Make a list of key words to compare train station, baggage, train timetables, night trains, dining and bar cars in Russia and in Europe.

4. Give the English equivalents for the following word combinations describing the pictures below: бегущая строка, билетная касса, информационная стойка, пассажиропоток, стойка регистрации, расписание, зал ожидания, наземный переход, подземный переход, железнодорожный путь, рельсы, шпалы, край платформы.

5. Describe the interior of the carriage below which seems more preferable to you using the following words and word combinations: a sleeper, a carriage with compartments for 4 persons/4-berth compartment, a single/twin-berth cabin, a lounge car (Eurostar), a buffet, restaurant-сar, a luggage van, a seat, a berth, at-seat/room service, a recliner, a pull-down table, bedside lightning, supplement, to get on the line for the washroom, to hop on/off, to make the connection/to change, to submit a declaration, to fill out a declaration.

6. Give your idea of an open-plan carriage.

 

Text 4.                       

TRAVEL TIPS

From urban hops to global trots, Travel Tips offer some preventive measures so your journey can be safe and worry-free.

"Nobody looked like a thief!"

Remain alert at all times. Be aware of loud arguments and incidents; they may be staged to distract you while someone else steals your wallet or purse. Pickpockets come in all guises!

Food For Thought

A happy traveller must be a healthy traveller. Avoid eating raw foods in faraway destinations. Hot, well-cooked foods kill bacteria and you may avoid intestinal distress. Especially avoid eating fresh salads as they may be washed in questionable water. Eat at well-known and busy restaurants that look clean and well-run.

Be Subtle

Don't draw attention to yourself. Dress so that you do not draw undue attention, nor show a lack of respect for local customs and culture. Avoid advertising your wealth by keeping flashy jewelry and watches at home. Keep expensive cameras hidden in a small day-pack and don't display large amounts of cash. Carry only enough cash to make it through the day and leave the rest in the hotel safe or in a Tilley secret pocket. And if you are traveling alone, be discreet about it.

Tapped Out

Avoid drinking tap water, including ice cubes, unless you're sure of its source. Bottled water is safest but be sure to break the seal yourself. Keep a bottle of water in your bathroom to brush your teeth.

Shoes Blues

Never take new shoes on a trip. Select a basic shoe that's suitable for both day and evening wear. Carry-on your pills and toiletries, too; virtually everything else can be replaced at your destination if you arrive before your luggage does.

Change of Clothes

Temperatures vary significantly depending on location, time of day and season. Plan to wear lightweight, comfortable clothes: a sweater, rain jacket and slacks.

All Aboard!

Once validated, your rail pass is neither refundable nor replaceable. Guard your rail pass with the same attention you give your cash, traveller's cheques and passport. Keep your ticket handy once it has been stamped by the train conductor, you may need it to disembark.

Before You Go

Rail passes are available through travel agents and offer the advantages of unlimited train travel. Most often, travellers must purchase the Eurail or Britrail Pass before they leave Canada or the United States. Some rail passes also entitle you to discounts on connecting bus and steamship lines. Ask.

Be Alert

European trains sometimes split en route in order to service two different locations. Even if you know you're on the right train, make sure you're in the correct carriage, too. (Stay in your seat when the train stops at a terminal for "splitting" the coaches.) The splitting process occurs quickly and if you are in another part of the train you could easily end up at the wrong destination - without your luggage and your travelling companions.

Snap Happy

Bring a camera with lots of film and batteries. There are dozens of photo opportunities along the way. Sunglasses are suggested and binoculars come in very handy. Flat soled shoes should be worn while on the train as the constant movement demands your attention when walking and using stairs.

Но w to Travel Happier

Before setting out to drive long distances, get out the map and ask all your team to agree, in advance, where they'd like to stop each night. Then don't overrule that decision! Long days in a car make people cranky, so turn travel days into pleasurable vacation days by stopping frequently and early, especially if you have children or your spouse on board.

Pet Peeves

Pets require special TLC away from home. A little planning will keep them happy and healthy globetrotters. Before you leave take your pet to the vet for a once-over and check with your hotel reservation to ensure your pet is welcome. Have your pet wear an identification tag and keep your pet secure in a crate or carrier while travelling. It should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down in comfortably. Adequate food and water should be easily accessible to your pet.

Every Journey Begins with a First Step

Don't take that first step in new shoes! There's not much worse than being hampered by a fresh crop of blisters on your vacation. Be sure to wear old sturdy, comfortable shoes and clothes. That way, if your luggage is lost, you still have the essentials. Pack extra fast-drying knickers and socks, toiletries and pills in your carry-on. The rest is usually replaceable.

Diversify Your Funds

Don't carry all your money in one pocket. Even with secret and secure pockets divvy up your money among a number of different pockets. For tipping (or the occasional act of persuasion), carry $50 US split into a few fives and a stack of singles.

The Itinerary

Remember that travelling should be a bit of an adventure, so don't regiment every last detail of your vacation. Do your research, determine a couple of must-see locations plus a couple of others that would be interesting if time and logistics allow. Otherwise, leave some days open to see where the winds will take you. Isn't it often that places off the beaten path yield the most memorable days?

The Ins & Outs of Accommodation

It's always good to know the lay of the land when it comes to accommodation. When checking in, make sure your windows and doors have secure locks, especially if you're on an easily accessible lower floor. If you feel uneasy with your room, request a change. Once you've settled in a room, be sure to learn where the fire exits, fire alarms, stairwells, and other possible escape routes are located. If fire is a concern, avoid getting rooms above the 3rd floor.

 

WHAT TO DO: