TRAVEL INFORMATION

Krasnoyarsk: There are daily flights to and from Moscow (4.5 hours), and the capital is just 64 hours away by train.

When in Krasnoyarsk (pop. 924,000), don’t miss the museum dedicated to one of the city’s most famous native sons, painter Vasily Surikov (see Russian Life, Dec/Jan 1998). Also., there is great hiking to be had in the picturesque Stolby Nature Preserve. The place to stay in Krasnoyarsk is the Hotel Oktyabrskaya (ph. +391-2271-916).

Irkutsk: There are also daily flights between Irkutsk and Moscow (7 hours). The city is 88 hours by train to Moscow (and 78 to Vladivostok).

When in Irkutsk, be sure to visit the Decembrists’ houses and the historical buildings mentioned in this article. But the real attraction of this city is of course Lake Baikal. Take a hydrofoil trip across the river or arrange an excusion with a local travel agent. When in Irkutsk, stay at the American House, a great b&b -- make sure you call ahead for reservations (ph. 395-2-432-689, email [email protected])