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MOSCOW - THE BIG SMOKE
Start point for the big journey. Moscow, the sprawling, energetic capital of the former evil empire is home to legendary Red Square & Lenin's Mausoleum, not to mention the Kremlin and the wildly coloured, onion domed St Basil's Cathedral. The city boasts internationally acclaimed museums and galleries, respectable retail havens, markets and hundreds of restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisines. The night-life in Moscow is fantastic so if you fancy learning to drink Russian style - lots of neat vodka - straight down the hatch, you might want to extend your stay! |
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IRKUTSK
Gulags and snowbound exile? Not anymore! Siberia's capital, Irkutsk lies at the crossroads of centuries old tea, silk and fur trade routes between Western Russia and China. Steeped in history, Irkutsk is an interesting town. Perfect for a stopover, Irkutsk is also gateway to the fantastic Lake Baikal. Sitting on the banks of the Angara River, Irkutsk possesses a unique historical heritage in the form of dozens of beautifully carved and decorated cabins. |
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LAKE BAIKAL
At least the deepest lake in the world (1620m), on merits of magnitude alone the lake is renowned as one of earth's most impressive natural wonders. The lake is home to many unique species of flora and fauna and is situated in a region of unsurpassed beauty. In the winter the lake freezes over, with ice so thick cars can drive across it! In the summer, its crystalline blue waters are transparent to a depth of forty metres and its shores are ringed with the brilliant colours of seasonal wildflowers. Spend a few days here and you'll feel like you're in heaven and there's seasonal activities galore.
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ULAAN BAATAR
Many travellers opt to stop in Mongolia on a journey between Moscow and Beijing, an exotic country populated in large part by nomads whose lives have changed little since the time of Genghis Khan. Ulaan Baatar, the rustic capital, was largely built with Russian help, but Buddhist temples and palaces of Mongolian rulers complement the Soviet architecture. However, remaining true to their nomadic roots, many residents live in ger neighbourhoods (portable, easily assembled tepee-like structures). It's not uncommon to see cows or goats grazing in the streets of the city. |
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BEIJING
Beijing is China's political, historical and spiritual centre and it's a veritable hive of activity! In the centre of Beijing is the vast Tiananmen Square where Chairman Mao's tomb and various monuments to the people are located. Dominating the heart of the city is the gigantic Forbidden City, a centre of power for five centuries and seat of the emperors. Other highlights of this amazing city include the beautiful Emperors Summer Palace and exploring the Hutongs of Beijing, get lost weaving through the back lanes, traditional courtyards and open-air markets, it's a great way to experience the city's traditional way of life! Of course the main attraction has got to be the spectacular Great Wall, which you'll catch glimpses of from the train. An enduring symbol of Chinese civilisation and genius, the UNESCO protected Great Wall of China was built as a defensive structure. Some 20 states and dynasties were involved in its immense construction over a period of 2,000 years! | |
Experience wonderful Turkey without breaking the bank! Visit stunning Istanbul, Gallipoli, Roman ruins, the gorgeous Aegean coast, hot springs of Pammukale and magical Cappadocia.
It's almost that time of year again. Not that an excuse to raise a stein of fine German beer is ever needed but here's one anyway. Oktoberfest only comes once a year and its almost upon us so get in fast.
