Yekaterinburg, however, shifts the mood. The city greets us with a grey, almost color-drained ambiance that starkly contrasts the vibrancy of Kazan. This part of the journey feels like stepping into a different world, where the vividness of life seems muted. Despite this, our spirits remain high, fueled by interactions with locals and the novelty of standing at the border of two continents. The Transib itself gives us a mix of thoughtful and fun moments, like a bizarre yet memorable visit to a train restaurant that could be a scene from a film. Moving forward, all these bits and pieces from our journey weave into a collection of memories that really show off the varied landscapes and cultural richness of Russia.

Links:

• Trans-Siberian Railway Official Site — The official website for the Russian Railways, providing detailed information on the Trans-Siberian Railway, ticket booking, and route planning.
• Visit Kazan - Official Tourism Website — Official tourism portal for Kazan and the Republic of Tatarstan, featuring travel guides, accommodation options, and attractions such as the Kazan Kremlin and Kul Sharif Mosque.
• Kazan Kremlin — Official website for the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitor information, history, and architectural details of this historic fortress.
• Couchsurfing — A platform for travelers to find hosts offering a place to stay, fostering cultural exchange and friendships. It is often used for meeting locals and participating in group activities.
• Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land — Wikipedia site for the Church on Blood in Yekaterinburg, built on the site where the last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, and his family were executed.
• Europe-Asia Border Monument — Video of the Europe-Asia border monument near Yekaterinburg, a popular spot for tourists to stand with one foot in each continent.
• Lake Baikal Guide — Comprehensive guide to Lake Baikal, offering information on the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, including activities, accommodations, and travel tips for Irkutsk.
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Budapest presented itself as a city of contrasts. From the initial confusion at Simpla to the awe-inspiring views of the parliament by the Danube, and a somewhat disappointing venture into a local thermal bath, Budapest was a rollercoaster of experiences.

Links:

• Szimpla Kert (Budapest) — Szimpla Kert is the original and iconic ruin pub in Budapest, known for its unique atmosphere, eclectic decor, and vibrant social scene, attracting locals and travelers alike.
• Hungarian Parliament Building (Budapest) — The official site for Hungary's Parliament Building, providing information on its history, architectural grandeur, and visitor tours along the Danube River.
• Buda Castle & Castle Hill (Budapest) — This site offers detailed information about Buda Castle and Castle Hill, highlighting its historical significance, museums, and panoramic views of Budapest.
• Central Market Hall (Budapest) — Central Market Hall is Budapest's largest and oldest indoor market, offering a vast selection of goods including traditional Hungarian foods, souvenirs, and crafts.
• Gellért Thermal Bath (Budapest) — One of Budapest's most famous thermal baths, known for its stunning architecture, therapeutic waters, and extensive spa facilities.
• @getto.gulyas — Instagram profile of Getto Gulyas, the most excellent gulyas we had in Budapest.
• Gravita Pub and Grill (Bucharest) — Facebook page of Gravita Pub and Grill in Bucharest, where we had quite good burgers.
• @gradinaeden — Instagram profile of the "Garden of Eden" (Gradina Eden).
• Smokehouse (Chișinău) — Smokehouse seems closed now – but for memories, I found this blog article.
• Notabene Cafe (Chișinău) — Facebook profile of the Cafe Nota Bene in Chișinău.
• Ștefan cel Mare Central Park — The main park of Chișinău, including the infamous fountain.
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