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Tourist Map (44KB); Russia Destinations (main page)
In the early seventies the Soviet government launched a giant project targeting untapped mineral and lumber resources of the Russian Far East. It was to be called the BAM Railway. Tynda (also often spelled Tinda) became the capital and administrative center of the BAM, and it was built for this role. Geographically it is located in the East of Russia northwest of Vladivostok. Regionally it is the Amur Region of the Russian Federation. It is also almost on the southern border with Yakutia-Sakha Republic of the Russian Federation. The closest large cities are Blagoveschensk (one hour by plane and 12 hours by train), Khabarovsk (30 hours by train), and Nerungri (8 hours by train). Tynda has a small local airport. It is possible to fly via Blagoveschensk, the capital of the Amur Region. It is connected by railway with most cities in Russia, including Moscow. Tynda is a compact city due to many multi-story buildings. Population is under 50,000. Entertainment, in the form of venues (theaters, museums, etc.) is not as obvious in Tynda. Most people spend their free time at home or visiting friends and family for tea parties or dinner. During the summer Tynda residents go to the taiga (forest) to pick berries and mushrooms and for picnics. As in much of Russia, Tynda residents rely on local agricultural production and cooking at home to bring these costs back in line. The people of Tynda are well educated and have great attitude towards life. Most are young, and came to the BAM following adventure and romance. Today's economic situation has of course put great strain on all Russians, especially those in remote areas, but it is this attitude of self-survival and enjoyment of each other's company that keeps cities like Tynda going during these times. Below please find few remarks from past visitors about Tynda:
...I'm just writing to say that everything here in Tynda is great, and I love being here. Before leaving to spend nine months in the Russian Far East, I had only one expectation: COLD! In that, I was not disappointed. However, the warmth of the Russian soul was more than accomadating, despite the chill. I loved Russian food. Despite the hard times, food was always available. I saw a lot of Russian customs, traditions and superstitions. The people in Tynda were intrigued by foreigners and were anxious to engage me in conversation, and I have so many wonderful memories and friendships that I now cherish... - Charles McClellan, USA
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