the sound of the waterfall as it
approached, and an old-fashioned express rushed past at full speed
on the parallel track, roared, hooted, winked its tail lights and
vanished into the distance ahead. The conversation was resumed.
“Well, we’re in for it now.” “Yes, it won’t be soon.”
“It’s an armoured express – must be Strelnikov.”
Boris Pasternak, “Dr Zhivago”, Chapter 22
Doctor
Zhivago
50th Anniversary
“One day Larissa
Feodorovna went out and
did not come back. She
must have been arrested
in the street nearby. She
vanished without trace and
probably died somewhere
forgotten as a nameless
number on a list that
afterwards got mislaid,
in one of the innumerable
mixed or women’s camps
in the North”
Doctor Zhivago - Epilogue
14 Doctor Zhivago
2007 is the 50th Anniversary of the
legendary novel Dr Zhivago, by Boris
Pasternak. Banned from any publication
in the USSR, the book was smuggled to
Italy for publication in 1957, and was
soon translated and published all over
the world. Although awarded the Nobel
Prize for Literature, the USSR refused
to allow Pasternak to attend the Award
Ceremony, and he died soon after.
Zhivago is the story of the Russian
Revolution, told through the (fictional) life of
one man, Dr Yuri Zhivago. Many of the names
in the story have resonances which can’t be
translated. Yuri’s name is Zhivago, in which
the word “zhiv” (alive, living) is clear. His
rival for Lara’s love is Komarovsky – from
the Russian word for a mosquito. Yet Lara’s
own husband has forgotten her, and changed
his name to become the deadly agent of Soviet
power, Strelnikov (“the shooter”). The idea
for Dr Zhivago began in Perm’, the town to
which Pasternak had been evacuated in WW2
– the town appears in the book under the
fictional name of “Yuriatin”, and it’s the
setting for Yuri’s meetings with Lara.
Obviously, Yuri Zhivago was a fictional
character, and didn’t have an “address” we can
show you today. But the story is based on real
places (which could never have been included
in the famous film, shot at the height of the
Cold War), and we show them to you on this
special itinerary, along with other “hidden”
sights from the same era which establish the
historical background to the book.
Day 01 Arrive Moscow and transfer to hotel.
Day 02 Breakfast, walking tour of Moscow (including
places connected with the story in “Dr Zhivago” and its
author and times). Free afternoon and evening.
Day 03 Daytime free to explore more of Moscow, early-
evening departure by train to Perm’.
Day 04 By train across the Urals to Perm’ early evening
arrival, transfer to hotel, overnight.
DAY 05 SPECIAL WALKING TOUR OF
YURI ZHIVAGO’S “YURYATIN” (Perm).
We start at the Pushkin Library, which was
the Public Reading Room where Yuri and
Lara first meet in the book. In the novel we
hear that it was behind the “Giant” cinema;
it’s actually behind the “Triumph” cinema.
Across the street is the city’s leafy Central
Square, where you can easily imagine
Yuri and Lara must have gone after they
first met, and sat on a park bench opposite
the Opera House. Nearby the nightmare
realities of Zhivago’s time interrupt our
dreams – the small former hotel where Tsar
Nicholas II’s brother was staying on his way
to Ekaterinburg, where the Royal Family
were imprisoned in 1918. In fact Grand
Prince Mikhail was the last Tsar of all
but he never knew. Our tour reveals the
bizarre secret, and its British connection.
Nearby is a small wooden two-storey house
which is “Lara’s house”. In fact it is just
another private house (ie you can’t visit) in
the city, but carefully reading of the book
identifies the exact location, opposite the
imposing C19th palace across the road.
A few blocks from the mansion is the
hospital where Lara works in the novel.
There’s a chance to see some imposing
houses built by wealthy C19th merchants
you can imagine Komarovsky must have
had friends to stay with here? There’s also
a monument to Boris Pasternak. Not far
away is the River Pier district before the
Trans-Siberian Railway was built, travellers
to Siberia would come by boat from
Moscow this far and disembark, and the
Great Siberian Tract (the old Post Road)
began from this point. Chain-ganged
convicts would be brought here at night,
“What crime do you say I’ve committed?
All I did was to make the world weep
At the beauty of my homeland”
(poem written when the author was told to refuse his Nobel Prize)
for fear of frightening local people with their TRIP OPTIONS &
terrible fate and force marched to Siberia ALTERNATIVES
on foot. The Old Razvilje Railway Station
was then built here it was from here If you would like to travel from Perm via
that the Trans-Siberian Railway originally Mongolia to China, we can re-plan your
departed (it was only later linked back routing… it needs different departure dates from
as far as Moscow), and this is where Moscow for the connections to work, and the trip
Komarovsky’s private “Government train” is longer due to the Mongolia stopover. (Yuri’s
waited for him. The Siberian convicts had to daughter is born in Mongolia in the book Lara
march for months to their destination – you, was pregnant when kidnapped by Komarovsky)
however, only have another ten minutes A full itinerary version including Mongolia is on
walk to get to the new “Dr Zhivago” our website.
Restaurant… for lunch. Afternoon free
to explore Perm’s shops and extensive It’s also possible to take only the Moscow &
museums and galleries (Perm is a major Perm sections and then return to Moscow by
location for fossil-hunters, the Permian train (without going to Mongolia or China) this is
period takes its name from the city, and possible too – itinerary version on our website.
there’s lots in the museums). Evening free
– there might even be a performance of trip price:
the opera “Dr Zhivago” (yes, there really 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
is one..) at the Opera Theatre? FULL ON £1095 £999 £899
Remainder of day free to explore more SPICING IT UP
of Perm’. 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Upgrading to
Day 06 Full-day Excursion to the Gulag
Museum, housed in the only surviving* 2-berth Rail £60 £50 £50
Extra Night Moscow £349 £349 £349
soviet-era Gulag now visitable in Russia.
En-route we pass small villages which must
have been the inspiration for the one where
Yuri & Larissa hid out from the Secret Start dates for Dr Zhivago
Police. Evening return to Perm. 2007
Jan 07, 14, 21, 28,
Day 07 Free day in Perm to explore
Feb 04, 11, 18, 25,
the rest of this pleasant Urals city – Mar 04, 11, 18, 25,
then evening transfer to the station April 01, 08, 15, 22, 29,
for departure eastwards May 06, 13, 20, 27
* there is one other, but it’s on the Russian Arctic Pacific June 03, 10, 17, 24,
coast, 900 miles from any rail stop, and only accessible July 01, 08, 15, 22, 29
by chartered helicopter. Aug 05, 12, 19, 26
Days 08-12 On board the Trans-Sib eastwards via the
Sep 02, 09, 16, 23, 30
Chinese Manchurian frontier with Russia. (This is the
Oct 07, 14, 21, 28
route by which Komarovsky kidnaps Lara in the book,
Nov 04, 11, 18, 25
Dec 02, 09, 16, 23, 30
in a private train)
Day 13 Arrival in Beijing very early morning.
End of itinerary.
Boris Pasternak “The Nobel Prize”
Doctor Zhivago 15
GOBI & GULAG
Siberia’s hidden secrets

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Cathedral dedicated to Tsar Nicholas II photo: Neil McGowan SEE P TRIP?
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AGE 4
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You don’t need previous experience or special gear for either the Kungur
G UR AN
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Ice Caves, or a softies rafting trip through the Urals Mts. At the heart of the

£1,150
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trip a visit to Russia’s only remaining Gulag Camp (now a Museum of Soviet
Repression)- like all the Gulags, hidden at a distance from civilisation.
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15 nights/16 days No other travel company offers this route.

operational season
May-Sept full on itinerary
DAY 01 Arrive in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow
DAY 02 After breakfast a local expert will meet you at your hotel to whisk you around the highlights.
You’ll use public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path…
at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.
DAY 03 Your day is free in Moscow until mid-evening car transfer to Yaroslavsky Station and
departure Eastwards...
DAY 04 Full day along the Trans-Siberian Railway, arriving mid-evening in Perm. Car to your centrally
located hotel. Overnight.
DAY 05 Depart to the Kungur Ice Caves (2 hrs by road) including an underground visit (on lit paths,
no scrambling). Lunch included nearby. Road transfer (3 hrs) to the Usva River and raft-
assembly/loading. Begin rafting trip, and overnight camp at the Rocky Cliffs - campfire supper.
(Overnight in tents - guides assist to assemble etc).

Watch Tower
photo: Neil McGowan/Russia Experience Rafting the Usva photo: Neil McGowan/Russia Experience

16 Gobi & Gulag NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
2 Moscow sightseeing with local expert
Moscow MOSCOW:
Transfer on arrival/departure. Two nights
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
personalised walking tour with local expert.
4 By train eastwards, mid-evening arrival in Perm & accom
PERM:
5 Kungur Ice Caves, commence rafting trip All transfers are provided. Two nights

6 Full-day leisurely raft on the Usva River, camp overnight

Perm 3* hotel, breakfast included. 4 hour
personalised walking tour. Visit to Gulag
Museum. Rafting (no skill required).
7 Gulag Museum visit, return by Perm by road Two nights camping. evening meal provided.
8 Free day in Perm, evening transfer to station, depart eastbound ULAANBAATAR:
All Transfers included. Two Nights
9 On board Trans-Sib eastwards via Novosibirsk Mongolian Ger Camp accommodation,

10 On board Trans-Sib eastwards via Krasnoyarsk

Ulaanbaatar full board. One night 3* hotel in
Ulaanbaatar, breakfast included.
Walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
11 On board Trans-Sib via Irkutsk & Lake Baikal, border crossing
VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
12 Arrival Ulaanbaatar, city tour, transfer to Elstei Ger Camp RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA

13 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp to ride, walk or relax trip price:
14 Return to Ulaanbaatar, free day to explore & overnight
Beijing 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL ON £1,350 £1,250 £1,150
15 Departure to China, by train across the Southern Gobi
SPICING IT UP
16 Arrival in China, past Great Wall of China, arrival to Beijing 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
Upgrading to
2-berth Rail £325 £325 £325
DAY 06 Rafting along the Usva, with some liberal stops
en-route to visit scenic spots, for a picnic lunch and
campfire supper. Overnight in tents. these are the dates when
DAY 07 Breakfast, continue by raft to Mys, unpack and
disassemble raft, load into vehicle. Onwards to the
this itinerary works:
Perm-22 Gulag Camp (now operated as a Memorial 15 NIGHTS/16 DAYS ITINERARY
Museum by Pamyat - the Russian organisation for 2007
former political prisoners and their families). The Gulag May 24, 31,
is spread over two locations 2 km apart - we visit both June 07, 14, 21, 28,
(“Regular Category”, and “High-Security”). Picnic lunch. July 05, 12, 19, 26
Return to Perm’ by road (2 hrs), check-in to hotel. Aug 02, 09, 16, 23, 30,
DAY 08 Free day in Perm to follow-up on ideas and Sep 06, 13, 20, 27
activities from yesterday’s sightseeing. Car Transfer 2008
(evening) to station and departure towards Mongolia…
May 22, 29,
DAY 09 on board the Trans-Siberian via Novosibirsk June 05, 12, 19, 26
DAY 10 on board the Trans-Siberian via Krasnoyarsk
DAY 11 on board the Trans-Siberian via Irkutsk and
Lake Baikal, midnight border crossing
DAY 12 Early morning arrival in Outer Mongolia. Mongolian Herdsmen
Transfer from station, directly to 3* Hotel. Shower, photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
and breakfast. Depart for two hour familiarisation
of Ulaanbaatar, to include the Gandan Monastery DAY 13 Free time at Elstei Ger Camp. Throughout the
ceremony. Tour ends city centre. Lunch at own day you will have the opportunity to partake in activities
expense. Transfer to Ger Camp. Supper included. that include; a visit to a Nomad family, Mongolian
wrestling, horse riding (small local fee) to name but
a few. All meals included.
DAY 14 After Breakfast transfer back to Ulaanbaatar.
Check into the Bayangol Hotel 3* day at leisure in
the capital.
DAY 15 Early breakfast transfer to the station for your
Beijing bound train. Midnight border crossing, onwards
into China.
DAY 16 Across the Steppes of Inner Mongolia, and
past the Great Wall of China, finally arriving in Beijing
mid-afternoon. The end of your Trans-Siberian itinerary.

ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN

REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE
OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
www.trans-siberian.co.uk
This trip has a recommended
clothing/footwear requirement,
which is given on your
Trip Confirmation when you book.

Mongolian family pop round for a visit photo: John Pannell

Mongolia: Local Naadam Festival
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Gobi & Gulag 17

BIG TRANS-SIB
the two classic stops

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Impromptu party on board photo: Aimie Conning SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
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full on itinerary
T T R
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£885
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Day 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow.
P

Day 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you at the hotel, to whiz you round the highlights. This is
D

using public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path… at least until
14 nights/15 days lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.
15 nights/16 days
Day 03 A full free day for you to pack in the rest! Mid-evening we take you to your waiting train-to Siberia!
operational season Day 04 The Trans-Sib line leads you past Kazan and Ekaterinburg…
year round Day 05 Then onwards into Siberia itself, via Novosibirsk…
Day 06 Across the River Yenisei, at Krasnoyarsk…

baikal programmes
Choose either Siberian Village or Fishermans Cape of Lake Baikal
EITHER (1) SIBERIAN VILLAGE OR (2) FISHERMAN’S CAPE OF LAKE BAIKAL
DAY 07 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to
Listvyanka Village on the shore of Lake Baikal. Stay in
an authentic Siberian log cabin (izba). Lunch. See the
village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife Museum
with your friendly local expert. Then get it all off your
chest the Siberian way in the sauna! (banya) You’ll be
ready for your home-cooked supper after all that, then
sleep like a log in a log cabin.
DAY 08 Choose one activity from below its all included
in the trip price!
(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest, with a
Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and Lunch at Lake Baikal photo: Roy Thornton
lore of the Taiga. (May-Oct). DAY 07 Transfer directly from Station to the remoter
(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA in Lake Baikal (they say you village of Bolshoe Goloustnoe (110km on rural roads).
gain a year of life if you dive in!) with qualified CMAS- Your local guide shows you the village, the Old Church,
instructors (requires PADI-1), 2 dives included. and lake shoreline. Get the 20th Century out of your
(May-Sep) system in a real Russian banya (sauna) which will
(C) SNOWMOBILE TRIP (2 hrs) with a local guide sharpen your appetite for home-cooked food for
through the forest, or even out over the deep-frozen supper. Sleep soundly the modern world is far, far away.
lake! (Dec-Apr). DAY 08 Leisurely lakeside walk (8km) to Ushkani Cape,
(D) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take off on a and visit our friends the fishermen for lunch at their
Cliffside walk, or mosey around the village, or take a cabin. Leisurely walk back to Bolshoe Goloustnoe
dip in Lake Baikal! Supper, then maybe try the local Village. Supper, then relish the hushed silence away
bar? Overnight with host family. from the tourist throng.
DAY 09 Transfer to Irkutsk (1hr) and stay in a city DAY 09 By car to Irkutsk (110km) and stay in a city
apartment with a local family, in soviet city style. apartment with a local family, in soviet city style.
Day free to explore, overnight with host family. Day free to explore the city, overnight with host family.
Or upgrade to tourist-class hotel if you rate comfort Or upgrade to tourist-class hotel if you rate comfort
Above - Moscow: Strolling near the Kremlin
over authenticity. over authenticity.
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

