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Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection Trans−Siberian Express: Wonderland (Westbound) Trans−Siberian Express: Winter Wonderland (Westbound)

Intriguing, delightful, beautiful, mysterious& all this can be said of , a vast land stretching from the shores of the Baltic to the Sea of Japan and to within sight of Alaska. Undisputedly the world's greatest railway journey, The Trans−Siberian Express runs from Vladivostok over the Urals, across the imposing Russian steppes and alongside the shores of the world's largest freshwater lake. By the time the train arrives in it will have passed through eight time zones, and traveled over 6,600 miles one third of the way around the world!

This maginficent "Winter Wonderland" rail journey on board the Golden Eagle, which debuts in 2010, takes a leisurely two weeks for the journey, making sure you get plenty of time to take in the scenery and culture of Russia.

Begin your epic journey in the rarely−visited city of Vladivostok and branch off the Trans−Siberian main line into Mongolia for a visit to Sukhbaatar before returning to Russia for the remainder of the trip. Take an unforgettable Troika ride around , visit , the 'Paris of ' and discover the rich culture of and . Tour the historic city of Vladimir, one of Russia's oldest communities, and enjoy a horse−drawn sleigh ride around Suzdal.

Yet the main attraction has to be the gradually changing scenery itself: from the descent through the (the boundary between and ), to the wide open steppes and broad rivers, traveling on the Trans−Siberian is the only way to truly take in the vastness and grandeur of the world's largest country.

ITINERARY

• Day 1 − Welcome to Vladivostok

Arrive at Vladivostok Airport where you are met and transferred to the four−star Hotel Hyundai located for a one−night stay.

• Day 2 − Board the Golden Eagle in Vladivostok

We spend the morning in Vladivostok. This once 'closed' Russian port offers visitors an opportunity to unravel its mysteries as we explore its principal military attractions including a tour of a restored submarine before boarding the Golden Eagle Trans−Siberian Express. Tonight we enjoy dinner as our rail adventure to Moscow begins.

• Day 3 − Your first full day on board the Golden Eagle

Passing directly north of Seoul, Darwin and Osaka, we spend our first full day on board the Golden Eagle as the most easterly point of our journey is reached passing through Khabarovsk, where we cross the River Amur.

• Day 4 − Relaxing day on board the train

Enjoy a leisurely pace today as we travel through the beautiful Russian landscape of this vast and varied country.

1 • Day 5 − Spend a day on board the train

Enjoy a leisurely pace today as we travel through the beautiful Russian landscape of this vast and varied country.

• Day 6 − Cross the border to Mongolia

Our Trans−Siberian adventure takes us to Ulaan Baatar, the capital of Mongolia. Passing the central monument to Genghis Khan, undoubtedly the most feared and infamous Mongol, we also visit the National Museum where we explore the country's intriguing history. Lunch is taken Mongol style in a traditional Ger (Yurt) where we experience an authentic local meal and entertainment providing a unique opportunity to encounter this time−honoured nomadic way of life.

• Day 7 − Discover the culture and history of Ulan Ude

Today we arrive in Ulan Ude, capital of the Buryat Republic. The ethnic and cultural diversity of this area offers a unique insight into its Mongol heritage. As we tour the area you will notice the different faces and dress styles of these welcoming people. During the exploration of the Old Believer's Village we have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of these communities as we are treated to a traditional meal and enjoy a concert featuring local dancers and musicians.

• Day 8 − Excursion at Lake Baikal

Today offers a real highlight of travelling through Siberia in winter. Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of Lake Baikal. For five hours we wind our way through tunnels along cliff hugging tracks above the frozen lake with −capped peaks along the far shore forming a picture−perfect backdrop. Completely frozen in winter Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and at this time of year we will visit the shoreside Ice Festival to look at the many intricate works of ice art. We are taken in a hovercraft across the lake for 30 minutes to the place where the ice fishing, dog sledges and snowmobiles are situated and you will enjoy the perfect vantage point to appreciate the magnificence of this unspoilt location. There is also the opportunity to watch the under−ice fishing and try the freshly caught fish which have been smoked in a mobile smokehouse and served warm with ice−cold vodka. Delicious! This is truly a unique day of activities and adventure to experience!

