MISSION CONTROL –COUNTDOWN TO YOUR TRIP!
BOOKING AND VISA INFO
The Russia Experience 9
1) CHOOSE AN ITINERARY WHICH YOU LIKE
Our itineraries aren’t group tours – just combinations of different available transport sectors that work operably together.

2) CHOOSE AN OPERABLE DATE ON WHICH YOU’D LIKE TO TRAVEL
Our timetable-savvy staff spend weeks (literally!) checking the combinations of different sections which produce the start-dates
we’ve listed. They are not group-trips, or because we are control-freaks etc – simply a list of all the dates on which that set of
connections won’t mis-connect! If you start on other dates your trip will fall apart mid-way somewhere – there just aren’t alternative
transport services available. We do not “group people together”, but bear in mind that if you choose our most popular itineraries over the May-Sep peak period, you will inevitably be seeing other people who picked the same trip and date. Now you should check that your immunisations are current for the destinations you’ve chosen.

3) SEND US A BOOKING FORM
Yes, we know it’s tedious to fill-in, but from that info we can make sure that your whole itinerary is accurately booked for you, and that
all the documentation for visas, tickets etc will be correctly issued by red-tape-hungry organisations. We cannot make a booking if you do
not include your passport details on the booking form.

4) WE’LL SEND YOU THE VISA APPLICATION FORMS FOR YOUR TRIP
We’ll get the Russian (and Mongolian, if applicable) visa for you, but we can’t get the visa until we have your Booking. We’ll need unique
access to your passports no later one-month-to-go stage, to get these visas (don’t have a month? Call us for Rush Fees).

5) TIME TO PUT YOUR FEET UP…
… whilst we get visas for you – saving you hours of queueing (No, it’s not quicker if you go in person). Meantime you can admire
the lovely Invoice we’ve sent you confirming your Deposit, and leaf-through your trip Info-Pack, over 60 pages of trip info, divided into
“essential”, “useful” and “background” stuff.

6) THE FEEL-GOOD FACTOR
Psychologists tell us that we never value anything we get for nothing. So you will doubtlessly be feeling good when you pay your Trip
Balance (ie the difference between the cost of your trip + visas, and what you already paid so far in your Deposit), which we ask for
60 days before you go. If you book later than that, we ask you for full payment at time of booking.

7) WE SEND YOU YOUR TRAVEL DOCS AND VISAS
We can only do this a few weeks before your travel, since the visas have a limited “shelf-life”. Any train tickets for your trip are issued
in Russia – our local office there will hold them for you and give them to you on arrival (we come to you – you don’t have to go
to the office). If you (or your Travel Agent) haven’t already advised us of your arrival flight/train details, we’ll need this at least
a week in advance. That’s it, you are ready for Russia! Let’s hope Russia is ready for you!

RUSSIAN VISAS – NOT RUSSIAN ROULETTE!!
Getting a Russian visa isn’t nearly so uncertain as you might hear on the grapevine – in fact we guarantee you your money back if you don’t get one* provided you correctly complete the form and give us at least 14 days to process it, a promise we’ve never had to pay-out on.

Handy to know:
• The visa is date-specific around the itinerary you book – you can’t turn-up sooner, or leave later, because your visa dates won’t
permit this.
• If you know you’re arriving by surface please tell us – your visa will need to be validated 24 hours earlier to allow for the long
distances of travel involved.
•You can’t get unaccounted-for dates in Russia included in your visa – the Consulate ask us to show them your full itinerary with accom
and transport pre-booked.
• Obviously your passport must have enough space left for the visas (one visa per page per country), mustn’t be defaced or damaged,
and should have at least 6 months still left to run (these are Consular requirements).

Chinese visas are usually freely-available for travel periods of up to 30 days (not 90, that’s a traveller’s myth – 90 days is the shelf-life of
the visa prior to arrival). Please bear in mind that China has tough visa rules which they voluntarily choose not to enforce, to encourage
tourism. Any kind of “international incident” could prompt them to go by the rule-book (“pre-booked accom for the duration of your stay”).
We’ll give you the Application Form – if you want us to do the submission too, we charge a similar fee (£30) to other Visa-Handling
Agents, but you can do it yourself for free.

VISA PRICES (subject to revision without prior notification)
your p/p		 Russian 		Mongolian 	Chinese
GB 		      £45	 	£30 		£30
Australia/Others 	      £63 		£30		£20
New Zealand	      £45 		£30 		£20

* Please note some nationalities are subject to a “Nationality Fee” charged by the Russian Embassy. It usually depends on relations
between the two countries and is subject to constant change! We will inform you at the time of submitting you visa application if there is to
be any additional charge.

FAQ’S
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!
The Russia Experience 10
WHEN ’S THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL? We’ve got a range of itineraries that can operate year-round. In
addition to those, we have some other trips with “good weather only” content like jeep treks in the Mongolian Gobi, trekking in
Siberia, then May-Sept is the workable window.
Winter can be good too – who’s going to believe those snowless snaps of baking sunshine (it can easily be 30C+ in Siberia in summer –
see the temperature chart on p4) were shot in Russia? Dog-sledding or cross-country skiing will keep you busy, a nip of vodka warms the
inner soul, your pics will be dusted with frosty toppings, and the accommodation (and long-distance trains) are stoked-up to cosy temperatures. Trips which only run in specific periods are clearly marked.

HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY? This rather depends what kind of lifestyle you’re used to! It’s easier to tell you what to expect price-wise – you’re a little old to have us set your pocket-money for you! Moscow, St Petersburg & Beijing’s prices for sightseeing and eating-out are similar to other W European capitals (major sights like the Kremlin, Forbidden City & Hermitage have £6-8
entrance-tickets these days – great discounts for ISIC-holders, though). These cities have the full range of eating options,
from fifty-pence fast-food to fabulous five-star foodie-fests. In Siberia and Mongolia we’ve often included meals in your stop anyhow, as there’s no provision for independent eats in remoter locations. In Siberian towns and cities, eating is often prosaic, but cheap. Our
Info-Pack (sent-out with your Booking Confirmation) has detailed info.

FAMILY STAY OR HOTEL – WHICH ONE?? Back in the Bad Old Days of Soviet Surly Service, we were the first to
offer home-stays – as a way to meet “real Russians” (who were banned from tourist shops and hotels back then). Family stays remain
a strong favourite despite all the changes meantime – for interaction with local people (“families” can sometimes be just one host – we
don’t promise to gather a circle of in-laws round the supper-table nightly!). Some of the public areas (doorways, lifts) of apartment
blocks can be a bit grotty, but seeing this reality is part of your choice. Russians are gregarious people who love get-togethers – if you prefer
more privacy, a hotel is another choice, and in the major cities there are now great hotels our on-site staffers have scouted-out, keeping one
step ahead of the guidebook crowds (actually, our staff are regular contributors to major guidebooks too). We offer hotel options in some
of our Siberian destinations too, but hotel standards are often less good here, and you gain privacy at the expense of both quality and
cost – so we leave you with the option to make that choice yourself.

ARE THERE ANY DANGERS TO BE AWARE OF?DO WOMEN GET HASSLED? There are no serious dangers visiting our destinations. There are two inconveniences which might annoy you a bit. The first is corrupt Russian policemen “fining” you for fictitious minor offences – it doesn’t happen often, but you might end-up subsiding their after-work drinks to the tune of £5 or so.
The other one is for “Men Only” – being bothered by aggressive hookers. A firm “nyet” gets rid of them. Dressing-down is
recommended for trips to Mongolia – you appear fabulously wealthy by local standards, and pick-pockets zero-in.

BUT VISAS ARE A NIGHTMARE,AREN ’T THEY? Needn’t be! We do the whole thing, but you can only get a Russian Visa against pre-booked accommodation documents – which we provide. We get the Chinese and Mongolian Visas too, if you are booking those services with us. For a more details about visas see page 9.

DO I NEED TO BOOK MONTHS IN ADVANCE? No, 4-6 weeks is the most we’d need to get the visas together. Some
trips can be prepared more quickly than that, although there will be express fees from the Consulates concerned. If you want to travel
over the peak months (May-Sept) we would recommend booking further in advance to be sure of getting your first choice of dates.

I HEARD THERE ’S NOTHING TO EAT IN RUSSIA? Time to trade-in that 1976 guidebook! There’s heaps of food all over Russia these days. Moscow and St Pete’s have eating-out choices to rival most of Europe, and smaller cities like Novgorod, Ekaterinburg, or Irkutsk have growing selections to choose from. If taking a Trans-Sib (or other long-distance train) the restaurant car provides cafeteria-level food at cafeteria prices, and you can mix-and-match this with hot and cold snacks sold on the platforms by armies of local
babushkas (“grannies”). Armed with your own tea-bags and instant coffee, you’re all set!

WILL I MEET OTHER TRAVELLERS? There are actually very few different route-combo’s that timetables permit – and quite a lot of you these days! So it’s quite likely you might see other people along the way, at least for part-sectors – and this likelihood increases during our peak months of May to Sept. When we do have a number of people in one place simultaneously, our local partners may organise impromptu events like a picnic, or a concert, for little or no charge. In a country where extremes of climate and great distances are the norm, any chances to get-together are siezed-on, and they can’t imagine that you wouldn’t want to join in! However, there are no enforced knobbly-knee
competitions, beetle-drives or pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey’s, and you can pass on any of these little extras with no offence at all. If there’s a longish road sector (1 hour +) and several people coincidentally arriving the same day to do it, we might use one minibus for everyone, to give a more comfortable ride that’s more environmentally responsible than running 2-3 separate small cars.

CAN I STAY EXTRA NIGHTS IN ST PETERSBURG AND MOSCOW? Yes, we can do this very simply. If you are doing any kind of “date-sensitive” trip like a Trans-Sib trip where the start-date can’t be changed, please remember extra nights must be added PRIOR to Day 1 – we can’t have the Trans-Siberian rescheduled later just for you! On all our trips we include two nights as the minimum amount of time most people would want to spend in either St Petersburg or Moscow – you might like to know that most people are surprised
how much there was to see, and wish they’d opted to stay longer (especially in Moscow, unfairly written-off by some people).
Most international flights arrive late afternoon, which gives you very little time to sightsee on your first day. There is so much to see
and do in both these cities that we would really recommend a few extra nights if you have the time. Our web site covers these great
destinations in more detail.

RETURN OF PASSPORTS? We use Royal Mail Special Delivery to return your passports and documents to you. The documents must be signed for, although not necessarily by yourself. If you work full time please specify your work address as the delivery address. If you need us to return your passport before the booking is complete (eg. for other unrelated visas) we are happy to do so, but there will be a charge to cover the extra courier costs of sending it separately from your travel documents.

FAQS
The Russia Experience 11
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY MONEY IF YOU GO BUST? In 1999 The Russia Experience Ltd negotiated an improved scheme of financial protection for our clients The IIFP (Passenger Protection Insurance). Under this Govt-approved scheme, all passengers will be directly insured against any financial failure on our part. The insurance is with a major UK insurer. Passengers gain the benefits of this
insurance at no cost to themselves. We believe that this scheme offers our clients the best level of financial protection available (in
accordance with EEC Regulations which are regulated in the UK by the DTi ), substantially in excess of minimum legal guidelines. Please
contact us if you have any questions. As we don’t sell air-based package holidays we’re ineligible for schemes (like ATOL) covering
those. IIFP is an equivalent because it has to meet the same legislation requirements.

DO I NEED INSURANCE/VACCINATIONS? Insurance is a prerequisite for travel on our trips (please see paragraph
10 in Booking Conditions). We recommend you arrange the best cover for the trip you are taking. No vaccinations are mandatory for border-entry to any of the destinations we offer. However, we would recommend you consult a qualified medical practitioner, who is in possession of the latest vaccination recommendation information, with regard to the following risks: CHOLERA; TYPHOID; HEPATITIS B; TETANUS and
DIPTHERIA. On our Siberian trek programs only, there is a small risk of contracting tick-borne encephalitis – we advise you to seek
medical advice, as there is a vaccine available for this. Please note that (i) this risk only applies on Siberian Trek options and (ii) the risk
is just as high in the Highlands of Scotland. Our trek staff will show you how to do a body-check at regular intervals.
In our destination countries sterilisation procedures in hospitals are not 100% reliable. Carrying your own small First Aid Kit and a Sterile
Surgical Pack (available from good pharmacists) is a recommended precaution, and will also provide peace of mind.
The drinking water in St Petersburg can cause giardiasis and should be boiled before drinking. Avoid ice, and opt for drinks which are
bottled or canned – mineral water is available everywhere. Good news however – St Petersburg produces Baltika, the best beer in
Russia! The water at Lake Baikal is so pure that it is bottled and sold as mineral water.

BUT I AM A VEGETARIAN /NEED A SPECIAL DIET The countries you are visiting are heavy on meat diets. In fact, in Mongolia there is little else to eat! It is possible for vegetarians to visit these destinations and survive – the Director of The Russia
Experience is a vegetarian himself. If we know in advance (there is a section in the booking form for you to tell us) we can inform the
local families with whom you will be staying, and they will try to accommodate your dietary needs. It’s not great for vegetarians, and
vegans will definitely have a rough time. We know “real vegetarians don’t eat fish”, but if you do, please let us know.

SPECIAL FAQ ’S FOR TRANS-SIB TRIPS
IS THE TRANS-SIB LIKE THE ORIENT EXPRESS? No, that’s a deluxe train for tourists – the Trans-Sib isn’t.
Agatha Christie did not write about the Trans-Sib and it’s Murder on the Orient Express… so they say?

NO CAVIAR AND CHAMPAGNE,THEN? Actually there is, and very cheap too. Dinner on board is about £4, although caviar is a bit more!

IS IT A TOURIST TRAIN? No, all the different trains we use in combination to assemble the itineraries are working trains – they stop only long enough to get on and off, there are no “sightseeing halts”. Regional price-differences and availability of goods
make “suitcase trading” a profitable operation for many Mongolians, who buy cheapo goods in Moscow and take them home
to sell – they can sometimes be boisterous neighbours on Mongolia-bound trains. However, due to recent service-withdrawals of other
trains, there aren’t more peaceful train-options – we book the highest-standard trains which operate.

I WAS LOOKING FOR A RAILPASS OR HOP-ON/HOP-OFF VERSION? Sorry – (i) the visas are city/date specific (ii) the train is usually full. You MUST set up your stops in advance – we can help you. There are no railpasses which cover the regions served by the Trans-Sib.

WHY IS IT MORE EXPENSIVE IF I TRAVEL ON MY OWN? We try not to hit solo travellers for supplements, but there are some extra costs we have to pass-on. The main factor is not being able to split the cost of a car, a local staffer or a hotel room in Moscow between two people. However, if two people book together but then want to arrive separately, we will have to pass-on the extra cost of,
say, one being met from a flight, but their friend being met at the station by another car; or having to do the visas separately which
involves additional courier fees and separate visits to the embassies.

WHY DO THE STOPS APPEAR EXPENSIVE? They only seem that way. The non-stop fare (only) is regulated by an
international agreement which the Chinese stick to and the Russians cannot break (although they want to). Trips with stops are more
expensive not because of the huge cost of the accommodation at the stops – but because the ticket-set for the journey costs more.

ARE THERE SHOWERS ON BOARD? Ah, this is an old T-Sib myth! There are no showers on any of the
trains. The DeLuxe compartments of the “Chinese Train” (non-stop Moscow-Beijing, can’t be used in conjunction with stops) have half-shares
in a tiny washbasin. Normal mortals in 1st and 2nd-Class on regular trains have access to two bathrooms, containing a wc and a
handbasin – spaced at either end of each sleeper-wagon.

WHAT ARE 1ST AND 2ND CLASS?The classes on-board are 1st class (2-berth) and 2nd class (4-berth).
All our trips are based on 2nd class, but we can try to upgrade you. Each train varies, but as a general rule there is very little difference
in standard between first class and second – you are paying the extra for your privacy.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: There is limited availability in 1st class and during the peak summer months it is almost impossible to
obtain. We cannot guarantee a place – but we’ll try our best. If we cannot get 1st class we will automatically buy out a 2nd
class compartment to guarantee privacy for yourself and travelling companion. 1st class cannot be confirmed more than 30 days prior
to train travel dates, so booking months in advance does not guarantee 1st class.
YOUR TRIP
Th
OPTIONS – EKATERINBURG
The standard activities listed in this years Trans-Sib trips are based on the most popular suggestions from our clients, local partners and
staff. However, there are many ways in which you can customise the trip to make it more tailored to what you want to do, and when.
The following options give you the choice to swop family stays for hotels, work off all those pelmenis trekking, raft in the Urals or do the
ultimate dive in Lake Baikal. For those of you who thought travelling to Russia in the winter was only for the brave or idiotic then think
again! We can offer ice fishing, snow mobile rides and even dog sledding!! All you have to do is make the hard decision – and if that
is really just too much then call us and we’ll make it for you!

The following upgrades/options are only available on our Standard Trips. * WE DO NEED THIS INFORMATION AT THE TIME OF BOOKING*

SUMMER OPTIONS – EKATERINBURG Ekaterinburg lies in the Ural mountains and is where east meets west.
Our partner Konstantin is the perfect host to show you around his home city. He is offering a great choice of day trips this year (included
in the price) – all you’ve got to do is decide!

“Europe & Asia + Peschanoe Lake” 6 hour tour. Visit the monument that marks the border between Europe & Asia, followed by
a trip to the Siberian village of Reshoty for lunch at Peschanoe Lake.
SUMMER SEASON: FROM 01.05 to 15.09. Code S4

“Walking in the forest” 6 hour tour.  A pleasant walk of 5km through the forest to a small lake surrounded by magnificent rocks. Recommended for clients who would like to see the forest but not keen on doing a serious hike.
SUMMER SEASON: 01.05 to 15.09. Code S5

“Hiking trip to The Urals” 8 hour tour. Hiking is the best way to see the nature of the region the Russians call “The Stone Belt”. You will
hike in the taiga forest. Your guide will show how to pick mushrooms and berries and how to survive in the forest. Camp fire meal is
included! Bear in mind, it is an 18km hike so you need to be fit!
SUMMER SEASON: 01.05 to 15.09. Code S6

“Siberian Wilderness” 8 hour tour.  Start with lazy river rafting for 6 km followed by a hike of 12 km through the forest. You can explore the underground caves of the Urals and round the day off with a camp fire meal. Only for the fit!
SUMMER SEASON: FROM 01.05 to 15.09 Code S7

“Siberian countryside experience” 8-10 hour tour.  Full day trip to picturesque Koptelovo village. Visit a traditional Siberian “izba”-house and the museum of farming & folk art. Take a Troika (in the winter season a horse driven sledge.  In the summer a horse driven carriage). Traditional Russian meal included.
ALL YEAR ROUND. Code S8

“Europe, Asia & Romanov Monastery” 6 hour tour.  First a 40 km drive to see the Europe/Asia border and then a trip to the monastery dedicated to the murdered Romanov family. The monastery is built upon the shaft where the bodies were thrown.
ALL YEAR ROUND. Code S3

WINTER OPTIONS – EKATERINBURG Not to be outdone by the range of summer trips below are some
great winter options. Trips are included in the price apart from the Dog Sledding trip for which there is a supplement.

“Cross-country Ski-ing” 8 hour tour.  Ski-ing in the forest is a great option for people who’d like to see a winter fairy tale and expend some energy!
WINTER SEASON: 01.12 to 30.02. Code W3

“Winter Walking in the Forest” 12 hours.  Walking on a path through the forest to the Druzhba cave. Winter is a great time to explore these caves. A picnic lunch is included. Total walking is 14 km.
WINTER SEASON: 01.12 to 30.02. Code W5

“Mountain Ski in the Urals” 9 hours.  Travel to a ski resort at Mt Ezhovaya 60km from Ekaterinburg. Excellent slopes and beautiful views. Ski pass and equipment hire arranged and paid for locally (approx. 25 USD).
WINTER SEASON: 01.12 to 30.02. Code W4

“Ice Fishing” 8 hour tour. Catch your own fish in meter deep ice. A local weekend hobby in the winter. All fishing equipment and a fur coat! provided for the day.
WINTER SEASON: 15.11 to 15.12. and 01.02 to 15.03. Code W1

“Dog Sledding” 8 hour tour. A trip out to the west of the city where your sledge will be waiting for you. Siberian Khaski dogs will move your own traditional sledge for about 2-3 hours.
WINTER SEASON: 15.11 to 01.03. Not available between 25.12 to 25.01 Code W2 * There is a £20/£15/£10 pp supplement for this trip.

