Highlights of China, Mongolia, Russia, Finland & Estonia are difficult to name as the diversity in history, architecture, people, geography & culture is vast. We loved the differences as we were endlessly surprised at every turn.
If highlights must be mentioned the following would come first to mind: Harbin Ice Sculptures enjoyed at -28C. Enjoying a 3 hour walk on the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall & getting to the snow covered sections visited by the few tourists. The ger camp and horse ride in the Terelj National Park. Incredible dog sledge ride in the falling snow thru the Forrest at Listvyanka.
The private hovercraft ride on frozen Lake Baikal & then walking onto same while sipping champagne! Troika ride on the snow covered grounds of Catherine’s Palace. The hectic pace of Moscow & the splendour of St Petersburg. To name a handful.
Oh and the endless whiteness of the vast countryside. We live in a sub-tropic area & the experience the exquisiteness of a northern winter was memorable. Travel All Russia ensured we were fully prepared for the coldness & all their recommendations were spot on.
Our itinerary over 36 days, with 3 flights, 10 trains, 1 ferry, 13 hotels & 9 guides & drivers delivered everything it stated it would and more. Most importantly on time with an ease that appeared effortless. This could only have been achieved by the incredible research & ground work put in by the passionate & dedicated staff at Travel All Russia. I feel the key to this is also by having local people as guides & drivers.