• Day 9 − Visit Irkutsk, the "Paris of Siberia"

We arrive in Irkutsk, the 'Paris of Siberia', and take in the most significant sites and museums in this city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture that has given many of this 's buildings such a distinctive and unique appearance. Next, we visit the Decembrist House museum which is dedicated to the memory of the exiled aristocrats who were forced to flee to this remote outpost after the failed revolution of 1825. We will enjoy a private concert before leaving for the enchanting wooded encampment of Zaimka (Hunters Lodge) where we will be met by local women dressed in traditional costume. We have the opportunity to explore a Banya (Russian Sauna) in one of the region's authentic wooden houses. Drinks and traditional food can be enjoyed within a series of the cosy timber houses.

• Day 10 − Spend your day at leisure on board the train

Today we relax onboard as our train travels through the . In comfort enjoy the ever changing views as sweeping panoramas of natural beauty unfold before us. Time and permitting, we may stop at located at the confluence of the Yenisei and Abakan rivers.

• Day 11 − Explore Novosibirsk Opera House and observe the imposing statue of Lenin

A modern 'Soviet' city, we experience the life and character of Novosibirsk's rich cultural city. Our tour takes us to the Novosibirsk Opera House. An architectural marvel, it houses two permanent ballet and opera companies and is the largest opera house in the world. In front of the Opera House, we visit an imposing statue of Lenin a marvellous opportunity to have your photograph taken with this iconic political leader.

2 • Day 12 − Discover the historic city of Yekaterinburg

Founded in 1723 by , Yekaterinburg is Russia's third largest city and is also the capital of the Urals. The cultural and architectural influences of European and Asian civilisations fuse in this cosmopolitan landscape, making it a unique experience. Our tour takes us to the execution site where Tsar Nicholas II was executed by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Now a church dedicated to their memory, this site offers a powerful insight into the turmoil of the .

• Day 13 − Heritage and history tour of Vladimir and Suzdal

Today we visit the historic city of Vladimir. Founded in 990, it is one of the Russia's oldest communities with an architectural wealth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our tour takes in Uspensky Cathedral, built between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries. It is considered one of the most important and beautiful of Russian cathedrals, where many of the prominent Russian Tsars were crowned. Our excursion moves on to the pastoral town of Suzdal, one of Russia's most perfectly preserved walled cities dating back to 1024. Here we visit the atmospheric St Euthymius Monastery to witness an enchanting choral performance by the resident monks. No Russian winter experience would be complete without a Troika Sledge Ride. Enjoy the stunning scenery as your open horse drawn sleigh takes you on a captivating journey around Suzdal.

• Day 14 − Enjoy a day tour of Moscow − Freedom of Choice Touring

After travelling along this epic route to the end of the Trans−Siberian line, we arrive in Moscow by mid−morning. Our city tour of Moscow principally takes us to Red Square. Here we see a mix of fascinating architecture, such as St Basil's Cathedral with its magnificent onion−domed spires and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin's tomb. With our Freedom of Choice touring options you may instead wish to visit, for example, the Tretyakov Gallery or the Museum of the KGB. At the conclusion of our city tour, we transfer to the five−star Marriott Royal Aurora hotel (or similar). Our final evening is spent saying our goodbyes to our travelling companions at the Farewell Dinner.

• Day 15 − Farewell, Moscow

In the morning you will be transferred to Moscow airport to begin your journey home.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

• Abakan

Abakan is the capital of the Republic of in South Siberia. It is located in the central part of Minusinsk Depression, at the confluence of the rivers Yenisei and Abakan, at 53°43'N, 91°27'E. Abakan fort was built at this location in 1675, also known as Abakansk. In it belonged to Yenisei Gubernia. It received the status of town and its current name in 1931. Abakan (together with Tayshet) was a terminal of the major Abakan−Taishet Railway, and now it is an important railway junction. The city has a river port, an airport, industry enterprises, Khakas State University, and three theatres. Furthermore, it has a commercial center that produces footwear, foodstuffs, and metal products.

3 • Irkutsk

Irkutsk is one of the largest cities in Siberia and the administrative center of , situated 5,185 kilometers (3,222 mi) by rail from Moscow. The city lies on the Angara River, and situated in a landscape of rolling hills within the thick taiga, typical of eastern Siberia, and in contrast to the flat, open steppe of western Siberia. Its main portion of the city is separated from several important landmarksthe monastery, the fort, and the port, as well as its suburbs by another tributary, the Ida, or Ushakovka River. As a Siberian city, Irkutsk experiences a subarctic , characterized by extreme variation of temperatures between .

• Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal is in Southern Siberia in Russia, located between Irkutsk Oblast to the northwest and the Buryat Republic to the southeast, near the city of Irkutsk. It is also known as the "Blue Eye of Siberia". At 1,637 meters (5,371 ft), Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and with a volume 23,000 km³ it holds the largest body of fresh water on earth. Like Lake Tanganyika, Lake Baikal was formed in an ancient rift valley and therefore is long and crescent−shaped. Baikal is home to more than 1,700 species of plants and animals, two thirds of which can be found nowhere else in the world and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

Olkhon, the largest island in Lake Baikal, is the second largest lake−bound island in the world, after Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron. More than 25 million years old, it is the oldest such the lake as well.

• Moscow

Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia, with its metropolitan area ranking among the largest urban areas in the world. Moscow is the country's economic, financial, educational, and transportation centre. It is located on the Moskva River in the Central Federal District, in the European part of Russia. Moscow is the largest city in Europe. Historically, it was the capital of the former and the , the pre−Imperial Russian state. It is the site of the Kremlin, which now serves as the ceremonial residence of the . Moscow is rated as a beta world city for its global influences in media, politics, education, entertainment and fashion. It also remains a major economic centre and is home to a large number of billionaires; in 2007 Moscow was named the world's most expensive city for the second year in a row. It is home to many scientific and educational institutions, as well as numerous sport facilities. It possesses a complex transport system that includes the world's busiest metro system, which is famous for its architecture.

4 • Novosibirsk

Novosibirsk is Russia's third largest city, after Moscow and Saint Petersburg, and the administrative center of Novosibirsk Oblast. It is also the largest city in Siberia and the administrative center of Siberian Federal District, in the southwest of which it is located. It was founded in 1893 as the future site of the Trans−Siberian Railway Bridge crossing the great Siberian River , and was known as Novonikolayevsk after Tsar Nicholas II. The bridge opened for traffic in the of 1897. Its importance further increased early in the 20th century with the completion of the Turkestan−Siberia Railway, connecting Novosibirsk to and the .

• Sayan Mountains

The Sayan Mountains are a range in southern Siberia, Russia. The Eastern Sayan extends 1000 km from the River at 92° E to the southwest end of Lake Baikal at 106° E. The Western Sayan forms the eastern continuation of the Altay Mountains, stretching for 500 km from 89° E to the middle of the Eastern Sayan at 96° E. The Sayan Mountains' towering peaks and cool lakes southwest of Tuva give rise to the tributaries that merge to become one of Siberia's major rivers, the Yenisei River, which flows north over 2000 miles to the Ocean. This is a protected and isolated area, having been kept closed by the Soviet Union since 1944.

• Suzdal

Suzdal is Russia's most perfectly preserved walled city and a world Heritage Site. The history of the town dates back to at least the year 1024. For centuries it functioned as the capital of several Russian principalities and now it forms part of the Golden Ring. Today, the town operates as an important tourist center, featuring many fine examples of Old most of them churches and monasteries. Walking through the town one might get the feeling that every third building is a church. Although having over ten thousand residents, Suzdal still retains the look and feel of a small village with streams and meadows everywhere. This juxtaposition of stunning medieval architecture with its pastoral setting lends Suzdal a picturesque charm, and in the artists and easels are a common sight.

5 • The Golden Eagle Trans−Siberian Express

Our trains contain some of the finest accommodation available in luxury train travel today, offering a high level of comfort; particularly important in the cabins, which will be your 'hotel room' on wheels. All departures feature one or two lovingly designed restaurant cars and a spacious bar car. So, as well as enjoying the excellent food and wine served on board, you can sit with a drink while enjoying the good company and conversation of fellow travellers; and watch the changing landscapes unfold. On 26 April 2007 HRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO unveiled the Golden Eagle Trans−Siberian Express®, our new train that brings unprecedented luxury to the world's greatest railway journey.

• Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar, also known as Ulan Bator, is the capital city of Mongolia in north central Mongolia. The city lies on the , and situated in a valley at an elevation of about 1310 m (about 4300 ft) and is surrounded by ridges. It is the political, cultural, industrial, and transportation center of the country, connected by highway to all the major towns in Mongolia and by rail to the Trans−Siberian and Chinese railroad systems. Ulaanbaatar has a long and mysterious history, and is only now undergoing an industrial revolution.