HOTEL UPGRADE In Ekaterinburg we offer Family Stays as our standard option. If you prefer to stay in a hotel we can offer you The Hotel of Academy of Geology, which (yes you guessed it!) was built for visiting geologists. The hotel is located in a quiet square and run by three lovely ladies who do not speak English but are very friendly and welcoming.  Breakfast is included and they can cook you an evening meal if notified in advance (book and pay locally). All guests eat together in a small dining room so the hotel has a family feel to it, but with the advantage of rooms with private bathroom, fridge, tv and telephone.
Upgrade price: £40 per person per night for 1, £30 pp per night for 2 sharing a twin.   Code EKAT H.

IRKUTSK/BAIKAL/ULAN UDE OPTIONS
MISING YOUR TRIP
The Russia Experience 13
SUMMER OPTIONS 

IRKUTSK AND LAKE BAIKAL We can offer you a great choice of activities in Irkutsk and Lake Baikal. If you want to really stretch your legs after the journey why not swop to our trekking option, or for the really adventurous how about a dive in the lake?

* WE DO NEED THIS INFORMATION AT THE TIME OF BOOKING*

SIBERIAN TREKKING OPTION
(Available on trips departing Moscow between May – Sep)
The trek requires a good level of fitness as it is in a region of steep hills (you must have a head for heights!). To make it easier the trek leader
carries the bulk of the gear although assistance with carrying the food would be welcomed! Our local partners provide camping and cooking
equipment. Please bring: walking boots, warm clothing and a waterproof jacket, sleeping bag, swimming costume, anti-mosquito
cream and a small backpack (see note about tick-borne encephalitis).

DAY 1. Arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Family Stay in Irkutsk. Bkfst, free time to explore the city, own lunch. Return to Family Stay, supper, preparations for trekking (main baggage can be left at the family stay).
DAY 2. Bus to Listvyanka village. Trekking up the Primorsky Mountain in the direction of Bolshie Koty. Picnic lunch. Trekking further into the forest to Srednaya Bay, make camp. Free time to swim, campfire supper & overnight.
(Distance Day 1 = 10km).
DAY 3. Bkfst. Free time to walk by lake-shore, swim, relax. Picnic lunch. Trekking back to Listvyanka following the lake-shore Bus back
to Irkutsk Family Stay, supper and overnight. (Distance Day 2 = 10km).
For the 3 night trekking program there is no change to the price – just quote the code opposite. Please check this option is available on
your chosen trip.  CODE A3-2

DIVING OPTION
(Available on trips departing Moscow between May-15 Sep)
For experienced divers only – you must have your PADI Open Water. Our local staff are expert divers and led two expeditions
for the late Jaques Cousteau. Many are ex scientists and are involved with the conservation of the lake and the unique species that inhabit it.
DAY 1. Mid-morning arrival to Irkutsk. Sort out equipment and then take a car to Listvyanka village by the shores of the lake. Lunch and guided walking along the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Lake Museum. Sauna, supper and overnight.
DAY 2. Bkfst. Preparation and first dive. Lunch. Second dive. Siberian sauna, supper and overnight.
DAY 3. Bkfst. Car to Family Stay (hotel option available) in Irkutsk. Free time, own lunch, evening entertainment, supper and overnight.
Upgrade price: 1 person £120, 2 people £90 per person, 3 to 9 people £80. CODE A3-3

WINTER OPTIONS – IRKUTSK AND LAKE BAIKAL
SNOW MOBILE TRIP (Dec-Apr)
You can take a 2 hour snow mobile trip through the forest. This can be added to most of our Siberia stops. There is a supplement of £75 (per
solo person) per mobile or £45 per person for two people sharing one snow mobile.

HOTEL UPGRADES 
In Irkutsk you may feel the need for some privacy by the time you reach Siberia, so if you would like to upgrade to a hotel in Irkutsk we can offer you the Hotel Angara which is 3* and is of a decent (if not exactly exciting) western standard. Buffet breakfast is included, from a well stocked table. Please note these rooms are unrenovated.
Please check this option is available on your chosen trip.
Upgrade price: £40 per person per night for 1 or £30 per person per night for 2 sharing a twin. Code IRK H.

In Listvyanka (Lake Baikal) we can offer accommodation in a wooden hotel on a small hill with a beautiful view of the lake. There are only
17 rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms.
Upgrade price: £160 per person per night for 1 or £95 per person per night for 2 sharing a twin. Code BAIK H.

In Ulan Ude upgrade to the Hotel Geser 2*. Fairly basic, but only five minutes from the main square. Staff speak a little English and are
generally helpful. The hotel has restaurant and café. The restaurant serves good evening meals.
Upgrade price: £50 per person per night for 1 or £40 per person per night for 2 sharing a twin. Code UU H.

ST PETES ADD ONS
ADD ST PETERSBURG TO YOUR TRANS-SIB TRIP

We would recommend you spend more time in this great city. It’s easy - just add extra nights to the start.

This trip can only be booked as an add-on to our Trans-Sib trips
ST PETES H
St Petersburg Budget 1* SA.00
There are a number of hotels that we use for our budget option. You will be booked into whichever has rooms available at the time of reservation. Budget accommodation is basic but clean. You will have your own rooms but the bathroom facilities are shared. If you just want a place to rest your head then the budget option is for you.

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts hotel & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel

SA.00 			1 person 		2 people 		3 to 9 people 
          			£185      		£150 each 	£150 each

Extra night XN.LED (per night) £60 		£35 each 		£35 each.

************************************************************************************************
Vyborgskaya 2*  SA.01Vyb 2 .VYBORGSKAYA SA.01
The Vyborgskaya hotel is quite a sad looking two star property, with a very soviet feel about it. The hotel has 405 rooms, the renovated rooms are a bit "giddy"in the candelwick bedspread and pink net curtain sort of way. Please don’t look for the complimentary shampoo and shower gel! Facilities include two restaurants and a games room. Serves its purpose and is conveniently located next to a metro station.

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel

SA.01			1 person 		2 people		 3 to 9 people
(renovated rooms) 		£250 		£195 each 	£195 each

Extra night XN.LED (per night) £80		£60 each 		£60 each

*********************************************************************
Unrenovated Rooms at Hotel Neva  SA.02TEL NEVA (UNRENOVAED ROOMS)SA.02
The Hotel Neva (details below) still has a number of unrenovated rooms. All have their own bathroom but décor is 1970’s soviet. If you want a great location and are happy with a slightly tired looking room for a cheaper rate then this is ideal.

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel.

SA.02 			1 person 		2 people 		3 to 9 people
£215 		£160 each 	£160 each
Extra night XN.LED (per night) £55 		£35 each 		£35 each

*********************************************************************
Hotel Neva 3*  SA.03ATA
An eccentric old hotel in the centre of St Petes. Renovated rooms are done to 3* western standard and all have modern bathrooms. The public areas are due for a face lift.. The lift is also a period-piece, and only works going up!
The restaurant is modern and offers a huge menu of good food at reasonable prices. The location is in the heart of the old city, 5 minute walk to the Summer Gardens and 10 minutes to Palace Square.

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel.

SA.03	 		1 person 		2 people		 3 to 9 people
£265 		£195 each 	£195 each
Extra night XN.LED (per night) £75		£55 each 		£55 each

******************************************************************************************

Hotel Spbvergaz 3*  SA.04
The Spbergaz Hotel on Vasilevsky island is a charming boutique style 3/4* property. The hotel has been renovated to a very high standard, all the bedrooms and bathrooms are spacious and of the highest decorative order. The hotel is within easy strolling distance across the river to the hermitage and cultural centre. A modern restaurant and small coffee shop complete this "little gem".

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel

SA.04					1 person 		2 people 		3 to 9 people
01.01.03 – 30.04.03 & 01.10.03 – 31.12.03 	£295 		£230 each 	£230 each
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£90		 £70 each 	£70 each

01.05.03 – 30.09.03 			£325 		£275 		£275
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£105 		£95 		£95

PE 3NEV
 (RENOVATED ROOA.03 DATA
ADD ST PETERSBURG TO YOUR TRANS-SIB TRIP
We would recommend you spend more time in this great city. It’s easy - just add extra nights to the start.

This trip can only be booked as an add-on to our Trans-Sib trips

Deson Ladaga 3*  SA.05
 15
Recently renovated comfortable hotel only one block away from Novocherkasskaya metro. Spacious comfortable
rooms, with modern decoration and well equipped bathrooms. Amenities include restaurant serving Russian and
Chinese food, sauna and nightclub. Recommended for those like comfort and good service.

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel.

SA.05 					1 person 		2 people 		3 to 9 people
01.01.03 – 31.03.03 			£300 		£230 each 	£230 each
Extra night XN.LED (per night)			 £95 		£65 each 		£65 each

01.04.03 – 30.04.03 & 01.10.03 – 30.10.03 	£315 		£240 		£240
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£100 		£70 		£70

01.05.03 – 19.05.03 & 01.07.03 – 30.09.03 	£330 		£250 		£250
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£105 		£75 		£75

19.05.03 – 30.06.03 			£345 		£260 		£260
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£115 		£75 		£75
DATA

Hotel Neptun 4*   SA.06 LADAGA 3 ..SA.05
Part of Best Western hotel chain, centrally located close to commercial and cultural centre. Built in 1991 a large
hotel with over 220 rooms, two restaurants, lounge and shops. Easy walking distance to city centre. Nearest metros
Pushkinskaya and Ligovskaya. Non smoking rooms available.

This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel.

SA.06 					1 person	 	2 people		 3 to 9 people

01.01.03 – 31.03.03 			£270 		£210 each	 £210 each
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£65 		£60 each		 £60 each

01.04.03 – 30.04.03 & 01.08.03 – 30.09.03 	£285 		£225 		£225
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£80 		£60 		£60

01.05.03 – 31.07.03 			£320 		£260 		£260
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£100 		£70 		£70

01.10.03 – 31.12.03 			£270 		£210 each 	£210 each
Extra night XN.LED (per night) 		£65		 £60 each 	£60 each
DATA
This add-on is inclusive of car on arrival, 2 nts b&b accommodation, half day buddy & 2nd class/4-berth rail travel
.06
********

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment) or book out a 4 berth compartment is £70 per person.  This option is available on any of the above trips.

St Petersburg celebrates its 300th Anniversary in 2003, and demand for accommodation is expected
to be acute – we strongly recommend booking early to get your first choice, and you may find we
can only offer alternatives. Please state your second choice at the time of booking. The period
May 15 – June 6th is already officially blacked-out for foreigners because of the delegates attending
the G8 conference over this period.

WEST-EAST TRIPS

THE ULTIMATE TRANS-SIB TS.14
Our Mammoth trip, but with a great side trip rafting in the Altai mountains. Rafting is down the Katun River which
flows through the spectacular alpine scenery of the Katun Valley. There are some rapids but this is a trip which
first-time rafters can do - you are accompanied by highly qualified instructors.

MOSCOW (2) EKAT.(2) ALTAI (4) BAIKAL (2)+IRK.(day) ULAN-UDAY (2) UB (1)+GER (2)+NOMADS (2) BEIJING (0)ITINERARY DA

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 										ACCOM
Day 1	Arrive Moscow. Car to accommodation. Overnight at either a 3* hotel or with a family.			MOSCOW
Day 2	Bkfst. Half Day Buddy assistance to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.			MOSCOW
Day 3	Bkst. Free time. Transfer to station for train to Ekaterinburg.						ON BOARD
Day 4	Evening arrival in Ekaterinburg. Car to Family Stay, supper and overnight.				EKAT FAM STAY
Day 5	Half day Buddy assistance, own lunch, free afternoon, supper, overnight.				EKAT FAM STAY
Day 6	DAY TRIP. Included in the trip price. Details are shown at the beginning of this brochure. Return to Ekaterinburg. CLUBBING
Visit the city’s most exclusive nightclub and dance the night away until we take you to the station for the early 
morning train to Barnaul………
Day 7	……. train to Barnaul. All day and night on board……………….					ON BOARD
Day 8	Arrive Barnaul. Bus to Altai (7 hrs). Lunch in village. Trip to Monastery. Return to village. Overnight.		CHEMAL VILLAGE
Day 9	Car trip to rock paintings, ancient burial mounds & caves. Option to horse ride (arrange locally). Overnight.	CHEMAL VILLAGE
Day 10	Car transfer to start rafting. Rafting to Kamyshlinsky waterfall. All meals provided.				CAMP OVERNIGHT
Day 11	Rafting to Lake Aya., Russian sauna. All meals provided. Camp overnight.
Day 12	Bkfst. Free time. **Car transfer to Novosibirsk (8 hours). Short guided tour of Novosibirsk. Transfer to station…	NOVOSIBIRSK	
Day 13	……..train at 01:15 to Irkutsk. All day and night on board......
Day 14	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to family stay in Listvyanka village. Lunch. Guided walking along the lake shore.	BAIK FAMILY
Visit to the Baikal Lake Museum and Orthodox Church. Sauna, supper and overnight.
Day 15	Bkfst. Free time to explore the village and surrounding area. You can arrange activities locally with our staff. 	BAIK FAMILY
Your family will provide a picnic lunch if you wish. Sauna, supper and overnight.
Day 16	Bkfst. Car to Irkutsk. Our staff can arrange for luggage storage. Free time to explore the city.		ON BOARD
Return to Irkutsk office for your car transfer to the station early evening.
Day 17	Arrive Ulan Uday early morning. Car to family stay in Ulan Ude. Guided trip to Atsagatski Datsan. 
Lunch with Buryat family and a tour of the village. Return to Ulan Ude. Supper. Overnight.			ULAN UDAY
Day 18	Bkfst. Guided trip to the Ivolginski Datsan. Lunch. City walking tour. Visit the Centre of Eastern Medicine. 
Supper and Overnight in Ulan Ude.								ULAN UDAY
Day 19	Early bkfst and onto the train. All day and night on board…
Day 20	Arrival in Mongolia! Shower & freshen up. Guided walk. Jeep into Bayan Gobi, supper,overnight in gers.	 HERDSMEN
Day 21	Bkfst. Jeep trip to Karakorum (8 hrs off-road driving). Supper and overnight in Gers.			HERDSMEN
Day 22	Bkfst. Jeep trip in Gobi, returning to UB (6 hrs off-road driving) and then onto Ger Camp. Supper & overnight.	GER CAMP
Day 23	Bkfst. Day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and overnight.			GER CAMP
Day 24	Bkfst. Return to UB. Free time. Own lunch. Free time. Supper and overnight in hotel.			UB
Day 25	Car transfer to station. Morning departure on train to Beijing. All day and night on board………		ON BOARD
Day 26	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx.). Arrival to Beijing scheduled for mid-afternoon.

DURATION 			26 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES		June 2, 16, 30, July 14, Aug 4, 18 

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:
Standard Trip TS.14		 1 person £POA	 2 people £2190 each	3 to 9 people £1990 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night)			 2 people £45 each		3 to 9 £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £405 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. TS.14F

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.
TOUR PRICE
NB: The train we use on the Irkutsk/Ulan Ude/Ulaanbatar is a local train. There is no first class carriage and no restaurant car. However, you can stock up with goodies for the journey either in
Irkutsk or Ulan Ude.

THE MAMMOTH TRANS-SIB TS.12
This really is a MAMMOTH trip. It contains all the side-trips offered in our standard trips, brought together in one huge journey! You get the complete range of all our Siberian stops ( you can read up on these in our destination pages at the back), plus a six night stop in Mongolia. Your Mongolia stop includes two nights in Ulaanbaatar, a jeep trip into the Gobi to stay with nomad herdsmen and two nights at our family run Ger camp. If you want the once in a life time trip then this is the one for you!
**Due to the range of climates and activities this trip only operates for departures from Moscow between May and September**

MOSCOW (2) EKATERINBURG (2) BAIKAL (2) + IRKUTSK (day) ULAN-UDAY (2) GER CAMP (2)+ UB (2)+ JEEP TRIP (2) BEIJING (0)
RARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		Moscow
Overnight at either a 3* Hotel or with a family.
2	Buddy assistance half day to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		Moscow
3	Morning free in Moscow. Lunchtime car transfer to station, for train departure		on board
to Ekaterinburg.
4	Across the Ural Mts... arriving mid evening to Ekaterinburg, car to Family Stay,		EKT Family stay
supper and overnight (hotel option available).
5	Buddy for morning to explore the city, own lunch, free afternoon. Supper and overnight.	EKT Family stay
6	DAY TRIP. Included in the trip price. Details at start of brochure. Return to Ekaterinburg.	EKT/on board 
Visit the city’s most exclusive nightclub and dine or dance the
night away until we take you to the station for the early morning train to Irkutsk.
7-8	on board......								on board
9	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to family stay in Listvyanka village. Lunch. Guided		BAI village stay
walking along the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Baikal Lake Museum 
and Orthodox Church. Sauna, supper and overnight.
10	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can arrange	BAI village stay
activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch in the summer
if you wish. Sauna, supper and overnight.
11	Bkfst. Car to Irkutsk. Our staff can arrange for luggage storage.
 Free time to explore the city.	Return to Irkutsk office for your car transfer to the station.	IRK/Train
12	Morning arrival to Ulan Uday. Car to family stay in Ulan Ude. Guided trip to
Atsagatski Datsan.  Lunch with Buryat family and tour of the village. Return to Ulan Ude.	U-U Family stay
13	Bkfst. Guided trip to the Ivolginski Datsan. Lunch. City walking tour. Visit the Centre of 
Eastern Medicine. Supper & Overnight in Ulan Ude.				U-U Family stay
14	Early bkfst and onto the train. All day and night on board…				on board
15	Morning arrival (subject to border delays) in Outer Mongolia! Car to hotel.
Optional guided walk. Supper and overnight in UB.					UB Hotel
16	Bkfst. Jeep trip into Bayan Gobi (meals inc.). Supper and overnight in Gers with herdsmen.	Herdsmen
17	Bkfst. Jeep trip to Karakorum (8 hrs off-road driving), lunch en-route. Supper and
overnight in Gers with herdsmen.						Herdsmen
18	Bkfst. Jeep trip sightseeing in Gobi, returning to UB (6 hrs off-road driving) and
then onto Ger Camp. Supper and overnight in Gers.				Ger camp
19	Bkfst. Day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and overnight
 in your Ger gazing at the stars!						Ger camp
20	Bkfst. Return to UB. Free time. Supper and overnight at hotel.			UB hotel
21	Car transfer to station for morning departure on train to Beijing. Across southern
Mongolia to border. Midnight border crossing.					On board
22	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx.). Arrival to Beijing
scheduled for mid-afternoon.							End of itinerary

DURATION		22/23 Days
VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATE S
TS.12 22 Day Trip. DATES May 9, 23/ June 13, 27/ July 11, 25/  Aug 1*, 15*, 29/ Sep 5, 19.  *£30 supp. See Naadam page for details.

TS.12+1 23 Day Trip. DATES: April 17, May 1, 15, 29, June 5, 19, July 3, 17, Aug 7, 21, Sep 11, 25

Want the 23 day trip then add an extra night in Lake Baikal making the train departure on Day 13. 
Supplement per person for extra night in Lake Baikal is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people.
RIPS
For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:
Standard Trip TS.12		 1 person £1924	2 people £1724 each 	3 to 9 people £1524 each

Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £405 per person. Availability is limited.
You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. There is no option for Moscow family stay on this trip.