18 Big Trans-Sib NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
Moscow MOSCOW:
2 Moscow sightseeing with local expert
Transfers on arrival and departure. Two nights
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
personalised walking tour with local expert.
4 On board the Trans-Sib, through the Urals Mountains LAKE BAIKAL:
Rural options out of the City gives you the
5 On board-into Siberia, crossing the River Ob at Novosibirsk choice from two all inclusive programmes.
6 On board-across Eastern Siberia and across the river Yenisei
ULAANBAATAR:
All transfers, two nights Mongolian Ger Camp
7&8 EITHER: arrival Irkutsk & transfer for Siberian Village Irkutsk accommodation, full board. Overnight stay in
3* hotel, located in the centre of Ulaanbaatar.
OR: arrival Irkutsk & 2-day trip to Bolshoe Goloustnoe Village Breakfast included. Walking tour of
Ulaanbaatar.
9 Return to Irkutsk, day to explore, family stay (or hotel upgrade)
Ulaanbaatar No frills trip:
10 Depart by train to Mongolia-midnight border crossing TRAIN:
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
11 Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, walking tour, transfer to Ger Camp MOSCOW:
Transfer on arrival. Two nights stay in a
12 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp walk, optional riding, just relax? Beijing 1* Hotel. Breakfast included.
13 Return to Ulaanbaatar, walking tour, overnight stay IRKUTSK:
Transfers on arrival and departure.
14 Depart to Beijing by train across the Southern Gobi Three nights family stay accommodation.
Breakfast included.
15 Pass Great Wall of China, arrival in Beijing ULAANBAATAR:
Transfers on arrival and departure.
Three nights stay in a 1* hotel, located in
Ulaanbaatar. Breakfast included.
DAY 13 After Breakfast transfer back to Ulaanbaatar.
VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
Check into the Bayangol Hotel 3* day at leisure in
RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA
the capital.
DAY 14 Early transfer to the station for your Beijing trip price:
bound train. Midnight border crossing, onwards 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
into China. FULL ON £1,235 £1,135 £1,035
DAY 15 Thunder on across China past the Great Wall. NO FRILLS £1,085 £985 £885
Mid-afternoon arrival into Beijing Central Station. Your
trans-siberian journey comes to an end. For services in SPICING IT UP
China and beyond please see pages pages 40-43. 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL-ON
Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
NO FRILLS
Extra Night Moscow £45 £35 £35
Upgrading to
Hotel Irkutsk City £40 £30 £30
Upgrading to
2-berth Rail £399 £399 £399

these are the dates when

this itinerary works:
15-DAY ITINERARY
2007
January 05,19, February 09, 23, March 09, 23,
April 13, 27, May 11, 25, June 15, 29, July 13, 27,
August 17, 31, September 07, 21, October 05, 19,
November 09, 23, December 07, 21
2008
January 11, 25, February 15, 29, March 07, 21,
Ulaanbaatar: Gandan Monastery April 11, 25, May 09, 23, June 13, 27
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
16-DAY ITINERARY*
DAY 10 Early car to the station you’re heading out of 2007
Russia tonight! Late night border crossing (2+ hours January 11, 25, February 01, 15, March 01, 15, 29,
halt for formalities). April 05, 19, May 03, 17, 31, June 07, 21,
DAY 11 Early morning arrival in Outer Mongolia. July 05, 19, August 09, 23, September 13, 27,
Transfer from station, directly to 3* Hotel. Shower, October 11, 25, November 15, 29, December 13, 27
and breakfast. Depart for two hour familiarisation of 2008
Ulaanbaatar, to include the Gandan Monastery January 03, 17, 31, February 07, 21, March 13,
ceremony. Tour ends city centre. Lunch at own 27, April 03, 17, May 01, 15, 29, June 05, 19
expense. Transfer to Ger Camp. Supper included.
DAY 12 Free time at Elstei Ger Camp. Throughout the
EXTRA NIGHT FOR SIBERIAN VILLAGE IN LISTVYANKA
day you will have the opportunity to partake in activities
is spent at Lake Baikal with host family.
(weather permitting) that include; a visit to a Nomad
family, Mongolian wrestling, horse riding (small local fee) EXTRA NIGHT FISHERMANS CAPE IN BOLSHOE
Drinking kumys with Mongolian herdsmen
to name but a few. All meals included. GOLOUSTNOE with host family.
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
*Supplement per person for the extra night is £45 for one,
£30 for two or more

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Big Trans-Sib 19

PARDON ME, BOY – IS THAT THE
TRANS-SIBERIAN CHOO-CHOO?

Ulaanbaatar Station, arrival of the Trans-Mongolian Express

photo: Emilia Marty

YOU LEAVE FROM MOSCOW CENTRAL AT A QUARTER-TO-FOUR;

IT TAKES ALMOST A WEEK ‘TIL YOU’RE IN ULAN-BATOR.
EMILIA MARTY TAKES A SHINE TO THE TRANS-MONGOLIAN EXPRESS

Well, it turns out we’ve got tickets for a train that

doesn’t exist – there’s no such train as the Trans-
Siberian Express, although there’s a Trans-Siberian
rail track... and we’ve been on it for six days now.
One thing I’m kicking myself for is not following the
advice to bring instant coffee... how can there not
be any there, I thought? Welcome to the country
where it has double creamer and triple sugar
already in the sachet, whether you want it or not.
But unlike at home where you get ripped a wedge
for even a coffee on the train, here the railways
provide non-stop boiling water for free.

I dunno why, but one of the worries we had about the trip was
about the washing facilities on the train – seven days on a train,
with nowhere to wash your hair, or have a shower? We needn’t
have worried. All the trains as far as the Russian border have a
shower cubicle on board you can rent (for around £1.50 per
session), with hot water and towels included – it’s in the wagon
next door to the restaurant car, near the middle of the train (why
don’t any of the guidebooks mention this?). Each train wagon has
a toilet (with handbasin) that’s kept usably clean by the train staff
during the train journey. There’s no shower on the Mongolian
trains, but the distance from the border to Ulaanbaatar is only an
overnight run. The bedlinen is super-fresh and given to you in a
laundry-sealed plastic bag, although the hand-towel included is
pretty small and you might want one of your own?

Ulaanbaatar Station early-morning

photo: Emilia Marty

20 On board the train

But on a blazing hot summer’s day cross the Gobi Desert, it’s the
cold beer that’s selling best in the Dining Car, which is also the
unofficial grocery-store for our rolling hotel. When I say we’ve
been on the train for six days, that’s not non-stop... you’d be
crazy to miss the chance of a stop at Lake Baikal, and after four
nights on board the clear air there is so delicious you practically
drink it. And when you’ve walked your legs off around the Lake,
the rail-line offers you a convenient 24-hour rest-up before hitting
Mongolia’s weird-and-wonderful capital, Ulaanbaatar. Been there,
done that, bought the Genghis Khan t-shirt, but now to where
your mobile phone will draw an utter blank – the Eastern Gobi. Any
preconceived ideas about it being a barren empty place quickly
evaporate... with remote Buddhist monasteries, dinosaur remains,
sand-dunes, nomads and camels, and even a holy mountain to
climb, we were pleased to collapse into our beds at the ger-camp
(a ger is a Mongolian nomadic felt tent) after supper! The food at
the camp was delicious and they thought-up inventive vegetarian
choices for me too. Of course the climate in the Gobi is much
tougher than at the Elstei ger-camp, but the facilities can meet the
challenge... except maybe the shower? It’s more like a tepid
dribble than a shower, but then I guess I shouldn’t be a cranky
foreigner… this is the Gobi Desert, after all! If you want to include
East Gobi on your Trans-Sib trip, it means taking a local-quality
train for the section between Ulaanbaatar and Sainshand, but it’s
only half a day, and it’s not nearly so bad as The Russia
Experience people prepared us for. Sheez, we’re not spoilt
weaklings, guys!

Above - East Gobi Hamar Monastery Buddha Statue

photo: Emilia Marty

The most chilling experience of East Gobi was the Meditation Caves – where the
monks of the Buddhist Monastery undertook an amazing feat of self-will, and
allowed themselves to be walled-in for two lunar months, in a tiny cranny not big
enough to stand-up in. During the first month their followers were allowed to
bring them food – during the second, not. Those who reached enlightenment
became lamas – but those who failed were buried alive in their cave. It all
makes the onward train to Beijing seem spacious and luxurious by comparison!
The Chinese Border’s a real experience – they have to refit the entire train with
new wheels that fit the Chinese rails! It takes around 3 hours, but if you hurry
you can get a seat in the station café while you wait– and get your first Chinese
meal of the journey.

Nothing, but nothing, can prepare you for Beijing – we loved every moment of it,
but it’s not for the fragile! Be ready to shed your shyness or get pushed aside in
the frenetic pace and vast crowds. Forget the exotic elegance of Asia (for that
you need to head to Xi’an) – Beijing makes New York look like a quiet village by
comparison. And just when you think you have the measure of the place, it
changes before your eyes – where there was a pedestrian street this afternoon,
suddenly there’s a bustling night-market selling every kind of luscious fast-food
treat imaginable... Beijing’s a waistline disaster-zone waiting to happen!

Above - East Gobi Lamaist Meditation Cave

photo: Emilia Marty

OUR TRIP RATING:

Best Cultural Experience: the museums in St Petersburg
Best Artistic Event: seeing the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow
Most fantastic scenery: Lake Baikal at Listvyanka, on a lakeside trek
Most moving experience: the morning prayer ceremony at the Gandan Monastery
in Ulaanbaatar
Best night out: nightclub in Ekaterinburg before getting the train at 4am
Biggest mistake: not taking our own instant coffee on the train
Mongolian horseman at Elstei
photo: Emilia Marty

On board the train 21

THREE CAPITALS
if your time is tight, this one has the highlights

WA T
CUSTN TO
YOUR OMISE
Trans-Mongolian train photo: Aimie Conning/Russia Experience SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
D

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D ES
AT

9
from
O R A
E

full on itinerary
T T R
G UR AN
R E T
O S E
U - E

£699
DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly
P

to your hotel – your first night in Moscow.

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet
D

you at the hotel, to whiz you round the

11 nights/12 days highlights. This is using public transport to
familiarise you with the city centre and help
operational season smooth your path… at least until lunchtime!
Afternoon and evening free to explore.
year round
DAY 03 A full free day for you to pack in the rest!
Have you been to Pushkin Square? “The”
place to meet friends or Izmailovsky Flea
Gandan Temple Ulaanbaatar market for souvenirs? Perhaps you have
photo: John Pannell pre-booked one of our city based
excursions for today? (see page 47 for
details) Mid-evening we take you to your
waiting train to Siberia!
DAY 04 - On board. Your train will make several
DAY 07 unscheduled stops, allowing you time to grab
stocks for your larder and drinks cabinet.

ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN

REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE
OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
www.trans-siberian.co.uk Above - Mongolian Family photo: John Pannell

Above - Regional Naadam Festival

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

22 Three Capitals NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Moscow
Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrival in Moscow, transfer to accommodation 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
MOSCOW:
2 Local expert assisted walking tour in Moscow, free time
Transfers on arrival and departure. Two nights
3 Free day to explore Moscow, evening train departure
stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
personalised walking tour with local expert.
4 On board the Trans-Sib via the Ural Mountains ULAANBAATAR:
All transfers, walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
5 On board the Trans-Sib via Central Siberia Two nights Mongolian Ger Camp
accommodation, full board. Overnight stay in
6 On board the Trans-Sib, crossing the Yenisei River
3* hotel, located in the centre of Ulaanbaatar.
7 Past and around Lake Baikal and on to Mongolia
Breakfast included.

8 Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, walking tour, transfer to Ger Camp Ulaanbaatar No frills trip:
9 Free day at Elstei; walk, relax, optional riding, stay in gers TRAIN:
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
10 Return to Ulaanbaatar. Free time. MOSCOW:
11 Depart to Beijing by train across the Southern Gobi Beijing Transfer on arrival. Two nights stay in a
1* Hotel. Breakfast included.
12 Passing the Great Wall of China, arrival in Beijing ULAANBAATAR:
Transfers on arrival and departure.
Three nights stay in a 1* hotel, located in
Ulaanbaatar. Breakfast included.
VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
RUSSIA, MONGOLIA & CHINA.

DAY 08 Early morning arrival in Outer Mongolia. trip price:

Transfer from station, directly to 3* Hotel. 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Shower, and breakfast. Depart for two hour FULL ON £999 £899 £799
familiarisation of Ulaanbaatar, to include the
NO FRILLS £899 £799 £699
Gandan Monastery ceremony. Tour ends city
centre. Lunch at own expense. Transfer to SPICING IT UP
Ger Camp. Supper included. 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
DAY 09 Free time at Elstei Ger Camp. Throughout the FULL-ON
day you will have the opportunity to partake in Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
activities (weather permitting) that include; a NO FRILLS
visit to a Nomad family, Mongolian wrestling, Extra Night Moscow £45 £35 £35
horse riding (small local fee) to name but a Upgrading to
few. All meals included. 2-berth Rail £349 £349 £349
DAY 10 After Breakfast transfer back to Ulaanbaatar.
Check into the Bayangol Hotel 3* day at
leisure in the capital.
these are the dates when
DAY 11 Early transfer to the station for your Beijing
this itinerary works:
bound train. Midnight border crossing, 2007
onwards into China. January 01, 08, 15, 22, 29, February 05, 12, 19, 26,
DAY 12 Transfer to your departing Beijing bound train March 05, 12, 19, 26, April 02, 09, 16, 23, 30,
this morning. Midnight border crossing and May 07, 14, 21, 28, June 04, 11, 18, 25,
onwards to China! For services in China and July 02, 09, 16, 23, 30, August 06, 13, 20, 27,
beyond please see pages 40 - 43. September 03, 10, 17, 24, October 01, 08, 15, 22, 29,
November 05, 12, 19, 26, December 03, 10, 17,
24, 31
Train Staff photo: John Pannell 2008
January 07, 14, 21, 28, February 04, 11, 18, 25,
March 03, 10, 17, 24, 31, April 07, 14, 21, 28,
May 05, 12, 19, 26, June 02, 09, 16, 23, 30

Stop along the way photo: John Pannell St Basil’s Cathedral photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience Beijing Night Market
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Three Capitals 23

 Uncover a world of discovery and adventure...

On board the Baikal Express photo: John Pannell

24
... one trip, 18 destinations

29
DESTINATION INFO
The inside story
THE TRANS-SIB IS THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME,
AND GOES PAST PLACES YOU WILL NEVER PASS
THROUGH AGAIN-SO DON’T LET THEM SLIP BY!

