Customer Reviews

The Russian Far East

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is definitely the definitive book on the Russian Far East, but as time goes on, the information becomes more and more dated. As is the case all over Russia, places, names, and businesses change constantly throughout the Russian Far East and this book, as good as it is, shows its age with its many discrepancies.

While I would still classify this book as a must read for any would-be traveler in the Russian Far East, I would also hope that a new revision or a replacement could be found in the near future.

'The Russian Far East', by Allegra and Erik Azulay, is the definitive companion for anyone who is planning on spending any time in that often puzzling but always beautiful region of Russia east of Siberia.

'The Russian Far East' is a well-organized travel guide that includes everything from train and ferry schedules to advice on bed linens and walking tours for each major city and some of the smaller towns that pepper the Russian continent from the Amur River to the Pacific Ocean. I've been to some of the many places Allegra and Erik describe, and can personally vouch for the accuracy and poignancy of their entries. I know that many ex-pats--including members of the diplomatic corps, NGO's, and the military, along with the usual executives--wander the region with this book in hand.

In short, if Baedekers can assure a tourist in Florence a Room with a View, the Azulays can assure a tourist in the RFE a Room with Hot Water. And that's important.

The Russian Far East comes in handy for both the first-time traveler and the seasoned ex-pat. I have traveled the area using this book as a primary guide, and I've found the information to be accurate, straightforward and well thought-out. Perhaps most important, the Azulays bring forward a sense of candor and humor that meshes well with the authors' genuine love for the area.

Even if you are not traveling to the region anytime soon, I would recommend the Russian Far East as a historical companion and a great way to learn about the history, geography and culture of the Russian Far East and Eastern Siberia.

Often helpful, but outdated in places, and there are some holes.