SIBERIA’S SEVEN WONDERS: THE REGION’S MOST ASTOUNDING PLACES TO VISIT

SIBERIA’S SEVEN WONDERS: THE REGION’S MOST ASTOUNDING PLACES TO VISIT

http://rbth.com/travel/2015/21/05/siberias_seven_wonders_the_regions_most_astounding_places_to_visit

First parts  are published in #83, #86and 87

6. Tomsk (Photo credit: Alamy/Legion-Media)
   Where: Tomsk Region
   Why you should see it: In Siberia there are many towns where wooden architecture has survived, but it is in Tomsk that you can find the peculiar essence of old—the spirit of the Siberian province and simplicity. Shishkov’s mansion, the wonderful grounds of Siberia’s oldest house of learning—Tomsk State University, the fabulous “House with the Firebirds”and perhaps most famous are the patterned casings of the windows. You should go to Tomsk if you’re searching for the masterpieces of Russian wooden architecture and examples of Siberian Baroque and Art Nouveau. But don’t forget to try Siberia’s best “bliny” (pancakes) and “pelmeny” (dumplings) and experience its youthful atmosphere: one in five residents here is a student.
7. 
   Trans-Siberian Railway (Photo credit: Anton Petrov for RBTH)
   Where:Moscow – Vladivostok
   Why you should see it: The historical name of the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway is “The Great Siberian Route,” and this railway has always been associated with Siberia. Russia’s European part is joined with the harsh Ural Mountains and Siberia and the Far East by 9,289 kilometers of rails—there is no railroad longer than it in the whole world. After a weeklong trip along the Trans-Siberian Railway you will come to know the national mentality and witness Russia’s diverse landscapes and city views from the window. You will get to try the smoked omul fish from the stations in the Irkutsk region and witness the unforgettable scenery of Lake Baikal. You will pass through various underground tunnels en route to the highest spot on the route, Yablonovy Pass, in the Trans-Baikal region. Along the way you will meet travelers from far and near. Foreigners and native Russians should all get onboard the Trans-Siberian Railway to better get to know the world’s largest country.