Top left-St Petersburg: View on River Neva

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom left-St Petersburg: Cath on Spilt Blood
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top Middle-Moscow: Tsar Cannon
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom Middle-Moscow Kremlin: Assumption Cath
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top Right-Ekaterinburg: Cathedral
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom Right-Ekaterinburg: Forest Walk
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

ST.PETERSBURG
Built to order for Tsar Peter the Great, the
“wedding-cake” style of the Imperial City is a
complete contrast with Moscow’s medieval onion-
domes. St.Petersburg know as Leningrad for the
duration of Soviet rule, the city was always a
hang-out for the USSR’s “not quite complying”
people-rock musicians, movie actors etc, and is
still the “rock music capital”
of Russia. If ballet or opera are your thing you
could not be better served.
MOSCOW
Europe’s fastest-growing and third largest city
wears three hats-capital of medieval Muscovy, as
capital of the ex-USSR, and as capital of today’s
new Russia. Moscow is Pleasure Central;
alongside the nightclubs and bars is every
possible kind of food and music too. And all this is
grafted onto the medieval citadel, the Kremlin, the
museums, galleries, concert-halls and
the Bolshoi.
EKATERINBURG
Straddling the Europe/Asia divide, Ekaterinburg
got rich on an C18th gold-rush here. The mixture
of high-tech industry and high-flying educational
institutes makes for a young population and it has
a mojo all its own. Most infamously, the Tsar and
all his family were murdered here in 1918- the new
Cathedral marks the spot. In the heart
of the Ural Mts, there’s countryside and villages
all around.
ALTAI
Siberia’s best-kept secret-a massive National Park
area of mountains and rivers, offering amazing
rafting, riding, and hiking… the 7/8-hr drive from
any rail or airport helps protect its wilderness
status. A growing New- Age Lifestyle movement is
spreading here-inspired by ancient cave paintings,
and legends of the Lost Mountain Kingdom of
Belovodia. We take our own vacations here.
IRKUTSK
One of Siberia’s oldest cities, a furtrading centre
since the C17th. The city’s regarded as the “home
of the Trans-Siberian” since the track-building from
East and West met here, and the first Trans-Sib
train went through.
LISTVYANKA VILLAGE
Just an hour from Irkutsk, Listvyanka’s the most
accessible point on Lake Baikal-both in distance
and facilities. Amidst the timber-house village
there are now some cafes and bars-but the wilds
of Baikal open-up at the end of the village
 Top left-Altai: rafting
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom left-Altai: mountain folksinger
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top middle-Irkutsk: cathedral photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom middle-Baikal: Listvyanka Village photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top Right-Baikal: Lakeshore at B.Goloustnoe photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom Right-Listvyanka Village: Host family photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

footpath if you want. Baikal is the world’s largest
lake-the London-Edinburgh road won’t reach from
its top to toe, and with 1.5 miles to the bottom, it’s
the world’s deepest too.
BOLSHOE GOLOUSTNOE
So near to Listvyanka, but so different in character-
almost unchanged from the C19th, due to poor
road access. Bolshoe Goloustnoe village appeals to
seekers of a lifestyle not yet quite past, and
has a timeless serenity-fishing is still the main
livelihood here, and except for a tiny village store,
there’s little intrusion of C20th values.
ULAN-UDAY
Perhaps the most surprising halt on the T-Sib?
Nomadic native Asian peoples of Siberia were not
an image the USSR cared for-the Buryats were
“collectivised” by Stalin. Yet native song and
tradition survived even Stalin’s policies.
The soviet-era city contrasts with life in remote
villages and Buddhist monasteries-so we include
all three aspects in our trips. Who ever imagined
Buddhism in Siberia? Yet it’s been the native
religion here for centuries.
PERM
It’s surprising what you knew about PERM without
knowing it-it’s the real-life city that was “Yuriatin”
(where Dr Zhivago met Lara in the book, and the
film), it was the start of the Great Siberian Post-
Road, and Permian-era dinosaurs are named after
geological discoveries near Perm. A charming little
city in the Urals, with a famous ballet troupe.
VLADIVOSTOK
Vladivostok is a double surprise. First is that it’s
so small-less than 500,000 inhabitants, giving
a charming compact feel to the place. Next is
the weather-hot coastal sunbathing in summer,
deep-frozen in winter. For those able to cope with
poor onward connections, it’s the end-point of the
original Trans-Sib route.
MONGOLIA
Mongolia is an ancient Buddhist Kingdom-
but the capital is a flourishing mixture of bars,
nightclubs, patisseries and internet cafes.
Ulaanbaatar is fun to visit, but it isn’t especially
Mongolian. The sparse pasture of the steppes kept
Mongolians on the move-the idea of “cities” is
fundamentally alien to Mongolian tradition.
A great way to experience life in the Mongolian ger
is to stay at Elstei Ger- Camp.
The accommodation is entirely in traditional gers.
Showers and toilets are available from April-
October meeting modern standards. There is a
 Top left-Ulan-Uday: Lenin Bust, Town Sq
photo: Simon Calder/Russia Experience
Bottom left-Ulan-Uday: Buryat Village trip
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top middle-Ulaanbaatar: Gandan Lamasery photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom middle-Elstei: learning Mongolian archery photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top Right-Naadam Festival 2005 photo: John Pannell
Bottom Right-Elstei: Regional Naadam Festival photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

café serving both traditional Mongolian
meals and a choice of other food (including
vegetarian). The location, although only one hour
from Ulaanbaatar, is as remote as anywhere on
the steppes, and there are great opportunities for
walking-or riding, with local nomads as your
instructors. You have to be ready for off-road jeep
travel for long journeys-Mongolia has tracks rather
than actual roads. Most Mongolians still live in
gers-the traditional wood framed
felt tent of the steppes, whose design has not
changed in thousands of years. Mongolia has only
been open for tourism since the fall of the Soviet
Union. It’s not to be missed.
HUHEHOT
Imperial China divided Mongolia into two when
it came as conqueror-Inner Mongolia, ruled as
part of China, and Outer Mongolia… so distant and
barren that only martial law was possible. Huhehot,
capital of Inner Mongolia, was historically richer, but
still today lies inside the borders of modern China.
Must sees are: The Grand Imperial Lamasery, the
old Islamic Quarter & Mosque, and unique Wuta-Si
Pagoda of a Thousand Buddhas.
HARBIN
Harbin’s an unfairly neglected Trans-Siberian stop.
In the far north of China, it’s quite unlike
the rest of the country-partly because it was built-
up in the 1920’s by Russian nobles who’d fled
Communism. The main (pedestrian) street
is more like Petersburg than Peking. Harbin is
most famous for the Ice Festival (Jan-Feb)-a huge
outdoor event, which attracts visitors from all over
the world.
BEIJING
...is well-known as China’s capital-but did you
know that it began as a Mongolian stronghold,
and its original name was neither Beijing nor
Peking, but Khan-Baliq?. You’ll need 3-4 days to
see everything in Beijing, even briefly-the great
temples like the Lama Temple or the Temple
of Heaven, the royal legacies at the Summer
Palace. The good news is that Beijing doesn’t
have bars-it has whole streets of bars, where
every doorway’s a different drinking-hole. With
your days jam-packed, its just as well there are
night-markets for snack-food, great-value silk
clothes, and much much more…

XI’AN
...was, for centuries, the Imperial Capital of
China… a massive medieval walled city, with four
gates facing out to the four compass-points of the
Empire it controlled. One of the most fascinating
areas is the Old Muslim Quarter.
Its thronging alleys are packed with cheap
souvenirs, fake antiques, some great street-food
for small-change prices. The Exhibition of
Terracotta Warriors, an hours drive from town. This
dramatic find of the 1970s is considered one of
the greatest archaeological discoveries
of the century. Highly recommended.
SHANGHAI
Nearly three times larger than Beijing, and
an economic powerhouse that is rapidly
outstripping Hong Kong. Although there’s a small
“old town”area, the real attractions here are
eating, drinking and shopping-Shanghai’s
a world-class city in all three activities! There are
good onward sea connections to Japan.
GUILIN
...is mostly famous for its natural beauty, with
stunning scenery. Most visitors to Guilin take a boat
trip on the River Li, which meanders between Guilin
and Yangshuo.Yangshuo is a great day trip out.
Nestled amongst the hills it offers caves to explore,
bike hire and a relaxed atmosphere.
Top left-Beijing: nightlife
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Bottom left-Beijing: Great Wall of China
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top middle-“Harbin” Harbin Ice Festival
Bottom middle-Xi’an: Terracotta Army
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Top Right-Trans-Siberian Loco
photo: Simon Calder/Russia Experience
Bottom-The Oriental Pearl Tower
GUANGHZHOU
...(once known as Canton) is a busy modern city.
Famous for its Cantonese cuisine you can spend
your brief stop in Guanghzhou checking out the
numerous restaurants, featuring some very exotic
meats! If you have time between sittings check
out the Huaisheng Mosque built during the Tang
Dynasty, one of the oldest mosques in China.
ORIGINAL TRANS-SIBERIAN
Moscow-Vladivostok, for trainspotters and traditionalists

Vladivostok: Travel Writer and Presenter Simon Calder (& bicycle)

from
D

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Included in the trip:

D ES
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E

(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga

T T R
G UR AN

Forest-with a Forester Guide to explain the TRAIN:

R E T

£609
O S E

wildlife, ecosystem and lore of the Taiga. 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
U - E
P

(May-Oct). MOSCOW:
(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA a freshwater dive Transfers on arrival and departure. Two nights
D

13 nights/14 days trip in the world’s Greatest Lake, with CMAS-
9 nights/10 days trip qualified instructors. (requires PADI-1).
2 dives included. (May-Sep)
operational season (C) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take
year round off on a Cliffside walk, or mosey around
the village, or take a dip in Lake Baikal!
Supper, then maybe try the local bar?
full on itinerary Overnight with host family. (Year round
stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
personalised guided walking tour of the city.
SIBERIA:
(Applies to trip via Irkutsk only). All transfers
are provided. Four nights family stay
accommodation. Meals as stated with your
host family. Free excursion on day eight.
VISA REQUIRED FOR: RUSSIA

(Via Irkutsk) option weather permitting!)

TRIP PRICE
DAY 09 Entirely free day at Lake Baikal Village.
DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Overnight with host family. Breakfast and
directly to your hotel - your first night ORIGINAL £699 £639 £609
supper included.
in Moscow. VIA IRKUTSK £999 £899 £799
DAY 10 Transfer to Irkutsk (1hr) and stay in a city
DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet apartment with a local family, in soviet city SPICING IT UP
you at the hotel, to whiz you round the style. Day free to explore the city, overnight 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
highlights. This is using public transport FULL-ON
with host family. Or upgrade to tourist
to familiarise you with the city centre and Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
class Hotel if you rate comfort over
help smooth your path... at least until NO FRILLS
authenticity. Extra Night Moscow £45 £35 £35
lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free
to explore. DAY 11 Transfer to station for early morning Hotel Vladivostok
departure for Vladivostok. (Transfer on arrival inc.) £125 £65 £65
DAY 03 A full free day, take your pick of the best
DAY 12/13 On board Upgrading to
of Moscow! Mid-evening we take you to 2-berth Rail £299 £299 £299
your Siberia bound train! DAY 14 Morning arrival into Vladivostok, your
Upgrading to
DAY 04 The Trans-Sib line, leads you past Trans-Siberian journey comes to an end. 2-berth Rail via Irkutsk £399 £399 £399
Kazan and Ekaterinburg... For Hotel options see price box.

DAY 05 Then onwards into Siberia itself,
via Novosibirsk...
DAY 06 Across the River Yenisei at Krasnoyarsk...
DAY 07 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to
Listvyanka Village on shore of Lake
Baikal. Stay in an authentic Siberian
log-cabin (izba). Lunch, walking tour
of the village including Lake Wildlife
Museum. That evening have a real
Siberian Sauna (banya), which will give
you an appetite for a home-cooked
supper. Overnight with host family
DAY 08 Choose one activity from the list, it’s all
included in the trip price!
DIRECT TO VLADIVOSTOK these are the dates when
DAY 01/03 As Irkutsk itinerary. this itinerary works:
DAY 04/09 On board. The train makes several 2007/2008 Start Dates
unscheduled stops allowing you time to Departures on odd dates.
make a quick purchases from the locals. Few rare exceptions-please confirm with us.
DAY 10 Arrival into Vladivostok. Your trans-siberian
journey comes to an end. For hotel options
see prices box.
ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN
REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE
OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
www.trans-siberian.co.uk Hanging out in Vladivostok
photo: Simon Calder

30 Original Trans-Siberian NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

TRANS-MANCHURIAN
CLASSIC
Europe to Asia non-stop!

Watching the world go by photo: John Pannell

D

Included in the trip:

N PA GU

from
D ES
AT

O R A
E

full on itinerary
T T R
G UR AN

TRAIN:
R E T
O S E

£509
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
U - E
P

DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly

to your hotel - your first night in Moscow. MOSCOW:
Transfers on arrival and departure. Two nights
D

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
9 nights/10 days at the hotel, to whisk you round the highlights.
personalised walking tour with local expert.

operational season This is using public transport to familiarise you No frills trip:
with the city centre and help smooth your path…
year round at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening
TRAIN:
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
free to explore.
MOSCOW:
DAY 03 A full free day for you to pack in the rest! Have Transfer on arrival. Two nights stay in a
you been to Pushkin Square? “The” place to 1* Hotel. Breakfast included.
meet friends or Izmailovsky Flea market for VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
souvenirs? Perhaps you have pre-booked one of RUSSIA & CHINA
our city based excursions for today? (see page
47 for details) Mid-evening we take you to your TRIP PRICE
waiting train-to Siberia! 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL ON £649 £619 £589
DAY 04 On board the Trans-Manchurian Express. NO FRILLS £569 £539 £509

DAY 06 The train makes several unscheduled stops, SPICING IT UP

1 person 2 people 3-9 people
allowing you only time to grab stocks for
FULL-ON
your larder and drinks cabinet. Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
NO FRILLS
DAY 07 On board the Trans-Manchurian Express
Extra Night Moscow £45 £35 £35
circumnavigating the shores of Lake Baikal.
Upgrading to
DAY 08 On board the Trans-Manchurian Express via 2-berth Rail £299 £299 £299
far Eastern Siberia to the Chinese border.
these are the dates when
DAY 09 On board through Manchuria. Sightings of this itinerary works:
the great wall, onwards to Beijing. 10-DAY ITINERARY
2007
DAY 10 Thunder on across China, early morning arrival
January 03, 10, 17, 24, 31, February 07, 14, 21, 28,
into Beijing Central Station. Your trans-siberian March 07, 14, 21, 28, April 04, 11, 18, 25,
journey comes to an end. For services in China May 02, 09, 16, 23, 30, June 06, 13, 20, 27,
and beyond please pages 40-43. July 04, 11, 18, 25, August 01, 08, 15, 22, 29,
September 05, 12, 19, 26, October 03, 10, 17, 24, 31,
November 07, 14, 21, 28, December 05, 12, 19, 26
ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN
REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE 2008
OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS January 02, 09, 16, 23, 30, February 06, 13, 20, 27,
www.trans-siberian.co.uk March 05, 12, 19, 26, April 02, 09, 16, 23, 30,
May 07, 14, 21, 28, June 04, 11, 18, 25
Trans-Mongolian route
is also available

Left - Rickshaws in Beijing

photo: John Pannell

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Trans-Manchurian Classic 31

SUPER TRANS-SIB
open with care-overstuffed with action!

