Why Winter?

I always say that winter in Siberia is the best time to visit. Especially lake Baikal are.
Many people ask me: "Why Winter?" Here I would like to give some answers :)

First of all, its New Year time. Cities are largely decorated with lights, ice sculptures. Every office and shop has discounts and gifts!

People are more active and energetic. In summer, its vacation time in Russia. Many people are gone traveling, cities seem to be very relaxed; but in the winter people are at their most powerful state. Happily stressed and openminded.
Parties at home are very warm and full of tasty things. People stay more indoors, become closer, what makes them best friends ever.

Of course it is very cold sometimes, its hard to handle for some people (good clothes is very important). But the beauty of the cities and nature is overwhealming. It is much cleaner, and everything is white. Rivers and lake are frozen in the second part of January and thats where fun begins. Ice skating, winter hiking, skiing, snowboarding and many other sports and activities.

Also for "real" divers its THE time to come to lake Baikal for diving. Its crazy-stunnig-amazing thing to do. It can be compared to diving in Antarctica.

Please comment about this, tell us why do you think winter is better for traveling in Siberia.