A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Travel writer Sophy Roberts spent two years crossing the cold, harsh wilderness of eastern Russia in search of a piano—a gloriously absurd quest detailed in her absorbing modernist masterpiece, The Lost Pianos of Siberia. Now for the big question: why?
Tomsk has none of the historical fame associated with Russia’s top tourist destinations, Moscow and St. Petersburg. For travelers seeking an alternative to grand churches and ubiquitous scenery, Tomsk provides a more understated experience. Charming wooden houses, reminiscent of a beloved Russian storybook, line the streets in various states of restoration. The city’s numerous universities impart a scholarly, serious tone. Additionally, the museums delve into the rich Siberian history. Set amidst miles of pristine taiga, Tomsk radiates a quiet dignity.