WA T
CUSTN TO
YOUR OMISE
Mongolia in October photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
D

from
N PA GU
D ES
AT

9
O R A
E

full on itinerary
T T R
G UR AN
R E T

£1,140
O S E
U - E

DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow.
P

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you at the hotel, to whiz you round the highlights. This is
using public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path… at least until
D

17 nights/18 day trip lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.

18 nights/19 day trip DAY 03 A full free day - for you to pack in the rest! Mid-afternoon we take you to your waiting train to Siberia!
DAY 04 Full day on train through the Ural Mountains, arrival late evening into Ekaterinburg, car to Hotel.
operational season DAY 05 Three hour walking tour of Ekaterinburg with local expert. Afternoon and evening free to
year round explore further.
DAY 06 Please choose one of the following fully inclusive day trip options.
(A) ROMANOV GRAVES (& Europe/Asia Border
Monument en-route). Car excursion (60km round trip) to
site where the Romanov bodies were hidden. Duration;
5-6 hours. No physical exertion involved. Light lunch
provided. Year round.
(B) SIBERIAN COUNTRYSIDE & HISTORIC
VILLAGE Visit to an old village (160km each way) now
under a Preservation Order. Includes home-cooked
lunch, exhibitions of local crafts, horse cart riding.
Duration; 8-9 hours. No physical exertion involved.
Year round.
(C) HIKING TRIP IN THE URALS
Outdoor adventure in an area which is a designated
nature park. Car transfer then 18km walk where you will
see a variety of flora and fauna and learn about the
indigenous species of wildlife. No special equipment
needed. Duration; 8 hours. Lunch provided.
15 June - 15 September (Weather permitting).
(D) SIBERIAN WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Combined soft raft (6km) and Forest Hike (12km) -
optional cave visit. Good fitness required.
Duration; 9-10 hours. Lunch provided. Buddhist shrine photo: John Pannell
15 June - 15 September (Weather permitting).
(E) SKIING At Ezhovaya Slopes Ski Resort. (G) SIBERIAN HUSKY DOGSLEDDING Exactly what
Skis/Poles/Lift-Pass package purchasable locally it says! 3-4 hours sledding following a made track
approx $25 payable in roubles No instruction is through the forest. No special fitness required, but be
included - this program is for those who can already ready to fall-off in the soft snow a few times - they’re
ski. Duration; 6 - 7 hours. Lunch provided. pretty fast! At the end of your trip you will visit the
01 December - 28 February. (Weather permitting). famous Europe-Asia border. Duration; 7 - 8 hours.
(F) ICE-FISHING Yes, you saw the cartoons, now you Lunch provided. 15 November - 28 December.
can try it yourself. Tackle, Angler’s Hints & Fur Coat 16 January - 28 February. (Weather permitting).
provided. We don’t guarantee you’ll catch anything!
Duration; 8 hours. Lunch provided. 15 November - 15 Option to either remain at your hotel until 02:00 or
December. 01 February - 15 March. (Weather permitting). check-out early evening and chill-out at the Vodoley
Leisure Centre (admission tickets and bar-bill are yours,
ALL TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE IN
but we take you there and back) and then directly with
REVERSE, PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE
luggage to station. Depart 04:00 eastwards…
Winter: Husky dog-sledding near Ekaterinburg OR CONTACT US FOR DETAILS DAY 07 & 08 Onwards via Novosibirsk and
photo: Konstantin Brylykov www.trans-siberian.co.uk Krasnoyarsk to Irkutsk.

32 Super Trans-Sib NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

 Included in the trip:
the trip Moscow TRAIN:
1 Arrive Moscow, Transfer to accommodation 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
2 Moscow sightseeing with local expert MOSCOW: Car transfer arrival/departure.
two nts 3* Hotel B&B, 3 hour personalised
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station walking tour with local expert.
4 By train through Ural Mountains, eve arrive Ekaterinburg & accom
Ekaterinburg EKATERINBURG:
5 Walking tour of Ekaterinburg & free time to explore Car transfer arrival/ departure. Two nts
2* Hotel B&B, 3 hour walking tour, day trip.
6 Your choice of Ekaterinburg/Urals activities (see full itinerary)
LAKE BAIKAL : Rural options out of the City
7 On board Trans-Sib eastwards, via Novosibirsk
Irkutsk gives you the option to chose from two all
inclusive programmes.
8 On board Trans-Sib eastwards, via Krasnoyarsk
9/10 EITHER: Siberian Village Stay with walk, mini-trek or scuba options, or in the ULAANBAATAR: All transfers, two night
winter, Snow Mobile OR: Fisherman’s Cape of Lake Baikal trip with mini-trek Mongolian Ger Camp accommodation full
board. 1 night 3* hotel Ulaanbaatar,
11 Free time Listvyanka Village Ulaanbaatar breakfast. Walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
12 Free time to explore Irkutsk city evening departure to Ulaanbaatar
No frills trip:
13 On board, around Lake Baikal then southwards to Mongolia
TRAIN:
14 Arrive Ulaanbaatar depart to Elstei Ger Camp
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
15 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp, optional riding or just relax? Beijing MOSCOW: Transfer arrival.
16 Return to Ulaanbaatar, free time to explore, overnight stay Two nights 1* Hotel. Breakfast included.
17 Depart by train to Beijing, across Southern Gobi desert EKATERINBURG: Transfer arrival/departure.
Two nights 1* Hotel room-only
18 Pass the Great Wall Of China, arrival in Beijing
(shared bathroom).
IRKUTSK: Transfer arrival/departure. Family
stay accommodation, Irkutsk City. Breakfast.
ULAANBAATAR: Arrival/departure transfers.
baikal programmes Three nights 1* hotel, Ulaanbaatar. Breakfast.

Choose either Siberian Village or Fisherman’s Cape of Lake Baikal trip price:
1 person 2 people 3-9 people
EITHER (1) SIBERIAN VILLAGE OR (2) FISHERMAN’S CAPE OF LAKE BAIKAL FULL ON £1,650 £1,550 £1,450
NO FRILLS £1,340 £1,240 £1,140
DAY 09 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to DAY 09 Car from Irkutsk Station to the remoter village SPICING IT UP
Listvyanka Village on the shore of Lake Baikal. of Bolshoe Goloustnoe (110km on rural roads). 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Stay in an authentic Siberian log-cabin (izba). Lunch. A local guide shows you the village, the Old Church, FULL-ON
See the village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife and the lake shoreline. Get the 20th Century out of your Extra Nights Moscow £60 £50 £50
Museum-with your friendly local expert. Then get it all system have a real Siberian Sauna (banya), which will NO FRILLS
off your chest the Siberian way in the sauna! (banya) give you an appetite for a home-cooked supper. Extra Nights Moscow £45 £35 £35
You’ll be ready for your home-cooked supper after all Overnight with host family. Hotel upgrade
that-then sleep like a log in a log cabin. DAY 10 Leisurely lakeside walk (9km) to Ushkani Cape, Irkutsk City £40 £30 £30
DAY 10 Choose one activity from below its all included and visit our friends the fishermen for lunch at their Upgrading to
in the trip price! cabin. Leisurely walk back to Bolshoe Goloustnoe 2-berth Rail £449 £449 £449
Village. Supper, then relish the hushed silence away
(A) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest-and a
from the tourist throng. these are the dates when
Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and
lore of the Taiga. (May-Oct). Day 11 Transfer back to Irkutsk city (110km) and stay this itinerary works:
in a city apartment with a local family, in soviet city
(B) SIBERIAN SCUBA (they say you gain a year of life 18-DAY ITINERARY
style. Day free to explore the city, overnight with host
if you dive in!) with qualified CMAS-instructors (requires 2007
family. Or upgrade to tourist class hotel if you rate
PADI-1), 2 dives included (May-Sep). January 09, 23, February 13, 27, March 13,
comfort over authenticity.
April 03, 17, May 01, 15, June 05, 19, July 03, 17,
(C) SNOWMOBILE TRIP (2 hrs) with a local guide- August 07, 21, September 11, 25, October 09, 23,
through the forest, or even out over the deep-frozen November 13, 27, December 11, 25
lake! (Dec-Apr). 2008
(D) TAKE YOURSELF FOR A WALK out of the village January 01, 15, February 05, 19, March 11, 25,
with a packed lunch and a book, and contemplate the April 01, 15, 29, May 13, June 03, 17
vastness of the world’s hugest lake. (year-round weather 19-DAY ITINERARY*
permitting). Supper with your host family this evening. 2007
Then sleep like a log in a log cabin! January 01, 15, February 05, 19, March 05, 19,
April 09, 23, May 07, 21, June 11, 25, July 09, 23,
DAY 11 Free day at Lakeside village – Listvyanka. August 13, September 03, 17, October 01, 15,
Overnight with your host family. November 05, 19, December 03, 17
photo: John Pannell 2008
January 07, 21, February 11, March 03, 17,
DAY 12 Transfer to Irkutsk (1hr) free time to explore the city. (we watch your bags). Transfer to the station for your April 07, 21, May 05, 19, June 09, 23
Ulaanbaatar bound train.
DAY 13 On board to Mongolia. Midnight border crossing. Extra night for Siberian Village & Fisherman’s Cape
DAY 14 Early morning arrival in Outer Mongolia. Transfer from station, directly to 3* Hotel. Shower, and breakfast. of Baikal: in Irkutsk with host family or optional
Depart for two hour familiarisation of Ulaanbaatar, to include the Gandan Monastery ceremony. Tour ends hotel upgrade.
city centre. Lunch at own expense. Transfer to Ger Camp. Supper included. *Supplement per person for the extra night is £45 for one,
DAY 15 Free time at Elstei Ger Camp. Throughout the day you will have the opportunity to partake in activities £30 for two or more
(weather permitting) that include; a visit to a Nomad family, Mongolian wrestling, horse riding (small local
fee) to name but a few. All meals included.
DAY 16 After Breakfast transfer back to Ulaanbaatar. Check into the Hotel 3* day at leisure in the capital.
DAY 17 Early transfer to the station for your Beijing bound train. Midnight border crossing, onwards into China.
DAY 18 Thunder on across China past the Great Wall. Mid-afternoon arrival into Beijing Central Station.
Your trans-siberian journey comes to an end.

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Super Trans-Sib 33

SNOW TRAIN
ice festival special - better hurry, the ice melts soon!

WA T
CUSTN TO
YOUR OMISE
Harbin Ice-Festival photo: Johan de La Roy SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
D

N PA GU

from
D ES
AT

9
O R A
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full on itinerary
T T R
G UR AN
R E T
O S E

£850
U - E

DAY 01 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to your hotel - your first night in Moscow.
P

DAY 02 After breakfast your local expert will meet you at the hotel, to whisk you round the highlights.
This is using public transport to familiarise you with the city centre and help smooth your path…
D

11 nights/12 days
13 nights/14 days
operational season
December/January
at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore.
DAY 03 A full free day for you to pack in the rest! Have you been to Pushkin Square? “The” place to meet
friends or Izmailovsky Flea market for souvenirs? Perhaps you have pre-booked one of our city
based excursions for today? (see page 43 for details) It’s your choice! either take the direct route to
Harbin, or choose to spend a few days in Ekaterinburg where you can pursue the ultimate in outdoor
winter activities!
DAY 04 Full day on train through the Ural Mountains, arrival late evening into Ekaterinburg, transfer to Hotel.
DAY 05 Walking Tour of Ekaterinburg with local guide. Afternoon and evening free to explore further.
DAY 06 Please choose one of the following fully inclusive day trip options.

(A) SKIING At Ezhovaya Slopes Ski Resort. Option to either remain at your hotel until 02:00
Skis/Poles/Lift-Pass package purchasable locally (we hold your room on for late checkout) or check-out
approx $25 payable in roubles No instruction is early-evening and chill-out at the Vodoley Leisure
included - this program is for those who can already Centre (admission tickets and bar-bill are yours, but we
ski. Duration; 6 - 7 hours. Lunch provided. take you there and back) and then directly with luggage
01 December - 28 February. (Weather permitting). to station. Depart 04:00 eastwards…
(B) ICE-FISHING Yes, you saw the cartoons, now you
can try it yourself. Tackle, Angler’s Hints & Fur Coat
provided. We don’t guarantee you’ll catch anything!
Duration; 8 hours. Lunch provided.
15 November – 15 December. 01 February – 15 March.
(Weather permitting).
(C) SIBERIAN HUSKY DOG SLEDDING Exactly what
it says! 3-4 hours sledding following a made track
through the forest. No special fitness required, but be
ready to fall-off in the soft snow a few times - they're
pretty fast! At the end of your trip you will visit the
famous Europe-Asia border. Duration; 7 - 8 hours.
Lunch provided. 15 November - 28 December.
16 January - 28 February. (Weather permitting).
(D) WINTER WALK in the Taiga forest to the Druzhba
Caves. Total trek 16km. Duration; 10 hours.
Picnic lunch provided.
01 December - 28 February. (Weather permitting).

Left - Ekaterinburg: Husky Sled-Dog

photo: Neil McGowan/Russia Experience Trans-Sib loco photo: Johan de La Roy

34 Snow Train NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrive Moscow, transfer to accommodation Moscow 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
2 Moscow winter sightseeing with local expert MOSCOW:
Transfer arrival/departure. Two nights
3 Day for sightseeing in Moscow, evening transfer to station 3* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour
personalised walking tour with local expert.
4 On board the Trans-Sib via the Urals Mountains and arrive Ekaterinburg EKATERINBURG:
5 Three hour walking tour of Ekaterinburg
Ekaterinburg Transfer arrival/departure. Two nights
2* Hotel, breakfast included. 3 hour walking
6 WINTER MIXTURE: choose ice-fishing, snow-walk or husky-dog sledding! tour. Free Winter Activity.
HARBIN:
7 On board the Trans-Sib via Central Siberia Two nights 4* Hotel room-only.
8 On board the Trans-Sib, crossing the Yenisei River
Harbin No frills trip:
9 On board the Trans-Sib, circumnavigating Lake Baikal TRAIN:
2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
10 On board the Trans-Sib, eastwards across Buryatia
MOSCOW:
11 Arrival in China to Harbin, hotel accomm opposite station Transfer on arrival only. Two nights 1* Hotel.
Breakfast included.
12 Opportunity to visit the Harbin Ice & Lanterns Festival Beijing EKATERINBURG:
13 Free day to explore Harbin, overnight train to Beijing Transfer arrival/departure. Two nights
1* Hotel room-only (shared bathroom).
14 Arrival in Beijing and end of itinerary
HARBIN:
2 nights. Hotel room-only.
VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
RUSSIA & CHINA

trip price:
1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL ON £1,200 £1,100 £1,000
NO FRILLS £1,050 £950 £850
SPICING IT UP
1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL-ON
Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
NO FRILLS
Extra Night Moscow £45 £35 £35
Upgrading to
2-berth Rail £325 £325 £325
Please note 2-berth rail is not available on the Harbin to
Beijing sector.

these are the dates when

this itinerary works:
2007 Start Dates
January 01, 08, 15, 22, December 31
2008 Start Dates
January 07, 14, 21

A shorter version of this trip is available with no

stop in Ekaterinburg, please visit our website @
www.trans-siberian.co.uk or call us for details
Ice-carving photo: Johan de La Roy

DAY 07 On board the Trans-Manchurian Express. The train makes several short stops en-route,
to allowing you only time to make a quick purchase from the locals of home cooked produce or
DAY 10 replenish your drinks cabinet.