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all  travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

NB: The train we use on the Irkutsk/Ulan Ude/Ulaanbatar is a local train. There is no first class carriage and no restaurant car.
However, you can stock up with goodies for the journey either in Irkutsk or Ulan Ude. 

T
e Russia Experience 19
THE EPIC TRANS-SIB TS.11
This trip takes our two most popular stops in Siberia and Mongolia, and adds a more adventurous side-trip in each. In Siberia a Taiga Forest trek to Lake Baikal camping overnight on the lake shore. This trek does require a reasonable level of fitness and a head for heights! You also get to spend five nights in Mongolia. This includes a jeep trip to Karakorum staying with herdsmen in their Gers and a stop at our family run Ger camp. The last night is spent in Ulaanbaatar where you can visit the Natural History Museum, the Gandan Monastery and palace of the former Bogd-Khan.  **This trip only operates for departures from Moscow between May and September**

MOSCOW (2) IRKUTSK + TREK (3) UB (1) + GER CAMP (2) + JEEP TRIP (2) BEIJING(0)
NERARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		Moscow
Overnight at either a 3* hotel or with a family.
2	Buddy assistance half day to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		Moscow
3	Morning free in Moscow. Car transfer to station for evening departure to Irkutsk.		on board
4-6	on board ......								on board
7	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Family Stay. Bkfst, free time to explore Irkutsk,
own lunch. Return to Family Stay, supper, preparations for trekking (baggage can
be left with the family).							IRK Family stay
8	Bus to Listvyanka village, trekking up the Primorsky Mountain in the direction of
Bolshie Koty. Picnic lunch. Continue trekking through the forest to Srednaya Bay,
make camp. Free time to swim. Campfire supper, overnight in tent. Distance
10km, some uphill climbing involved.						Tents
9	Bkfst. Free time to walk by lake, swim, relax. Picnic lunch. Trekking back to
Listvyanka along the lakeshore (10 km). Bus back to Irkutsk Family Stay, supper
and overnight.								IRK Family
10	Bkfst. Day free in Irkutsk (our staff offer guided excursions which you can arrange
locally). Car to station for train to Ulaanbaatar on the local slow train (standards
on this train are not as good as the “international” express trains and there is
often no restaurant car).							on board
11	on board train to Ulaanbaatar......						on board
12	Morning arrival (subject to border delays) in Outer Mongolia! Shower and
freshen up. Guided walk. JEEP TRIP into Bayan Gobi, supper and overnight
in Gers with herdsmen.							Herdsmen
13	Bkfst. Jeep trip to Karakorum (8 hrs off-road driving), lunch en-route. Supper and
overnight in Gers with herdsmen.						Herdsmen
14	Bkfst. Jeep trip sightseeing in Gobi, returning to UB (6 hrs off-road driving) and
then onto Ger Camp. Supper and overnight in Gers.				Ger camp
15	Bkfst. Day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and
overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!					Ger camp
16	Bkfst. Return to UB. Free time. Own lunch. Free time. Supper and overnight in hotel.	UB hotel	
17	Car transfer to station. Morning departure on train to Beijing. Across southern
Mongolia to border. Midnight border crossing.					on board
18	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx.). Arrival in Beijing
scheduled for mid-afternoon							End of Itinerary

DURATION		18/19 Days
VISAS REQUIRED		Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES
TS.11 18 Day Trip. DATES: May 13, 27 June 3, 17 July 1, 15, 29 Aug 5*, 19* Sep 9, 23
TS.11+1 19 Day Trip. DATES: May 19 June 9, 23 July 7, 21 Aug 11, 25 Sep 15
*£30 supplement applies. See NAADAM page for details.

Want the 19 day trip then add an extra night at Lake Baikal making the train departure on day 11. *This changes Siberia stay to two nights at the lake (full board), 1 night camping and 1 night in Irkutsk.
For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

18 Day Trip TS.11 = 		1 person £1439	2 people £1239 each	3 to 9 people £1139 each
19 Day Trip TS.11+1 = 	 	1 person £ 1489	2 people £1289 each	3 to 9 people £1189 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £380 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. TS.11F

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.
TOUR PRICE

he Russia Experience 28
TRANS-SIBERIAN BURYATIA ADVENTURE TS.09A/B
If we only had time for one en-route stop, we’d choose Buryatia. If you asked us why? - we’d say that it has lots of the great aspects of a T-Sib trip in one location: (i) the “undeveloped” side of Lake Baikal, with lakeside villages that no tourists visit and no touristy services (ii) super mid-ability outdoor activities – rock-scrambling, kayaking etc in amazing landscapes (iii) the asian heritage of Siberia – the Buryats are first-cousins of the Mongolians, and have unique musical heritage, Buddhist temples, food from the steppes etc (iv) it allows you to take the historical Trans-Manchurian rail-route (v) and you escape the hordes too! Here are two contrasting itineraries – one active, the other based on local culture. We strongly recommend “Itin A” for winter trips – it’s great!

MOSCOW (2) ULAN UDE (4) BEIJING (0)

ITINERARY A
ATA
DAY	 ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival Moscow. Transfer to accommodation.					Moscow
2	Bkfst. Buddy guide (1/2 day). Free time. Overnight.				Moscow
3	Bkfst. Free time. Car transfer to station for mid evening train to UU.			on board
4-6	On board									on board
7	Arrive Ulan Ude. Car to family stay. Trip to Ivolginski Datsan. City tour. 
Supper and overnight.							Ulan Ude
8	Bkfst. Tfr to Russian village. Walk in village. Lunch. 
Cart/Sledge to the Posolski Monastery. Return to village.
Sauna, supper and overnight.							Ulan Ude
9	Bkfst. Trip to source of the Selenga river to watch local fishing. 
Lakeside lunch. Return to U-U. Supper & overnight with family			Ulan Ude
10	Bkfst. Tfr to Buryat village. Accom.with local family. Trip to 
Atsagatski Datsan. Lunch. Walking in village. Sauna, supper and overnight.		Ulan Ude
11	Bkfst. Transfer to Ulan Ude. Visit Centre of Eastern Medicine.
 Late afternoon train.							on board
12-13	On board									on board
14	Early morning arrive Beijing							End of itinerary

ITINERARY B
You must be a reasonably strong swimmer to participate in this program. The Taikhan Fortress involves some rock-scrambling. All gear is provided. A fully-qualified kayaking instructor accompanies the trip. Arrival Moscow. Transfer to accommodation.

DAY	 ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM as above
1	Arrival Moscow. Transfer to accommodation.					
2	Bkfst. Buddy guide (1/2 day). Free time. Overnight.
3	Bkfst. Free time. Car transfer to station for mid evening train to UU.
4-6	On board
7	Arrive Ulan Ude. Car to family stay. Trip to Ivolginski Datsan. City tour.
Supper and overnight.
8	Bkfst. Trip to the Taikhan fortress. Lunch. Preparation for rafting. Start rafting.
Dinner cooked on fire. Overnight in tent.
9	Bkfst. Rafting to Omulevka town. Lunch with family. Return to UU. Supper &
overnight with family.
10	Bkfst. Tfr to Buryat village. Accom. with local family. Trip to Atsagatski Datsan.
Lunch. Walking in village. Sauna, supper and overnight.
11	Bkfst. Transfer to Ulan Ude. Visit Centre of Eastern Medicine. Late afternoon train.
12-13	On board
14	Early morning arrival Beijing. End of itinerary.
DURATION		14 Days
VISAS REQUIRED		Rus+Chi
2003 START DATES
Jan 11, 25 Feb 15 Mar 1, 15 Apr 5, 19 May 17 June 7, 21 July 5, 19 Aug 9, 23 Sep 13, 27 Oct 11, 25 Nov 15, 29 Dec 13, 27

Standard Trip TS.09a	 1 person £1199		2 people £1099 each	3 to 9 people £999 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment is £280 per person). Availability is limited.

There is no option for Moscow family stay on this trip.

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Moscow (room only), no Buddy, no car on departure
Tour Code TS.09a 		1 person £1099		2 people £999 each		3 to 9 people £899 each
Standard Trip TS.09b	1 person £1399		2 people £1199 each	3 to 9 people £999 each

Save money travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave together, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.
TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on 2nd-Class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:
BURYATIA ACTIVE ADVENTURE (JUNE-AUG ONLY)
BURYATIA CULTURAL ADVENTURE (EXCELLENT WINTER CHOICE!)

e Russia Experience 23
THE EURASIAN EXPERIENCE TS.06
Everyone loves The Big Trans-Sib Trip so we’ve taken all the parts that make it so popular, but instead of stopping in Irkutsk this trip stops in Ekaterinburg in the Ural mountains. You have the choice to hike in the Urals, go rafting or visit a traditional Siberian village. You also get to dance the night away at one of the city’s wild clubs. From the Ural mountains to the Mongolian steppe and two nights in a traditional Ger, plus a night in Ulaanbaatar. Trip operates all year – including the Ger stays. **We also offer special winter programs in Ekaterinburg see front of brochure for details**

MOSCOW (2) EKATERINBURG (2/3) UB (1) + GER (2) BEIJING (0)
ERARY DATA
DAY	 ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		Moscow
Overnight at a 3* hotel or with a family.
2	Buddy assistance half day to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		Moscow
3	Morning free in Moscow. Evening car transfer to station for train to Ekaterinburg		on board
4	Across the Ural Mts... arriving mid evening to Ekaterinburg. Car to family stay,		EKT Family stay
supper and overnight (hotel option available).
5	Buddy Guide for morning to explore the city, own lunch, free afternoon.			EKT Family stay
Supper and overnight.
6	DAY TRIP. Included in the trip price details of choices on page 12. Return to		EKT/on board
Ekaterinburg. Visit the city’s most exclusive nightclub and dine or dance the night
7	away until we take you to the station for the early morning train to Irkutsk....		on board
02:30 train to Ulaanbaatar. All day and night on board
8	on board......								on board
9	on board......								on board
10	Morning arrival (subject to border delays) in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen		Ger camp
up. Afternoon free to explore, or team up with our local Buddies for a walking tour
of the city. Transport out to the Ger Camp. Dinner and overnight on the steppe.
11	Bkfst, day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch. Free time,		Ger camp
supper and overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!
12	Bkfst, transfer back to UB. Own lunch at one of the many cheap cafes. Free time		UB
to explore, supper and overnight at hotel.
13	Car transfer to station. Morning departure on train to Beijing. Across southern		on board
Mongolia to border. Midnight border crossing.
14	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx.). Arrival in Beijing		End of Itinerary
scheduled for mid-afternoon.

DURATION			14 Days

VISAS REQUIRED		Rus+Mon+Chi

2003 START DATES
Jan 4, 11, 18, 25/ Feb 1, 8, 15, 22/ Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 29/ Apr 5, 12, 19, 26/ May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31/ June 7, 14, 21, 28/ July 5, 12, 19, 26/ 
Aug 2, 9*, 16, 23*, 30/ Sep 6, 13, 20, 27/ Oct 4, 11, 18, 25/ Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29/ Dec 6, 13, 20, 27
 *£30 supp. See NAADAM page 
R PRICE
For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated: 
Standard Trip TS.06		 1 person £1185	2 people £1085 each	3 to 9 people £985 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £330 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. There is no option for Moscow family stay on this trip.

Budget Trip – 1* hotel (room only) Moscow, no Buddy, no car on departure. Family Stay in Ekaterinburg (no guide/day trips) and a 1* hotel in UB (no Ger Trip).

Tour Code TS.06B			 1 person £1035	2 people £935 each		3 to 9 people £835 each 
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)	 1 person £28	2 people £25 each		3 to 9 people £25 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

YEAR ROUND FAVOUR

ITES

The Russia Experience 20
THE SUPER TRANS-SIB TS.05
Want to spend more time in Siberia as well as a stop in Mongolia? This great trip gives you three contrasting views of this vast land. Ekaterinburg in Western Siberia is near the Ural mountains. Here you can hike, raft or visit a traditional Siberian village. Historic Irkutsk and village life at Lake Baikal is in the heart of Siberia. Across the lake is the Buryat/Buddhist heritage in Ulan Uday, also home to the largest head of Lenin statue of in the world!  Our three night stop in Mongolia gives you time in Ulaanbaatar and out on the steppe staying in a traditional ger. This trip operates throughout the year, with some great winter options in Ekaterinburg and Irkutsk.

MOSCOW (2) EKATERINBURG (2) BAIKAL (2) + IRKUTSK (day) ULAN-UDAY(2) UB (1) + GER (2) BEIJING (0)
ITINERARY DATA
DAY	 ACTIVITIES 									ACCOM
1.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.			Moscow
 	Overnight at either a 3 * hotel or with a family.
2 	Buddy assistance half day to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.	Moscow
3	Morning free in Moscow. Car transfer to station for train to Ekaterinburg.			on board
4	Evening arrival in Ekaterinburg. Car to Family Stay, supper and overnight			EKT Family stay
5	Half day Buddy assistance, own lunch, free afternoon, supper, overnight.			EKT Family stay
6	DAY TRIP. Included in the trip price. Details of choices at the start of the brochure.				 
Return toEkaterinburg. Visit the city’s most exclusive nightclub and dine or dance the night away
until we take you to the station for the early morning train to Irkutsk. 				On board
7-8	... on board......
9	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to family stay in Listvyanka village. Lunch. Guided walking along	BA village	stay
 the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Lake Museum and Church. Sauna, supper, overnight.
10	Bkfst. Free time to explore the village and surrounding area. Your family will provide a picnic lunch.	BA village stay
You can arrange activities locally with our staff. Sauna, supper and overnight.
11	Bkfst. Car to Irkutsk. Our staff can arrange for luggage storage. Free time to explore the city.	IRK/train 
Return to Irkutsk office for your car transfer to the station early evening.
12	Arrive Ulan Uday early morning. Car to family stay in Ulan Ude. Guided trip to Atsagatski Datsan.	U-U Family stay 
Lunch with Buryat family and a tour of the village. Return to Ulan Ude. Supper. Overnight.
13	Bkfst. Guided trip to the Ivolginski Datsan. Lunch. City walking tour.				U-U Family stay 
Visit the Centre of Eastern Medicine. Supper and Overnight in Ulan Ude.
14	Early bkfst and onto the train. All day and night on board…					on board
15	Morning arrival in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen up. Afternoon free to explore, or team up
                with our local Buddies for a walking tour. Transport out to the Ger Camp. Supper and overnight.	Ger Camp
16	Bkfst, day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally),	overnight at camp (all meals inc.)	Ger camp 
17	Bkfst, transfer back to UB. Own lunch. Free time. Supper and overnight at hotel.			UB
18	Car transfer to station. Morning train to Beijing. All day and night on board………..		On board 
19	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx.). Arrival to Beijing mid afternoon.		End of Itinerary

NB: The train we use on the Irkutsk/Ulan Ude/Ulaanbatar is a local train. There is no first class carriage and no restaurant car. However, you can stock up with goodies for the journey either in Irkutsk or Ulan Ude.

DURATION		19/20 Days
VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Mon+Chi

2003 START DATES
TS.05 19 Day Trip Jan 13, 27/  Feb 3, 17/  Mar 3, 17/  Apr 7, 21/  May 5, 19/  June 9, 23/  July 7, 21/  Aug 11,25/  Sep 1, 15, 29/  Oct 13, 27  Nov 3, 17/  Dec 1, 15, 29

Want the 20 day trip then add an extra night in Lake Baikal making the train departure on Day 13.

TS.05+1 20 Day.	Supplement per person for extra night is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people. 
Supplement per person on the budget trip for extra night is £20.

Jan 5, 19/ Feb 9, 23/ Mar 9, 23/  Apr 13/ May 11, 25/ June 1, 15/ July 13, 27/ Aug 3*, 17*/ £30 supp. See Nadaam Page. 
Sep 7, 21/ Oct 5, 19/ Nov 9, 23/ Dec 7, 21

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Standard Trip TS.05 		1 person  £1520	2 people £1420 each	3 to 9 people £1320 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW 	1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £430 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. TS.05F

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Moscow (room only), no Buddy, no car on departure. City based family stay en route(no guides or day/Ger trips) Tour Code TS.05B 			1 person £1240	2 people £1140 each	3 to 9 people £1040 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)	 1 person £28	2 people £25 each		3 to 9 people £25 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

he Russia Experience 22
THE BIG TRANS-SIB TS.04
This is our most popular trip to date – a winning combination of both Siberia and Mongolia packaged into an itinerary that you can fit into a two week holiday. In Siberia stay at Lake Baikal with a day to explore historic Irkutsk. In Mongolia spend time in both Ulaanbaatar and the Steppe, staying in a traditional felt Ger. This trip operates year round – including the Ger stays!

MOSCOW (2) BAIKAL (2) + IRKUTSK (DAY) UB (1) + GER (2) BEIJING (0)
TOUR PRICEITINERARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		Moscow
Overnight at either a 3* hotel or with a family.
2	Half day Buddy assistance to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.	Moscow
3	Morning free in Moscow. Evening car transfer to station, for train to Irkutsk		on board
4-6	on board......								on board
7	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to family stay in Listvyanka village. Lunch. Guided	BA village stay
walking along the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Baikal Lake Museum and
Orthodox Church. Sauna, supper and overnight.
8	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can arrange	BA village stay
activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch in the summer
if you wish. In winter lunch is with the family. Sauna, supper and overnight.
9	Bkfst. Car to Irkutsk. Our staff can arrange for luggage storage. Free time to		IRK/Train
explore the city. Return to Irkutsk office for your car transfer to the station
early evening.
10	All day and night on board							on board
11	Morning arrival (subject to border delays) in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen	Ger camp
up. Afternoon free to explore, or team up with our local Buddies for a walking tour
of the city. Transport out to the Ger Camp. Supper and overnight on the steppe.
12	Bkfst, day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, free time.		Ger camp
Supper and overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!
13	Bkfst, transfer back to UB. Own lunch at one of the many cheap cafes. Free time		UB
to explore, supper and overnight at hotel.
14	Car transfer to station. Morning departure on train to Beijing. Across southern		on board
Mongolia to border. Midnight border crossing.
15	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx.). Arrival in Beijing.		End of itinerary

NB: The train we use on the Irkutsk/Ulan Ude/Ulaanbatar is a local train. There is no first class carriage and no restaurant car. However, you can stock up with goodies for the journey either in Irkutsk or Ulan Ude.

DURATION			15/16 Days
VISAS REQUIRED		Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES

TS.04 15 Day Trip
Jan 3, 17, 31 Feb 7, 21 Mar 7, 21 Apr 11, 25 May 9, 23 June 13, 27 July 11, 25 Aug 1, 15, 29 Sep 5, 19 Oct 3, 17, 31 Nov 7, 21 Dec 5, 19. 

Want the 16 day trip then add an extra night in Lake Baikal making train departure on Day 11

TS.04+1 16 Day Trip
Supplement per person for extra night is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people. 
Supplement per person on the budget trip for extra night is £20

Jan 9, 23 Feb 13, 27 Mar 13, 27 Apr 3, 17 May 1, 15, 29 June 5, 19 July 3, 17, 31 Aug 7*, 21* Sep 11, 25 Oct 9, 23 Nov 13, 27 Dec 11, 25. *£30 supplement applies on these date/s. See NADAAM page for details.

For the above itinerary inclusive of travel services, based on 2nd-Class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated. 

Standard Trip TS.04		 1 person £1185	2 people £1085 each	3 to 9 people £985 each. 
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £380 per person. Availability is limited. 

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. There is no option for Moscow family stay on this trip. 

