Introduction

The set of tracks stretching across Russia spans almost a quarter of the globe. We to suggest that the most gratifying way to conquer them is to start from one Moscow.

There are actually two possible ways to go about organizing your trip. You can go on a group tour or independently.  Independent is currently the most popular option. In this mode you have advance tickets, reservations, and hotel bookings arranged through us. During the trip you are your own guide - unless you have arranged for a private guide from us. Those who would prefer a group arrangement, have either to talk there friends into it and gather their own party of 6 to 16 persons, or wait for scheduled group departures which are not that often.

Don't worry about your visas, which should indicate all major cities on your route - we shall take care of all formalities.

The Train

Train life is what you want to make of it. If you want to sit and do nothing, there will be up to seven days of as doing as little as you want. You also have the option of reading yourself blind, writing, conversing with any number of people, eating all you want, watching the scenery slip by, or familiarizing yourself with genuine Russian drinks - vodka and champagne, basically.

Clothing

Leave the tux and party dress at home, this isn't the Orient Express. Attire on the Trans-Siberian is definitely informal. The Russian garment of choice is a jogging suit with slippers. Almost everyone is wearing one. You will want to be similarly comfortable. Temperature is not a problem, the cars are air-conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter.

Food

Food is solid and hearty on the Trans-Siberian, but not exquisite. You may make arrangements for upgrade meals and have your menu customized. Otherwise, the dining car serves salads, soups, and dishes based on chicken or beef. It is good food. Eat there, but it may be a good idea to bring along some of your own food and snacks. There is a hot water dispenser in each car, so anytime you can make an instant soup, or coffee, or tea. There're snack kiosks in stations along the way, too, where you can buy fresh breads, meats of many descriptions, dried fish, and fruits and vegetables. Many stations have groups of peasant women selling various foods, all inexpensive and very tasty. Eating is a primary diversion, and it is a Russian tradition to make a social event of it.

Money

You need to carry clean and recent (especially if it is hundred dollar bills) notes of U. S. currency. Russians will not take bills that show signs of wear. In most in Moscow and St. Petersburg, and in othert major cities on your route they take credit cards - though not on your train. Don't bother with Traveler's checks, you will have hard time trying to turn them into money. Have singles and fives handy, you will find it quite useful.
There are plenty of places to exchange dollars. And, since the blackmarket and offical rates aren't that much different, unless you're in a bind, stick to official exchanges.

Conditions

Sanitation. This is the part some people get squeamish about. There are no showers on the trains. With no stops, that would mean about seven days without shower. If nothing else, it is a motivation for getting off and exploring a city or two. The problem isn't as bad as you might think. For one thing, it's unlikely you will be engaged in sweaty, physical activity (that doesn't count). For another, there's hot and cold running water in the toilets that, with a little care, allow for a sponge bath. There are two toilets for a train car of 8 compartments, that is per 16 passangers in the 1-st class couch or 32 people in the 2-nd class. Attendants clean the car regularly. Sheets, rented for less than $2.00, are fresh pressed and the beds are very comfortable.

Security

Common sense is your best protection. Keep anything you don't want to loose on your person at all times. There are lockers under the seats and you can have the attendent lock your compartment when it is unoccupied. You can also lock the door at two points from the inside. Some people even add a belt for extra protection.There happen theives on the train just like anywhere else. Don't look like a target and you are less likely to be one. More than anything the atmosphere is family-like. The trains are a primary means of transportation for common Russian people. There will be all types of people aboard from whole families to scientists to older children going to visit relatives. Be careful, but don't live in fear.
You will also have our Russian offices' telephone numbers - they will be help you if need be.

Stopovers

Although you can rush through the country practically non-stop, we urge you take the Epic Express option if you can.Getting off the train is so much more fun! For one thing, it will make the journey more enjoyable by breaking it up. Secondly, you will get so much more out of your trip by seeing some of Russia closer than through a train window. And there is so much to experience!

Electronic mail

intourvisa@worldnet.att.net

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