• Ulan−Ude

Ulan−Ude, the capital city of the Buryat Republic, is located about 100 km south−east of Lake Baikal. It is located at the foot of the Khamar−Daban and Khrebet Ulan−Burgasy mountain ranges, next to the confluence of the River and its tributary, the which divides the city into two parts. It is the 3rd largest city in East Siberia and is served by the Ulan−Ude Airport (Mukhino), as well as the smaller Ulan−Ude Vostochny Airport. Ulan−Ude was founded in 1666 by the Russian Cossacks. There are old merchants' mansions richly decorated with wood and stone carving in the historical center of Ulan−Ude, along the river banks. They represent beautiful examples of Russian classicism.

6 • Vladimir

Steeped in antiquity, Vladimir echoes with ancient culture and a rich architectural wealth including the spectacular Uspensky Cathedral. Its administrative center is the medieval Russian capital Vladimir, which is located 190 km to the east from the present−day capital, Moscow. The 12th−century cathedrals of Vladimir, Suzdal, Bogolyubovo, and Kideksha are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

• Vladivostok

Vladivostok is Russia's largest port city on the and the administrative center of Primorsky Krai. It is situated at the head of the Golden Horn Bay not far from the Russo−Chinese border and North Korea. It is the home port of the Russian Pacific Fleet. The city is located in the southern extremity of Muravyov−Amursky Peninsula, which is about 30 km long and approximately 12 km wide.

• Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg is the 5th largest city in Russia after Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and is the capital of the Urals region. It was founded in 1723 by Peter the Great as the metallurgical factory and by the 20th century it had become one of Russia's largest and most important financial, industrial and cultural centers. Between 1924 and 1991, the town was known as Sverdlovsk. The city is often said to be situated on the border of Europe and Asia (on the Asian side) and two symbolic monuments of this can be found near the city.

Price Chart

All prices quoted in U.S. Dollars ($) per person The following is included in your tour cost:

• 01 Night hotel accommodation in Vladivostok • 12 Nights accommodation on board the Golden Eagle train • 01 Night hotel accommodation in Moscow • All meals starting with dinner on the first day • A generous allowance of wine, beer, soft drinks, tea and coffee with all lunches and dinners both on and off the train (except where stated otherwise) • All arrival and departure transfers, providing you arrive/depart on the tour start/end date, except where stated otherwise • Guided off−train sightseeing excursions as specified in the itinerary

7 • Services of experienced English−speaking tour leaders • Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water 24 hours a day • All gratuities

The following is excluded from your tour cost:

• International and domestic airfare • Visa and excess baggage charges • Travel insurance • Personal expenses such as drinks in the bar car or laundry • Optional activities on certain tours that would need to be paid for locally; please see itinerary for details • Any items not specifically mentioned as "included"

HOTELS AND RESORTS

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS

Trans−Siberian Express via the BAM (Baikal−Amur Magistral) − Westbound This Trans−Siberian Express train journey runs from Vladivostok to Komsomolsk where it transfers to the BAM (Baikal−Amur Magistral/Mainline) to bring you to several of the most remote locations in Russia. Travel across the magnificent Russian steppes, along the northern shores of the world's largest freshwater lake and over the Urals, making stops in Tynda, Novaya , , Novosibirsk and more. By the time the train arrives in Vladivostok it will have traveled over 6,000 miles one third of the way around the world.

The 12 new fully en−suite sleeping cars on board the Golden Eagle feature state of the art amenities. Class cabins have everything from power showers and underfloor heating to a DVD/CD player, LCD screen and individual air conditioning and at 77sq ft (7 sq m) they are among the largest rail cabins anywhere in the world. Fully en−suite, the bathrooms contain a separate shower cubicle. Silver cabins are more compact at 60sq ft (5.5 sq m) and have similar facilities with a fully en−suite wet room.

A particular delight of the Golden Eagle is our two beautifully appointed restaurant cars, the venue for our chefs to serve carefully prepared meals using only the finest local ingredients. Whether it is the world−renowned 'Borsch', caviar or Omul a fish unique to Lake Baikal we offer a culinary experience representing the very best of Russia. Meals are complimented by wines from around the world, as well as naturally vodka.

