I have been on a Russian train all night - about 18 hours in total. I was the only person in my compartment, so I didn't get the full Russian cultural experience!
However, the journey did have its quirks. And some points the train felt like it was doing hand-break turns, and power was only given to compartment lights from 10pm((meaning pitch black tunnel sections!). There were no English speakers about, and I was taken aback by the abrupt 'customer services' from the "Provodnista" who demanded and disappeared with my "Billet!". After interpretation through a German speaking woman, and some some attempts at some basic polite Russian phrases and politeness to warm my "Provodnista" to me, I learned that it is normal to expect to lose contact with your ticket and your passport for a period of time!A station stop in Poznań brought back some memories of the Warsaw to Berlin cycle ride.
Asleep, the lights leapt into action at 4am. After a heavy knock at the door, and a two-hour long-winded process of passport /customs checks across the train (once at each side of the border) and switch from European to Russian "bogies", I was in Belarus and on the home strait to Minsk.
It's very difficult getting used to such a different language and alphabet (hardly any words in English and no English speakers other than in the hotel!). I have to say though, the people in Minsk are incredibly friendly and helpful. After a 25p bus ride to the hotel, I am relaxing and re-gathering my thoughts!
