04.08.2019: Trip to Omsk

Today we spent 9 hours on the bus. The trip is livened up by various lectures from the experts on board (local landscape guide, former Russian journalist for politics, etc.). Our next stop was Omsk, which is located about 650 km away. Omsk calls itself the secret capital of Siberia (with about 1.2 million inhabitants) and used to be the actual capital in historical times. Something new for us: Until the Perestroika, there were several so-called closed cities in Russia. Absolutely no tourist was allowed to visit these cities to prevent espionage or similar. Omsk was also one of these cities, especially because it is home to the defense industry (rockets).

There has not been an opportunity to see anything yet. Since the city was founded in the 18th century, there are a few historical buildings, which makes it appear less socialist at first glance.

We are staying at the Mayak Hotel right at the confluence of the Irtysh and Om rivers.

Time has been changed again, so there are only 4 hours left until we get home.