DAY 11 After a night-time border crossing, you’ve entered China, and the area known as Manchuria once a
separate Chinese kingdom, and home to the Manchu (after whom the Manchu Dynasty, the last in
Imperial China, was named). Arrival in Harbin, the regional capital. No transfer, as your hotel is in the
large Town Square directly in front of the Rail Station. Balance of day free.

DAY 12 Free day to visit the Ice Festival. There’s no specific program we’ll give you directions for getting to the
Festival-ground. The Festival is open from 10am-10pm daily and you must stay after dusk when the
Chinese Lanterns are lit. Although sculptors come from all over the world, this is very much a local
festival, and you have a chance to let your hair down with the locals.

DAY 13 Free time to explore the Old Town of Harbin, with an attractive pedestrianised main street that features an
incredible number of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Be sure to be ready for your evening departure
to Beijing by sleeper train. (NB: 2-berth cabins are not available on this section.)

DAY 14 Early morning arrival in Beijing, your Trans-Siberian Snow Train journey comes to an end.
For services in China and beyond please see pages pages 40-43. Ice sculpture
photo: Johan de La Roy

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Snow Train 35

WESTBOUND DEPARTURES
starting your journey from Beijing or Vladivostok
Most of our itinerary models originating
in Moscow have a Westbound
alternative. Below is one example.
Please note that train timetables run
with some differences (days+times)
going West-East. Check our website WA T
CUSTN TO
@ www.trans-siberian.co.uk or call YOUR OMISE
for details SEE P TRIP?
AGE 4
9

BIG TRANS-SIB FROM BEIJING

full on itinerary
D

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from
E
T T R
G UR AN
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DAY 01 Arrival in Beijing. Make your own way to hotel. Free time to explore one of the worlds fastest
O S E
U - E

growing capital cities. Your train tickets will be delivered to your hotel after check in, with

£820
P

instructions to the station in English and Chinese.

DAY 02 Own transport to Beijing Central Station for early morning departure to Ulaanbaatar. Thunder on
D

across China past the Great Wall. Overnight on board.

15 nights/16 days DAY 03 Mid afternoon arrival from Beijing. Transfer to 3* Hotel where you can have a shower and light
16 nights/17 days snack before transferring to the Ger Camp.
DAY 04 Free time at Elstei Ger Camp. Throughout the day you will have the opportunity to partake in
activities (weather permitting) that include; a visit to a Nomad family, Mongolian wrestling, horse
riding (small local fee) to name but a few. All meals included.
DAY 05 After breakfast transfer back to Ulaanbaatar. Check into 3* hotel. Balance of day at leisure.
Overnight.
DAY 06 After breakfast City tour to include the Gandan Monastery ceremony. Tour ends city centre.
Time to stock up on provisions for your overnight journey. (This is a local class train and often has
no restaurant car). Transfer to the station for your Siberia bound train.
DAY 07 On board…midnight border crossing into Russia.

Beijing by night “Tickets please!”

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience photo: Simon Calder

36 Big Trans-Sib from Beijing NOT GROUP DEPARTURES

the trip Included in the trip:
TRAIN:
1 Arrival to Beijing hotel (independently), free time in Beijing 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
Beijing BEIJING:
2 Own travel to Beijing Central Station, early departure to Ulaanbaatar
One night, room-only. 3* Hotel
3 Across Gobi steppes, arrival Ulaanbaatar, transfer to Ger Camp. ULAANBAATAR:
All Transfers included. Two Nights
4 Free day at Elstei Ger Camp walk, optional horse-riding, or just relax
Mongolian Ger Camp accommodation,
5 Return to Ulaanbaatar, free time to explore the city full board. One night 3* hotel in
Ulaanbaatar Ulaanbaatar, breakfast included.
Walking tour of Ulaanbaatar.
6 Morning walking tour of the capital, evening departure to Russia
LAKE BAIKAL:
7 On board the Trans-Siberian en-route for Irkutsk Rural options out of the City gives you the
choice from two all-inclusive programmes.
8&9 EITHER: 2-day Siberian Village stay (scuba or mini-trek choices)
MOSCOW:
OR: 2-day Fisherman’s Cape of Lake Baikal (more remote) Transfers on arrival.
Irkutsk Two nights stay in a 3* Hotel, breakfast
10 Return to Irkutsk, free time, family stay (or upgrade to hotel) included. 3 hour personalised walking tour
with local expert.
11 Transfer to station, board Trans-Siberian bound for Moscow
No frills trip:
12 Across Eastern Siberia, cross the River Yenisei at Krasnoyarsk
TRAIN:
13 Cross the River Ob at Novosibirsk and on via the Urals mountains 2-Class 4-berth rail for complete journey.
Moscow BEIJING:
14 Mid-afternoon arrival in Moscow, transfer to hotel
One night, room-only. 1* Hotel
15 Local expert assisted walking tour of Moscow, free time to explore ULAANBAATAR:
All transfers, Three nights 1* hotel
16 End of itinerary-why not continue now to St Petersburg? Ulaanbaatar, breakfast included.
IRKUTSK:
Transfer arrival and departure. Three nights
baikal programmes Choose either Siberian Village or Fisherman’s Cape family stay accommodation. Breakfast.
MOSCOW:
EITHER (1) SIBERIAN VILLAGE OR (2) FISHERMAN’S CAPE OF LAKE BAIKAL Transfer on arrival only. Two nights stay in a
1* Hotel. Breakfast included.
DAY 08 Arrival into Irkutsk and transfer (1hr) to VISAS REQUIRED FOR:
Listvyanka Village on the shore of Lake Baikal. CHINA, MONGOLIA & RUSSIA
Stay in an authentic Siberian log cabin (izba). Lunch.
See the village, the old Church, and the Lake Wildlife trip price:
Museum with your friendly local expert. Then get it all 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
off your chest the Siberian way in the sauna! (banya)
FULL ON £1190 £999 £960
You’ll be ready for your home-cooked supper after all
that, then sleep like a log in a log cabin. NO FRILLS £980 £840 £820
Lake Baikal photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
DAY 09 Choose one activity from the list, it’s all SPICING IT UP
included in the trip price! DAY 08 Transfer directly from Station to the remoter 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
(A) SNOWMOBILE TRIP (2 hrs) with a local guide- village of Bolshoe Goloustnoe (110km on rural roads). FULL-ON
through the forest, or even out over the deep frozen Your local guide shows you the village, the Old Church, Extra Night Moscow £60 £50 £50
lake! (Dec-Apr) weather permitting. and lake shoreline. Get the 20th Century out of your
Extra night Beijing £60 £40 £35
system in a real Russian banya (sauna) which will
(B) SOFTIES TREK through the Taiga Forest with NO FRILLS
sharpen your appetite for home-cooked food for supper.
Forester Guide to explain the wildlife, ecosystem and Extra Night Moscow £45 £40 £40
Sleep soundly-the modern world is far, far away.
lore of the Taiga (May-Oct). Extra night Beijing £35 £25 £20
DAY 09 Leisurely lakeside walk (8km) to Ushkani
(C) SIBERIAN SCUBA a freshwater dive in the
Cape, and visit our friends the fishermen for lunch at Irkutsk Hotel Upgrade £40 £30 £30
world’s Greatest Lake, with CMAS-qualified
their cabin. Leisurely walk back to Bolshoe Upgrading to
instructors and pro-level gear (requires PADI-1).
Goloustnoe Village. Supper, then relish the hushed 2-berth Rail £399 £399 £399
2 dives included. (May-Sep).
silence away from the tourist throng.
(D) DO YOUR OWN THING maybe take off on a
DAY 10 Transfer to Irkutsk (110km) and overnight in
Cliffside walk, or mosey around the village, or take a
dip in Lake Baikal! Supper, then maybe try the local
city apartment with host family. Day free to explore these are the dates when
the city. Or upgrade to tourist class Hotel if you rate this itinerary works:
bar? Overnight with host family.
comfort over authenticity.
DAY 10 Transfer to Irkutsk (1hr) and overnight in city
DAY 11 Early transfer to the station to continue your 16-DAY ITINERARY 2007
apartment with host family. Day free to explore the
journey on the Trans-Siberian Express. January 12, February 02, 16, March 02, 16, 23,
city. Or upgrade to tourist class Hotel if you rate
DAY 12 On board The Trans-Siberian train taking you April 06, 20, May 04, June 04, 18, July 02, 16,
comfort over authenticity.
across the River Yenisei, at Krasnoyarsk. August 06, 20, September 10, 24, October 08,
DAY 13 The train makes several unscheduled stops, November 12, 26, December 10, 31
allowing you only time to make a quick purchase 17-DAY ITINERARY 2007*
from the locals of their home cooked produce or January 05, 19, 26, February 09, 23, March 09, 30,
replenish your drinks cabinet. April 13, 27, May 11, 28, June 11, 25, July 09, 30,
DAY 14 Arrival in Moscow! We transfer you directly to August 13, September 03, 17, October 01, 15, 22,
your hotel - your first night in Moscow. November 05, 19, December 03, 17
DAY 15 After breakfast your local expert will meet you
at the hotel, to whiz you round the highlights. This is
using public transport to familiarise you with the city EXTRA NIGHT FOR SIBERIAN VILLAGE IN LISTVYANKA
centre and help smooth your path… at least until is spent at Lake Baikal with host family.
lunchtime! Afternoon and evening free to explore. EXTRA NIGHT FISHERMAN’S CAPE IN BOLSHOE
DAY 16 Breakfast. Your Trans-Siberian adventure GOLOUSTNOE with host family.
comes to an end. For services onwards to St. *Supplement per person for the extra night is £45 for one,
Sightseeing in Moscow photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience Petersburg please see page 38. £30 for two or more

ALL DATES GUARANTEED Big Trans-Sib from Beijing 37

STARTING YOUR TRANS-SIB
TRIP IN ST PETERSBURG...

St. Petersburg by night photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

from The original trans-sib began from St Petersburg and so

should you to see the contrast between the imperial splendour

£150 and the soviet simplicity that existed both then and now.
the itinerary
3 nights/4 days
DAY 01 Arrival in St, Petersburg! We transfer you
directly to your hotel - your first night in
St. Petersburg.
Day 02 After breakfast your guide will meet you at the
hotel, to take you round the highlights. This is
using public transport to familiarise you with
the city centre and help smooth your path…
at least until lunchtime! Afternoon and evening
free to explore.
Day 03 Breakfast. Check out of your room by 12 noon.
You can leave your luggage at the hotel.
Perhaps you have pre-booked one of our city
based excursions for today?
(see page 47 for details).
If not these are a few of the things you may not have
already seen.
• The Hermitage Collection - Winter Palace.
• The canals and waterways of the
“Northern Venice”.
• The Russian Museum of Fine Art.
• The Peter & Paul Fortress-and the Tombs of the
Tsars inside the Fortress Cathedral.
• The Church on the Spilt Blood, nearby the
Souvenir Bazaar.
Own taxi to the station for your late evening Moscow
bound train.
Day 04 Arrival into the capital early morning.
To gain access to your room in Moscow before
lunchtime you would need to purchase an additional
night’s accommodation.

INCLUDED IN THE TRIP:

Transfer on arrival. Two nights accommodation at the hotel of your choice. Meal basis as stated.
Three hour personalised walking tour of the city, with local expert. 2-Class 4-berth sleeper train to Moscow.
(Option to upgrade to, 2-berth Sleeper, see spicing it up) NB: No restaurant car or breakfast on this short
overnight journey.
DUE TO THE EVER GROWING POPULARITY OF ST.PETERSBURG. WE REQUIRE YOU TO MAKE TWO
HOTEL CHOICES.
THESE PROGRAMMES ARE ONLY AVAILABLE TO CLIENTS WHO ARE BOOKING TRANS-SIBERIAN
JOURNEYS WITH US.
TRIP PRICE
Hotel Option: (For a full Hotel description please refer to page 44)
Meal 1 Additional 2 or more Additional
Basis Person Night People Night
(per person) (per person) (per person)
HOTEL VESTA 3* BB £315 £85 £215 £60
HOTEL ASTERIA 3* BB £315 £85 £215 £60
HOTEL ENGECON 2*+ BB £250 £75 £200 £65
HOTEL ENGECON 1* BB £200 £35 £150 £30
(without en-suite facilities)
WHITE NIGHTS FESTIVAL TAKES PLACE THE LAST TWO WEEKS OF JUNE. TO SECURE A ROOM AT THIS TIME ADVANCE
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. PLEASE NOTE A SEASONAL SUPPLEMENT OF £10 PER PERSON IS APPLICABLE 01 MAY-30 SEP.
SPICING IT UP
2-berth St.Petersburg-Moscow £70
Additional services of guide 3 hours £50
Peterhof Gardens Additional services of guide 6 hours £90
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience FOR OUR RANGE OF CITY EXCURSIONS OPTIONS PLEASE SEE PAGE 47.

38 Starting Your Trans-Sib Trip in St Petersburg

 St. Petersburg by day
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
CHINA
after the trans-sib - some options in china

Forbidden City photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

SIMPLY BEIJING
For those who aren’t going further
2 nights/3 days 2007/2008 Start dates: any day
BEIJING
the Itinerary
DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to
your Hotel.
DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see page 39. Beijing: Great Wall of China photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
DAY 03 Morning check out of Hotel. A chance to spend some time
in Beijing at the end of your Trans- Siberian Itinerary before
returning home or continuing on through China. BEIJING TO
FULL ON Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room-only
3* Hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all main
tourist sights.
HONG KONG
*Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport a surcharge Two Chinas, one rail system
of £20.00 per person will apply. 3 nights/4 days 2007/2008
NO FRILLS Two nights room-only 1* hotel. Good location within walking
distance to all main tourist sights. Clean but basic, run by BEIJING - HONG KONG
non English speaking staff.
START DATES any day. the Itinerary
DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to
TRIP PRICE your Hotel.
Simply Beijing 1 person 2 people 3-9 people DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see page 39.
FULL ON £150 £85 £80 DAY 03 Check-out of Hotel. Own taxi to station for lunch time departure
Additional night £60 £40 £35 to Hong Kong. Overnight on board.
NO FRILLS £85 £50 £45 DAY 04 Early afternoon arrival into Hong Kong.
Additional night £35 £35 £20
FULL ON Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room-only
Transfer from hotel to Beijing airport £45 £25 £25 3* Hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all main
VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA tourist sights. Transfer on departure not provided. Soft class
4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Hong Kong.
*Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport, a surcharge of £20.00
per person will apply.
NO FRILLS Two nights room-only 1* Hotel. Good location within walking
distance to all main tourist sights. Clean but basic run by
non-English speaking staff. Transfers on arrival and departure
not provided. Soft class 4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Hong Kong.

