Leaving Novosibirsk was bitter-sweet for numerous reasons. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here, having been introduced to some great people through my friend back in Moscow. However, the show must go on, and go on it did.

I boarded about 15 minutes before departure with the help of a friend I made while visiting the Novosibirsk Zoo, Rodion. After getting settled and having improved my Russian train life knowledge, I purchased a prepared meal from a grocery store and asked the attendant if I could have it microwaved. The attendant was more than happy to do that for me and offered me silverware and a glass for tea. So, at least this time, I would have an authentic meal on a Russian train; I’m not sure how easy it will be to find prepared meals at future stops.

Anyway, after having my microwaved meal prepared in a grocery store, I got my stuff where it needed to be and prepared to relax. I knew that I wouldn’t be falling asleep until way into the early hours considering the sleep schedule I had in Novosibirsk. Nevertheless, I managed to sleep from about 4-8 am. I decided to push through the “day” to semi-correct my sleep schedule.

About midway through my train trip, a neighbor of mine boarded. It was a girl in her teens; she was reticent but nice. We did not talk much, but I’m not complaining. Russians simply don’t do small talk very much compared to Americans. Shortly after her boarding, it was time for me to make some “lunch.” I opted for some oatmeal and mashed potatoes. While I have mastered the art of instant mashed potatoes, I hadn’t yet with instant oatmeal. I had added too much water. Nevertheless, it was still good.

I spent the rest of the ride staring out the window, playing cards, editing photos, and watching Netflix. Throughout the day, we had two longer stops where I took the opportunity to walk about and get some fresh air.

Once the evening began to set in, it was time for “dinner.” I decided it was finally time to have my instant noodles (with some added tabasco sauce). These carbs would help provide the much-needed energy I would need for the plan I had made for myself for tomorrow. Following that, I had some sweets and a couple of cups of tea (shout out to Tea with Tracy in Seymour, CT).  Then, I washed up and went to sleep.

I blame the stuffy air on the train; I didn’t sleep all too well. I managed to sleep about 6 hours, waking up around 7 am. I made some tea and some instant oatmeal. With the adventure I had planned for today, I needed the energy. I also began hydrating. Another hour and a half later, I arrived in Irkutsk, the closest city to Lake Baikal. I grabbed my stuff, hopped off, and ordered a taxi to my hostel.