While the popular tourist season for Trans-Siberian tours runs from May to late September, one of the best times to experience the sights of the tour is winter. Sure, the tour has something special to offer at any time of the year, but winter is truly special. It’s during this time that you can take in the snow-white laced trees and the vast dales that run away from the window of your cosy compartment. From the ice-covered, peaceful, and tranquil beauty of Lake Baikal to the Crystal Seal Festival of Ice Sculpture held at the lake as well as the renowned Festival of Ice Sculpture in Harbin. There’s also the Russian bania, snow fights, the Shrovetide pagan celebration, and even husky sledding in Siberia.

Wherever you visit during winter Trans-Siberian tours will be extremely cold but wonderfully magical. Just picture Siberia as it should be – snow shrouded forests, frozen rivers, and everyone wrapped up in atmospheric furs.

One of the best things about a winter tour is that there are a lot less tourists. Here are just some of the sights you will enjoy.

Khabarovsk 

Just 15 miles from the China border, Khabarovsk stretches along the banks of the Amur River. It was originally a military post in 1858, but the region has since been populated with people of the Far East. Today, it is a bustling city with lots to see and do. Simply take extra warm clothing during your winter Trans-Siberian tours and enjoy the memorial of Yerofey Pavlovich Khabarov. He was the Far East explorer that the city was named after. There also a World War Two memorial of fallen soldiers and the Regional Museum where you can learn about local history from the rich collection of artefacts.

Lake Baikal 

This beautiful lake conjures up true imagery of a winter wonderland during winter Trans-Siberian tours. It is probably one of the greatest highlights as you travel through Siberia during the winter, and there are few natural sights that can surpass the grandeur of the lake. It takes about five hours to wind through the tunnels and along the cliff-hugging tracks just above the frozen lake. The vista of snow-capped peaks is nothing short of breathtaking, making for the ultimate winter backdrop. Lake Baikal is completely frozen over in the winter. It’s the deepest lake the world has to offer. Also, you can visit the Ice Festival and take in the amazingly intricate works of ice art.

You can even take a hovercraft over the frozen lake over to where the dog sledding, ice fishing and snowmobile driving are popular. Enjoy the ideal vantage point to really take in this magical location.  Do take the opportunity to try out ice fishing and have a taste of the freshly caught fish which is usually smoked and served with an ice-cold vodka.

Suzdal 

Suzdal is a pastoral town and one of Russia’s most preserved walled cities. Suzdal dates back to 1024 and lies 22 miles from Vladimir. Here, you can visit St. Euthymius Monastry and take in the enchanting choral performance by the local monks. It’s so nostalgic; it’s a perfect destination to spend a wintery day.

Yekaterinburg 

This capital of Urals was founded by Peter the Great in 1723. The Ural Mountains act as a natural border between Asia and Europe, and here you will see how both the Asian and European architectural and cultural influences come together to create a fascinating culture.

During your winter Trans-Siberian tours, you can visit the site where the Romanov Tsar Nicholas II of Russia was executed along with his family by the Bolsheviks back in 1918 after 78 days of being imprisoned. Today, there stands a church that is dedicated to the family’s memory and the site offers great insight into the Russian Revolution turmoil.

So pack your winter woollies and head off on the ultimate of Trans-Siberian tours in the winter.

Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a famous travel destination for romantic holidays and family getaways alike. This mysterious tropical island offers tourists a paradise with white sand beaches and luxury resorts: just follow our tips before heading there!

Getting there and around

There are regular flights to Mauritius from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the USA, with a wide choice of airlines available. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is located in the south-eastern part of the island and is a couple hour’s drive from the nearest beach resort.

While buses go everywhere in the island, these can be time consuming, so  taxis or excursion buses are usually recommended. For those who prefer driving, petrol is relatively cheap and Mauritius’ roads have left-hand drive.

Weather and language

Travel during March and April when the weather is warm rather than October to February when it’s hot and humid. While English is the official language, French or Mauritian Creloe (a dialect derived from French) are the spoken languages in Mauritius.

Affordable luxury dining

Many think Mauritius is expensive. On the contrary, Mauritius offers luxury at affordable prices, with a wide selection of dining options for different budgets. Travellers on a low budget can choose to eat local Mauritian street food like most Mauritians do. This is a great way to taste the local traditional food, such as curry-filled samosas and dahl puri on the cheap.

International fast-food chains are common, while many Chinese restaurants also serve delicious Chinese and Creloe food at affordable prices. There are many mid-range restaurants along the beaches and in the villages and city centre. Travellers can select from a wide selection of international cuisines including French, Japanese and Mediterranean. The luxury dining restaurants are located in hotels where food is served in contemporary setting.

What to do

While in Mauritius, don’t miss the world-renowned Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden and UNESCO world heritage sites like Le Morne Mountain and Aapravasi Ghat Immigration Depot.

There are also a wide variety of activities near the beaches, including undersea walk, kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, scuba diving and submarine tours.

Golfers can chose among the great number of golf course located near the hotels and luxury villas. Mauritius also has a vibrant nightlife for those who want to go clubbing. The flourishing textile and jewellery industries mean tourists have a wider array of choices.

Mauritius is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the tranquil beaches, visit the villages and cities and go shopping.