Children aged 7 to 11 miss classes, but older students still expected to attend.

Novosibirsk - the unofficial capital of Siberia - is an excellent stopover for train travellers in search of rest and relaxation as they cross the continent.

Below are a few ideas, both within the city and also on a trip out to the satellite town of Akademgorodok, in the heart of pine forests

In summers - when it can be very hot - or in the extremely cold but sunny winters, the city is good for strolling, with plenty of pubs and cafes to wander into for those in need of a cooling, or warming, drink.  

You’ll be pleased to see how many people speak good English.

Born in the Siberian taiga, recluse Agafya Lykova is the sole survivor of the Lykov family who cut themselves off from civilisation in 1936.

The pensioner, 81, died on the spot.

Police warn that the foreign visitors are 'risking their lives' on world's deepest lake.

Nowhere in the world runs its roads, trains and airports as well as Siberia during the harsh winters.

Mercy mission brings stores for Agafya Lykova to help her survive the winter in her remote retreat.

Described as 'wonders of nature', explore two of the most fascinating places on earth where the warm sand dunes meet the icy steppe.

When the temperature dips to minus 30C in Tobolsk, kids are allowed a day off school.