Have you ever fantasized about taking a trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway? The longest railway line in the world, the Tran-Siberian crosses Russia in an 8-day, 5,753-mile journey that extends from Moscow to Vladivostock at the Sea of Japan.
It sounds romantic.
Kind of.
On the one hand, a ride on the Trans-Siberian would afford several relaxing days with nothing much to do but read, gaze out the window at the Russian countryside, and listen to the clickety-clack of the wheels rolling along the tracks. On the other hand, no showers. Also, the trip entails travel in Russia which -- let's be honest here -- is not known as the most efficient or friendly place to explore.
So why not try before you buy?
Google and Russian Railways have partnered to create a site that offers a virtual ride on selected legs of the Trans-Siberian, including extensive videos that show the view from the train's window. For added authenticity, you can also select your preferred soundtrack, from that clickety-clack of the wheels on the rails, to a feed of Russian radio, to an audiobook version of Tolstoy's "War and Peace/" (Read in Russian. Seriously!)
Todd,
I can't imagine that you haven't see this, but in case you missed it, you may like this:
http://nrkbeta.no/2009/12/18/bergensbanen-eng/
Posted by: Ben | 02 December 2010 at 08:27 AM