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Moscow (room only), no Buddy, no car on departure. Family stay Irkutsk only (no lake stay) and 1* hotel in UB (no Ger Trip)

Tour Code TS.04B 			1 person £1035	2 people £935 each		3 to 9 people £835 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)	 1 person £28	2 people £25		3 to 9 people each £25 each

Save money if travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

THE SIBERIAN EXPERIENCE TS.03
Only got time to make one stop? This itinerary offers a three night stopover in Siberia.. Spend two nights with a family on the shores of beautiful Lake Baikal, which at 600 km in length is the largest freshwater lake in the world.  This is followed by a night in the historic city of Irkutsk the main trading route with Mongolia and China in the 18th century and still home to many traditional wooden houses. This trip operates year round.

MOSCOW (2) IRKUTSK (1) + BAIKAL (2) BEIJING (0)

1.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.
Overnight at a 3* hotel or with a family.						MOSCOW
2.	Half Day Buddy assistance to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight		MOSCOW
3.	Morning free in Moscow. Evening car transfer to station for train to Irkutsk		ONBOARD
4.	on board......								ONBOARD
5.	on board......								ONBOARD
6.	on board......								ONBOARD
7.	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to family stay in Listvyanka village. Lunch. Guided
walking along the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Baikal Lake Museum and
Orthodox Church. Sauna, supper and overnight.					BAI VILLAGE
8.	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can arrange
activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch in the summer
if you wish. In winter lunch is with the family. Sauna, supper and overnight.		BAI VILLAGE
9.	Bkfst. Car to Family Stay in Irkutsk (hotel option available). Free time (our staff
offer guided excursions which you can arrange locally), own lunch, supper and
overnight.									IRK FAMILY STAY
10.	Bkfst, car to station for morning departure to Beijing.				ONBOARD
11.	... on board the Trans-Manchurian Express via far-Eastern Siberia to the
Chinese border...								ONBOARD
12.	... through Manchuria, past the Great Wall, and onwards towards Beijing....
13.	Early morning arrival in Beijing.

DURATION		13/14 Days

VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Chi

2003 START DATES
TS.03 13 Day Trip
Jan 5, 19 / Feb 9, 23 / Mar 9, 23 / Apr 13, 27 / May 11, 25 / June 15, 29 / July 13, 27 / Aug 3, 17, 31
Sep 7, 21 / Oct 5, 19 / Nov 9, 23 / Dec 7, 21

TS.03+1 14 Day Trip
Jan 11, 25 / Feb 15 / Mar 1, 15, 29 / Apr 5, 19 / May 3, 17, 31 / June 7, 21 / July 5, 19 / Aug 9, 23
Sep 13, 27 / Oct 11, 25 / Nov 15, 29 / Dec 13, 27
Supplement per person for extra night is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people. 
Supplement per person on the budget trip for extra night is £20.

TOUR PRICE:  
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on 2nd-Class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Standard Trip
TS.03		 1 person:  £960  	2 people:  £860 each  		3 to 9 people:  £760 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 	2 people:  £45 each			3 to 9 people:  £45 each
The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £330 per person. Availability is limited.
You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. There is no option for Moscow family stay on this trip.

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Moscow, no Buddy, no car on departure. Family Stay Irkutsk only (no lake stay)
TS.03B		 1 person:  £860	2 people:   £760 each		3 to 9 people:  £660 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
  1 person:  £28 	2 people:  £25 each 		3 to 9 people:  £25 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

THE THREE CAPITALS TS.02

This itinerary follows the Trans-Mongolian route. Two nights in Moscow and onto Beijing but with a stop in Mongolia that includes a day in Ulaanbaatar and two nights on the steppe staying in a traditional Ger. During the summer you can arrange with local herdsmen to ride their horses across the steppe. Ulaanbaatar’s sights include the Gandan Monastery, residence of the former Bogd-Khan (spiritual leader) and the Natural History museum – home to the dinosaur remains found in the Gobi desert. This trip operates year round – including the Ger stays!

MOSCOW (2) ULAANBAATAR (1) + GER (2) BEIJING (0)

1.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		MOSCOW
Overnight at a 3* hotel or with a family.
2.	Half Day Buddy assistance to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight		MOSCOW
3.	Morning free in Moscow. Evening car transfer to station for train to Ulaanbaatar .		ONBOARD
4.	on board the Trans-Mongolian Express ...					ONBOARD
5.	on board the Trans-Mongolian Express ...					ONBOARD
6.	on board the Trans-Mongolian Express ...					ONBOARD
7.	on board the Trans-Mongolian Express, ……..
8.	Morning arrival (subject to border delays) in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen
up. Afternoon free to explore, or team up with our local Buddies for a walking tour	
of the city. Transport out to the Ger Camp. Supper and overnight on the steppe.		GER CAMP
9.	Bkfst, day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch. Free time,		
supper and overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!				GER CAMP
10.	Bkfst, return to UB (own lunch). Free time, dinner and overnight at hotel.		UB
11.	Car transfer to station. Morning train to Beijing. Across southern Mongolia to
border. Midnight border crossing.						ONBOARD
12.	Arrival into China, via the Great Wall (mid-day approx). Arrival in Beijing scheduled
for mid-afternoon.								END

DURATION		12 Days

VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Mon+Chi

2003 START DATES
Jan 6, 13, 20, 27 / Feb 3, 10, 17, 24 / Mar 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 / Apr 7, 14, 21, 28 / May 5, 12, 19, 26/ June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / July 7, 14, 21, 28 / Aug 4, 11*, 18, 25* / Sep 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Oct 6, 13, 20, 27/ Nov 3, 10, 17, 24 / Dec 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
*£30 Supplement applies on marked date/s.  See Naadam page

Standard Trip:
TS.02:		 1 person:  £960	2 people:  £860 each	3 to 9 people:  £760 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 	2 people:  £45 each 	3 to 9 people:  £45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £330 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. TS.02F

For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on 2nd-Class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Budget Trip 
1* hotel Moscow (room only), no Buddy, no car on departure and a 1* hotel in UB (no Ger Trip)
Tour Code TS.02B	 1 person:  £860    	2 people:  £760 each	3 to 9 people:  £660 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
1 person:   £28	2 people:  £25 each 	3 to 9 people:  £25 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

THE TRANS-SIBERIAN CLASSIC TS.01
Well we’ve shown you all our favorite stops along the Trans-Sib and tried to tempt you with some new trips, but if you really are in a hurry to get to Asia and just don’t have the time to stop en route then this is our Classic Trip. You still get two nights in Moscow and a Buddy, and of course the chance to experience life on the train but once you board the train it is a non stop ticket until you reach Beijing! This trip operates year round.

MOSCOW (2) BEIJING (0)T

1.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		MOSCOW
Overnight at a 3* hotel or with a family
2.	Half Day Buddy assistance to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight	MOSCOW
3.	Morning free in Moscow. Evening car transfer to station, late evening departure
Train #20 – non-stop to Beijing						ON BOARD
4.	.... on board the Trans-Manchurian Express...					ON BOARD
5.	... on board the Trans-Manchurian Express...					ON BOARD
6.	... on board the Trans-Manchurian Express...					ON BOARD
7.	... on board the Trans-Manchurian Express …. 					ON BOARD
8.	... on board the Trans-Manchurian Express  …					ON BOARD
9.	... through Manchuria, past the Great Wall, and onwards towards Beijing...
10.	Early morning arrival in Beijing						END ITINERARY

DURATION			10 Days
VISAS REQUIRED		Rus+Chi
2003 START DATES
Jan 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / Feb 5, 12, 19, 26 / Mar 5, 12, 19, 26 / Apr 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / May 7, 14, 21, 28/ June 4, 11, 18, 25 / July 2, 9, 16,23, 30 / Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 / Sep 3, 10, 17, 24 / Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29/ Nov 5, 12, 19, 26 / Dec 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

We can also offer, at the same price, the non-stop route to Beijing on Train #4. This route transits through Mongolia making a Mongolian Visa necessary. This trip can start any Sunday. Arrives Beijing Monday

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on 2nd-Class/ 4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Standard Trip 
TS.01		 1 person 	£599	2 people		£569 each	3 to 9 people	£539 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW	
1 person	£55	2 people		£45 each		3 to 9 people	£45 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment is £280 per person). Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. TS.01F

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Moscow (room only), no Buddy, no car on departure
Tour Code TS.01B 		1 person:  £499	2 people:  £469 each 	3 to 9 people:  £439 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
1 person:  £28 	2 people:  £25 each 	3 to 9 people:  £25 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

ORIGINAL TRANS-SIBERIAN  TS.07/TS.08

Vladivostok is a major Russian naval port (check out the WW2 sub on the main harbour road) and the end of the original Trans-Siberian line. Below are two options: one is non-stop Moscow to Vladivostok and the other incorporates a four night stay in Siberia.

NON-STOP MOSCOW TO VLADIVOSTOK	TS.07
1.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		MOSCOW
Overnight at a 3* hotel or with a family.
2.	Buddy assistance half day to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight		MOSCOW
3.	Morning free in Moscow. Afternoon car transfer to station for train to Vladivostok		ONBOARD
4-9  on board..........................							ONBOARD
10   Arrival to Vladivostok. Car to 2* hotel. Free time. Overnight.				VLADIVOSTOK
11   Bkfst. End of itinerary. *Your Russian visa will also expire today – please make sure	END
you have onward travel arrangements booked.

MOSCOW TO VLADIVOSTOK VIA SIBERIA 	TS.08
1.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.		MOSCOW
Overnight at a 3* hotel or with a family.
2.	Buddy assistance half day to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		MOSCOW
3.	Morning free in Moscow. Afternoon car transfer to station for train to Vladivostok		ONBOARD
4-6	on board..........................							ONBOARD
7	Arrive Irkutsk. Tfr to Lake. Bkfst. Guided trekking along shore. Lunch. Visit to
Limnological Museum & Church. Sauna, dinner, overnight with family.			BAI FAMILY
8	Bkfst. Free time. (take picnic). Sauna, dinner, overnight with family.			BAI FAMILY
9	Bkfst. Soft trek to forest with guide (8 hrs). Sauna, supper and o/n with family.		BAI FAMILY
10	Bkfst. Car to Irkutsk. Free time. Supper and stay with family until time for train…
11	Very early or very late if you’ve stayed up partying! train to Vladivostok at approx”
03:30. All day and night on board....						ON BOARD
12	on board....								ON BOARD
13	on board....								ON BOARD
14	Arrival at Vladivostok. Overnight at 2* hotel.					ON BOARD
15	Bkfst. End of itinerary. *Your Russian visa will also expire today - please make sure
you have onward travel arrangements booked.

VLADIVOSTOK TO HARBIN 		VH.01 / VH.02
We can book 2 cl/4 berth tickets to Harbin (China).  Departures are twice weekly.  Cost is £90 – VH.01.
On arrival in Harbin we can book you 1 nts accommodation in 3* hotel and 2/ cl/4 berth ticket to Beijing.  Daily Departures.  Cost (including hotel) is:  £160 1 person, £140 pp for 2 people, £135pp for 3-9 people – VH.02.

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on 2nd-Class/ 4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:
Standard Trip:
Tour Code TS.07		1 person:  £639	2 person:  £599 each	3 people:  £559 each
Tour Code TS.08		1 person:  £960	2 person:  £860 each	3 people:  £760 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 	2 person:  £45 each 	3 people:  £45 each
Extra night Vladivostok XN.VLAD (per night)
1 person:  £45 	2 person:  £35 each	3 people:  £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment is £280 per person). Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. TS.07F

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Moscow (room only), no Buddy, no car on departure. 1* hotel in Vladivostok (room only).
Tour Code TS.07B		1 person:  £499	2 people:  £469 each	3 to 9 people:  £439 each
Tour Code TS.08B		1 person:  £860	2 people:  £760 each	3 to 9 people:  £660 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
			1 person:  £28	2 people:  £25 each		3 to 9 people:  £25 each
Extra night Vladivostok Budget (per night)
1 person:  £45 	2 people:  £35 each 	3 to 9 people:  £35 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

VISAS REQUIRED	Rus only		2003 START DATES	Any Odd date

EAST–WEST TRIPS

EAST–WEST MAMMOTH BM.12
This really is a MAMMOTH trip. It contains all the side-trips offered in our standard trips, brought together in one huge journey! You get the complete range of all our Siberian stops, plus a six night stop in Mongolia. Your Mongolia stop includes two nights in Ulaanbaatar, a jeep trip into the Gobi to stay with nomad herdsmen and two nights at our family run Ger camp. If you want the once in a life time trip then this is the one for you! **Due to the range of climates and activities this trip only operates for departures from Beijing between May and September**

BEIJING (2) GER (2)+ UB (1)+ JEEP TRIP (2) ULAN-UDAY (2) BAIKAL (2) + IRKUTSK (1) EKATERINBURG (2) MOSCOW (2)
NERARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival to Beijing. Overnight at a 3* Hotel.					Beijing
2	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3* Hotel.					Beijing
3	Own transport to station for early morning train to Ulaanbaatar. Overnight on board.	on board
4	Afternoon arrival in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen up. Guided walk. JEEP
TRIP into Bayan Gobi, supper and overnight in Gers with herdsmen.			Herdsmen
5	Bkfst. Jeep trip to Karakorum (8 hrs off-road driving), lunch en-route. Supper and
overnight in Gers with herdsmen.						Herdsmen
6	Bkfst. Jeep trip sightseeing in Gobi, returning to UB (6 hrs off-road driving) and
then onto Ger Camp. Supper and overnight in Gers.				Ger camp
7	Bkfst. Day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and
overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!					Ger camp
8	Bkfst. Return to UB. Own lunch. Free time. Supper and overnight in hotel.		UB hotel
9	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for evening train to Ulan-Uday (this is a local train
and there is often no restaurant car).						on board
10	Arrive Ulan Uday. Car to family stay. Supper and overnight.				U-U family stay
11	Bkfst. Guided trip to Atsagatski Datsan. Lunch with Buryat family. Walk around
village. Return to UU. Super & overnight with family.				U-U family stay
12	Bkfst. Guided trip to the Ivolginski Datsan. Lunch. City tour. visit Centre of Eastern
Medicine. Supper. Car to station for late evening train.				on board
13	Early arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Listvyanka village. Lunch and guided walking along
the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Baikal Lake Museum. Siberian sauna,
supper and overnight.							BAI Village stay
14	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can
arrange activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch if you
wish. Supper, sauna and overnight.						BAI Village stay
15	Bkfst. Car to Family Stay in Irkutsk. Free time, own lunch. Supper.
Overnight with family.							IRKUTSK
16	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for afternoon train to Ekaterinburg			on board
17	on board...................							on board
18	Arrive to Ekaterinburg, car to family stay. Sightseeing with Buddy guide (4 hours),
supper and overnight.							EKATERINBURG
19	Bkfst. DAY TRIP. Included in the trip price. Details at start of brochure.
Return to Ekaterinburg. Supper, and overnight.					EKATERINBURG
20	Bkfst. Car to station for afternoon train to Moscow.					on board
21	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.
Overnight at either a 3* hotel or with a family.					Moscow
22	Buddy guide (4 hrs), to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		Moscow
23	Bkfst. End of itinerary.							End of Itinerary

DURATION		23/24 Days
VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES	
BM.12 = 23 day trip. May 1/ June 1, 15, 29/ July 13, 20/  Aug 3, 24/ Sep 7, 21

Want the 24 day trip then add an extra night in Lake Baikal making the train departure on day 17

BM.12+1 = 24 day trip. May 25/ June 8, 22/ July 6, 27/  Aug 10, 17, 31/  Sep 14, 28

Supplement per person for extra night in Baikal is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people 
The Russia Experience 52
For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Standard Trip BM.12		  1 person £2104	2 people £1839 each	3 to 9 people £1634 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 	  1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £380 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.12F

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

TOUR PRICE
then tell the world.” Russia Experience 53
EAST–WEST EPIC TRANS-SIB BM.11
This trip takes our two most popular stops in Siberia and Mongolia, and adds a more adventurous side-trip in each. You get to spend five nights in Mongolia. This includes a jeep trip to Karakorum staying with herdsmen in their Gers and a stop at our family run Ger camp, you also get to spend a night in Ulaanbaatar where you can visit the Natural History Museum, the Gandan Monastery and palace of the former Bogd-Khan. In Siberia, a Taiga Forest trek to Lake
Baikal camping overnight on the lake shore. This trek does require a reasonable level of fitness and a head for heights!

**This trip only operates for departures from Beijing between May and September **

BEIJING (2) ULAANBAATAR (1)+ JEEP TRIP (2)+GER (2) IRKUTSK & TREK (3) MOSCOW (2)
ERARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival to Beijing. Overnight at a 3* Hotel.					Beijing
2	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3* Hotel.					Beijing
3	Own transport to station for early morning train to Ulaanbaatar. Overnight on board.	on board
4	Afternoon arrival in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen up. Guided walk. Jeep
into Bayan Gobi, supper and overnight in Gers with herdsmen.			Herdsmen
5	Bkfst. Jeep trip to Karakorum (8 hrs off-road driving), lunch en-route. Supper and
overnight in Gers with herdsmen.						Herdsmen
6	Bkfst. Jeep trip sightseeing in Gobi, returning to UB (6 hrs off-road driving) and
then onto Ger Camp. Supper and overnight in Gers.				Ger camp
7	Bkfst. Day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and
overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!					Ger camp
8	Bkfst. Return to UB. Free time. Own lunch. Free time. Supper and overnight in hotel.	UB hotel
9	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for evening train to Irkutsk (this is a local train -
standards are not as good as the “international” trains).				on board
10	on board .... (sometimes there is no dining car - it is a good idea to stock up on
goodies in UB).								on board
11	Morning arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Family Stay. Bkfst, free time to explore Irkutsk (our
staff offer guided excursions which you can arrange locally), own lunch. Return to
Family Stay, supper, preparations for trekking (baggage can be left with the family).	IRK Family stay
12	Bus to Listvyanka village, trekking up the Primorsky Mountain in the direction of
Bolshie Koty. Picnic lunch. Continue trekking through the forest to Srednaya Bay,
make camp. Free time to swim. Campfire supper, overnight. (Distance 10km, some
uphill climbing involved).							Camping
13	Bkfst. Free time to walk by the lake, swim, relax. Picnic lunch. Trekking back to
Listvyanka along the lakeshore (10 km). Bus back to Irkutsk Family Stay, supper
and overnight.								IRK Family stay
14	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for train to Moscow.				on board
15	on board ....								on board
16	on board ....								on board
17	Afternoon arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in
Moscow. Overnight at either a 3* hotel or with a family.				Moscow
18	Half day Buddy assistance, to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		Moscow
19	Bkfst. End of itinerary.							End of Itinerary

DURATION		19/20 Days
VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES
BM.11 19 day trip		June 1, 15, 29/ July 13, 20/  Aug 3, 17, 24/ Sep 7
BM.11+1 20 day trip	May 25/ June 8, 22/ July 6, 27/  Aug 10, 31/ Sep 14
Want the 20 day trip then add an extra night at Lake Baikal making the train departure on day 15. The 20 day trip features a 2 night village stay (FB) at Lake Baikal with guided walking, 1 day trekking and camping plus a night in Irkutsk. This changes Siberia stay to two nights at the lake (full board), 1 night camping and 1 night in Irkutsk.

