Me looking cute with two new friends in the background.
The train journey from Istanbul toBelgrade was an interesting one, albeit long (24 hours). After we passed through Sofia in Bulgaria and entered Servia we zoomed through the Balkan Mountains. Village after village sat nestled in valleys and mountainsides.
My sleeping quarters
I marvelled at the agricultural activity. Almost anywhere there was flat land there were crops. These weren’t acres of homogenous crops “a la Monsanto” (although that did happen closer to Belgrade) but reasonable sized plots that seemed to be alternating with plantings of grains then vegetables. All different types. For the most part these plots seemed to be tended by hand given the number of Serbians I saw in the field with hoe in hand. Even the banks of the railway had crops. Everywhere something was planted. I marvelled at it.
People tending their fields through the beautiful Balkan Mountains
The train ride itself was pretty good. I had a 3 bed sleeper to myself. It was an old train. the sink worked but the plug and night lights didn’t. There was no food on board so I went almost 20 hours before an opportunity to hop off and buy something occurred. I met two really interesting Finnish girls – Nora and Johanna – and a lad from the U.K. – John.
John, Johanna and Nora - hanging out late at night
Sleeping on a train is very soothing as it rocks you to sleep. I don’t think many people do the train anymore, given cheap flights thus the state of the train. I still think its the best way to travel if you have the time. It is a great way to see the countryside and you can move about and meet people. Way better than a bus. So far what I see of Serbia is a fertile and beautiful country. Belgrade here I come.
Sun sets on Serbia
I also love travelling by train and always did when I visited Ella in Kent and then to Edinburgh. Always took the overnight journey as I agree it lulls you to sleep.
Yes the lulling is great.
You are really having a wonderful time. The train journey must have seemed long but I am sure you are enjoying everything about your trip. I just wonder how you will settle down after all this travelling.
Do I have to settle down? That is a question I keep asking myself. There must be a way to make a living and be a traveller.
Hallo Sara
You took the train from Istanbul to Belgrad. Woh!
Once I was in the train from Istanbul to Bucarest in Romania and was winter. At that time I was in the sleeping wagon together with two mor persons. In summer 2010, during the hollydays of students the train was more than full. All of the studens were traveling by train through whole Europe with theire interrail ticket.
Yup – but the one from Belgrade to Bar was also spectacular – more full though. Glad to see you visiting my thoughtful meanderings. hope you are well.