The Silk Road

While travel by train across China may not be the most luxurious, it is the best way to travel the great distances across the country with the opportunity to sit back and soak up the changing landscapes, plus to meet the locals as it is their main form of transport.

Generally, compartments are open-plan, clean and are fitted with padded three-tiered berths (6 to a compartment). Sleeping essentials (sheet, pillow and blanket) are provided and basic bathroom facilities with toilets and wash basins are at the end of each carriage. Safe, hot drinking water is readily available through the journey, although it is recommended to bring your own mug and cutlery with you as you will be making your own meals in your cabin (regular supply stops are made on the tours). Food will be available to purchase on board, but snacks are always a welcome addition to some of the longer journeys.

In the more remote areas of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, private and public buses, plus the odd public train will be used for day journeys to each new destination along the route.