In my 3-5 year unwritten travel plan, the TransSiberian or TransMongolian is up pretty high. 2008 probably. Has anyone here done it? I saw it made its way onto the "someday" post.
I'd like to learn more about how to do it without spending an absolute fortune and would love some firsthand accounts.

Can't help you out. But, it is one of my dream vacations to do the entire stretch. Let me know what you find out.

You both have to read, if you havnt already, Eric Newby's "The Big Red Train Ride" about his experiences on the longest stretch of railroad in the world. I personally have only done the ovrnight Moscow-Helsinki route, and what fun the sleeping bunks, hot tea,and the whole routine.

I'm reading Bryn Thomas' Trans-Siberian Handbook, which has some fascinating history.

quote:

Originally posted by Tony da Roma:
Can't help you out. But, it is one of my dream vacations to do the entire stretch. Let me know what you find out.

I'm going to contact you about your ROme tours, look for an email from me.

I did it in 1980 from China. Traveled hard seat in March - not for the faint of heart - but then I was lots younger. Cold, Cold but an unforgettable trip. Go for it.