Well we've arrived in Baikal after an enjoyable 4 day train journey through the interesting if not exactly stunning Russian countryside. There were many many trees, and we covered over 5000km and 5 timezones. Rations consisted entirely of ainsley harriet cup a soups and crab and mushroom flavoured crisps...I don't think those flavours will make it to the UK.

We're staying in huts overlooking Lake Baikal, I could recite some facts but we haven't been to the museum yet. We have seen some huskies but it has been a very relaxing couple of days to say the least. The sun is warm, the people are friendly and the food - grilled omul the local speciality - is especially good and makes up for the days on the train.

Today we're in Irkutsk - the Paris of Siberia (!) - to get train tickets to Mongolia, its been a bit of a struggle but we have them now so back to the lake for a day before we head out. Whats hot in the Paris of Siberia includes the timeless shell suit and shoes look, accompanied by plastic bag at all times, and preferably a mullet.

There are some more photos on the flickr site so check that out too.