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MEET AN EXPERT
Jay is fascinated by Siberia's spectacular landscapes, historic architecture, diverse ethnic mix and extreme climatic conditions - truly one of our planet's remotest lands.
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But the town has attractions beyond the lake that laps at its jetties. The streets are decorated with striking architecture, from the distinctive Hotel Mayak to St Nikolai Church, and cozy family-run restaurants serve the authentic dishes of Buriat. Learn about Baikal in its dedicated museum, meet the friendly seals in the Nerpinarium and, after a day of exploring, relax in a traditional Russian sauna.
But the town has attractions beyond the lake that laps at its jetties. The streets are decorated with striking architecture, from the distinctive Hotel Mayak to St Nikolai Church, and cozy family-run restaurants serve the authentic dishes of Buriat. Learn about Baikal in its dedicated museum, meet the friendly seals in the Nerpinarium and, after a day of exploring, relax in a traditional Russian sauna.
Explore the science of Lake Baikal with exhibits on its aquatic inhabitants and discover the watery depths in a mini-submarine. Examine the local flora in the adjoining dendropark.
Perhaps the best place to head for the local locals’ favorite dish of Omul; these tasty fish are freshly caught from the lake and smoked to perfection. The inhabitant Buriat people enjoy Omul every day.
Hop aboard an authentic fishing boat and head out on the water to lure the catch of the day - or night; after dark, there are also tours on which you can enjoy the glassy waters by starlight.
Next to the Priboy Hotel, the giant silver Nerpinarium is home to a number of frisky, frolicking Baikal seals. Catch these cheeky customers at half hourly displays of tricks and antics.
A great way to soothe aching muscle after a day on the Lake, is to visit an authentic Russian sauna. The ‘banyas’ are wooden cabins, found on the hillside or in some hotels.
Built at the end of the 19th century, the church of St Nikolai, made out of timber in its distinctive style, is dedicated to the saint who rescued unfortunate victims of a shipwreck.
by New York Times 
by Town & Country 
