... in response to Travel from Moscow to Penza, posted by jam on Oct 22, 2001I have made the trip twice. I just got back from Penza on the 27th of September. There is only one way to get there, the train. The train leaves Moscow's Kazansky station at 8 or 9pm, (I don't remember the exact time) and arrives in Penza the next morning at approximately 9am. The airport in Penza does not have passenger service due to funding shortages. The bus would take forever and be a big waste of precious time and not to mention uncomfortable. The train allows you a spacious bunk to crash out on. The best bet is to pay the cost of your girl to meet you in Sheremetyevo and navigate you to Kazansky station. I paid approximately $50.00 each way between Moscow and Penza. You can get a cheaper berth, but you would have to put up with three strangers instead of two unless your girl meets you there. I am sure you can probably do it on your own, but if it is your first time in Russia and you don't speak Russian, I would get your girl to meet you.
A couple of minor annoyances, the restroom on the train is closed whenever the train is close to, or passing through a city or town. So be sure and go when you get the chance.
If you are going to be by yourself, you should bring a Russian phrasebook and books or magazines to read.
I have navigated the return trip each time by myself including the taxi to Sheremetyevo. ($40.00)
Believe me when I tell you that it will lower your stress level to get your girl to meet you.
If she can't, I would e-mail the English department at Moscow State University and ask if they have any students that would like to make a few dollars by showing you the Kremlin and Red Square. This is what I did when I took my first trip to Russia. It worked out great. The students were knowledgable and spoke great English. It only cost me about $40.00 additional dollars.
Good Luck
Kevin