Yet the social heart of our train is of course the bar car, a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board. Unwind in comfortable surroundings and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers& the bar stays open until the last person leaves.

TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's

Preparing for your journey

What are the visa requirements? Most visas need to be applied for well in advance, and may require a visa support letter. It is vital that visa requirements are checked in good time as entry requirements vary depending on nationality. It is also important to check if a single, double or multiple entry visa is required for a specific tour.

Is travel insurance required? Yes. We do stress that all guests must have a valid travel insurance policy that covers them for all eventualities. Please

8 contact us for details on available policies or visit http://www.palacetours.net/insurance.

What currency is utilized? On board the train, you will not need much currency, but there are charges for laundry and bar bills if traveling in Silver or Heritage class. It is possible to run a "tab" on board and make one payment at the end of the tour. If the bill is less than USD $100 you will be required to make your payment in cash. International credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are both accepted) for payments over USD $100. We recommend that you travel with small denominations and clean bills, as you will need money for souvenirs and any shopping you choose to do off the train. You will be advised by the tour Manager and/or guides on how, and if necessary, to change money.

Can I use/pay with credit cards and travelers checks? ATM machines are now available in all large towns and cities along our routes. All the hotels that we use accept major credit cards. Traveler's checks are virtually impossible to exchange.

When will I receive my tickets and finalized itinerary? A month before departure, you should receive a final update letter which will include all the additional information that you will need to know. Tickets are sent out approximately 4 weeks before departure.

What happens when I arrive at the airport or train station? You will be met by one of our representatives who will be waiting with a Palace Tours/The Trans−Siberian Express sign. If arriving by air, this will be after immigration, once you have collected all of your luggage and cleared customs. Our representative will then assist you to your transfer vehicle to the hotel.

What happens if I miss my flight, or am delayed? Prior to departure you will receive a 24−hour Emergency Contact Card with your final documentation. This card displays the telephone numbers of our representatives in the country of your arrival. If you have any problems you can call the appropriate person detailed on the card.

What clothing is required for the various ? Please prepare your packing list according to the regional temperatures. In general, Russia's climate features four seasons with Moscow and St Petersburg reaching 28 degrees Celsius in the summer and well below 0 degrees in the winter. Since every tour requires some walking we recommend that you pack some comfortable walking shoes. A rubber sole is recommended to avoid possible slipping.

Do I need to take my own toiletries? Shampoo and shower gel are provided, however we do say that you would probably prefer to bring along your favorite toiletries.

Are children permitted on the tour? Children ages 12 and up are allowed on the tours. They pay the full adult fare. However, there is no triple accommodation option available.

The Golden Eagle Train

What are the main differences between each of the cabin types? There are three cabin types: Gold, Silver and Heritage. All types of cabins on the Golden Eagle feature bunk−style beds, the lower of which is converted from a double bed to a sofa during the day, a wardrobe, and ensuite bathroom (except Heritage class). All cabins also feature CD/DVD player, LCD screen and individually controlled air−conditioning. Please see our "Photo Gallery" for pictures. Gold class cabins (77 sq. ft) have approximately 30% more space than Silver (60 sq. ft) and a more spacious private bathroom with a separate shower cabin. Silver class cabins have a private wet room with a combined shower, toilet and sink area. Heritage class cabins (39 sq ft) are virtually identical to Silver class cabins, except they do not have ensuite restrooms; instead there are 2 toilets and a shower room at the end of each carriage, that are shared by all guests in the Heritage class carriage. Gold class clients also receive complimentary drinks from the bar throughout their tour, including beer, wine and spirits. Silver and Heritage class clients receive complimentary wine at meal times only, and all other drinks are at their own expense. Laundry (maximum number of items) is complimentary for Gold class clients whereas Silver and Heritage class clients pay per item.

Can I book a specific cabin? We do our best to try to accommodate all requests, but we can not guarantee them. Please ensure you make any requests at the time of booking and please also inform the Tour Manager of your request upon embarkation.

9 What is the dress code on board the train? During the day dress is casual both on and off the train. In the evening we suggest smart casual.

