Tips for Lake Baikal & the Trans-Siberian Railway
Essential tips for visiting Lake Baikal and surviving the Trans-Siberian Railway, from what to eat to staying clean and safe on the train.
Irkutsk·Lake Baikal·Trans-Siberian Railway (May 2016)
Arriving in Moscow: Trans-Siberian Railway
After three days on the Trans-Siberian Railway, we finally arrive in Moscow. Saying goodbye to the soldiers and exploring the deep Moscow Metro.
Trans-Siberian Railway Day 3: Somewhere Near Kazan
Day 3 on the Trans-Siberian Railway brings new babushkas, a four-hour restaurant search by a tough local, and exchanging gifts with Russian soldiers.
Trans-Siberian Railway Day 2: Somewhere in Siberia
On day two of the Trans-Siberian Railway, I make friends with Russian soldiers, share homemade jam, and watch the endless Siberian landscapes roll by.
Trans-Siberian Railway Day 1: Somewhere in Russia
Day 1 on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Sharing a third-class cabin with Russian soldiers, eating ramen, and watching May blizzards roll across Siberia.
Boarding the Trans-Siberian Railway at Irkutsk Station
Join me as I finally board the Trans-Siberian Railway at Irkutsk Station, grab a quick shower, and meet my unexpected carriage mates.
Kochevnik: High-End Mongolian Food in Irkutsk
Before boarding the Trans-Siberian Railway, I enjoyed an incredible, high-end Mongolian meal at Kochevnik in Irkutsk, featuring perfectly cooked lamb.
Visiting Holy Cross Cathedral in Irkutsk
Exploring the Holy Cross Cathedral in Irkutsk, my first Russian Orthodox church experience, featuring unique architecture and a solemn interior.
130 Kvartal and Lenin Street Coffee in Irkutsk
Exploring the famous 130 Kvartal district in Irkutsk and trying a cup of Lenin Street Coffee. Read about my honest impressions and travel expenses.
Lunch at Org: A Hidden Restaurant in Irkutsk
Exploring historic buildings in Irkutsk, Russia, and stumbling upon a cozy underground restaurant for a comforting bowl of pelmeni.
Battling 20kg Luggage in Irkutsk, Russia
Leaving Lake Baikal behind, we head to Irkutsk where a heavy 20kg backpack leads to deep reflections on walking at your own pace in life.
Chasing the Lake Baikal Sunrise in Listvyanka
Waking up at 3:30 AM to capture a sunrise timelapse over Lake Baikal in Listvyanka, only to be thwarted by freezing cold and pitch-black darkness.
Chersky Peak in Listvyanka: A New View of Lake Baikal
Upgrading our room for stunning Lake Baikal views, a hilarious lunch menu mistake, and hiking up to the beautiful Chersky Peak in Listvyanka.
Exploring Lake Baikal by Boat in Listvyanka
Join me on a scenic boat tour across Lake Baikal in Listvyanka, Russia. Discover the Circum-Baikal Railway, local food, and stunning snow-capped peaks.
Listvyanka: Lake Baikal and Smoked Omul
Arriving in Listvyanka by Lake Baikal, I skipped the sightseeing and dove straight into the local food market for shashlik, plov, and smoked omul.
Irkutsk to Listvyanka: The Walk to Hotel Baikal
Join me on a chaotic journey from Irkutsk to Listvyanka, featuring ATM panics, a confusing bus terminal, and a massive Google Maps walking fail.
Hostel Bravo: Great Stay Near Irkutsk Airport
Arriving late in Irkutsk, Russia? Hostel Bravo is a budget-friendly, welcoming spot just a 3-minute walk from the airport. Here is my review.
Seoul to Irkutsk: A One-Way Ticket to Russia
Join me as I fly from Seoul to Russia on a one-way ticket, surviving a surprisingly easy immigration at Khabarovsk Airport before heading to Irkutsk.
One Day Before Departing for Russia
Tomorrow I leave for an unexpected trip to Russia! Sharing my travel goals for Irkutsk, Moscow, and St. Petersburg, plus my pre-departure expenses.
How to Book the Trans-Siberian Railway Online
A step-by-step guide to booking Trans-Siberian Railway tickets on the official Russian Railways website, including tips on seat classes and time zones.
My Russia Travel Itinerary: Irkutsk to Moscow
A detailed breakdown of my upcoming Russia trip, including schedules, expected costs, and sightseeing plans for Irkutsk, Moscow, and St. Petersburg.