|
| |
|
GETTING AROUND |
| |
|
|
| |
With an extensive and relatively efficient network of trains and (shaky)
buses, you'll have few problems getting around the most populated parts
of Russia. Regular Eurolines buses now connect major cities with the
rest of Eastern and Western Europe.
Trains and buses
Buying tickets for long-distance and international trains is easy these
days. Hundreds of agencies can help you avoid queues at train stations,
for a minimal commission, and foreigners no longer pay more for tickets
than Russians. A dozen trains leave Moscow's Leningrad Station within an
hour or so of midnight for the 8hr journey to St Petersburg, the most
historic being the Red Arrow (#2). Many prefer the day train, the
Aurora, which takes 6 hours, or the new evening train, at just 4 hours.
All trains are generally safe and reliable, and cheap.
Most of Moscow's and St Petersburg's outlying sights are accessible from
mainline stations (separate ticket office for suburban trains). Suburban
buses and efficient minibuses from the end of a metro line often go
straight to the tourist attraction. Fares are also low, although state-run
buses are often packed
Driving and hitching
Traffic in the cities is heavy and many Russian motorists show a
reckless disregard for pedestrians and other cars. Driving , therefore,
requires a fair degree of skill and nerve.
Unless otherwise specified, speed limits are 60kph in the city and 80kph
on highways. Few car rental agencies offer cars without drivers, except
for extremely high prices.
Many Russians hitch , especially after the public transport system
closes down, when you'll see people flagging down anything that moves.
If the driver finds the destination acceptable, he'll state a price,
which may or may not be negotiable; if you're not happy, wait for
another car. Russians will usually pay the ruble equivalent of a dollar
or so to ride several kilometres; foreigners are likely to be charged
more. Don't get into a vehicle which has more than one person in it, and
never accept lifts from anyone who approaches you, particularly outside
restaurants and nightclubs: instances of drunken foreigners being robbed
in the back of cars have been known. Single women should stick to
official taxis.
|
| |
|