What electric chargers will I need? The train in Russia is equipped with a 220v European plug socket. Please ensure that you have the correct adaptor for any electrical items that you may wish to charge while on board the train. There is a shaver socket in the bathroom and a plug point in your cabin. Hairdryers are provided in the bathroom of Gold and Silver class cabins.

Is there a safe in the cabin / onboard the train? All cabins have a safety deposit box located inside the wardrobe. It is also safe to leave your belongings in your cabin during the day, as each car has two attendants, one of whom is always on duty and they remain on the train during the city tours. However, all passengers should take their passport with them whenever they leave the train.

What sundries are available on the train? A sewing kit, iron, shoe polish and trouser press are available. We do not provide these items within the cabins, however, the laundry lady is able to accommodate small repairs and provide an ironing service. Also available are board games like Scrabble and Chess, as well as a selection of books and DVDs.

Is there a shop on board where I can buy newspaper, books, stationery, toiletries or snacks? There's no such shop on board but most of these items can be purchased in the cities during the stops. Foreign newspapers are hardly available anywhere except Moscow but we provide news print outs from the internet. Snacks, as well as tea and coffee, are available free of charge from the bar or from your cabin attendant.

Is smoking permitted? Smoking in the cabins is strictly prohibited. You may only smoke in specific designated areas at the ends of the train.

Is there a laundry facility? There is a laundry service on board. Gold class passengers have a certain number of items cleaned complimentary. Silver and Heritage class passengers are charged per item at the end of the trip. Payment can be made by cash or credit card.

Is there an internet and fax facility on the train? There is no internet or fax facility aboard the trains; however it is possible to check e−mails and send faxes during certain stops en route. This may mean missing the excursion program for that day. The train's printer and copier can only be used in urgent cases. Please see the train manager for details.

Are there communication links while we are on board? Mobile phone coverage can now be found virtually along the entire Trans−Siberian Express route, however it is not continuous. We do not have a satellite phone on board the train, but the Tour Manager can be contacted in emergencies on the mobile telephone number provided on the 24 hour emergency card provided in the travel wallets.

How often is the cabin cleaned during the tour? Car attendants clean the cabins and windows daily. Towels are changed every three days.

Is it noisy on the train? Are ear plugs required? If you are not used to traveling by train, the sounds of the moving train can slightly disturb you, more so during the first night. However we have not had any comments about guests finding it difficult to sleep while on board.

Are cabins checked on the border crossings? Crossing the border is usually a formality; however it is theoretically possible that cabins can be checked by border officials.

What sort of on−board entertainment / educational talks are provided? A variety of lectures and entertainment is provided during the journey. We have a pianist in the bar car. The evenings also provide the opportunity to socialize with other passengers.

Is it safe to stand up in the shower while the train is moving? Yes it safe to stand up. As this train has been built to our specifications we also provide grab handles in the shower for stability. We can also provide a stool if you would feel more comfortable sitting down while showering.

Are the toilets eco−friendly or do they flush onto the tracks? All the toilets on the Golden Eagle in Russia are eco−friendly.

10 Are there any restrictions on the size and number of pieces of luggage? There is limited storage space inside your cabin. Soft−topped luggage is easier to store and lighter to lift to the above head storage areas. You can have assistance to store your luggage. Additional storage for luggage is available at the ends of the train, however, access to this is limited.

What is the breakdown of staff on board? There is one senior Tour Manager on board and also a number of assistants depending on the total number of passengers. There are 2 attendants in each carriage who look after a maximum of 10 passengers in Gold class, 12 passengers in Silver class, and 16 passengers in Heritage class. There is also 1 executive chef and 5 sous chefs. There are porters at each of the hotels and at the station to help you get your luggage on and off the train.

How is the train powered? The trains are no longer hauled by steam, but by electric and diesel.

Food & Drink

What type of food is provided on−board? Both Western and local Russian food is served on the Golden Eagle. The menu is decided by the Head Chef. Breakfast is continental style and passengers choose from a 4−course menu for dinners. Please advise upon booking if you have any special dietary needs, requests, or allergies. Please also advise the train manager of these special requests upon boarding the train.

Are meal times set? Yes. Breakfast is normally between 08:00 and 10:00. If however there is an off train tour leaving the train before 10:00 the Tour Manager will advise all passengers so that they have eaten prior to the off−train excursion. Lunch is scheduled around the off−train excursion arrangements, however it is normally between 12:30 and 14:00. Dinner is served at 19:00 most evenings.

