“Attention to passengers boarding train 21 Express Senandung Langkawi to Butterworth and Hat Yai, please proceed to Gate A for departure. This train departs at 0930pm. Thank You.”
That was the announcement that set me on my feet, ready to rumble against hundreds other passengers in a race towards the coach. The train coach that we belong. The second whistle was heard when I barely made my way into my designated coach.
A moment later the train starts moving. The bustling sound of the engine, the whirling wind that blew at night all help adds the adrenaline rush. The adrenaline of adventure. I tossed my backpack on the bed and climbed on the top berth that I booked earlier. Thailand, I whispered, the foreign land that I will be arriving to when I woke up later.
The whole coach passengers were awake few hours later, and were busy tidying up their stuffs. I on the other hand start to wonder what was going on. My curiosity was answered shortly by the announcement made stating that we were reaching the border checkpoint, Padang Besar station. It was about 10 a.m. at the moment, as I lightheadedly pack my stuffs and dig my backpack pocket for my passport. It had been almost a 12 hour ride on the train, but it didn't feel so because of the good night sleep I had.
We flocked out from the train, I was just moving along with the crowd as I am still half asleep at the moment.
An hour and a half later, we’re done with the immigration checking and the train was set to go we again entered our designated coach.
Just around 25 minutes later the environment changes, there were vehicles with registration letters that I couldn’t read, school kids and old women in Tuk-Tuks. I made it, here I am! All this with half less than the cost of flying, a night journey that saves my accommodation budget and fun experience!
Arriving at the railway station barely means I can be relieved. There ahead lays massive crowds of Tuk-tuk touts waiting for customers, following them around and quoting their price. All you have to do is smile, and bargain for the right price.
I managed to get a Tuk-tuk that took us to the place where we can take a minivan to intended destination, Krabi, for the cheapest price. Upon arrival I had to wait for the minivan. It was worth the wait. Fun way it is, the bumpy ride in the minivan jam-packed with locals and I got the seat next to the driver who barely speak English. He tried to strike a conversation, offering his neck-rest pillow to make me comfy. Smiles were exchanged but it didnt make it less awkward. I tried to communicate as he seemed like a very nice man. All attempt failed.
Safe to say 20 hours later, from Kuala Lumpur and with various modes of transportation, I made it safely to my guesthouse. To those with fear of flying, take a journey via alternative transports, and enjoy the ride! Its easy: just buy your ticket, wait for the train, get on board, chuck your bag, get your ticket checked and proceed to deep slumber. Malaysia-Thailand via railway done!
