From the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Website:
Turkmenistan:
"Rail travel is slow and can be uncomfortable. If you have to travel overnight, store valuables in a safe place. Do not leave the compartment unattended and secure the door from the inside."
Source:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living -overseas/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceani a/turkmenistan
Uzbekistan:
"Take care when travelling long distances by train. If you have to travel overnight, store valuables in a safe place. Do not leave the compartment unattended, and secure the door from the inside. You need to present your passport when booking train tickets".
Source:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living -overseas/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceani a/uzbekistan
Photograph of a train toilet on Turkmenistan railways!:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/118/316383342_9 690551e37_o.jpg
Some travellers' experiences (using various modes of transport, including rail) in Uzbekistan:
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Asia/Uzbe kistan/Transportation-Uzbekistan-BR-1.html
(Note that the link goes to the first of 4 pages. Click the page links to read more).
'Silk Route' info:
http://www.seat61.com/SilkRoute.htm
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