Are all drinks free? All alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks are complementary for Gold Class passengers. Tea, coffee, draft beer, fruit juices and drinking water are free for Silver and Heritage class passengers. We have a tariff in the bar car that details the full drinks price list. There is a fully−stocked bar at all times. Wine is complimentary for all passengers at meal times.

Is the water safe to drink? The water on all trains is not drinking water. Your attendants, who are on duty 24 hours a day, will provide you with fresh bottled water around the clock. There is also bottled water in the bathrooms for brushing your teeth. Food on board is washed with bottled water so please don't worry about compromised standards of hygiene.

The Tour

How many passengers will be on the tour? This all depends on the individual departure. Our maximum capacity is 120, but some of our departures will leave with less than that. The coaches utilized for sightseeing and transport off the train can accommodate a maximum of 35 passengers each.

Do the tour guides speak English? Yes, the local guides speak English as well as the on−board Tour Manager. If you have group who wish to have a guide in a language other than English, you need to ensure that this request is made at the time of booking and we will aim to provide one (charges may apply).

Are there daily briefings on the places we pass through / visit? When you board the train you will find a brochure specific to your chosen itinerary detailing more about the journey and the places en route. The Tour Manager also organizes a program of briefings on the cities visited.

Are all off train excursions included in the price? Yes. If however, you do not wish to take an off train excursion, you can either stay on board the train or make some private arrangement. There is no discount for those who choose not to take the off train excursion/s. If you choose to make your own private arrangements, you will need to ensure that you are back at the train by the departure time as the train will not be able to wait and must leave as per the schedule.

Which hotels are utilized before and after the train portion of the tour?

11 All the hotels used are 4 and 5 star hotels. All passengers will be accommodated in the very best rooms available and this is not dependent on their cabin class. Please see the "Accommodation" tab for details.

Medical Questions

Can clients with limited mobility be accommodated on the train? The passage inside the carriage is too narrow for a wheelchair to pass through, but one is kept on board if needed for off−train tours. Please advise upon booking if you require a wheelchair and we will do our best to accommodate the request. However, it may not be possible to go on all of the excursions, as some are not wheelchair−accessible.

Is there a doctor or first aid kit on board? Yes, a doctor travels with the train at all times. The doctors are available 24 hours a day and are responsible for primary health care. They do carry medicines, but if you are taking prescription medication, please bring enough supplies to last for the duration of your trip. We have a designated "Doctors Surgery" on board the train and this will contain a fully stocked first aid kit. There is also a first aid kit in each carriage.

Do I need to make any prior arrangements if I am traveling with medication? You need to ensure that you are traveling with the correct quantities of prescription medication. It is strongly advised that all clients seek medical clearance prior to traveling. Our on−board doctor must be advised of clients traveling with prescription medication. Also, It is highly unusual for anyone to suffer motion sickness whilst on the train, however if you would prefer to take some, you can do so.

Do I need any vaccinations? As with all overseas travel, we recommend that you contact your General Practitioner or local travel clinic to get the most up to date information on what vaccinations, if any, are required.

Palace Tours Contact Information

If at any time you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us via any of the below methods:

On the Web: www.palacetours.com

By e−mail: [email protected]

By phone: 1−800−724−5120 India Desk : 1−877−GO−INDIA (877−464−6342)

USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−683−5018 New York, NY: 212−920−2543 Houston, TX: 832−446−2709

International: United Kingdom: 800−8456−201 Hong Kong: (852) 30518159 South : (+27)11−46133299 : 1800−156−671 New Zealand: 0800−442−510

By FAX: 1−609−683−9772

By postal mail: Palace Tours Ltd. 20 Wall Street Princeton, New Jersey 08540

DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICE Please call ahead for hours and appointments!

By Car:

12 From Princeton area: Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park office complex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.

From points North: Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see signs for "Downtown Princeton &Shopping". Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will pass through a traffic circle follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles. Turn left onto Wall Street.

From points South: Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route 138 West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North toward Trenton. Follow directions below.

Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and merge onto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

By train: Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors can take a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one−car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride takes about 5 minutes, and drops you at University Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be sure to purchase a rail ticket to "Princeton" for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.

Our office is a 10−minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).

By bus: Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit's 605 Montgomery Line). From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.

For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our Jaipur office. Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.

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