TRIP PRICE
Beijing- Hong Kong 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL ON £310 £250 £240
Additional night £60 £40 £35
NO FRILLS £245 £205 £200
Additional night £35 £35 £20
Upgrade to 2-berth rail £50 £50 £50
Beijing: Drum Tower (detail) photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA

40 China
GREAT CHINESE ROUTE
In the footsteps of Chinese Emperors
7 nights/8 days 2007/2008 Start dates: any day
BEIJING - XI’AN - GUANGZHOU - HONG KONG
the Itinerary
DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to
your Hotel.
DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see page 39.
DAY 03 Morning check out of Hotel. Own transfer for early evening
departure to Xi’an.
DAY 04 Morning arrival. Check into your Hotel. Free time to explore this Beijing: Forbidden City photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
historic city.
DAY 05 Full day excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets
and guide included). SCENIC CHINESE
DAY 06 Early morning check out of Hotel. Own transfer to station for

DAY 07
departure to Guangzhou.
Morning arrival. Own transfer. Check into your Hotel.
ROUTE
DAY 08 Morning check out of the Hotel. Own transfer. For afternoon Pagodas, princes, and a petrified forest
departure from Nanhhaigang Harbour to Hong Kong. Arrive
Canton Road Harbour Tsimshatsui, Kowloon 19.00 hrs.
10 nights/11 days 2007/2008 Start dates: any day
FULL ON Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room only 3* BEIJING - XI’AN - GUILIN - GUANGZHOU -
hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all main tourist HONG KONG
sights. Soft class sleeper throughout.
XI’AN: Two nights 3* hotel. Room-only. Full day CITS group excursion the Itinerary
to Terracotta Army. DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to
GUANGZHOU: One night 3* hotel. Room-only. Hydrofoil ticket to Hong Kong. your Hotel.
*Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport, a surcharge of £20.00 DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see page 39.
per person will apply. DAY 03 Morning check out of Hotel. Own transfer for early evening
NO FRILLS BEIJING: Two nights room only 1* hotel. Good location within departure to Xi’an.
walking distance to all main tourist sights. Clean but basic DAY 04 Morning arrival. Check into your Hotel. Free time to explore this
run by non-English speaking staff. historic city.
XI’AN: Two nights 1* hotel. Room-only. DAY 05 Full day excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets
GUANGZHOU: One night 1* hotel. Room-only. Hydrofoil ticket to Hong Kong. and guide included).
DAY 06 Morning check out of Hotel. Own transfer for evening departure
TRIP PRICE to Guilin.
Great Chinese 1 person 2 people 3-9 people DAY 07 Late evening arrival. Own transfer. Check into your Hotel.
Overnight.
FULL ON £540 £440 £430
DAY 08 Free time to explore, and maybe take a boat trip up the River Li?
Additional night-Beijing £60 £40 £35
DAY 09 Morning check out of Hotel. Own transfer for evening departure
Additional night-Xi’an £60 £40 £35 to Guangzhou.
NO FRILLS £445 £385 £375 DAY 10 Early morning arrival. Own transfer. Check into your Hotel.
Additional night-Beijing £35 £35 £20 DAY 11 Morning check out of the Hotel. Afternoon departure by
Additional night-Xi’an £35 £25 £23 Hydrofoil to Hong Kong.
Canton Fair Supplement: 14-30 April and 14-30 October in Guangzhou
surcharge: £50pp/pn FULL ON BEIJING: Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room
only 3* hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all
VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA main tourist sights. Soft class sleeper throughout.
XI’AN: Two nights 3* hotel. Room-only. Full day CITS group excursion
to Terracotta Army.
GUILIN: Two nights 3* hotel. Room-only.
GUANGZHOU: One night 3* hotel. Room-only. Hydrofoil ticket to Hong Kong.
*Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport, a surcharge of £20.00
per person will apply.
NO FRILLS BEIJING: Two nights room only 1* hotel. Clean but basic.
Transfers are not provided.
XI’AN: Two nights 1* hotel. Room-only.
GUILIN: Two nights 1* hotel. Room-only.
GUANGZHOU: One night 1* hotel. Room-only. Hydrofoil ticket to Hong Kong.

TRIP PRICE
SCENIC CHINESE ROUTE 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
FULL ON £630 £530 £520
Additional night-Beijing £60 £40 £35
Additional night-Xi’an £60 £40 £35
NO FRILLS £445 £385 £375
Additional night-Beijing £35 £35 £20
Additional night-Xi’an £35 £25 £23
Canton Fair Supplement: 14-30 April and 14-30 October in Guangzhou
surcharge: £50pp/pn
Temple in Xi’an photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA

China 41
Xi’an: Terracotta Army photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience Xi’an: Great Goose Pagoda photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

TERRACOTTA TRAIL BEIJING TO SHANGHAI

Take in the Terracotta Army en-route to Shanghai Full-steam ahead from ancient Beijing to vibrant
6 nights/7 days 2007/2008 Start dates: any day Shanghai 3 nights/4 days 2007/2008
BEIJING - XI’AN - SHANGHAI Start dates: any day
BEIJING - SHANGHAI
the Itinerary
DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to the Itinerary
your hotel. DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to
DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see 39. your Hotel.
DAY 03 Morning check out of hotel. Own transfer for early evening DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see page 39.
departure to Xi’an. DAY 03 Check out of Hotel. Free time. Own taxi to station for evening
DAY 04 Morning arrival. Check into your hotel. Free time to explore this departure to Shanghai. Overnight on board.
historic city. DAY 04 Early morning arrival into Shanghai. Hotel rates can be
DAY 05 Full day excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets found below.
and guide included).
DAY 06 Morning check out of hotel. Own transfer for evening departure FULL ON Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room-only
to Shanghai. 3* hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all main
tourist sights. Transfer on departure not included. Soft class
DAY 07 Morning arrival to Shanghai. Hotel rates can be found below. 4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Shanghai.
FULL ON Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room-only *Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport, a surcharge of £20.00
3* hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all main per person will apply.
tourist sights. Transfer on departure not provided. Soft class NO FRILLS Two nights room-only 1* hotel. Good location within walking
4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Shanghai. distance to all main tourist sights. Clean but basic run by
*Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport, a surcharge of £20.00 non-English speaking staff. Transfers not provided.
per person will apply. Soft class 4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Shanghai.
NO FRILLS Two nights room-only 1* hotel. Good location within walking
distance to all main tourist sights. Clean but basic run by TRIP PRICE
non-English speaking staff. Transfers are not provided. Beijing-Shanghai 1 person 2 people 3-9 people
Soft class 4-berth Sleeper Beijing -Shanghai. FULL ON £270 £210 £200
Additional night-Beijing £60 £40 £35
TRIP PRICE Additional night-Xi’an £60 £40 £35
Terracotta Trail to Shanghai 1 person 2 people 3-9 people NO FRILLS £215 £175 £165
FULL ON £390 £330 £320 Additional night-Beijing £35 £35 £20
Additional night-Beijing £60 £40 £35 Additional night-Xi’an £35 £25 £23
Additional night-Xi’an £60 £40 £35 Single Room Twin Room
NO FRILLS £335 £275 £265 Peace Hotel 5* Shanghai £135 £75
Additional night-Beijing £35 £35 £20 Huadong Hotel 3* Shanghai £65 £45
Additional night-Xi’an £35 £25 £23 VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA
Single Room Twin Room
Peace Hotel 5* Shanghai £135 £75
Huadong Hotel 3* Shanghai £65 £45
VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA

Xi’an: Great Goose Pagoda photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience The Oriental Pearl Tower photo: Aimie Conning/Russia Experience

42 China
 DAY TRIP OPTIONS
FOR CHINA
pre-booked for your convenience.

All pre-booked day trips are operated by C.I.T.S (China International

Travel Services) which is a state owned and operated company.
These trips will operate as groups and you should expect to meet
other western tourists.

FROM BEIJING
Night market in Beijing photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Great Wall
BEIJING TO HANOI Includes: Ming Tombs
The well-preserved sections of the Great Wall in Beijing are China’s
Connecting down to South East Asia most famous tourist site. These sections are mainly the remains
4 nights/5 days 2007/2008 from the Ming Dynasty, an era of tremendous construction. This
Start dates: Tuesday and Friday area of the Wall is to the North of Beijing around 70 kms from the
city centre. Here you will see a small section to include several
BEIJING - HANOI
passes and lookout towers. Lunch. This afternoon you will visit
the Itinerary the Ming tombs. The general name given to the Mausoleums of
DAY 01 Arrive Beijing. Transfer* from Beijing Central Station to 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1664). The Mausoleums
your hotel. have been perfectly preserved and the site has a high cultural and
DAY 02 Free day in Beijing. For day trip options please see across. historic value.
DAY 03 Check out of Hotel. Free time. Own taxi to station for afternoon English speaking guide.
departure to Hanoi. Overnight on board. Coach pick up from your hotel at 8am.
DAY 04 On board. Expect to return 5pm.
DAY 05 Arrive into Hanoi early morning. £45 per person
After your stay in Beijing you will take a two night soft class sleeper train
down to Hanoi, in Northern Vietnam.

FULL ON Transfer from Beijing Central Station. Two nights room-only

3* hotel. Centrally located within walking distance to all main
The Forbidden City
tourist sights. Transfer on departure is not provided. Also includes: Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace.
Soft class 4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Hanoi.
A full-day look into the lives of the Emperors. The Forbidden City
*Please note for passengers arriving into Beijing International Airport, a surcharge of £20.00
per person will apply. lies at the heart of Beijing - it was the Imperial enclave of the city,
NO FRILLS Two nights room-only 1* hotel. Good location within walking entrance was “forbidden” to common citizens. Within this enormous
distance to all main tourist sights. Clean but basic run by city-within-a-city are museums, temples, and even, ehem, Starbucks.
non-English speaking staff. Transfers are not provided. After lunch (included) the tour continues to the Temple of Heaven,
Soft class 4-berth Sleeper Beijing-Hanoi. a Daoist temple where the Emperors prayed for good fortune for
their people. Finally we visit the Summer Palace, laid-out in oriental
TRIP PRICE gardens around a huge lake. The Gardens represent the high-point
Beijing-Hanoi 1 person 2 people 3-9 people of their kind, and are recognised by UNESCO.
FULL ON £315 £245 £240
English speaking guide.
Additional night £60 £40 £35
Coach pick up from your hotel at 8am.
NO FRILLS £245 £220 £215
Expect to return 5pm.
Additional night £35 £35 £20
£55 per person
VISA REQUIRED FOR: CHINA & VIETNAM

Guilin day trip

The Li River is the connecting water way between Guilin and Yangshuo
and is one of the main tourist attractions of the area. The River
forms a green belt with the mountains on either side. You will cruise
the 83 km stretch between the towns on a tourist pleasure boat.
Water buffalo patrol the fields, school kids and fisherman float
by on bamboo rafts. With its breathtaking scenery and taste of a
life far removed from the concrete metropolis. A very relaxing day.
Coach pick up from your hotel at 08.20am.
Expect to return 5pm.
£70 per person

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

China 43
ST PETERSBURG HOTELS
culture central

Winter Palace photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

If you can’t find these hotels in your guidebook… it’s because Russia Experience are destination specialists with
their own staff on site in Russia… and we sign-up the best new hotels as soon as they open, years before the
guidebooks find them! They don’t call St Petersburg “the Northern Venice” for nothing – it’s built on a network of
canals and re-routed rivers planned by Tsar Peter the Great in person. You don’t need to be an engineer to
understand that you can’t put a metro tunnel through a canal! So some parts of the city don’t have nearby
metro-stations… even Palace Square and the Hermitage are over 25 minutes walk from the nearest metro!
HOTEL VESTA 3*
92 NEVSKY PROSPEKT; METRO PLOSCHAD’ VOSSTANIYA: Our old friends at Vesta have done it again!
They’ve moved two blocks down the street, doubled the number of rooms and now they’ve all got air-con
and private bathrooms. But still less than 20 rooms, charming family-run service from owner-managers who
really care. Oh, and did we mention it has the best location in town? Book now, before the guidebooks find it.
All located in a carefully converted C19th apartment-house in a quiet courtyard 50m off Nevsky Prospekt.
TRIP PRICE Single Additional Twin Additional
Nights Nights
01 Jan 2007-30 Apr 2007 £255 £85 £180 £60
01 May 2007-30 Sep 2007 £285 £95 £210 £70
01 Oct 2007-31 Dec 2007 £255 £85 £180 £60
PRICES ARE PER PERSON, AND INCLUDE BED & BREAKFAST FOR 3 NIGHTS.
HOTEL ASTERIA 3*
NABEREJNAYA REKI FONTANKA 71; METRO SENNAYA PLOSHAD: A splash of 3* comfort – and right on the
Fontanka River! Located directly on the most famous of the “Northern Venice’s” historic waterways, Hotel Avsteria
reopened in late Autumn 2006 after a total refit and with a new name. Sixty spacious and comfortable rooms with
all conveniences, satellite tv and private facilities (wc/shower) await you. The cosy restaurant serves Russian and
European cuisine until midnight daily, and the entire hotel is located in a historic building on the embankment.
TRIP PRICE Single Additional Twin Additional
Nights Nights
01 Jan 2007-30 Apr 2007 £255 £85 £180 £60
01 May 2007-30 Sep 2007 £285 £95 £210 £70
01 Oct 2007-31 Dec 2007 £255 £85 £180 £60
PRICES ARE PER PERSON, AND INCLUDE BED & BREAKFAST FOR 3 NIGHTS.
HOTEL ENGECON 1-2*
SOTOTSIALISTICHESKAYA 16; METRO VLADIMIRSKAYA: A super new (opened 2006) hotel with a “young” feel to
it, located in the very heart of the “Dostoyevsky” part of the old centre – 6 mins walk from metro Vladimirskaya/
Dostoevskaya. With Universities and Colleges all around it’s a lively and trendy student and theatreland
neighbourhood, with metro-chic but affordable bars and restaurants (like “Imbir”) on every corner. One metro stop
takes you to Nevsky Prospekt – but frankly you can walk it in 10 minutes since you’re already in the heart of the
city-centre anyhow. Hotel Engecon has rooms in two categories: 1* rooms with modern furniture and super
modern wc/shower facilities on the corridor; or 2*+ rooms with the same modern furniture, tv & telephone plus
en-suite spacious scandi-style bathrooms. Internet facilities on site. Breakfast served until 11am! (no lunch or
evening meals served, though). If you want top-value, bright, modern rooms in the centre, then look no further!
TRIP PRICE Single Additional Twin Additional
Nights Nights
01 Jan 2007-31 Dec 2007 £225 £75 £195 £65
01 Jan 2007-31 Dec 2007 £105 £35 £90 £30
without en-suite
PRICES ARE PER PERSON, AND INCLUDE BED & BREAKFAST FOR 3 NIGHTS.
SPICING IT UP!
Linking the two cites together could not be simpler, with frequent, high quality sleeper trains between the two.
Tsarskoe Selo Palace Please see page 46, which lists a full range of additional services: which includes train tickets, transfers, and
photo:Jan Segal/Russia Experience local city experts.

