Jody and Josche Overseas: Russia, Tran Siberian & Listvyanka

The first leg of the Trans-Siberian involved a four day train trip with short 10-20 minute stops here and there from one side of Russia (Moscow) to somewhat the other side (Listvyanka).

The train trip itself was an interesting experience and this particular train was actually the worst of all the trains we end up catching in terms of it's condition. There were no showers (this was the same on all of the trains however), the toilets smelt, it was at times hot and stuffy and smelt of smoke. We slept in four bunk rooms with two of the nights being stuck with a very overweight, smoking, snoring Russia who smelt of smoke and BO.

On the up side we would get a free meal each day (however to quote Jody "I now know what food would taste like in prison") and met a few interesting people on the train, most of which did not speak a word of English. The food cart staff were always very friendly, and we got to know them over the four days using our hands and translator guides to communicate. Our days were spent looking out the window, reading, playing cards and talking to the locals, which without fail would always include on a daily basis a drunk Russia speaking to us in Russian and not seeming to understand "Nyat Ruski".

Finally arrived at Listvyanka, a beautiful little village alongside the largest lake in the world, Lake Baikal. The view from our room was over the lake with snow cap mountains in the background. Next couple of days were spent exploring in and around the village and included a long hike over the mountains and along Lake Baikal.