Due to a sudden desire to backpack alone through Russia, I decided to embark on this adventure for three compelling reasons.

1. I didn’t require a visa (Thai passport holders are incredibly fortunate to have the privilege of entering Russia visa-free, as there are only a handful of countries that offer this Free Visa option. Moreover, Russia has gained quite a reputation for being relatively welcoming to foreign visitors in terms of visa regulations).

2. The Ruble exchange rate was favorable, with 1 Ruble equating to approximately 0.55 – 0.60 Thai Baht, compared to the previous rate of 1 Ruble to 1.50 Baht. This meant that I could purchase goods at almost three times the value there.

3. This country has gained a reputation for its astonishing beauty, which enticed me to witness it firsthand with my own eyes.
Thus, I embarked on my solo journey, ready to explore the enchanting wonders of Russia.

.

Therefore, without hesitation, I quickly checked ticket prices and started planning my journey. I decided to travel for 8 days, from November 14th to 22nd, 2015, exploring both Moscow and St. Petersburg in true backpacker style. Excitement filled my heart as I embarked on this solo adventure.

And then, I stumbled upon the most incredible airfare deal offered by China Southern Airlines, with their hub located in Guangzhou. The round-trip price from Bangkok (BKK) to Moscow (SVO) was only £340. Unbelievable! However, there was a catch—I had to change planes in Guangzhou (CAN) and there was a technical stop in Urumqi (URC) during the journey. It would take approximately 21 hours in total. But since I was on a leisurely vacation, time was not a major concern.

Hence, I confidently purchased this route, knowing that the journey itself would be part of the adventure. (Though I had prepared myself mentally for any possible quirks that may come with flying China Southern, expecting less would lead to fewer disappointments, right?)

Flight route information

Route 1 : Bangkok Suvarnbhumi (BKK) – Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN)
Airline : China Southern Airline (CZ)
Route : Bangkok (BKK) – Guangzhou (CAN)
Flight : CZ3036
Aircraft : Boeing 737-800
ETD : 02.10 (GMT+7)
ETA : 06.00 (GMT+8)
Duration : 2 hours 50 minutes
Cabin : Economy

.

……….. 5 Hours 35 minutes Layover…………..

.

Route 2 : Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) – Moscow Sheremetyevo (SVO) … via Urumqi (URC)
Airline : China Southern Airline (CZ)
Route : Guangzhou (CAN) – Moscow (SVO) ……… via Urumqi (URC)
Flight : CZ6001
Aircraft : Boeing 737-800
ETD : 11.35 (GMT+8)
ETA : 19.25 (GMT+3)
Duration : 12 hours 50 minutes
Cabin : Economy

.

It all started with my check-in at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. Like every time I travel, I attempted to do an internet check-in beforehand. However, the system notified me that it was not possible because I had more than one ticket for this particular route. I was instructed to check-in at the airport counter instead. (I wasn’t sure if other airlines with multiple tickets allowed internet check-in or if it had to be done solely at the airport counter.)

As a result, the queue seemed longer than usual, but I had factored in some extra time. I arrived at the airport around 11PM.

***** During the check-in process, I asked the Thai ground staff (Thai Airways personnel assisting with the check-in for China Southern) if my luggage could be checked through. They replied, “Certainly! We can take care of your luggage until Moscow.” Then, with a playful smile, they mentioned that there were only a few passengers on this flight to Guangzhou, with most continuing on to their final destination.

It seemed that connecting flights with China Southern in Guangzhou were quite popular, and rightfully so.

.

.

After receiving my boarding pass, I made my way straight to the gate. Today, my boarding was scheduled at D5.

.

.

.

After ensuring that everything was prepared for the “Red Eye Flight,” the time had come for boarding, right on schedule.

.

.

.

It arranged the seats in the standard 3-3 configuration of the economy class, just like the typical Boeing-737 layout.

.

.

The Seat pitch was 30”, it was appropriate for me who has 183 cm tall. 🙂

.

After the cabin crew ensured that all passengers were securely seated, the pushback commenced right on time. (I happened to be seated next to two Chinese aunties who ate ‘sugar apples’ throughout the journey. They were lively and didn’t sleep a wink, but it was pleasant as they ate quietly without causing any disturbance or unpleasant odors.)

 .

After the aircraft was in cruising speed, I decided to survey the lavatory. I must say, it was reasonably clean and usable.

.

.

Soon after, the meal service began. I was served a delightful Ginger chicken stir-fry. Judging by the taste and presentation, I guessed it might have come from the Bangkok Airways Catering. 🙂

.

Once I had satisfied my hunger, I decided to take a nap. However, my slumber lasted only an hour as the cabin crew came around to wake everyone up, preparing for landing. Afterward, we taxied for quite a long time (very long, in fact), approximately 15 minutes, before finally reaching the gate for disembarkation.

.

Then, I started looking for the Transfer signs to make my way to the connecting flight.