44 St Petersburg Hotels
MOSCOW HOTELS
pleasure central

View of the Kremlin and the Moskva River photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

Which Moscow do you want? The medieval onion-domed capital of Europe’s most east-lying country? Or modern
Europe’s fastest-booming capital? Why choose? Take both! Budget/Medium hotels have been squeezed out of
the very centre by the HQs of banks and oil-empires... our on-the-spot staff have pinpointed the best of the new
hotels to spring-up on the centre-periphery!
KEBUR PALACE (FORMERLY TIFLIS HOTEL) 4*
OSTOZHENKA, 32; METRO PARK KULTURY: The “restaurant with rooms” concept comes to Moscow-but
when the restaurant is the most exclusive Georgian gourmet eaterie in town, you know their hotel is going
to be a little special? A boutique style property with 31 rooms decorated to a very high specification this
property also boasts an indoor swimming pool, spa and sauna. Media and theatre celebrities prefer this hotel.
On Ostozhenka-downtown Moscow’s most chic address. Your neighbours are the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum
and the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Our prices are based on standard rooms, we are able to book rooms
with Ostozhenka view and Fountain Yard view. Prices are available on request.
TRIP PRICE
01 Jan 2007 - 31 Dec 2007 Single Additional Twin Additional
Nights Nights
£450 £150 £400 £133
PRICES ARE PER PERSON, AND INCLUDE BED & BREAKFAST FOR 3 NIGHTS.

OSTANKINO HOTEL 2*
BOTANICHESKAYA STREET 29; METRO VLADYKINO: A comfy budget choice, 7 stops on the metro (which is
15 mins walk away) from St Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square and GUM. This hotel has rooms at two categories;
refurbished (which are pleasant and smart) or standard (tidy but soviet-style rooms) - take your pick! Moscow’s
best-hidden secret - the lovely Botanical Gardens - are a short walk away.
TRIP PRICE
01 Jan 2007 - 31 Dec 2007 Single Additional Twin Additional
Nights Nights
RENOVATED ROOMS £180 £60 £150 £50
UN-RENOVATED ROOMS £150 £50 £100 £33
PRICES ARE PER PERSON, AND INCLUDE BED & BREAKFAST FOR 3 NIGHTS.

ZARYA HOTEL 3*
GOSTIHICHNAYA 12; METRO PETROVKO-RAZUMOVSKAYA: Hotel Zarya is a 3* hotel, five minutes walk from
Petrovko-Razumovskaya metro station - a 15-minute metro journey will take you to the Circus, Pushkin Square
(the “real” heartbeat of town - Red Square is only the ceremonial centre), or the Kremlin. Renovated in 2002
and then heavily remodelled in 2006, the hotel offers spacious modern rooms with all modern facilities,
internet, atm, bank, restaurant etc.
TRIP PRICE
01 Jan 2007 - 31 Dec 2007 Single Additional Twin Additional
Nights Nights
RENOVATED ROOMS £180 £60 £150 £50
PRICES ARE PER PERSON, AND INCLUDE BED & BREAKFAST FOR 3 NIGHTS.
SPICING IT UP!
Linking the two cites together could not be simpler, with frequent, high quality sleeper trains between the two.
Please see page 46, which lists a full range of additional services: which includes train tickets, transfers, and
local experts.

Left - St Basil’s Cathedral

photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

Moscow Hotels 45
SPICING IT UP
bringing it all together

Train waiting to depart photo Jan Segal/Russia Experience

GET MORE OUT OF YOUR TRIP WITH A LOCAL EXPERT

Get the inside track on your destinations our local experts who are available to walk
around with you, come up with suggestions you may not have thought of, or help
you on special projects of your own? We’ve helped people on ideas as diverse as:
visiting Tchaikovsky’s Country House in Klin; visiting Jewish heritage sites in
Moscow; on the trail of famous locations in the Russian Revolution in
St Petersburg and several others. We can walk your feet off in 3 hours, but the really
determined can also book a full day of assistance (6 hours) if they want.

SLEEPER TRAIN SERVICES BETWEEN MOSCOW

AND ST PETERSBURG
We strongly recommend the overnight sleeper trains (early morning arrival next day)
for your inter-city travel... because
(i) it saves you a night’s hotel accommodation whilst on board
(ii) they are friendly and atmospheric places which are the transport of choice
for most Russians. We don’t especially recommend the day train, but can book
it on request.
There are several different night-trains between Moscow and St Petersburg,
the trains we recommend depart between 2300 and 2400, and arrive the next
morning between 0800 and 0830 and are known as “firmenny-klass”. If you would
prefer a standard-category train, departures between 22.00 and 23.00
and arrive the next morning 05.00 and 06.00 we can offer this alternative.

WHITE NIGHTS FESTIVAL

The last week of June sees a large theatre festival in St. Petersburg, which brings
colossal numbers of extra visitors and many hotels have surcharges. If you plan
visiting then, we suggest booking as soon as possible! In point of fact since this
is mostly Russian language theatre, there is not so much to attract foreigners to
this festival.

SERVICES
Local Expert Services (3 hours) Moscow or St Petersburg £50
Local Expert Services (6 hours) Moscow or St Petersburg £90
Transfer on arrival-St Petersburg or Moscow SVO Airport £55
Transfer on arrival-Moscow DME Airport £65
Transfer on departure- St Petersburg or Moscow SVO Airport £45
Transfer on departure-Moscow DME Airport £55
Superior 1st-Cl (Firmenny-klass) 2 berth rail tickets Moscow-St Petersburg or vice-versa £135
Superior 2nd-Cl (Firmenny-klass) 4 berth rail tickets Moscow-St Petersburg or vice-versa £85
Standard 2nd-Cl/4 berth rail tickets Moscow-St Petersburg or vice-versa £60
Standard 1st-Cl/2 berth rail tickets Moscow-St Petersburg or vice-versa £100

Buying your on-board train picnic in style - at the historic Eliseevsky Delicatessen
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience

46 Spicing it up
 CITY EXCURSIONS
great ideas to maximise your stay
Sunny day in Central Moscow, on Manege Square, peeking into Red Square beyond
MOSCOW & ST PETERSBURG
EXCURSIONS
Your short-cut to the inside story
Moscow and St Petersburg are classic European
cities on everyone’s want-to-see list-and they’re
really accessible places these days. However, there
are still activities where the language-barrier can
lock you out-an excursion not only helps you get
the most out of them, but ensures you actually find
the place, and get there on a day it’s open too!
When the information is even
finding your way can be a problem (so we’ll usually
arrange to meet you at a nearby metro station or
rendezvous point).
Also many activities (marked *) are only possible if
pre-organised and don’t accept casual visitors.
• Excursions do not include transportation
except where specifically indicated.
• Your own English-language local city expert
accompanies you on all the excursions
and activities (including those where the
venue/organisation also provides their
own compulsory guide).
MOSCOW
Russian Language Intro Lesson
Four hours (including a break) learning Russian for
complete beginners – or if you already know some,
to hone your skills! Includes some real-life practice
in the street.
£40 per person.
Visit Stalin’s Secret Bunker
A unique chance to visit Stalin’s Secret Bunker, built
in 1942 in the heat of WW2, from where he directed
the Soviet war effort. Private admission only, please
book early. Can only be offered for 2+ visitors.
• Excursion: 2.5 hours which includes travelling
time on public transport of 30 mins each direction.
£130 per person.
Anti-KGB Museum*
(The Andrey Sakharov Museum) When the USSR’s
leading Nuclear Scientist refused to make The
Bomb, he became a public enemy. The museum
tells Sakharov’s story, and of those many others
who refused to obey. Closed Mons.
• Excursion: 2 hours. Museum tour 1 hr 30
mins. travelling time on public transport to
Inside the Hermitage museum. 30 mins.
photo: Jan Segal/Russia Experience
£30 per person.
photo Jan Segal/Russia Experience
Tea with Russian Family*
• Tea at a Russian Home, to include Russian tea
with snacks and sweets. This is a tradition few
visitors see-you not only try the tea, but hear
about tea’s long tradition in Russian society too.
A unique chance to see how Russians live today.
• Excursion: 2 hours. Tea with family 1 hr 30
mins. travelling time on public transport to
their home 30 mins.
£25 per person.
Please note that (despite what your guidebook
may say) the KGB Museum is now permanently
closed for the foreseeable future, with no indication
when it may reopen (if ever).
ST PETERSBURG
Museum of Russian Political History and
History of Political Police*
Essential background for anyone wondering,
“how the USSR ever came to happen? Rather more
objective than the KGB Museum in Moscow.
Closed Thurs.
• Excursion 2 hrs.
£30 per person.
• Tea at a Russian Home, to include Russian tea
with snacks and sweets. This is a tradition few
visitors see-you not only try the tea, but hear
about tea’s long tradition in Russian society too.
A unique chance to see how Russians live today.
• Excursion 2.5 hours.
£25 per person.
*admission restricted to pre-arranged visitors only.
Yusupov Palace
“As rich as a Tsar!” they used to say - but the
Yusupov nobility were even richer than the Tsars.
This excursion around their former Palace gives you
an idea just how rich that was! (Although the best
“pieces” were confiscated by the Revolutionaries).
They even had a private opera theatre in their
home! But for most visitors the main attraction is
the room where young Prince Felix Yusupov and
his university friends murdered the Siberian “wise
man”, Rasputin.
• Excursion 2.5 hours which includes travelling
time on public transport of 30 mins.
£65 per person.
City Excursions 47
COUNTDOWN TO YOUR TRIP
Before you leave
TRIP SELECTION
Our trips are not group trips, so the dates we
list are not “group departures”- just the dates
when all the travel sectors fall into alignment for
snag-free connections through remote areas.
DOING THE “RED” TAPE
We know the booking form is dull stuff, but in
destinations where they love red tape, it’s
important that your travel documents match your
personal details to the letter. Once you’ve sent
this to us, we’ll send you the Visa Application
forms you’ll need for your trip. Most visas can
only be obtained in the ninety days prior to your
arrival-we’ll let you know when. Do not apply for
visas until you have booked your trip with us
without the supporting documents we provide
for you, your application will usually be rejected,
resulting in wasted time and costs to you.
We do all the visa submission stuff saving you
the hassle of queuing for days at different
Consulates. Because the Consulates only
accept applications within 90 days prior to the
start of your trip, we will lodge your passport
in this time. Returning them to you 3-4 weeks
from this point. (Depending on the number of
visas you require.)
VISA FEES CHARGED
Nationality Russia
GREAT BRITAIN £45
AUSTRALIA/OTHER £63
NEW ZEALAND £45
* The Russian Consulate surcharges certain countries for visas principally for countries that have
raised their visa fees for Russians visiting in exchange. This list is constantly changing please
contact us for latest costs.
48 Countdown to your trip
Along with your passport and visas, we’ll be
sending your travel documents too. Train tickets
are only issued “in-destination”, so they’ll be
awaiting your arrival. We’ll need to know the
confirmed arrival details, flight number, train
number and station, or bus details, no later than
a week prior so we can meet you.
VISA INFO FOR RUSSIA
Handy to know:
(A) Russian visas are dated around the dates of
your travel plans, the visa permits you to be in
the country to complete your itinerary, but not
for unscheduled extra activities. They give you
a day’s grace either side, but only for
emergencies.
(B) Arriving /leaving by surface? Russia’s so big
its Western borders are more than a day’s ride
from the main cities… so we’ll need to fix your
entry dates accordingly. Please let us know if
this applies to you!
(C) When we submit your visa, we need to show
what travel services have been booked any
dates you list that aren’t evidenced with travel
docs to match will be knocked back. It’ll also
delay your application whilst they do it.
Mongolia China
£40 £30+Processing £30
£40 £20+Processing £30
£40 £20+Processing £30
(D) Your passport must be valid for travel
(i.e. not expired, or within six months after the
end of all services) If you have two passports
please consider which one you will travel on
when applying for your visas and use the same
one throughout.
VISA INFO FOR MONGOLIA & CHINA:
Mongolian visas largely follow the same pattern
as the Russian. We’ll help you with the
administration to ensure you get your visa in
good time. Chinese visas are quite simple but
there are numerous old Travellers’ Tales about
them! They are good for 30 days travel in China.
You have 90 days to enter China from the day
of issue, when the clock starts ticking.
Because the Chinese Visa is so much simpler
than the other two, we leave this one to you. Or
if you want us to do it anyway, we’ll charge you
a processing fee of £30.00.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW SAFE IS IT TO BOOK WITH YOU?
We are a fully bonded tour operator, registered in
the UK, where EU law requires us to protect your
travel funds. We are full members of the Travel
Trust Association (TTA) www.traveltrust.co.uk -
your travel funds are held frozen in a Trust
Account until your trip is complete, and only then
released to us by the TTA’s approved Trustee.
The Russia Experience Ltd is a member of AITO
(www.aito.co.uk)-the Association of Independent
Tour Operators, a government-regulated
professional body of more than 150 tour
operators. Between them AITO members take
over 1,400,000 satisfied people on holidays
throughout the world every year. We are mandated
to uphold the high professional standards and
stringent financial safeguards which is implicit in
membership of the TTA and AITO.
AREN’T VISAS A NIGHTMARE THAT
TAKES WEEKS?
Needn’t be! We do the whole thing for you.
Russian visas need proof of booking from a
Russian registered outfit-we do all of this behind
the scenes. Get your booking form into us at
least six weeks prior to departure, and you’ll
avoid express visa costs. If you do book less
than six weeks prior to departure you still will
be able to go, if the trip is available but you will
need to pay express fees, please check with us
how much these will be as they are dependent
on what passport you hold and how much time
we have. We’ll also need the original of your
passport to get your visas and this must be the
same as the passport number you gave us
when you completed the original booking form.
DO I NEED INSURANCE? DO I NEED
VACCINATIONS?
We do require you to have Travel insurance to
take any of our trips. For rates please contact
our reservations department. Which policy you
purchase is your own choice. The Russian
Consulate also requires you to have Travel
Insurance to obtain a visa. No vaccinations are
mandatory but you would be well advised to get
informed advice on this (not every GP may be as
well informed on the latest health developments in
these locations). Particular concerns are Cholera,
Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Tick-
borne encephalitis is a small risk on some Siberian
trekking routes there is a vaccine available. But the
risk is VERY small and our leaders observe safety
procedures. We also suggest you take a First Aid
kit, to include a Sterile Surgical kit.
WHY IS IT EXPENSIVE TO MAKE EN-
ROUTE STOPS?
A Trans-sib secret that no guidebooks seemed
to have grasped goes like this… non-stop
international tickets are still priced accordingly
to old bilateral agreements dating back to the
Soviet era which cannot be broken, even now!
But if you introduce stops into the your trip these
sectors are priced commercially by Russian
Railways…so you only get the benefit of state
subsidised fares for part of your journey.
CAN I STAY EXTRA NIGHTS?
In Moscow and St Petersburg, yes! But the train
schedules on some of the less than frequent
routes make altering the stays almost
impossible. Adding or removing odd days will
almost never work. We always include two
nights in Moscow prior to your Trans- Siberian
journey and two in St Petersburg is the standard
if you buy a St Petersburg add on-but “there is
stacks to see, and I wish I had stayed longer!” is
always the feedback we get!
HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY WILL I NEED?
This depends on what lifestyle you plan pursuing
on your trip! The information pack we provide will
give you an idea of current costs. Eating and
drinking are very similar to most European cities,
although Ulaanbaatar and Beijing have upscale
versions if you have cash to flash! When
itineraries take you far from the shops or cafes
we often include meals. Russian souvenirs tend
to be fun and low priced so you will be able to
stash your pack full of Russian goodies!
FAMILY STAYS:
What should I expect? Some of our trips feature
options staying with local families. Although
sometimes this is for practical reasons (e.g. no
other kind of accommodation is available-nomad
stays in the Gobi for example) it also broadens the
trip experience, two way interaction with the places
and the people that live there. We’re not promising
luxury we’re promising a slice of life! People who
live in harsh climates and terrains are naturally
gregarious, and you will learn and experience
more with them than you could ever absorb in a
month staying in a sterile Western style Hotel.
SPECIAL DIETS:
Meat features strongly in the national cuisine of
most of our destinations. As a team the Russia
Experience employs several vegetarians and we
have never starved! But for when you are off the
train you must advise us prior to departure if you
have any special dietary requirements. If you
have anything more complicated than a lacto-
vegetarian diet consider that in some of the
remote places you are to travel this could be a
considerable problem-and stock up accordingly.
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN;
There are no serious downsides, and the
infrastructure of travel and accommodation
works well if you’re taking children along.
However, Communist-era thinking very much
treated children as small adults, with little or
no provisions or amenities. So priming your
children is essential if they are not going to get
bored. Take supplies of books and fresh comics
secreted in your suitcase English reading
material in unavailable for both children and
adults alike. The journey is however the most
fantastic introduction to a world they will have
never known and they will meet many local
children along the way, who will be very curious
about their lives so take photos of home!
Child prices are on application.
HOW MUCH PRIVACY DO YOU GET ON
BOARD THE TRAIN?
All our standard trips are based on 2nd
Class Rail in Russia which is 4-berth
compartments. You’ll be sharing with any
travelling companions
who book with you, of course plus other
train passengers. It’s possible to buy
yourself more privacy than that with an
upgrade to 1st Class (2-berth
compartments) BUT this is in very short
supply and some trains don’t have it at
all. An alternative is a “buyout” of a
four-berth compartment-which could be
for one, two, or three travelling companions,
prices on request.
ARE THERE SHOWERS ON BOARD?
Most of the main long distance (24 hrs+) on
Russian Railways (but not on Mongolian or
Chinese) now have a pay-to-use shower. You
have to go to the “Special Services” wagon.
One use is R50-90pp (prices are set by the varying
train operators). No towel or soap is included in
the price, we hope you have your own!
WILL I MEET OTHER TRAVELLERS?
Very likely-especially in the Summer months.
There is only one train a week for instance
between Mongolia and Beijing (incredible,
but true) so a bit of bunching is inevitable for
the last section.
DOWNSIDES:
There are no serious downsides or dangers in
visiting our destinations, and there is no need
for woman travellers to worry in fact the men get
the worry as Russia has an old take on a new
annoyance sexual harassment by aggressive
ladies of the night. A firm nyet should get rid of
them! Dressing-down is recommended for both
sexes anyhow the lure of conspicuous wealth is
the biggest draw for unwelcome attention. Also
remember that it is law to have your documents
on you at all times in Russia-spot-checks are
routine. The cops know this and if you don’t
have them on you, will march you down to the
Station to waste half a day of your trip and cost
you a lot of roubles.
WANT TO CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP?
All the trips brochured have a pre
arranged schedule however if you
would like to customise your journey
with longer stays, or special requests
for instance, please check with us and
we will see whats possible. Note that no
alterations will be possible once your
trip has commenced.
Email info@trans-siberian.co.uk
We strongly advise all our clients to check the
latest Travel Advice from their own national
Foreign Ministry. This information is constantly
updated and so printing it here would deny you
access to the latest information. We will willingly
provide you with a print-out of this information if
you do not have access to the internet to check
it in person.
Frequently Asked Questions 49
RUSSIA EXPERIENCE BOOKING FORM 2007/8 Fax (020) 8566 8843
Passenger Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms *First name *Surname *Date of birth *Nationality *Passport number Special dietary
Requirements

