Distance: 1,541km
Traveling time: about 33 hours
Time difference: +2 hours
When deciding on our schedule, Sahe suggested Tomsk to be our place for the first stopover. The Russia's largest college town with 5 universities, the city for the population of 470,000 is also known for the preserved traditional wooden houses with decoratively carved window casings, commonly seen in Siberian architecture. We walked around town, getting ourselves lost as always, and finding more than what was mentioned in the guide book. People appeared more friendly and less hesitant on speaking in English.
After buying food at supermarket for the train, we decided to eat at a Uzbekistan restaurant. I know nothing about this country. We ordered pilaf and fried noodles, and they were fantastic. I may have been expecting Middle Eastern flavor, but it was clearly Asian and this was such eye opening that made me want to go to one of the "...stan"s. Maybe from Urumqi we can cross the border into Kazakhstan. How can I convince Sahe to want to go there? When should I bring this up?
Our next train, leaving on the same day we arrived, was more retro than the one out of Moscow. When we walked into our cabin, there were already people putting away their luggage under the seats. We do the same, roll out a torn-up and dusty matress on the seat, cover it up with sheets and lay down, using the valuable bag as a pillow.
Counting sheeps for a few hours until the dawn.
Tomsk in Russia is indeed a wonderful place. And it has kept its heritage with those wooden houses. Its friendly citizens are also plus factors.
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