My train Journey
The overnight train leaves from Halkali station. I took the underground train from Sirkeci station near my hotel.
This station was the start of the Orient Express. It is currently being renovated.
After trying to buy a ticket I was told it can free with my o/n train with I had to convince the bloke on the gate. He let me through!. The train takes about 45 mins and was very crowded. No one until the last few stops offered me a seat. In reality it was easier to stand. The bloody train didn't go all the way and I had to get off and wait for the next one. Got there in plenty of time. A small waiting room lined with chairs and that was Halkali station!
Borded at last at 7.20 and found my cabin?
a fridge no less! A pkt of pretzels, pkt of juice, a container of water and a sweet bar - that was all there was on the train.
It was an experience! I don't think one of repeat. The train was so slow. There's also the bidder Cristina's. At 2.30am we all had to get off the train go through the underground to the other side - not much light - and show our passports!
Bulgaria Svilengrad was the next polarity check. That's for Bulgaria. The train stopped, blokes took our passports and about 20mins later returned then and if we went again.
This trip was 570kms long. I left at 8pm and arrived in Sofia at 12am. I thought it would never end!!
When I got out the train a bloke helped me. Carried my bags, took me to the underground and showed me how to take the train and get money and a ticket. I was tetchy and now feel bad that I only have him 5 tkl - $1.38! I will do better next time
So cute! So dinner was crackers water, juice, a chocolate bar and vodka??
ReplyDeleteI loved the vodka! Was that the only food you could get on the train? It was more like a quick snack! I’ve always wanted to catch an overnight train and have a sleeper carriage, I think I’ll give this one a miss though. Safe travels.
ReplyDelete