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

19 Day Trip BM.11 = 		 1 person £1589	2 people £1324 each	3 to 9  people £1219 each
20 Day Trip BM.11+1 = 		 1 person £1639	2 people £1374 each	3 to 9 people £1269 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night)1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night)	 1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £405 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3* hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.11F

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.
TOUR PRICEVENTURE TRIPSR ROUND FAVOURITES

EAST–WEST SUPER TRANS-SIB BM.05
Want to spend more time in Siberia as well as a stop in Mongolia? This great trip gives you three contrasting views of this vast land. Ekaterinburg in Western Siberia is near the Ural mountains. Here you can hike, raft or visit a traditional Siberian village. Historic Irkutsk and village life at Lake Baikal is in the heart of Siberia. Across the lake is the Buryat/Buddhist heritage in Ulan Uday, also home to the largest head of Lenin statue of in the world! Our three night stop in Mongolia gives you time in Ulaanbaatar and out on the steppe staying in a traditional ger. This trip operates throughout the year with some great winter options in Irkutsk and Ekaterinburg.
BEIJING (2) UB (1) + GER (2) ULAN UDAY (2) IRKUTSK (1) & BAIKAL (2) EKATERINBURG (2) MOSCOW (2)

1.	Arrival to Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.					BEIJING
2.	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.					BEIJING
3.	Own transport to station for early morning train to Ulaanbaatar. Overnight on board.	ONBOARD
4.	Afternoon arrival in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen up. Remainder of
afternoon free to explore, or team up with our local Buddies for a walking tour
of the city. Transport out to the Ger Camp. Dinner and overnight on the steppe.		GER CAMP
5.	Bkfst, day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and
overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!					GER CAMP
6.	Bkfst, transfer back to UB. Own lunch. Free time, dinner and overnight at hotel.		UB
7.	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for evening train to Ulan-Uday (this is a local train
and there is often no restaurant car).						ONBOARD
8.	Arrive Ulan Uday. Car to family stay. Supper and overnight.				U-U FAMILY STAY
9.	Bkfst. Guided trip to Atsagatski Datsan. Lunch with Buryat family. Walk around
village. Return to UU. Super & overnight with family.				U-U FAMILY STAY
10.	Bkfst. Guided trip to the Ivolginski Datsan. Lunch. City tour. visit Centre of Eastern
Medicine. Supper. Car to station for late evening train.				ONBOARD
11.	Arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Listvyanka village. Lunch and guided walking along
the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Lake Museum. Siberian sauna,
supper and overnight.							BAI VILLAGE
12.	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can
arrange activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch if you
wish. Supper, sauna and overnight.						BAI VILLAGE
13.	Bkfst. Car to Family Stay in Irkutsk. Free time, own lunch. Supper.
Overnight with family.							IRK 
14.	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for train to Ekaterinburg. Overnight on board.		ONBOARD
15.	on board .......								ONBOARD
16.	Arrive to Ekaterinburg, car to family stay. Sightseeing with Buddy guide (4 hours),
supper and overnight.							EKATERINBURG
17.	Bkfst. DAY TRIP. Included in the trip price. Details of choices at start of brcochure.
Return to Ekaterinburg. Supper and overnight.					EKATERINBURG
18.	Bkfst. Car to station for train to Moscow.						ONBOARD
19.	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.
Overnight at either a 3. hotel or with a family.					MOSCOW
20.	Half day Buddy assistance, to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		MOSCOW
21.	Bkfst. End of itinerary.							END

DURATION			VISAS REQUIRED
21/22 Days			Rus+Mon+Chi

2003 START DATES
BM.05 21 day trip
Jan 9, 30 / Feb 13, 27 / Mar 13, 20 /Apr 3, 17 / May 1 /June 1, 15, 29 /July 13, 20 /Aug 3, 17, 24/ Sep 7, 21/ Oct 5, 26 / Nov 9, 23 / Dec 7, 28.

Want the 22 day trip then add an extra night in Lake Baikal making the train departure on day 15
BM.05+1 22 day trip
Jan 2, 16, 23 /Feb 6, 20 /Mar 6, 27/Apr 10, 24/ May 25/June 8, 22 /July 6, 27/ Aug 10, 31/ Sep 14, 28/ Oct 12, 19 / Nov 2, 16, 30 / Dec 14, 21
Supplement per person on the Standard Trip for extra night in Baikal is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people.
Supplement per person on the Budget Trip for extra night is £20

Standard Trip 
BM.05		 1 person:  £1670   		2 people:  £1505 each	3 to 9 people:  £1400 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 		2 people:  £45 each 	3 to 9 people:  £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 
1 person:  £60 		2 people:  £40 each 	3 to 9 people:  £35 each
The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £430 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3*. hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.05F

Budget Trip - 1. hotels Beijing & Moscow (room only), no Moscow Buddy. City based Family Stays en route (no guides/day trips). 
BM.05B		 1 person:  £1315		2 people:  £1185 each	3 to 9 people:  £1085 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
1 person:  £28 		2 people:  £25 each 	3 to 9 people:  £25 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)
1 person:  £30 		2 people:  £20 each 	3 to 9 people:  £18 each

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people on all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.
EAST–WEST BIG TRANS-SIB BM.04
The winning combination of Siberian and Mongolian stops is our most popular-selling trip. In Mongolia spend time in both Ulaanbaatar and the Steppe, staying in a traditional felt Ger. In Siberia stay at Lake Baikal with a day to explore historic Irkutsk. This trip operates year round – including the Ger stays!

BEIJING (2) UB (1) + GER (2) IRKUTSK (1) & BAIKAL (2) MOSCOW (2)

1.	Arrival to Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.					BEIJING
2.	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.					BEIJING
3.	Own transport to station for early morning train to Ulaanbaatar. Overnight on board.	ONBOARD
4.	Afternoon arrival in Outer Mongolia! Shower and freshen up. Remainder of
afternoon free to explore, or team up with our local Buddies for a walking tour of
the city. Transport out to the Ger Camp. Supper and overnight on the steppe.		GER CAMP
5.	Bkfst, day free to go walking, horse-riding (arrange locally), lunch, supper and
overnight in your Ger gazing at the stars!					GER CAMP
6.	Bkfst, transfer back to UB. Own lunch. Free time to explore, supper and
overnight at hotel.								UB
7.	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for evening train to Irkutsk (this is a local train and
there is often no restaurant car).						ONBOARD
8.	on board...								ONBOARD
9.	Early arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Listvyanka village. Lunch and guided walking along
the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Baikal Lake Museum. Siberian sauna,
supper and overnight.							BAI VILLAGE
10.	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can arrange
activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch if you wish.
Supper, sauna and overnight.							BAI VILLAGE
11.	Bkfst. Car to Family Stay in Irkutsk. Free time, own lunch. Supper.
Overnight with family.							IRK FAMILY
12.	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for train to Moscow. Overnight on board.		ONBOARD
13-14    On board......								ONBOARD
15	Arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in Moscow.
Overnight at either a 3. hotel or with a family.					MOSCOW
16	Half day Buddy assistance, to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		MOSCOW
17	Bkfst. End of itinerary.							END

DURATION				VISAS REQUIRED	
17/18 Days				Rus+Mon+Chi

2003 START DATES
BM.04 = 17 day trip. Dates: Jan 9, 30 / Feb 13, 27 / Mar 13 / Apr 3, 17 / May 1 / June 1, 15, 29 / July 13 / Aug 3, 17, 24
Sep 7, 21 / Oct 5, 19, 26 / Nov 9, 23 / Dec 7, 28

Want the 18 day trip then add an extra night at Lake Baikal making the train departure on Day 13

BM.04+1 18 day trip. Dates: Jan 2, 16, 23 / Feb 6, 20 / Mar 6, 20, 27 / Apr 10, 24 / May 25 / June 8, 22 / July 6, 27/ Aug 10, 31 / Sep 14, 28 / Oct 12 / Nov 2, 16, 30 / Dec 14, 21

Supplement per person on the Standard Trip for extra night at Lake Baikal is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people.
Supplement per person on the Budget Trip for extra night is £20.

Standard Trip 
BM.04		 1 person:  £1365		 2 people:  £1200 each	 3 to 9 people:  £1095 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 		2 people:  £45 each 	3 to 9 people:  £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night)
1 person:  £60 		2 people:  £40 each 	3 to 9 people:  £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £380 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3*. hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.04F

Budget Trip – 1* hotels Beijing & Moscow (room only), no Moscow Buddy. Family stay Irkutsk only (no lake stay). 1* hotel in UB (no Ger Trip)
BM.04B		1 person:  £1140		2 people:  £1010 each	3 to 9 people:  £905 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
1 person:  £28		2 people:  £25 each 	3 to 9 people:   £25 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)
1 person:  £30 		2 people:  £20 each 	3 to 9 people:  £18 each

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

EAST–WEST SIBERIAN EXPERIENCE BM.03

Only got time to make one stop? This itinerary offers a three night stopover in Siberia. Spend two nights with a family on the shores of beautiful Lake Baikal, which at 600 km in length is the largest freshwater lake in the world. This is followed by a night in the historic city of Irkutsk - once the main trading route with Mongolia and China in the 18th century and still home to many traditional wooden houses. This trip operates year round.

BEIJING (2) IRKUTSK (1) & BAIKAL (2) MOSCOW (2)

1.	Arrival to Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.				BEIJING
2.	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.				BEIJING
3.	Own transport to station for late evening train to Irkutsk. Overnight on board.	ONBOARD
4.	on board..............							ONBOARD
5.	on board..............							ONBOARD
6.	Early arrival to Irkutsk. Car to Listvyanka village. Lunch and guided walking along
the shores of Baikal, including a visit to the Baikal Lake Museum. Siberian sauna,
supper and overnight.						BAI VILLAGE
7.	Bkfst. Free time today to explore the village and surrounding area. You can
arrange activities locally with our staff. Your family will provide a picnic lunch if you
wish. Supper, sauna and overnight.					BAI VILLAGE
8.	Bkfst. Car to Family Stay in Irkutsk. Free time, own lunch. Supper.
Overnight with family.						IRK FAMILY STAY
9.	Bkfst. Free time. Car to station for train to Moscow. Overnight on board.	ONBOARD
10.	On board..............							ONBOARD
11.	On board..............							ONBOARD
12.	Afternoon arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Balance of day free in
Moscow. Overnight at either a 3. hotel or with a family.			MOSCOW
13.	Half day buddy assistance to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.	MOSCOW
14.	Bkfst. End of itinerary.						END

DURATION		14/15 Days
VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Chi

2003 START DATES
BM.03 14 day trip
Jan 2, 16 / Feb 6, 20 / Mar 6, 20, 27 / Apr 10, 24 / May 8, 22, 29 / June 12, 26 / July 10, 31
Aug 14 / Sep 4, 18 / Oct 2, 16 / Nov 6, 20 / Dec 4, 18, 25

Want the 15 day trip then add an extra night at Lake Baikal making the train departure on Day 10

BM.03+1 15 day trip
Jan 9, 30 / Feb 13, 27 / Mar 13 / Apr 3, 17 / May 1, 15 / June 5, 19 / July 3, 17, 24 / Aug 7, 21, 28
Sep 11, 25 / Oct 9, 30 / Nov 13, 27 / Dec 11

Supplement per person on the Standard Trip for extra night at Lake Baikal is £45 for 1 person, £30 for 2 or more people.
Supplement per person on the Budget Trip for extra night is £20.

Standard Trip 
BM.03		 1 person:   £1110		2 people: £945 each	3 to 9 people:  £840 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 		2 people:  £45 each 	3 to 9 people:  £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 
1 person £60 		2 people:  £40 each 	3 to 9 people:  £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £330 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3*. hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.03F

Budget Trip - 1. hotels Beijing and Moscow (room only), no Moscow Buddy and Irkutsk family stay (no lake stay)
BM.03B		 1 person:  £935		 2 people:  £805 each	3 to 9 people:  £700 each

Extra night Moscow Budget (per night)
1 person:  £28 		2 people:  £25 each 	3 to 9 people:  £25 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)
1 person:  £30 		2 people:  £20 each 	3 to 9 people:  £18 each

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

EAST–WEST THREE CAPITALS BM.02
This itinerary follows the Trans-Mongolian route, with a stop in Mongolia.

ADVANCE WARNING OF TIMETABLE CHANGES - MAY 2003
Due to expected timetable changes in May we are offering 2 versions of our Three Capitals trip. 

BEIJING (2) ULAANBAATAR (3) + GER (2) MOSCOW (2)

Itinerary A is valid until end April 2003.
1.	Arrive Beijing. 3* Hotel. Overnight					BEIJING
2.	Overnight Beijing							BEIJING
3.	Train from Beijing – Ulaanbaatar					ONBOARD
4.	Arrival UB. Transfer to hotel. Optional city tour in pm. Supper/overnight		UB
5.	Bkfst. Transfer to Ger Camp. Free time. Supper. Overnight			GER CAMP
6.	Bkfst. Free time. All meals incl. Overnight				GER CAMP
7.	Bkfst. Return to UB. Free time. Supper and o’night at Hotel			UB
8.	Bkfst. Free day. Supper and overnight at Hotel				UB
9.	Bkfst. Free time. Transfer to station for train to Moscow			ONBOARD
10-12    on board...							ONBOARD
13	Arrival Moscow. Transfer to accommodation				MOSCOW
14	Bkfst. Buddy guide (1/2 day). Free time. O/N				MOSCOW
15	Bkfst. End of Trip							END

BEIJING (2) ULAANBAATAR (1) + GER (1) MOSCOW (2)

Itinerary B is valid from end May 2003 onwards.
1.	Arrive Beijing. 3* hotel overnight.					BEIJING
2.	Overnight Beijing Beijing						BEIJING
3.	Train from Beijing – Ulaanbaatar					ONBOARD
4.	Arrival UB. Tfr to hotel to freshen up. Optional city tour in pm. Trf to camp.
Supper. Overnight at camp.						GER CAMP
5.	Free time. Option to ride (pay locally). Trf back to UB. Free time. Supper.
Overnight.							GER CAMP
6.	Bkfst. Free time. Transfer to station for train to Moscow			ONBOARD
7-9	On Board								ONBOARD
10	Arrival Moscow. Transfer to accommodation				MOSCOW
11	Bkfst. Buddy guide (1/2 day). Free time. Overnight.			MOSCOW
12	Bkfst. End of Trip							END

DURATION		VISAS REQUIRED
15/12 Days		Rus+Mon+Chi

2003 START DATES		ITINERARY A
Jan 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Feb 6, 13, 20, 27 / Mar 6, 13, 20, 27 / Apr 3, 10, 17, 24
2003 START DATES		ITINERARY B
May 25 / June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / July 6, 13, 20, 27  / Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 / Sept 7, 14, 21, 28
Oct 5, 12, 19, 26 / Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Dec 7, 14, 21, 28

For the above itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:
Standard Trip BM.02a
1 person:   £1140 		2 people:  £975 each 	3 to 9 people:  £870 each
Standard Trip BM.02b 
1 person:  £1080 		2 people:  £915 each 	3 to 9 people:  £810 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 
1 person:  £55 		2 people:  £45 each 	3 to 9 people:  £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 
1 person:  £60 		2 people:  £40 each 	3 to 9 people:  £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £330 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3*. hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.02F

Budget Trip - 1. hotels Beijing and Moscow (room only) , no Moscow Buddy and a 1. hotel in UB (no Ger trip)
Tour Code BM.02ab 
1 person:  £965 		2 people:  £835 each 	3 to 9 people:  £730 each

Tour Code BM.02bb
1 person:  £905 		2 people:  £775 each 	3 to 9 people:  £670 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night) 
1 person:  £28 		2 people:  £25 each 	3 to 9 people:  £25 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)
1 person:   £30 		2 people:  £20 each 	3 to 9 people:  £18 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

EAST–WEST TRANS-SIB CLASSIC BM.01

Well we’ve shown you all our favourites stops along the Trans-Sib and tried to tempt you with some new trips, but if you really are in a hurry to get to Europe and just don’t have the time or budget left to stop en route then this is our Classic Trip. You get two nights in Beijing at the start and two nights in Moscow at the end. Of course you get the chance to experience life on the train but once you board it is a non stop ticket until you reach Moscow! This trip operates year round.
ITINERARY DATA
BEIJING (2) MOSCOW (2)

1.	Arrival to Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.					BEIJING
2.	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3. Hotel.					BEIJING
3.	Own transport to station for late evening train to Moscow. Overnight on board.		ONBOARD
4.	on board......								ONBOARD
5.	on board......								ONBOARD
6.	on board......								ONBOARD
7.	on board......								ONBOARD
8.	on board......								ONBOARD
9.	Evening arrival to Moscow. Car to accommodation. Overnight at either a 3. hotel
or with a family.								MOSCOW
10.	Half day Buddy assistance, to get your sightseeing off to a flying start. Overnight.		MOSCOW
11.	Bkfst. End of itinerary.							END

DURATION		11 Days

VISAS REQUIRED	Rus+Chi

2003 START DATES
Jan 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Feb 6, 13, 20, 27 / Mar 6, 13, 20, 27 / Apr 3, 10, 17, 24 / May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 / Aug 7, 14, 21, 28 / Sep 4, 11, 18, 25 / Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 / Nov 6, 13, 20, 27 / Dec 4, 11, 18, 25

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, 2nd class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation, meals where stated:

Standard Trip 
BM.01		 1 person:  £749		 2 people:  £654 each 		3 to 9 people:  £619 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night)
 		1 person:  £55		2 people:  £45 each 		3 to 9 people:  £45 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 
1 person:  £60		2 people:  £40 each 		3 to 9 people:  £35 each

The cost to upgrade (ie 2 berth compartment or book out a 4 berth compartment) is £280 per person. Availability is limited.

You are booked into a 3*. hotel in Moscow. If you would prefer a family stay put a letter F next to the code on the booking form eg. BM.01F

Budget Trip – 1*. hotels Beijing and Moscow (room only), no Moscow Buddy.
BM.01B		 1 person:  £574		 2 people:  £514 each 		3 to 9 people:  £479 each
Extra night Moscow Budget (per night) 
1 person £28		2 people:  £25 each 		3 to 9 people:  £25 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)
1 person:  £30 		2 people  £20 each			3 to 9 people:  £18 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

MONGOLIAN NAADAM
The tradition of getting-together for traditional sports, games, and, errr, more than a few cups of hooch is common to all of the Steppe peoples (Mongolians, Tuvans, Buryats, Kazaks, and more…). In fact, all these Altaic peoples have been having a good time doing this stuff for millennia! But the most well-known, and most grandiose, of these festivals is the Naadam in Mongolia.

NAADAM – THE BACKGROUND
To put this in context, you have to remember that due to the intense winters (temperatures of –40C, thick snow, no asphalt roads even today) mean that for five long months, even a visit over the ridge to the neighbours 5-6km away is something you only do if you have to. So when the baking summers (with temperatures at the other end of the scale, +30-40C) come, family, local, regional and even national meet-ups are very popular. Mongolians have a strong competitive streak, and tests of strength, horsemanship, horse-training, archery, wrestling have been practiced for thousands of years. In fact, one of the very few things known for sure about Chingiskhan (“Genghis Khan” in the West) is that he was crowned “Leader Of The World” at the Kuriltai – the annual “gathering of the clans” where they’d gathered to show off their prowess in all of the above. Alongside that, there’d be dance and music, and ceremonies like mask-dances. And of course, the combination of sports events and big blokes rarely occurs at any location or period in history without a lot of fried food and lots to drink… But then came Communism, which rolled all the regional and local Naadams into one big National one – (i) because Communists like big events so they can swank-around in the posh seats (ii) to get “content control” over the event, and root-out religious things like Buddhist mask-dances, or anything that had been blacklisted by the Party – including, amazingly, any mention of Chingiskhan, and (iii) to stop “lost working days” due to unsupervised regional merrymaking, or the effects of the hangovers on subsequent days. (Even in neighbouring Tuva, regional “Nadym” festivals can be found all through the Summer and Autumn).

IN 2003, WE’RE OFFERING THREE CHANCESTO SEE NAADAM FESTIVITIES:
1) The Great Mongolian National Naadam – which occurs in 2003 on 11.07.03 – 13.07.2003. This event is world-famous and features three days of traditional sports: Day 1 – opening ceremonies and the wrestling (which is by far the most popular event with locals) Day 2 – the archery (locals are less interested although it’s fascinating to watch), and Day 3 – the horse-racing, and closing ceremonies.

Spectators come from all around the world to see this event – in a country whose provision of international transport is geared to a population of only 2m, Book early because transport of all kinds sells-out months ahead (example; in 2002, the weekly Moscow-Ulaanbaatar flight for this date was already sold-out in January). Please contact us for details of the trips that can work around Naadam.

