Originally, I was booked for a so-called first class compartment but I was upgraded at the start of the actual trip. I was much happier with the deluxe compartment, being just a bit larger, having its own toilet (as opposed to using shared facilities), and other conveniences such as independent air conditioning controls and a wall mounted television set. The attendants provided movie DVDs in either Russian or English, and there were other titles that could be checked out at the bar car.
The attendants usually made beds during breakfast and turned down beds while passengers were at dinner. Being an early riser, I usually made my bed so as to have more 'living space'. Not clear from this photo, but the bed folded up into wall on the right, giving a full width, upholstered bench seat. The small table shown is this photo would move to the center of the window allowing people to sit on either side of the table. The window had both blinds and a full curtain which you could adjust to your preference.
I must admit, a highlight of the trip, for me, was traveling in the deluxe compartment. But, be aware it has an expensive price tag. I think about half the people on my trip were booked into each class, first class and/or deluxe. First class passengers seemed to use the public facilities (bar car, dining cars) for socializing. A deluxe passenger might meet with people in their compartment or join the others in the bar/lounge. All passengers were encouraged to 'explore' to see what the rest of the train looked like.
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