8th August 2019 – I must have nodded off quickly

Then I had a 0300 knock on the door – which I couldn’t open! I gave too many apologies and made an effort. The door was just a bit sticky. It was opened by an attractive blonde police woman, I’m guessing Hungrian. Then at 0330 a Romanian man checked my passport, asking me where I was going and for how long. Luckily, I’d already worked out how to lock\unlock the door.

It’s 0858 and I crossed the time zone hours back. I think the buffet car has been attached. When the conductor returns with my ticket I will ask. This is not a fast train. The buffet car is next to my room. Luckily, I still have some Euros, but my coffee cost 3.50.

I haven’t seen the beautiful scenery yet. Lots of arable scrub, birds, and a man sharpening a very shiny sythe (or was is a sickle?)

My two rucksacks are fastened to the bunk bed ladders with my combo lock. Anything less would have been inconvenience only. A 10 minute wait near a station called Telus. There’s a black steam train a few tracks across from me.

It’s strange being in a buffet car that isn’t busy. Wish I could speak German. I’m missing out on a conversation. There’s a couple on their way to Istanbul and a bloke from Lichtenstein.

1033: Moving again! Two workmen in hi-vis vests are looking down at my carriage with a “yeah, that’ll be fine” look. Pulling away, it look as if many of the other tracks are rarely used, judging by the greenery.

I’ve just seen a car with a UK 64 plate. Good job driving here.

I’m back in my compartment enjoying the view. I gave the man 1.50 on the counter and asked for a take away coffee. That was my offer. No letting him walk away and returning with change this time.

I’ve just past a man beating a rug, just like what happened in the old days. I heard about that at school. But if it works, it works. Nice day for it.

1136 and a station to let people on. No signs. The houses look more modern now. We’re flying! More forests and hills. I know I have four hours to, but this trip has been relaxing.

My phone is switched off. I have a charge backup, but it’s probably for the best. Following the Brexit fiasco is awful. MPs are on holiday (ok, recess) and we are heading for a no-deal, with back room deals in the USA. And then, there’s the shady advisiors like Dominic Cummings who seen to wheal so much power.

Now that the sun’s shining I quite like my compartment. I’ll like it more when I get my ticket back.

1202 and another stop at a small station. Still no signs. Google Maps says it’s Danels.

Sighisoroara looks nice. I see chuches, steeples, and domes. And the stations has a sign!

Romanian Basics

Hello – Buna\Salut Good morning – Buna dimineata Good afternoon – Buna Ziua (zee wah) Good evening – Buna seara (sa-rah) Goodbye – La revedere Bye – Pa (Pah) Yes – Dah No – Nu Thank you – Mersi\Mulimesc

Slowest train ever! 1354 and we haven’t reached Brasov yet. 1543 and just left Brasov. This train is late.

I see mountains!

Can’t say we’re making much progress. I think we’re on a single track and we’ve had to reverse. This train is no a priority.

1650 and no forward motion. The buffet car is a little busier. There’s six young people, but don’t know were they’re from.

One of the train crew is having a smoke on adjacent train track. We’re not going anywhere!

I bought a coffee and a grilled chicken sandwich for 5 Euros. \it was two open sandwiches of salad and a mini chicken breast. Turning one on top of the other, I made a sandwich. It touched the sides, but only a little bit.

I miss the Chromebook, but I think I’m noting things that I would have missed otherwise.

1710 and I think we’re moving. Optical illusion? Nope, we’re definitely moving forwards.

I think my plan after Bc is Brasov – Bran Castle – Sibu (3.5 hr train), and Timisoara. I’m guessing on a 2000 arrival this evening.

Predeal looks nice. Possibly a sporting destination.

The conductor just walked up to me in the buffet car and handed me my ticket! Not far to go now – for a day or two.

I think I arrived at 1930 and G-mapped my way to the hotel. Very nice it is too. My room was upgraded to a junior suit and I have exec room access. The long train ride has lost me half a day though. That gives me a full day tomorrow – Friday. Saturday is protest day 1600-1900. I think Bc may need another day. Hostels look cheap and clean.

What I need is a good nights sleep and breakfast.

Protests are planned for tomorrow. Never tasted tear gas before. It’s 12:24 – not used to the clocks changing.

Night!