There's going to be an article on this on Holiday 2006 on Monday (30th). Not done the trans-siberian myself but have done a number of overnight train trips in Russia. If you have the option, it would definitely be worth upgrading to a two person compartment as you will have more comfort and privacy. I've travelled in a carriage without compartments on a number of of occassions (it's called 'plats-kart' in Russian) and have had some awkward incidents with Russian men who have over indulged on the vodka and wanted to try and make conversation!

If you don't speak any Russian then I would personally suggest trying to organise things through a travel agent as buying train tickets is incredibly difficult and frustrating due to the attitude of some staff, even if you do speak the language.

Have fun!

Thanks for that will make sure i watch it.

Steve

Well I watched it- looks like quite an adventure and still more to come next week! I don't think it would be my choice!

It certainly brought back a lot of memories for me. I had to laugh when he said how easy it was to sleep on the train - every time the train slows down the brakes give out a piercing shriek so you'd have to sleep very soundly to not notice that! Plus you have to cope with the noise of the other passengers (potentially including the odd goat and chicken). I'd do an overnight trip on one of those trains again - but for one night only!