Immersion Excursion, Train Station

Observations: When you first get to the train station you will notice little stands outside selling drinks and food. Then you will see the large train station and in front of the train station many buses. Across from the train station is the bus station. Inside the train station there is a large sign that shows the trains leaving that day. What time they are coming and departing. What platform they will be at and what type of seats are left. There is also a larger schedule near the cashier. This schedule shows all the trains that run and the days of the month they run. You can buy your tickets at the train station or from a travel agent. You can purchase the tickets the day of your departure or up to two weeks in advance. The tickets are different depending on where you want to sit. The most expensive seats are a two person compartment with a locking door. Then there is a four person compartment with a locking door. Finally there is a six person compartment with no door. On the train in your compartment there is some room for storing luggage. You can also pay extra to have your luggage put in another compartment.
There are a few seats when you first walk in the train station. People who are waiting to depart are sitting down with there bags. There bags are generally not suitcases. They are the big Asian market style bags or maybe a duffle bag. Most people do not have much luggage with them. There is also a VIP waiting room with a couple of stores and more seating. Upstairs the train station also has a salon and a hotel.
Impressions: The train station is a beautiful old building. They have kept it very nice and clean. I have traveled on Russian trains before. I stayed in the Kupea. It is a very comfortable way to travel.
Questions: When you purchase tickets are they in someone’s name or do they just give you a ticket.
Language Notes: There is quite a bit of language involved in purchasing a ticket. It is best to have a Russian help me to do this.