4
*This information must conform with the details on your passport.
IN ALL CASES, WE ISSUE ONE SET OF DOCUMENTS TO THE LEAD PASSENGER. (PASSENGER 1)

Home address: Work Tel: Home Tel:

Post code Mobile Tel: e-mail address:

ST. PETERSBURG
1st choice Hotel 2nd choice Hotel Start date No of additional nights 1st class upgrade City Excursion Arrival flight/train no Arrival time Arriving from

YES/NO
TRANS-SIBERIAN
Trip Name Start date No of additional 2 berth Arrival flight/ Arrival time Arrival airport Moscow Arriving from
nights Moscow upgrade train number *Please delete as appropriate

Domodedovo/
YES/NO Sheremetyevo

Your day trip choice for Ekaterinburg (one only) Pre booked city excursion name:

Hotel upgrade Irkutsk City YES/NO In Siberia, Siberian Village/Fishermans Cape/Adventure Trek - please choose

Hotel upgrade Ulan-Uday YES/NO If Siberian Village; Softies Trek/Siberian Scuba/Snowmobile/Do your own thing *delete as appropriate

CHINA
Start date Number of additional nights in Beijing Number of additional nights in Xi’an Day trip option Airport transfer

RUSSIAN CITIES
Hotel Name Start date Number of Rail tickets Route City Excursion Arrival flight Arrival time Arriving from
additional nights number *Please delete as appropriate

Hotel Name 2-berth/4-berth Domodedovo/Sheremetyevo

Arrival/departure transfers required Local expert Services

VISAS INSURANCE
RUSSIA MONGOLIA CHINA Do you wish to take out travel
Free Visa handling service Please organise my Mongolian Please organise my Chinese insurance with your agent? Y/N
(15 working days to Process) Y/N Visa (5 working days to process) Y/N Visa (5 working days to process) Y/N
If not you MUST provide details of
I will organise my own Russian I will organise my own Mongolian I will organise my own Chinese alternative cover:
Visa with my local consulate Y/N Visa with my local consulate Y/N Visa with my local Consulate Y/N Company

PAYMENT Policy number

I authorise the Russia Experience Ltd to charge my Visa/MasterCard/Switch/Maestro: SECURITY CODE
£250.00 per person deposit. I understand the balance is payable 60 days prior to departure.
If departure date is due within 60 days. The full trip price, including visa fees.
Card holder signature
CARD NUMBER Please automatically take full payment from my card 60 days prior to departure
EXPIRY DATE ISSUE NUMBER Payment by cheque: Please make cheques payable to The Russia Experience Ltd Trust Account.

Sales Referral from J Pannell - www.trans-siberia.com

Where did you hear of The Russia Experience?

D E C L A R A T I O N
I have read the Russia Experience brochure and would now like to book my trip, by signing the booking form or paying the availability of entry visas, registration of aliens, local taxes etc-are subject to revision without prior notice. I understand I must
deposit, I declare I have read the booking conditions and accept them on behalf of all members of my party listed above. I submit by passport for the purposes of obtaining visas for an uninterrupted period of 25 days. (Or pay an express fee for
have also read and understood the following: That local conditions in my destination may differ from those in my country of quicker processing)
resident in terms of infrastructure, attitude to foreign visitors, stability of local economy and restrictions on foreign exchange.
I understand my visit is governed by regulations imposed by the elected Government, and that these regulations-concerning Signed Date

Booking Form 51
BOOKING CONDITIONS
1. Your contract is with The Russia Experience Ltd. The Russia
Experience Ltd are a fully bonded tour operator, registered in the UK,
where EU law requires us to protect your travel funds. We are full
members of the Travel Trust Association (TTA)www.traveltrust.co.uk-
your travel funds are held frozen in a Trust Account until your trip is
complete, and only then released to us by the TTA’s approved Trustee.
The Russia Experience Ltd is a member of AITO (www.aito.co.uk)-the
Association of Independent Tour Operators, a government-regulated
professional body of more than 150 tour operators. We are mandated
to uphold the high professional standards and stringent financial
safeguards which is implicit in membership of the TTA and AITO.
2. All bookings are accepted on a request basis only. Acceptance of a
Booking Form does not imply availability of a trip.
3. No booking will be accepted without a completed Booking Form and
either a Deposit or, according to the payment schedule applicable, full
payment. Deposits are non refundable in all cases.
4. The Trip Balance is due 60 days before commencement of your trip.
Late payment may cause cancellation of all or part of your trip, with no
refund payable.
5. No travel documents will be issued until full payment has been made.
6. We accept payment by cash, travellers’ cheque’s and bankers’ drafts
and credit cards. We accept personal cheques subject to clearance,
for which 10 days must be allowed.
7. The responsibility for obtaining and carrying correct visas, passports
and other travel documents remains with the passenger.
8. If we have to cancel your trip for unexpected reasons, you will be
offered a full refund of all funds paid over to us, or the offer of a trip of
substantially equal or better quality if appropriate.
9. If you wish to cancel your trip, we require written notice and will make
funds to you in accordance with the table below, calculated from the
date which we receive written notice.
IF YOU CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY:
NUMBER OF DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE WHEN WE RECEIVE YOUR
CANCELLATION. SHOWN AS A PERCENTAGE OF YOUR TOTAL HOLIDAY
PRICE.
Over 60 days before commencement Deposit only
59-40 days before commencement 50%
39-14 days before commencement 90%
14 days or no show 100%
* The trip price does not include visas, visa processing fees, travel insurance or guidebooks,
which shall be 100% forfeit in all cases.
10. We are required by EU regulations to ensure you have travel insurance
which covers repatriation if required. If you do not purchase insurance,
you must confirm to our satisfaction that you have made alternative
arrangements.
11. We have made it clear in all sales materials that it is common and
accepted practice for transport methods employed on our trips to run
with delays, or to run below operational standards that would be
regarded as normal in Western Europe. We cannot accept any claim
for indirect or consequential loss arising from the failure of transport
suppliers to conform either to timetables supplied by us or to their own
timetables. We cannot accept any claim for shock, loss, distress,
whether mental or financial, arising from deviations from operational
standards by transport suppliers whose services form part of our
itineraries (whether original or amended).
12. We cannot be responsible for the safety of passengers or their
belongings and for this reason we recommend strongly that you take
out adequate travel insurance.
13. If circumstances or weather conditions force us to amend your itinerary
or the services with it, we shall notify you in writing as soon as
possible.
If the change arises during your trip, our representatives will make
every effort to contact you personally. We reserve the right to substitute
alternative transport or accommodation in the interests of the safety
of our passengers and/or the successful completion of the itinerary.
14. If you require us to change your booked itinerary, we will do everything
possible to facilitate this, subject to your agreement to meet the costs
which may be incurred. An estimate of these costs, in writing, will be
provided before proceeding.
50 Booking Conditions
15. We believe the descriptions of the services and facilities in this
brochure are fair and accurate. In the event of faults or omissions by
ourselves or those acting for us, appropriate compensation may be
payable. Such cases will not include cases caused by war or threat
of war; changes in transport timetables; denial of border entry for
any undocumented reasons; riots; civil unrest; disasters of natural
or nuclear origin; terrorist activities; declarations of autonomy or
independence by areas not recognised as such by the United Nations,
or decisions relating to foreign nationals made by the elected or de
facto leaders of such areas; and such other circumstances beyond
our reasonable control.
16. In the event of illness, accident or cases described in Condition 15
above, we shall provide all reasonable help to passengers. Our
assistance shall not replace the assistance to be expected from travel
insurance up to the limits of cover of the policy recommended by us,
nor shall it replace the assistance of the Consul responsible for you
whilst abroad.
17. Claims for compensation will be accepted in writing only, within 30
days of final included service. We are unable to consider any claim
where the assistance or advice of our local representatives has been
unsought, rejected or ignored.
18. Passengers who fail to join the trip by the means or at the time and
date they previously advised us within at least 14 days’ notice shall
forfeit all subsequent services up to such time as they can be
reasonably be rejoined. Any re scheduling so caused shall be at the
passenger’s own expense. Departure without notification from the
itinerary may result in forfeiture of subsequent services. “No-show”
passengers shall forfeit all subsequent services if they fail to notify us
of intention to rejoin their itinerary within 72 hours of their original
arrival date. Expenses arising from unscheduled departure from the
itinerary cannot be recovered
from us.
19. Tariffs shown in our leaflets were accurate based on prices and
exchange at the time of printing. Should the prices of the services rise,
or be adversely affected by exchange rate movements, we reserve the
right to make a surcharge. If you have already commenced your
booking by paying a deposit or full payment and completing a Booking
Form, and the price increase should amount to a differential of more
than 15% compared with that in the invoice issued to you (inclusive of
visa handling, visa fees, travel insurance and airport taxes) you will be
entitled to withdraw your booking and receive a full refund of all money
paid over to us, with the exception of visa fees, which shall be forfeit in
any event.
20. With the exception of diving none of our activities require special
training or above-average levels of fitness or mobility. If you are in any
doubt about whether you should undertake them, you should consult
your medical adviser. We are unable to refund any money in respect of
services from which you withdraw after arrival. With reasonable notice,
alternative versions of most of our activities can be organised for those
of you who have special needs, and a section on our booking form
invites information to enable us to plan for your needs in this case.
21. At all times passengers are bound by local law and jurisdiction in their
chosen destinations. Passengers, who depart from the selected
itinerary, either geographically or chronologically, are advised that they
may be breaking local immigration regulations, which at best will result
in delay and inconvenience, and at worst may result in arrest and
imprisonment, in neither of which cases are we able to assist in any
material way. Passengers are advised that local duties and levies are
frequently introduced, amended or increased without warning, and
whilst we do our best to inform passengers of what local costs are
likely to incur, we cannot guarantee that further costs may be imposed
or increased subsequent to our recent information. Such costs remain
the passenger’s responsibility.
22. We do not organise air travel to or from our destinations. Passengers
are advised to ensure that agencies with whom they organise such
services are properly bonded and certified to conduct such business.
On request we can provide details with a recommended agent for
many localities.
23. The Russia Experience will not accept responsibility for any additional
or alternative travel arrangements (including the use of local guides
and the purchase of services and excursions) that are made
independently by its clients and that are separate, or in addition, to the
booked and ticketed itinerary.
 T

Russia Experience
Research House, Fraser Road, Perivale, Greenford, Middlesex UB6 7AQ, England
Tel: (020) 8566 8846 Fax: (020) 8566 8843 Email: info@trans-siberian.co.uk
www.trans-siberian.co.uk

www.dh-design.co.uk
Design and Artwork: DH design

Russia Experience