However…..the process of changing planes in China was quite special because it required passing through Immigration Control. I had to fill out an Arrival Card and present it at the designated Immigration Counter, just like entering the country as usual. The Immigration Officer requested both my boarding pass and E-Ticket for the departing flight from China, so it’s important to have them printed and ready.

For Thai passport holders, we were exempted from a Chinese visa for transit flights within 24 hours, regardless of the number of layovers in China. As long as we left China within 24 hours, it was permissible. The only exception was Chengdu, where departure had to be on the same day as arrival, not exceeding midnight.

For more information, you can see this link.
Plase note that such regulation in China can be changed anytime. Regukarly check before your travelling is recommended.
http://www.travelchinaguide.com/embassy/visa/intro2.htm

.

Then, I proceeded to go through the security check in order to catch my connecting flight to Moscow. Upon arriving at the gate, there was a welcoming setup with tables offering complimentary drinks and small snacks for all passengers, regardless of their class. I decided to choose a Chinese tea and enjoyed sipping it leisurely, savoring the moment.

.

For a while, the boarding call was announced, and we headed towards the bus gate. Shortly after, the pushback was initiated as scheduled, ready to take off for Moscow (with a technical stop in Urumqi).

.

.

.

.

.

Once we were airborne, the flight attendants served a meal consisting of chicken sauce noodles, accompanied by boiled eggs, boiled peanuts, and a banana. The taste was decent, satisfying enough. As I enjoyed my meal, I requested beverages continuously, opting for orange juice. With my drink in hand, I delved into a book, as there was no in-flight entertainment available on the aircraft. The only screens were small ones that were barely visible. Well, it was a budget flight, so I could tolerate it.

.

.

.

After flying for approximately 5 hours, we descended and landed at Urumqi for a brief layover, which lasted around 1 hour.

.

.

At Urumqi, those passengers continuing on to Moscow would be separated from those disembarking in Urumqi to go through Immigration Control before boarding. Then, the boarding process commenced as scheduled.

This flight was operated by the same aircraft that flew in from Guangzhou, with the addition of pillows and blankets. Surprisingly, the standards were consistent between domestic and international flights. It’s remarkable that even for a flight of around 5 hours, the amenities provided were difference. 😛

.

.

.

Once we took off and reached cruising altitude, the flight attendants began serving the meal. It consisted of a fish steak (more like a stir-fried fish) accompanied by a smoky duck breast salad (I’m not quite sure what to call it, to be honest).

.

nce I had satisfied my hunger, I settled in for a long nap during the approximately 5-hour flight. As the flight neared its end, we began descending and landed at Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO). Subsequently, we proceeded through Immigration Control and collected our baggage.

****Immigration Control at this airport was particularly challenging (having traveled to several countries, I can say that Russia’s immigration process is one of the toughest I’ve encountered). The officers seemed unaware of the fact that Thai passport holders do not require a visa. They meticulously checked their detailed database and scrutinized my passports. 🙂 But, finally, I passed the immigration without problem. Just take time about 20 minutes

.

.

.

Upon passing every process, it meant I have completely arrive in Russia !
I opted to take the Aeroexpress, a high-speed train, to reach city center. The fare was 470 rubles per trip, and I was able to conveniently purchase my ticket from a self-service ticket vending machine. The payment options accepted were both cash and credit cards.

You can see how to use Aeroexpress from airports in Moscow to city center from this link.
https://shipy-ship.com/2016/04/07/getin_moscow_from_airportsby_aeroexpress

.

.

.

.

.

From Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO), I took the Aeroexpress to Belorussky Metro Station (Белорусский), which only took 35 minutes.

***Russian trains are impressively punctual, whether you’re traveling to and from Moscow or St. Petersburg or even just going to Sergiev Posad. The departure and arrival times are incredibly precise, not deviating by even a minute***

You can download the metro map in Moscow (with English name) from this link.
http://www.moscow-driver.com/photos/var/albums/moscow/Metro/Maps/Moscow-Metro-Map-2013-Art-Lebedev-Studio-Full-NoLandmarks.jpg

.

It’s worth noting that metro stations in Moscow do not have English signs. Therefore, it’s advisable to have both the Russian and English versions of station names on hand for reference. Otherwise, it can be quite confusing, especially for those who are not familiar with the Russian language.

.

From there, I took the metro to the hotel to relax and prepare myself for the upcoming adventure of exploring the land of the white bears the next day.

Overall, Even it was much longer travelling then direct flight. But, for the person who do like travelling by air like me, it was pleasant trip as I did try the airline what I never use with different flying path. The service and reliability of China Southern Airline was trustable. It was one of the good choice for the passenger who is looking for full-service carrier with attractive cost. See you in Russia. 🙂

 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Written By : SHIPY SIWARIT TIASUWATTISETH

https://www.facebook.com/shipyshipdotcom