(2 + 3) A regional-style Naadam organised at the Elstei Ger-Camp. This will be a one-day Naadam Festival (ie regional-style) held on two dates: 19.08.03 and 02.09.03. It will feature all the main activities of a full Naadam of course – wrestling, archery and horse-racing, alongside perhaps rather more detailed ceremonies and the famous Mongolian national music (khoomei throat-singing, horseback “operas”, cimbalom and zither players, “long-song” performers). Although it doesn’t have the prestige of the National event (which we’re not trying to copy!) it has some significant attractions: (i) not everyone wants to watch 6-7 uninterrupted hours of wrestling or archery (ii) the “events management” side of these festivals is under the control of our local partners Shuren Co – which might be rather more professional than the “organised chaos” of the National Naadam, in which events, heats or races might be rescheduled without notice or warning. (Famously in 1998 at the National Naadam, they retimed the 4pm horse-racing finals for 8am – “could be hot day, better for horses” – and the crowd arrived to find it had all happened many hours ago). (iii) the number of spectators will be far fewer than a National Naadam of course – this means that the “crowd control” (which can be chaotic and sometimes less than charming) of the National event won’t be needed. (iv) transportation to Mongolia will not be sold-out 3-4 months prior. (v) to complete the day, there will be a more “C21st” part in the evening, with contemporary dance-music, drinks and a party until the early hours! Artistic Director of these two regional Naadams will be Mrs Galtmaa. In addition to being the Director of Shuren Co, she is a countrywide expert on Mongolian folklore, traditions and handicrafts, and even advises the State Opera and Ballet on programs, costumes, hair-styles etc that others forgot during the Communist era. Regional champion wrestlers, archers and riders will be invited to participate (and will bring their followers and fans!), and cultural events will feature some of the most famous artists in the country.

We only have accommodation space for approx 30-40 people, so please book early!

There are no “special” Naadam Itineraries. You can choose any Trans-Sib Itinerary you like, which has the Mongolia stay over therequired dates. There is a Naadam Festival Price Supplement of £30 for any (and all) stays over Festival dates (even if you didn’t want to see it!) – trips which are subject to the Naadam Festival Supplement are clearly asterisked on the relevant Trip Page. Please note that the Regional Naadams are not “private” and other people will be there too – including a strong Mongolian contingent supporting their favourite wrestlers! Any and all foreign guests who come will have to pay an admission fee equivalent to the Festival Supplement
(unless they are the British Ambassador or similar VIP guests!).

HUHEHOT
 Russia Experience 42
Although it sounds very romantic, most people think the term “Outer Mongolia” just means some very far-away place. Actually, it was a very specific term, invented during the Chinese rule of Mongolia – which lasted from the C17th through until 1924. The Chinese Emperors realised they could not effectively “control” such a vast territory, so they drew a line.  The part of Mongolia nearest to China – “Inner Mongolia” – would be run as if it was a part of China. The part beyond that line – “Outer Mongolia” – would be under martial law, and provided no major
lawbreaking occurred, people could do that they liked. The result was that in Inner Mongolia, a richer kind of Mongolian culture developed, officially supported by the wealthy Emperors of China. Some of this survives today – great temples and pagodas, which contrast interestingly with “real” Mongolia, where things have always been a lot harder. 

But when Mongolia threw out the Chinese and gained independence in 1924, they did not succeed in freeing “Inner Mongolia” where China had more troops stationed, and which they
protected more vigorously. Huhehot is a modern city in what is therefore now still China – but the people are ethnically Mongolians, who are Chinese citizens. There’s been substantial Chinese immigration into the area too, and the Mongolians are now in a minority here.

However, the cultural interest is definitely Mongolian, and absolutely unique – you can’t see anything like this in Mongolia itself. Most notable is the Five-Tower Pagoda, also called the Thousand- Buddha Pagoda – the only surviving example of an early Mongolian pagoda, fabulously decorated with one thousand carved images of the Buddha. Also unique is the appearance of dual Tibetan-Mongolian inscriptions – dating from the time when Tibetan Buddhism was still relatively new in Mongolia, and a stone-carved map of Buddhist cosmology. Huhehot is also home to another little-known Chinese minority – ethnic Chinese muslims, and you can visit their small and charming Mosque, and buy some delicious Islamic-style sweetmeats from the bakery outside. There’s also a more conventional Buddhist Temple, although under Chinese “supervision”.. Huhehot is a large modern city (nearly double the population of Ulaanbaatar) and has a good range of shops and restaurants (although nothing very special). Although State Guides in some parts of China can be deadly-dull, Huhehot happens to have some of the most informative, hard-working, outgoing and cheerful guides in China. 

There’s a direct fast train to Beijing. There’s also a “direct” train from Ulaanbaatar several times per week, although it makes a layover in the border-town of Erlian en-route. [Living Mongolian culture in Inner Mongolia has been deliberately stunted and diluted under Chinese rule, and as a result, the trips to “nomads” offered on the “Chinese” side of Mongolia are a rather sad tourist-trap and we don’t recommend or offer these, since the “real” ones in Mongolia are much better and closer to real life.]

OUTER & INNER MONGOLIA HH.A

MOSCOW (2) UB (2) GER (2) GOBI (2) HUHEHOT (2) BEIJING (0)

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 							ACCOM
1.	Arrival Moscow. Transfer to hotel accommodation.				Moscow
2.	Bkfst. Buddy guide (1/2 day). Free time Moscow				Moscow
3.	Bkfst. Free time. Transfer to station for train to Ulaanbatar.			on board
4-7.	On board								on board
8.	Arrival UB. City tour. Supper. Overnight in 3* hotel.				UB
9.	Transfer to Ger Camp, supper and overnight.				Ger Camp
10.	Free time at camp (all meals). Overnight.				Ger Camp
11.	Jeep into Bayan Gobi, (all meals), overnight with nomads.			Gobi
12.	Jeep into Bayan Gobi, (all meals), overnight with nomads.			Gobi
13.	Bkfst. Return to UB. Free time. Supper. Overnight.				UB
14.	Bkfst. Free time (own meals). Tfr to station for train from UB to Huhehot.	UB/train
15.	All day on board…… Evening arrival Huhehot. Overnight at 3* hotel.		Huhehot
16.	Bkfst. Guided city tour. Overnight at 3* hotel.				Huhehot
17.	Bkfst. Free time. Train to Beijing early evening.				On board
18.	Early morning arrival to Beijing early morning.				End of itinerary

DURATION		18 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES - 	May 5, 12, 19, 26/ June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30/ July 7, 14, 21, 28/ Aug 4, 11*, 18, 25*/ Sept 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
			*£30 supp. See Naadam page.

Standard Trip HHA			  1 person £1599	2 people £1299 each	3 to 9 people £1199 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each

OUTER/INNER MONGOLIA & SIBERIA HH.B

MOSCOW (2) BAIKAL (3) + IRKUTSK (DAY) UB (2) GER (2) GOBI (2) HUHEHOT (2) BEIJING (0)
ITINERARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 							ACCOM
1.	Arrival Moscow. Transfer to accommodation 				Moscow
2.	Bkfst. Buddy guide (1/2 day). Free time Moscow.				Moscow
3.	Bkfst. Free time. Transfer to station for evening train to to Irkutsk 		on board
4-6.	On board……							on board
7. 	Arrive Irkutsk. Tfr to Lake. Bkfst. Guided trekking along shore. Lunch. 		Listvyanka
Visit to Limnological Museum & Church. Sauna, dinner, overnight with family 	Listvyanka
8. 	Bkfst. Free time. (take picnic). Sauna, dinner, overnight with family 		Listvyanka
9.	Bkfst. Soft trek to forest with guide (8 hrs). Sauna, supper and o/n with family 	Listvyanka
10.	Bkfst. Car to A.E office in Irkutsk, leave luggage. Free time/own meals. 	Irkutsk/train
Return to office. Transfer to station for evening train.			on board
11. 	all day and night on board 						on board
12.	Early morning arrival to UB. City tour. Supper and overnight 3* hotel 		UB
13.	Return to UB. Transfer to Ger Camp, supper and overnight 			Ger Camp
14. 	Free time at camp (all meals). Overnight 				Ger Camp
15.	Jeep into Bayan Gobi, (all meals), overnight with nomads 			Gobi
16.	Jeep into Bayan Gobi, (all meals), overnight with nomads 			Gobi
17.	Bkfst. Free time. Supper. Overnight 					UB
18.	Bkfst. Free time (own meals). Tfr to station for evening train from UB to Huhehot 	UB/train
19. 	All day on board…… Arrive Huhehot mid evening. Overnight at 3* hotel 	Huhehot
20.	Bkfst. Guided city tour. Overnight at 3* hotel 				Huhehot
21.	Bkfst. Free time. Mid evening train to Beijing 				on board
22.	Morning arrival to Beijing.						End of itinerary

DURATION 		22 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Rus+Mon+Chi
2003 START DATES - 	May 1, 15, 29/ June 5, 19/ July 3, 17, 31/ Aug 7*, 21*/ Sept 11, 25
*£30 supplement applies. See Naadam page for details.

For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation. Meals where stated.

Standard Trip HHB			  1 person £1699	2 people £1399 each	3 to 9 people £1299 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night)  1 person £55	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £45 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

CHINA TRIPS

China’s enormous territories and legendarily numerous population are the heritage of a historical process that has
unified many different peoples and empires – over thousands of years, into the State we know as modern China.
The rich heritage of those Empires offers the visitor to China a multilayered diversity of cultural attractions. And this
is not even to speak of the famed natural beauty-spots…. Although China is now more open than ever to visit, the
legacy of the previous “closed-door” policy is that even staggeringly important sights and destinations are poorly
known as yet in the West. Here are just a few…

BEIJING is well-known as China’s capital – but did you know that it began as a Mongolian stronghold, and its original name was neither Beijing nor Peking, but Khan-Baliq? When the Mongolian Khans overran China, they moved the capital up from centrally-located Xi’an, to a conveniently close to their Mongolian steppes. Later successors to the Empire were the Manchu. Fearful of their lives amidst locals they’d enslaved, they built a city-within-a-city that was Forbidden to all except Royal courtiers and their elite bodyguard of eunuchs – the
Forbidden City. It directly adjoins Tienanmen Square. You’ll need 3-4 days to see everything in Beijing, even briefly – the great temples like the Lama Temple or the Temple of Heaven, the royal legacies at the Summer Palace, and a trip out to one of the several sections of the Great Wall that are open. But when are you going to find time to take a wander around the Hutongs – Beijing’s back alleys that haven’t changed in centuries? If the summer heat (+33C or more) leaves you parched, the good news is that Beijing doesn’t have bars – it has whole streets of bars, where every doorway’s a different drinking-hole. With your days jam-packed, its just as well there are night-markets for snack-food, great-value silk clothes, dodgy cd’s and more…

XIAN was, for centuries, the Imperial Capital of China… a massive medieval walled city, with four gates facing out to the four compass-points of the Empire it controlled. At its heart, two great towers – announcing the start of the working day with a Bell in one, and its close with a massive Drum in the other. The pre-Mongolian royal dynasties who ruled here took refuge in Buddhism, and the great pagodas of the city survive to this day. Yet the Emperors permitted other faiths, and one of the most fascinating areas is the Old Muslim Quarter. It’s thronging alleys are packed with cheap souvenirs, fake antiques, some great street-food for small-change prices – but at the epicentre of this cheerful chaos is the feng-shui tranquillity of the Chinese-style Mosque, with beautiful zen-influenced
walled gardens. People unfairly forget all this.. but they can almost forgiven for centring their minds on the Exhibition of Terracotta Warriors, an hour’s drive from town. Built to wage war for their Emperor in the after-life, they were vandalised only a decade after his death, in the power-vacuum that followed.

CHENGDU is mostly famous for two things: (i) it’s the gateway city in China from which you can get to Tibet, and
almost all travel by foreigners is routed through here by bureucratic rulings (ii) it’s an attractive modern city that has
a famous Giant Panda Reserve.

SHANGHAI is – questionably? – the largest city in the world, nearly three times larger than Beijing, and an
economic powerhouse that is rapidly outstripping Hong Kong. Although there’s a small “old town” area, the real
attractions here are eating, drinking and shopping – Shanghai’s a world-class city in all three activities! There are
good onward sea connections to Japan.

GUILIN is mostly famous for its natural beauty, with scenery made up of limestone karsts eroded into strange
formations. We arrange the accommodation in Guilin but leave you to arrange your days. Most visitors to Guilin
take a boat trip on the River Li, which meanders between Guilin and Yangshuo. Yangshuo is a great day trip out.
Nestled amongst the hills it offers caves to explore, bike hire and a relaxed atmosphere.

GUANGHZHOU (once known as Canton) is a busy modern city. Famous for its Cantonese cuisine you can spend your brief stop in Guanghzhou checking out the numerous restaurants, featuring some very exotic meats! If you have time between sittings check out the Huaisheng Mosque built during the Tang Dynasty, one of the oldest mosques in China.

China has State-subsidised public transport, making it a great transport hub to reach other places in Asia. One
practicable route from Beijing is to Hanoi, which itself offers a new network of further onward routings through SE Asia. Another little-known but practicable routing is the boat from near Beijing to South Korea. There are also more well-known sea crossings from Shanghai to Japan. For those of you already in Japan we can offer the boat to Shanghai.  Details of all the above routes are included on the following pages. We can also offer most of these routes in reverse ie starting in Hong Kong or Shanghai. Please contact us for details and prices.

SIMPLY BEIJING 3* HOTEL CH.01
A chance to spend some time in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Siberian itinerary before returning home or continuing on through China.

Car transfer on arrival to Beijing from our Trans-Sib trips is included. If you are flying into Beijing, there is a supplement of £30 (1 person) and £15 per person (2-9 people).

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 
1	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib itinerary. Transfer to a 3 * Hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight.
2	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at 3* Hotel.

TOUR PRICE
Standard Trip CH.01	 	1 person £150	2 people £85 each		3 to 9 people £80 each

Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night)    1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 		2 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chinese
2003 START DATES 	Any Day

ITINERARY DATA
SIMPLY BEIJING 1* HOTEL CH.00
A Beijing Lite trip for those on a budget. The hotel is a clean but basic 1* run by non English speaking staff. In order to keep the price down we have also cut out the car transfer on arrival included in our standard China trips.

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 
1	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip. Own  transport to a 1* Hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight.
2	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at 1* Hotel.

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of Beijing hotel (Chinese bkfst):

Budget Trip CH.00 			1 person £75	2 people £45 each		3 to 9 people £40 each

Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 	1 person £30	2 people £20 each		3 to 9 people £18 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 		 2 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chinese
2003 START DATES 	Any Day

It is easy to book day trips from Beijing while you are there. However if you are short on time and want to book them in advance we can do this for you (prices do include booking fee). 

Day Trips from Beijing (inc. lunch) *Group trips operated by CITS

GREAT WALL & MING TOMBS £45 pp

FORBIDDEN CITY & TEMPLE OF HEAVEN £40 pp

SUMMER PALACE & LAMA TEMPLE £38 pp
NEW FOR 2

BEIJING TO HONG KONG CH.02
Arrive in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip. Two days to explore then catch the overnight train to Hong Kong.

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 									ACCOM 
1.	       Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip.
       Car transfer to a 3*hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight.					Beijing
2.	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3* hotel.						Beijing
3.	Own taxi to station, early morning departure to Hong Kong. Overnight on board.			on board
4.	Arrive early afternoon in Hong Kong.							End of itinerary

TOUR PRICE ..For the above itinerary inclusive of Beijing hotel (room only):

Standard Trip CH.02		 1 person £310	2 people £250 each		3 to 9 people £240 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night)	 1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Beijing, no car on arrival.
Tour Code CH.02B			 1 person £240	2 people £200 each		3 to 9 people £190 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)	 1 person £30	2 people £20 each		3 to 9 people £18 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 		4 Days	
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chi
2003 START DATES 	Train operates on alternate days. You may need to book an extra night in Beijing to fit in with timetables.

Schedule of train 97 Beijing to Hong Kong in 2003:
Jan on Odd day/ Feb on Even day/ March on Even day/ Apr on Odd day/ May on Odd day/ June on Even day
July on Even day/ Aug on Odd day/ Sept on Even day/ Oct on Even day/ Nov on Odd day/ Dec on Odd day

CHINA ADD ONS
SCENIC CHINESE ROUTE CH.07
From Beijing to Hong Kong, taking in historic Xian, ancient capital of China and home to the Terracotta Army, onto Guilin and the famous peaks along the River Li. Spend a night in Guangzhou and then by hydrofoil to Hong Kong.

BEIJING (2) XIAN (2) GUILIN (2) G’ZOU (1) HONG KONG (0)

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 									ACCOM
1.	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib tip. 						Beijing
Car transfer to 3* hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight.				
2. 	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at 3* hotel. 						Beijing
3. 	Free time. Own taxi to station. Overnight train to Xian. 					on board
4. 	Arrive in Xian, own taxi to 3* hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight Xian. 				Xian
5. 	Full day CITS excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets 
and guide included). Return to Xian and overnight at hotel. 					Xian
6. 	Own transport to station for overnight train to Guilin. All day and night on board.			on board
7. 	Arrive Guilin mid morning. Own taxi to 3* hotel. Free time. Overnight at hotel.			Guilin
8. 	Free time to explore. Overnight at hotel.							Guilin
9. 	Free time. Own transport to station for overnight train to Guangzhou.				on board
10. 	Arrive Guangzhou. Own taxi to 3* hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight at hotel.			G’Zou
11. 	Own taxi to hydrofoil station for departure to Hong Kong.					End of itinerary

TOUR PRICE: For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation (meals NOT included). Canton Fair Supplement: A Canton Fair takes places twice a year: 14 – 30 April and 14 – 30 October. Accommodation in Guangzhou during this time is subject to availability and there will be a supplement of £50 per person per night. Sorry! All the hotels increase their prices for the fair.

Standard Trip CH.07		 1 person £630	2 people £530 each		3 to 9 people £520 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 	 1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotels, no car on arrival, no Terracotta Army trip.
Tour Code CH.07B			 1 person £565	2 people £465 each		3 to 9 people £455 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night) 	 1 person £30	2 people £20 each		3 to 9 people £18 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION		11 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chi
2003 START DATES 	Any Day
ERARY DATA

THE GREAT CHINESE ROUTE CH.06

BEIJING (2) XIAN (2) G’ZOU (1) HONG KONG (0)

Beijing to Hong Kong, via historic Xian. Overnight in Guangzhou then onto Hong Kong.

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 									ACCOM
1. 	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip. Car transfer to 3* hotel.
Balance of day free. Overnight.							Beijing
2. 	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at 3* hotel. 						Beijing
3.	Free time. Own taxi to station. Overnight train to Xian. 					on board
4. 	Arrive in Xian, own taxi to 3* hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight at hotel. 			Xian
5. 	Full day CITS excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets and guide   
included). Return to Xian and overnight at hotel. 						Xian
6. 	Own transport to station. Overnight train to Guangzhou. 					on board
7. 	Arrive Guangzhou. Own taxi to 3hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight at hotel. 			Guangzhou
8. 	Own taxi to hydrofoil station for departure to Hong Kong. Arrive Hong Kong. 			End of itinerary

TOUR PRICE: For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation
(meals NOT included). Canton Fair Supplement: A Canton Fair takes places twice a year: 14 – 30 April and 14 – 30 October. Accommodation in Guangzhou during this time is subject to availability and there will be a supplement of £50 per person per night. Sorry! All the hotels increase their prices for the fair.

