travel thorugh russian / via trans siberian train?

Question

hi there ,
I am in scotland now and planning to travel to russia and central asia this summer.can anyone please advise me the local agents or websites that I can buy my train tickets from as the travel agents out here are quoting me ridiculously high rates

thanks

Answer 1

I bought mine at the local stations, and got the cheapest seats by going to the "railway employees only" line. But then, I speak Russian.

As to clean carriages, and good toilets, you get what you pay for. Ask for a "private car", with 2 beds, and you'll share with one "rommate". It's cheaper than online, and you'll make a new friend.

And don't worry.. they will sell the ticket to you, even though you are a foreigner and not an employee. You will need your passport to purchase at the stations, though.

Answer 2

The "ridiculously high rates" you are quoted buy you a newer carriage dedicated to charters, a much cleaner bathroom on the train, (somewhat) English-speaking staff, and hotel stays. In other words, you are buying a packaged tour, not just transportation.

You can, of course, eschew the established routes and book everything on your own, but you've got to speak the language. Travel business in Russia emerged as a service aimed primarily at expatriates, but that was 15 years ago, an eternity by Russian standards. Now most of the travel agencies derive the bulk of their business from local customers. Agencies that do work with international travelers are mostly tour operators...

The (not necessarily helpful) official English Web site for Russian Railways is here:

http://www.eng.rzd.ru/

I don't think you can buy tickets online though...

Local agents... Try DemLink:

http://www.demlinktravel.com/

Alternatively, contact the British Embassy in Moscow and ask for pointers. They probably have a preferred travel agent for domestic travel...

Answer 3

Have you tried www.expresstorussia.com? They were so helpful when I had trouble with my itinerary around russia, ukraine and belarus this summer.

All quotes are going to be very expensive because the Trans-Siberian is for tourists, therefore it is expensive. Depending on how brave you are feeling and how good your russian is, you could just do it all independently, buying tickets at the station to the next destination (which will make it about 90% cheaper). I travelled from Vladivostok to Estonia that way and I was a lone female. That way, you really get to know the people and have the most amazing time.

I'm jealous. Have a great time.