Standard Trip CH.06		 1 person £540	2 people £440 each		3 to 9 people £430 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotels, no car on arrival, no Terracotta Army trip.
Tour Code CH.06B			 1 person £440	2 people £380 each		3 to 9 people £370 each
Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 		8 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 	Chi
2003 START DATES	Any Day
ITINERARY DATA
TERRACOTTA TRAIL RETURNING TO BEIJING CH.04
BEIJING (2) XIAN (2) back to BEIJING (0)

DAY	 ACTIVITIES									 ACCOM
1. 	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip. Car transfer to 3* hotel. 			Beijing
Balance of day free. Overnight.
2. 	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3* hotel. 						Beijing
3. 	Free time. Own taxi to station. Overnight train to Xian. 					on board
4. 	Arrive in Xian, own taxi to 3* hotel. Balance of day free to explore this historic city.		Xian
5. 	Full day CITS excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets and guide
included). Return to Xian and overnight at hotel. 						Xian
6. 	Free time. Own transport to station. Overnight train to Beijing. 				on board
7. 	Arrival in Beijing. 									End of itinerary. 

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation (meals NOT included)

Standard Trip CH.04 			1 person £390	2 people £330 each		3 to 9 people £320 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night)	 	1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotels, no car on arrival, no Terracotta Army trip.
Tour Code CH.04B				1 person £330	2 people £270 each		3 to 9 people £260 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)		 1 person £30	2 people £20 each		3 to 9 people £18 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 		7 Days	
VISAS REQUIRED 	Chi	
2003 START DATES	Any Day

CHINA ADD ONS
The Russia Experience 48
BEIJING TO SHANGHAI CH.03
Arrive in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip. Two days to explore then catch the overnight train to Shanghai.

BEIJING (2) SHANGHAI (0)

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1. 	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib itinerary. Car transfer to 3* hotel.
Balance of day free. Overnight.						Beijing
2. 	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at 3* hotel. 					Beijing
3. 	Own taxi to station for evening departure to Shanghai. Overnight on board. 		on board
4. 	Arrive morning in Shanghai. 							End of itinerary

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of Beijing hotel (room only), soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel:
Standard Trip CH.03 		1 person £270	2 people £210 each		3 to 9 people £200 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotel Beijing, no car on arrival.
Tour Code CH.03B			 1 person £210	2 people £170 each		3 to 9 people £160 each
Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 			4 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chi
2003 START DATES		Any Day

INERARY DATA
THE TERRACOTTA TRAIL TO SHANGHAI CH.05
Starting in Beijing, onto historic Xian, and the Terracotta Army, then onto Shanghai.

BEIJING (2) XIAN (2) SHANGHAI (0)

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1. 	Arrival in Beijing at the end of your Trans-Sib trip. Car transfer to a 3* hotel.
Balance of day free. Overnight. 						Beijing
2. 	Free day in Beijing. Overnight at a 3* hotel. 					Beijing
3. 	Free time. Own taxi to station. Overnight train to Xian. 				on board
4. 	Arrive in Xian, own taxi to 3* hotel. Balance of day free to explore this historic city. 	Xian
5. 	Full day CITS excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets and guide
included). Return to Xian and overnight at hotel. 					Xian
6. 	Own transport to station for early evening train to Shanghai. 				on board
7. 	Mid morning arrival in Shanghai.						End of itinerary

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation (meals NOT included)

Standard Trip CH.05		 1 person £390	2 people £330 each		3 to 9 people £320 each
Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night)	 1 person £60	2 people £40 each		3 to 9 people £35 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotels, no car on arrival, no Terracotta Army trip.
Tour Code CH.05B			 1 person £330	2 people £270 each		3  to 9 people £260 each
Extra night Beijing Budget (per night)	 1 person £30	2 people £20 each		£18 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 			7 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chi
2003 START DATES 		Any Day

SHANGHAI ACCOMMODATION
Huadong 3* Hotel 	Code: SH.3 Conveniently located next to the train station. 
1 person £55 per night, 2 people £40 each per night, 3 to 9 people £35 each per night

Peace 5* Hotel 	Code: SH.5 Colonial luxury – the most famous hotel in Shanghai. 
1 person £125 per night, 2 people £70 each per night, 3 to 9 people £65 each per night

ONWARDS FROM CHINA
 The Russia Experience 49

BOAT TICKETS TO JAPAN 			Deluxe A Class 	1st Class 		2nd Class Trip	Trip Code
2 berth		 4 berth 		8 berth code
Suzhou Boat to Osaka (Dep. Tues/Arr. Thur) 			£375 pp 		£250 pp		 n/a 		S.SUZ 2/4

Xian Jian Zhen Boat to Kobe/Osaka (Dep. alternate Sat/Arr. Mon) 	£375 pp		£250 pp 		£230 pp 		S.XJZ 2/4/8

We can also offer these boat tickets from Japan to Shanghai.

Suzhou Boat from Osaka (Dep. Fri/Arr. Sun) 			£405 		£290 		n/a 		J.SUZ 2/4

Xian Jian Zhen Boat from Kobe/Osaka (Dep. alternate Tues/Arr. Thu) 	£405		£290		£270 		J/XJZ 2/4/8

TIANJIN ACCOMMODATION AND BOAT TICKET TO KOREA

Train ticket from Beijing to Tanggu and overnight at 2* Hotel near pier at Tianjin harbour.

1 pax		2 pax		3-9 pax 		TIAHOT
£85		£75 pp 		£70 pp

Boat Ticket to Inchon (nr Seoul) South Korea. Departs every Thursday or Sunday at 11:00 (must board boat by 09:00).

Royal (2 berth) 	Deluxe (2 berth) 	Business
(twin bed)		 (double bed) 	(4 berth)

£210 		£186		 £155 		KOR.R/D/B
I

BEIJING TO HANOI CH.10
Heading into Vietnam and South East Asia? We can now offer a route to Hanoi.

BEIJING (3) GUILIN (0) HANOI (0)

DAY	 ACTIVITIES									 ACCOM
1.	Arrival Beijing. Car transfer to 3* Hotel. Free time. Overnight.					Beijing
2. 	Bkfst. Free time. Overnight 3* Hotel.							Beijing
3.	Bkfst. Free time. Overnight 3* Hotel.							Beijing
4. 	Bkfst. OWN transfer to station for morning train to Guilin. All day and night on board.		on board
5.	Arrive Guilin 10:21. Dep 10:29 to Hanoi. Early morning arrival to Hanoi.

TOUR PRICE: For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation
Standard Trip CH.10		 1 person £350	2 people £270 each		3 to 9 people £260 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotels, no car on arrival.
Tour Code CH.10B			 1 person £275	2 people £245 each		3 to 9 people £235 each

DURATION 			5 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chi
2003 START DATES		Tue / Fri

ROUTES TO TIBET
New for 2003 are our trips in Tibet. Want to get there quickly then we can offer a train ticket only from Beijing to Chengdu (gateway for trips to Lhasa). If you have more time we recommend taking the route via Xian, famous for its Terracotta Warriors Xian was also the Imperial Capital of China and a major city on the Silk Route.

BEIJING TO CHENGDU CH.08
Train ticket only £130 for a soft sleeper / 4 berth. Daily service.
ITINERARY DATA
BEIJING TO CHENGDU VIA XIAN CH.09
Starting in Beijing, onto historic Xian, and the Terracotta Army, then onto Chengdu.

BEIJING (2) XIAN (2) CHENGDU (0)

*If you arrive into Beijing from one of our Trans Sib trips and would like to take the route via Xian to Chendgu then you will need to book an
extra night to connect with the start of our Tibet trips on Saturday. You can either take your extra night in Beijing or Xian the choice is yours!

DAY 	ACTIVITIES 							ACCOM
1. 	Arrival Beijing. Car transfer to 3* Hotel.					Beijing
2. 	Free time. Overnight at 3* Hotel.					Beijing
3. 	Free time. Own transport to station for train. Overnight train to Xian.		Xian
4. 	Arrival Xian. Own transport to 3* Hotel. Balance of day free. Overnight at hotel.	Xian
5. 	Full day CITS excursion to Terracotta Army (transport, lunch, tickets and guide 
included). Return to Xian and overnight at hotel.				Xian
6. 	Own transport to station for overnight train to Chengdu.			Chengdu
7. 	Arrival Chengdu. (Connect to Tibet itinerary).				End of itinerary

TOUR PRICE
For the above itinerary inclusive of the travel services, based on soft sleeper/4-berth rail travel, accommodation (meals NOT included)

Standard Trip CH.09 1 person £390, 2 people £330 each, 3 to 9 people £320 each

Extra night Beijing XN.BJS (per night) 1 person £60, 2 people £40 each, 3 to 9 people £35 each
Extra night Xian XN.BJS (per night) 1 person £60, 2 people £40 each, 3 to 9 people £35 each

Budget Trip – 1* hotels, no car on arrival, no Terracotta Army trip.
Tour Code CH.09B 1 person £300, 2 people £225 each, 3 to 9 people £215 each

Extra night Beijing Budget (per night) 1 person £30, 2 people £20 each, 3 to 9 people £18 each
Extra night Xian Budget (per night) 1 person £35, 2 people £25 each, 3 to 9 people £23 each

Room allocation for 3/5 people or more is based on twins and singles. There are no triple rooms.

DURATION 			7 Days
VISAS REQUIRED 		Chi
2003 START DATES		Sat

TIBET T.01

The remoteness of the Mountain Kingdom of Tibet has always provided a fascination to outsiders. There are also, of course, some political issues – it’s a rather sobering thought that the invasion of the country executed at the beginning of the C20th was… by the British Empire. After more than five years of planning, we are now happy to introduce Tibet programs (both here and in our “Off The Rails” brochure of small-group adventure trips) operated on an “ethical” basis. Rather than bandy-around smart-sounding terms, we’d prefer to be specific about what that really means in Tibet. For us, it broadly means the guidelines developed by the Australia-Tibet Council (www.atc.org.au for more about their work), which are a pattern for responsible and ethical tourism anywhere in the world:

* working with local Tibetan guides who have an expert knowledge of their homeland
* working with local companies so that the local economy gets the real benefits
* working in ways which celebrate and support the indigenous culture and religion of Tibet
* helping our clients to visit in ways which preserve the cultural and environmental legacy of the area for others to enjoy in future

RUSSIA EXPERIENCE DOES NOT USE CHINESE STAFF OR STATE AGENCIES FOR ANY TRAVEL IN TIBET.
You ought to bear the following practical information in mind: (i) all visitors to Tibet require a special Permit to do so – of course, our trips provide this documentation automatically (ii) be ready to adjust to the altitude – this averagely takes 2 days, during which you might get headaches until your red blood-cell rate catches up with sparser oxygen (iii) Not everyone in Tibet is a monk – local Tibetans have a cheerful and earthy sense of fun and humour too! (iv) conditions in roadside accommodation and canteens on the final stretch to Nepal can be fun, but quite basic!

ITINERARY DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrival Chengdu. Car transfer to 2* Hotel. Afternoon city tour inc. Du Fu Cottage
(poet), Marquis Wu Temple, Teahouse.						Chengdu		
2	Visit Panda Breeding Centre and Sanxindui Museum. Special Sichuan Cuisine.
Overnight Chengdu.								Chengdu
3	Early morning tfr to airport. Flight to Lhasa. Tfr to 2* Hotel in Lhasa (100km).
Overnight Lhasa.								Lhasa
4	Visit Potala Palace. Afternoon visit Sera Monastery and Norbulinka. Overnight Lhasa.	Lhasa
5	Visit Drepung Monastery. Afternoon visit Jorkhang Temple and Barkhor Street.		
Overnight Lhasa.								Lhasa
6	Drive to Gyantse (260 km) via Yamdrok Lake, visit Kumbum Monastery in Gyantse,
continue onto Shigatse (100km).						Shigatse
7	Visit Tashilunbo Monastery and drive 320 km to Xegar (Tingri), visit Sakya
Monastery en route.								Xegar (Tingri)
8	Drive to Zhangmu Border (330km). Overnight Zhanmu.				Zhangmu
9	Cross Chinese and Nepal borders. Meet Nepali guide and vehicle at Friendship		Kathmandu
Bridge. Tfr to Kathmandu (140km). Drop at Thamel. End of itinerary.			End of itinerary

DURATION		9 Days

VISAS REQUIRED		Chi+Nepal, +Tibetan permit (issued in Chengdu)

2003 START DATES 	FRIDAYS APR – OCT (June & July Monsoon but travel still possible)

OPTION			Details of travel to Chengdu from Beijing in China Section.

PRICE 			T.01  for 2 or more people £1099 each

For the above Itinerary inclusive of travel services, internal flight, accommodation, meals where stated:TOUR PRICE
To give you a taster, here are our Top Tips for surviving the Trans-Sib
“Go to Tibet and see many places,

GETTING TO AND FROM RUSSIArience 30
The easy way, of course, is to FLY. Many airlines offer an “open-jaw” (“into one, back from the other”) fare to/from Moscow and St Petersburg. It’s much harder finding such fares to link Russia with China or Nepal, but some “Round-The-World” air specialists have special deals - we can point you to them! (Online air-ticket services rarely if ever have a fare to suit special-interest routes like T-Sib - don’t panic if they show a fare that would cover taking a travelling circus to NYC on Concorde!)

IF YOU PLAN TO ENTER RUSSIA BY SURFACE TRANSPORT... All rail routes to Moscow and St Petes from/via Germany and Poland (ie the MAIN rail routes to Russia) go via BELARUS. You must obtain a Transit Visa from the Belarus Consulate before travelling. If you intend leaving this way too, you need a double-entry transit visa. If you’re coming/going from Finland, life is easy – no extra visas!
But think twice before planning to come by train from Czech Rep*, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia etc. All these routes take you via Ukraine. Ukrainian Transit Visas are VERY hard to get, and require you to be holding the actual ticket itself – which you can only buy in your departure country! * if you’re coming from Prague, there’s a “via-Warsaw” route you can choose which will avoid the Ukrainian Visa problem!  

WE NEED TO KNOW IF YOU’RE COMING BY TRAIN – TO FIX YOUR RUSSIAN VISA CORRECTLY.
Sorry but we cannot help with obtaining other visas!

WANT TO PRE-BOOK YOUR TRAIN TICKETS? WE CAN HELP!
Warsaw and Helsinki are the favourite launch-points into Russia – they’re the furthest points you can get to on most rail-passes or bus systems , and they are the routes-of-least-visa-resistance, as well as being the shortest.  Even so, remember that if you are travelling from UK, Warsaw isn’t even quite half-way to St Petersburg or Moscow, so plan for another full day (36+ hrs to St Petes) when working-out your departure date! There is no direct rail service to Russia from anywhere West of Berlin these days.

Because the Russian Visa is date specific you need to arrive and depart Russia on the dates your trip with us starts and ends. If you are travelling overland and would like help with booking train tickets we can offer the following:

To Russia 			Duration 			Frequency
Warsaw to St Petersburg 		2 nts on board 		Daily summer or 3 times/wk winter
Warsaw to Moscow 			o/night			Daily

Helsinki to St Petersburg 		same day 		Daily
Helsinki to Moscow 			o/night 			Daily

Prague to St Petersburg		2 nts on board 		Daily
Prague to Moscow 			2 nts on board 		Daily

We will be able to offer London to Moscow in 2003. Prices/times to be announced.

Warsaw to Russia
Train tickets from Warsaw to Russia will be issued to you here in the UK with your final documents.
2 Cl single £130 plus sleeper fee £24 for 3 berth sleeper or £33 for 2 berth sleeper
1 Cl single £180 plus sleeper fee £33 for 2 berth sleeper or £65 for a single compartment

Prague to Russia
2 Cl single £190 plus sleeper fee £20 for 3 berth sleeper or £26 for 2 berth sleeper
1 Cl single £320 plus sleeper fee £26 for 2 berth sleeper or £45 for a single compartment

Helsinki to Russia
For trains from Helsinki only we reserve the tickets and issue you with a confirmation. We charge a £10 pp oneway booking fee or £15 pp booking fee if you order return tickets. You collect and pay for the tickets at the highly-efficient and user-friendly Helsinki International Station. Please note you must collect the tickets 48 hours before departure. If this is not possible please advise otherwise your reservation will be auto-cancelled by Fin Rail.

From St Petersburg to the following destinations:
Cost 1st Cl 		Cost 2nd Cl
Helsinki			 £226			 £160
Warsaw 			£278			 £135
Tallin 			£183 			£107
Riga 			£200 			£130
Berlin 			£280 			£199

From Moscow to the following destinations:
Cost 1st Cl 		Cost 2nd Cl
Helsinki 			£180 			£120
Warsaw 			—		 	£135
Prague			 — 			£192
Berlin 			— 			£224
Riga 			£186			 £126

Most (but not all) of these trains are daily during the summer months. However, timetables are subject to constant change. Please call/email for the latest information. We would strongly advise that you make the request for train tickets at the time of booking. This ensures that your Russian Visa is issued correctly.
The Russia Experience 31
Depending on the route you book the visa may need to be extended to cover your transit time out of Russia. If you decide at a later date this may affect the Russian Visa and will almost certainly cost you extra to make the changes. Other trains to destinations in Europe are available. Please ask for details.

FREESTYLE MOSCOW AND ST PETES

So many of our Trans-Sibbers visit Russia, fall in love with the country, it’s culture and history – not to mention its wild night life! – and want to return to Moscow and St Petersburg for a short visit. We also have many requests for short breaks from people who do not have the time to do one of our longer trips but would love to visit Russia.

We are offering short breaks in Moscow and St Petersburg with side trips to Suzdal and Novgorod, using the hotels that we book for our Trans-Siberian trips. Alternatively if you have a little longer and would like to travel with a group you may prefer to join our Beetroot Bus  - please go to www.beetroot.org We usually need at least three weeks notice to book the following trips as it takes 10 working days to get a Russian Visa. Of course we can accept bookings at shorter notice but express visa fees will apply. Remember! Russian Visas are date and city specific, your visa will be issued to correspond with your trip dates. On the Freestyle Moscow and St Petersburg options there is a minimum booking requirement of three nights. Between them, Moscow and St Petersburg account for nearly 90% of all of Russia’s leisure visitors, who never get any further in Russia. Although this is a pity in some ways, it’s absolutely understandable – both cities have so much to see and do that you could easily stay a week and still be on the “a-grade” attractions. Freestyle is exactly what it says – a way in which you can design it yourself entirely around your own interests. We’ve had people following-up family roots, jewish heritage, going to a series of concerts and theatre performances, and people with interests in a specific period of history. We’ve also had people who’ve maybe done St Petersburg on an ocean cruise who want do Moscow on its own – or people who started a Trans-Sib trip in Moscow and left St Petersburg for another time. Whatever has stimulated your interest, our Freestyle option enables you to do things your way. In addition to accommodation, we  make sense of the visa-maze and do the running-around for you; if you want meeting at the airport we’re there for you; and if you need local assistance with things, it can all be set-up in advance so that you get the most out of your time whilst you are there.

 Please note that in order to get the special 3-9 person price you will be sharing triple/quad rooms. If you would like to have twin rooms then please use the two person price.
ST PETERSBURG
ST PETERSBURG 
	Solo Extra nt	Price pp		Price pp
FR.00	3 nights budget/hostel accommodation (shared wc/bath)			Twin share	3-9 client
Room only basis. Car transfer on arrival.				£175  £60	 £140    £35 	£140	£35

Neva Hotel 3 nights accommodation in (wc/bath). 
Breakfast included. Car transfer on arrival.

FR.02 Unrenovated 2*						£160  £55	 £120    £35	 £120	£35
	
FR.03 Renovated 3* 						£225  £75	£160     £55	£160	£55

Vyborgskaya 2*
FR.01 Renovated 						£235  £80 	£195      £60 	£195	£60

FR.04 Spbvergaz 3
01.01.03-30.04.03 & 01.10.03-31.12.03 				£275   £90	 £210      £70	 £210	£70
01.05.03-30.09.03 						£320   £105	 £275      £95	 £275	£95

FR.05 Deson Ladoga 3
01.01.03-31.03.03						£285   £95	 £205       £65 	£205	£65
01.04.03-30.04.03 and 01.10.03-30.10.03 				£300   £100 	£215        £70 	£215	£70
01.05.03-19.05.03 and 01.07.03-30.09.03				£315  £105	 £230       £75 	£230	£75
19.05.03-30.06.03 						£330   £115 	£240        £75	 £240	£75

FR.06 Hotel Neptune 4
01.01.03-31.03.03 and 01.10.03-31.12.03				£240	£75	£190 	£60	£190	£60
01.04.03-30.04.03 and 01.08.03-30.09.03 				£285 	£80 	£225 	£60 	£225	£60
01.05.03-31.07.03 						£320 	£100 	£245 	£70 	£245 	£70

MOSCOW
MOSCOW
FR.07 3 nights budget/hostel accommodation (room only basis).	£140 	£28	 £110 	£25	 £100	£25
Car transfer on arrival.

FR.08 3 nights accommodation in a 3Hotel. Breakfast included.		£220	£55	 £170	£45	 £160	£45
Car transfer on arrival.

Trip price does not include Russian Visa Fees or travel to/from Russia. There is also a registration fee payable upon arrival at your hotel. It is approx. $5.
 “Lastly, don’t

 you wish to add St Petersburg to your Trans-Sib trip see pages 14 and 1ails of hotels can be found on pages 14 and 15.
FR.09 SUZDAL SIDE TRIP FROM MOSCOW

It is possible to take a side trip to historical Suzdal from Moscow. The following price includes return bus ticket to Vladimir,
return car transfer to Suzdal, one night at a 3* hotel (inc. bkfst) and a three hour guided tour of the town.
£180 one person, 	£130 per person twin share, 	£120 3-9 people

OPTIONAL SERVICES
	
FR.10 	Buddy Guide Services (4 hours)	 			    £50
FR.11 	Buddy Guide Services (8 hours) 				    £75
FR.12 	Car transfer on departure from St Petersburg 		    £35
FR.13 	Car transfer on departure from Moscow 			    £55
FR.14 	1-Class/2 berth rail tickets Moscow-St Petersburg or visa versa  £110
FR.15	 2-Class/4 berth rail tickets Moscow-St Petersburg or visa versa   £70

ST PETERSBURG NOVGOROD & MOSCOW

Russia’s two historic capitals in combination with the ancient medieval city of Novgorod. It’s possible to insert the beautiful city of Veliky Novgorod - the oldest city in Russia - into a “classic” Moscow / Petersburg two-centre trip. In fact hundreds of our Beetroot Bus (www.beetroot.org) passengers agree! But for those who don’t want to go in a small group, we’ve set this out to show how the (limited but reliable) transport options line-up for individual travellers. FR.09 
ST PETERSBURG.NOVGOROD &MOSCOW ER.01 DATA
DAY 	ACTIVITIES 								ACCOM
1	Arrive St Petersburg. Car to accommodation. Overnight.			3* Hotel (Bkfst inc.)
2	Bkfst. Buddy assistance for half day to help you explore the city.		3* Hotel (Bkfst inc.)
Free time. Overnight.							
3	Bkfst. Car to station for bus to Novgorod (approx. 4 hours).			Family Stay Novgorod (HB)
Car to Family Stay. Balance of day free, supper and overnight.			
4	Bkfst. Buddy assistance for your full day in Novgorod.				Family Stay Novgorod (HB)
Supper and overnight.
5	Bkfst. Full day in Novgorod. Mid evening car transfer to station for
the train to Moscow. Overnight on board.					On board
6	Morning arrival in Moscow. Car to accommodation.				3* Hotel (Bkfst inc.)
Buddy assistance for half day. Free time. Overnight.
7	Bkfst. Full day to explore the city. Overnight.					3* Hotel (Bkfst inc.)
8	Transfer to airport or station on departure. End of itinerary.			End of Itinerary

For the above itinerary inclusive of travel services, based on 2nd-Class/4-berth rail travel, accommodation and meals
where stated:

Standard Trip ER.01 			1 person £699	2 people £599 each	3 to 9 people £499 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 	1 person £55	2 people £45 each	3 to 9 people £45 each
Extra night St Petersburg XN.LED (per night)1 person £65	2 people  £50 each	3 to 9 people £45 each

Budget Trip ER.01b. As per above itinerary but excluding buddy assistance and breakfast in St Petes and Moscow.
1 person £499	2 people £399 each	3 to 9 people £299 each
Extra night Moscow XN.MOW (per night) 	1 person £28	2 people £25 each	3 to 9 people £25 each
Extra night St Petersburg XN.LED (per night)1 person £55	2 people £35 each	3 to 9 people £35 each

Save money if you’re travelling with friends – groups of 3-9 people all travelling on the same trip get a lower price. To qualify, you simply have to arrive/leave on the same flights, and submit your passports simultaneously for visa processing.

Trip price does not include Russian Visa Fees or travel to/from Russia. There is also a registration fee payable upon
arrival at your hotel. It is approx. $5.
TOUR PRICE
The Russia Experience 39
DATA. Start days are optional. This trip can be operated in the reverse order of cities.

The Russia Experience
BOOKING FORM BOOKING FORM

Please sit down with a cup of coffee (or maybe a glass of vodka!) and fill the form in carefully. We know
it’s a drag, but all of the information we ask for is necessary, and often the detail you give us here will be
compared against your travel documents. For example, your passport number will appear against your
name on your train tickets, in addition to being needed for the visa process.

ONCE WE HAVE YOUR BOOKING FORM, WE’LL BE MAILING YOU:

• Our comprehensive Info-Pack, jammed with handy hints and info about your trip. Questions
about currency, what to see, what to eat, what to pack? This has the answers.

• All the Visa Forms you need, plus hints on how to complete them and what to enclose.
DON’T SEND YOUR PASSPORT TO US NOW – wait until you receive the Visa-Pack.

• Your invoice, showing the deposit you’ve paid and the balance remaining.

PRICE GUARANTEE
In a world where currencies can shift radically in value overnight, international travel costs can change without warning. We offer a price guarantee that once you have paid your final trip balance, we will not surcharge you for any shift in prices.

When you’ve completed the Booking Form, please email it to us at info@trans-siberian.co.uk or mail it with your deposit to:

The Russia Experience Ltd, Research House, Fraser Rd, Perivale, Middz. UB6 7AQ. 

If you are paying by plastic, you can also fax it to 0208 566 8843.

If you are booking through a Russia Experience agent they will help you complete the forms and will be your point of contact throughout.
They will liase with The Russia Experience on your behalf and it is to your agent that you must submit your passport and photos.
The Russia Experience 33
Please don’t apply for ANY visas until you’ve booked your trip with us. Many visas require documentation from us to accompany the form, which will be rejected without it. We can handle the Russian, Mongolian and Chinese visas for the trips you book with us. It saves you a day queueing in the street outside the Consulate!

BOOKING FORM
The Russia Experience 34
BOOKING FORM The Russia Experience Ltd
DECLARATION
I/we have read The Russia Experience Ltd brochure, and would like to book the trip(s) we have detailed below. I/we are aware that the destinations we have chosen to go to differ greatly from our own country, especially in terms of reliability of infrastructure, attitudes towards foreign visitors, and stability of local economies. I/we further understand that both before and during our trip we will be liable to changes in local regulations which affect foreign visitors in those destinations, especially with regard to the requirements for obtaining visas, to immigration (passport control) procedures, to foreign currency exchange, to local taxes, to registration of aliens, and other matters. I/we have read, understand, and accept the Booking Conditions. In signing this Declaration, I do so also on behalf of any co-passengers who I undertake to have been similarly informed about the trip they are undertaking.

I understand that the visa application process will require exclusive use of my passport for at least 20 working days. Visas can be done quicker
on request. Express fees apply - please ask for details.

Signed .…………………………............... Date....../....../2003. If emailing your booking form please type name.

The information below is required to make your travel arrangements. It will be stored in our records, and passed only to those who require it for the specific purposes of making your booking. The Russia Experience Ltd does not exchange its database of information with any other organisation.

We will file your booking under the “lead name” given as “Yourself” in all cases.

Details marked * must be exactly as in the passport you plan to use on the trip

			YOURSELF 	PASSENGER 2 	PASSENGER 3 	PASSENGER 4

*Title (Mr/Ms/Mrs/Dr etc)

*First Name

*Surname (please use
the name on your passport)

*Nationality

*Passport Number

*Expiry Date of Passport

*Date of Birth

Occupation

Work/Study Address

Home Address

Do you have a dietary
Restriction?

Do any of the above passengers suffer from any restriction of vision, hearing, movement or balance of which we should be aware?

...........................................................................................................

May we ask you how you heard of us? It helps us to measure our advertising costs, which ultimately keeps our trip prices down.
Wanderlust/TNT/Internet/Guide Book/Other (please state) .........…………………………………….

DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS
If you have booked through a Russia Experience Agent your documents will be delivered to them for collection.

If you are booking direct with The Russia Experience please confirm below the exact postal address to which you want your travel documents
sent. Documents must be signed for. If you work full time we can send the documents to your work address.

………………………………………………………………………………………............................................................................................................

START DATE 	TRIP CODE 	TRIP NAME 	CUSTOM CODES	HOTEL UPGRADE?
(front of brochure for details)	(front of brochure for details)
Ekat/Irk/Ulan-Uday

If you want to book the standard trip then just write code and trip name. Please specify if you want family (F) in Moscow. If you want to customise the trip  then here’s an example of how to complete the form. eg. for Super Trans-Sib with trekking option in Irkutsk, family stay Moscow and hotel upgrade in Ulan-Uday.7/1/2003 ts.05f Super Trans-sib A 3 -2*Ulan Uday H

* If you are staying in Ekaterinburg we need your choice of Day Trip. Choices are featured on pages 12-13. We do need this information at the time of booking.

IMPORTANT: IF YOU ARE BOOKING ACCOMMODATION IN ST PETES, due to limited availability at most of the hotels, please state a first and second choice. 

Do you want to book extra nights in St Petersburg (eg. 1 x XN.LED) or Moscow (eg. 1 x XN.MOW). If YES then don’t forget to include details.

DO YOU WANT TO BOOK SERVICES IN CHINA at the end of your Trans-Sib trip? If YES please include the trip code here.

If you have booked a Reverse T-Sib or a Freestyle Trip and would like to book train tickets into Europe please include the trip code here..

DO YOU WANT TO UPGRADE TO FIRST-CLASS RAIL where available? Surcharge applies – please check price next to trip cost.
First Class is very difficult to obtain in the summer season. We cannot confirm until 30 days prior to travel. If we are unable to obtain 2 berth
tickets we will automatically reserve a 4 berth carriage for the sole use of yourself and travelling companion. A single traveller in 1st Class will
be sharing with one other. YES/NO

ARRIVAL DETAILS When you arrive for the FIRST of these trips, we will be meeting you on arrival. We can only do that if you give us the
flight /train no, time and re-confirm the date you arrive on (if not known now, the latest you can advise us is 7 days before arrival).

My arrival details are: .....................................................................

VISAS AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
We will provide you with all the visa application forms for the trip you have booked. We will then handle your applications. If you live outside the
UK, we can offer you this service only if you are a British passport holder and can send your passport to us here in London. There will be extra
courier costs involved to return your passports safely. If you wish to decline our visa handling service, you may of course do so, but we can accept no responsibility for the consequences thereafter, and you will be asked to sign a disclaimer. Please tick the boxes if you wish to DECLINE our visa handling service. Read details at the start of the brochure for more visa details.

RUSSIAN VISA unassisted 			MONGOLIAN VISA unassisted 	CHINESE VISA unassisted

Your travel documents will normally be dispatched in the week before travel – this is because some visas begin to expire once issued, and we
wish to ensure yours remain valid for use on your trip. Some of our passengers will be leaving their address on their travels in advance of their
booked trip with us. For this reason, we ask all our passengers to state clearly:

ON WHAT DATE DO YOU LEAVE YOUR ADDRESS TO BEGIN TRAVELLING? ....../....../......

PAYMENT
We require a trip deposit with this Booking Form of £200 per person. On receipt of this Booking Form plus the deposit, we will send you an invoice, which is payable no later than 60 days before the start of your Trip. If you are booking within 60 days of travel, the full trip price is payable at the time of booking.
I/we enclose with this completed Booking Form the amount of £................. as Deposit/Full Payment for the trip outlined above. I/we understand that this payment is subject to the Booking Conditions which have been read and understood.

Signed....................................................................................................................... Date......../......./.......

I wish to you to charge MY DEPOSIT / MY FULL PAYMENT to my Visa / Master / Switch – we need issue number (please circle):
I authorise you to automatically charge the balance of my trip to the card number given below once I am within 60 days of travel - YES

Card Number .......................................................................................... Expiry ........./......./.......
Authorisation Signature........................................ Issue No (if applicable).........................

Contact Detailse Russia Experience 35
Tel (day)
Tel (eve/mobile)
Fax
e-mail

BOOKING FORM
The Russia Experience 36
TRANS-SIB CHECK LIST

1. Do you have enough blank pages in your passport for all the visas? You must have at
least three. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your travel date.

2. The passport details you provide on the booking form must correspond with the passport you send us for your visas. 

3. Have you decided whether you want family stay or hotels? Not sure? Ask us for advice.

4. Does your arrival date into Russia correspond with the start date of the trip? If not, please read the visa information.

5. If you are leaving the UK before the start of the trip, or need your passport for other travel
prior to your trip please let us know!

6. Please inform us once you have your arrival details – otherwise we cannot meet you!

7. If you are booking through a Russia Experience agent your passport and documents will be
delivered to them for collection. If you have booked direct with the Russia Experience we
will send everything special delivery and the package must be signed for. If you work full
time we recommend having them sent to your work address.

8. Vegetarians or need a special diet? – not a problem if you tell us in advance, we can make
arrangements. There is a section on the booking form for this.

9. Do you want to upgrade to 2-berth? See details in FAQ pages and on the booking form.

10.If you are booking accommodation in St Petes, due to limited availability at most of the hotels,
please state a first and second choice. 

DON ’T FORGET!!
..Deposit/full payment
..To sign the Booking Form

BOOKING CONDITIONS ADVENTURE TRIPS

1 Your contract is with The Russia Experience Ltd. The Russia Experience Ltd is fully and independently insured for the complete financial protection of
its clients under EEC legislation.
2 All bookings are accepted on a request basis only. Acceptance of a Booking Form does not imply availability of a trip.
3 No booking will be accepted without a completed Booking Form and either a Deposit or, according to the payment schedule applicable, full
payment. Deposits are non refundable in all cases.
4 The Trip Balance is due 60 days before commencement of your trip. Late payment may cause cancellation of all or part of your trip, with no
refund payable.
5 No travel documents will be issued until full payment has been made.
6 We accept payment by cash, travellers’ cheques and bankers’ drafts and credit cards. We accept personal cheques subject to clearance, for which
10 days must be allowed.
7 The responsibility for obtaining and carrying correct visas, passports and other travel documents remains with the passenger.
8 If we have to cancel your trip for unexpected reasons, you will be offered a full refund of all funds paid over to us, or the offer of a trip of substantially
equal or better quality if appropriate.
9 If you wish to cancel your trip, we require written notice and will make funds to you in accordance with the table below, calculated from the date
which we receive written notice.
Period of Written Notice % of Trip Price * forfeited
Over 61 days before commencement Deposit only
60-41 days before commencement 25%
40-25 days before commencement 40%
24-15 days before commencement 60%
14-7 days before commencement 85%
6-0 days before commencement 100%
“No Show” or at any point during the trip 100%
*The trip price does not include visas, visa processing fees, travel insurance or guidebooks, which shall be 100% forfeit in all cases.
10 We are required by EU regulations to ensure you have travel insurance which covers repatriation if required. If you do not purchase our travel insurance, you must confirm to our satisfaction that you have made alternative arrangements.
11 We have made it clear in all sales materials that it is common and accepted practice for transport methods employed on our trips to run with delays, or to run below operational standards that would be regarded as normal in Western Europe. We cannot accept any claim for indirect or consequential loss arising from the failure of transport suppliers to conform either to timetables supplied by us or to their own timetables. We cannot accept any claim for shock, loss, distress, whether mental or financial, arising from deviations from operational standards by transport suppliers whose services form part of our itineraries (whether original or amended).
12 We cannot be responsible for the safety of passengers or their belongings and for this reason we recommend strongly that you take out adequate travel insurance.
13 If circumstances force us to amend your itinerary or the services with it, we shall notify you in writing as soon as possible. If the change arises during your trip, our
representatives will make every effort to contact you personally. We reserve the right to substitute alternative transport or accommodation in the interests of the safety of our passengers and/or the successful completion of the itinerary.
14 If you require us to change your booked itinerary, we will do everything possible to facilitate this, subject to your agreement to meet the costs which may be incurred. An estimate of these costs, in writing, will be provided before proceeding.
15 We believe the descriptions of the services and facilities in this information pack are fair and accurate. In the event of faults or omissions by ourselves or those
acting for us, appropriate compensation may be payable. Such cases will not include cases caused by war or threat of war; changes in transport timetables; denial of border entry for any undocumented reasons; riots; civil unrest; disasters of natural or nuclear origin; terrorist activities; declarations of autonomy
or independence by areas not recognized as such by the United Nations, or decisions relating to foreign nationals made by the elected or de facto leaders of such
areas; and such other circumstances beyond our reasonable control.
16 In the event of illness, accident or cases described in Condition 15 above, we shall provide all reasonable help to passengers. Our assistance shall not replace the assistance to be expected from travel insurance up to the limits of cover of the policy recommended by us, nor shall it replace the assistance of the Consul responsible for you whilst abroad.
17 Claims for compensation will be accepted in writing only, within 30 days of final included service. We are unable to consider any claim where the
assistance or advice of our local representatives has been unsought, rejected or ignored.
18 Passengers who fail to join the trip by the means or at the time and date they previously advised us within at least 14 days’ notice shall forfeit all
subsequent services up to such time as they can be reasonably be rejoined. Any re-scheduling so caused shall be at the passenger’s own expense.
Departure without notification from the itinerary may result in forfeiture of subsequent services. “No-show” passengers shall forfeit all subsequent
services if they fail to notify us of intention to rejoin their itinerary within 72 hours of their original arrival date. Expenses arising from unscheduled
departure from the itinerary cannot be recovered from us.
19 Tariffs shown in our leaflets were accurate based on prices and exchange at the time of printing. Should the prices of the services rise, or be adversely
affected by exchange rate movements, we reserve the right to make a surcharge. If you have already commenced your booking by paying a
deposit or full payment and completing a Booking Form, and the price increase should amount to a differential of more than 15% compared with that in
the invoice issued to you (inclusive of visa handling, visa fees, travel insurance and airport taxes) you will be entitled to withdraw your booking and receive a full refund of all money paid over to us, with the exception of visa fees, which shall be forfeit in any event.
20 With the exception of diving none of our activities require special training or above-average levels of fitness or mobility. If you are in any doubt
about whether you should undertake them, you should consult your medical adviser. We are unable to refund any money in respect of services from
which you withdraw after arrival. With reasonable notice, alternative versions of most of our activities can be organised for those of you who have special needs, and
a section on our booking form invites information to enable us to plan for your needs in this case.
21 At all times passengers are bound by local law and jurisdiction in their chosen destinations. Passengers who depart from the selected itinerary,
either geographically or chronologically, are advised that they may be breaking local immigration regulations which at best will result in delay and inconvenience, and at worst may result in arrest and imprisonment, in neither of which cases are we able to assist in any material way. Passengers are advised that local duties and levies are frequently introduced, amended or increased without warning, and whilst we do our best to inform passengers of what local costs are likely to incur,
we cannot guarantee that further costs may be imposed or increased subsequent to our recent information. Such costs remain the passenger’s responsibility.
22 We do not organise air travel to or from our destinations. Passengers are advised to ensure that agencies with whom they organise such services are properly bonded and certified to conduct such business. On request we can provide details with a recommended agent for many localities.