Solo on the Trans Siberian Railway

As I slowly ambled out to catch the Rossiya from Yekaterinburg to Moscow, I found Platform 8, and proceeded to board. With limited Russian, I realized it was the wrong train. I went back into the station, and realized my train had not arrived yet. By the time I went back out, I realized I missed my train. I trudged back into the station, not able to find anyone who spoke English to help me.

I ended up at an "Administration" window, which closed after I waited in line for 30 minutes. I got into another line, waited another 30 minutes, and finally got to the front. I handed the lady my ticket, and she started yelling at me in Russian. I was about to leave, thinking of my options. I could go back to the hotel and catch the correct train tomorrow, or taxi out to the airport and fly to Moscow.

As I was about to give up, a young Russian man stepped in to help, explained my problem to the clerk, and got me a second class ticket later this day, and my refund from my first class ticket. I tried to thank him, even pay him, but he would not accept a single ruble.

After a few hours wait, I headed back out to platform 8. No train! I trudged back to the underground tunnel connecting the platforms, and saw my train on platform 8. Could it be that my train was at gate 8, instead of platform 8? Now in a panic, I ran out with my wheeled duffel, and saw my train a good 50 yards away, with the providnitsas gathering their passengers and step stools.

I barely made it, and found my cabin filled with three grungy Russian mean. It felt like entering a prison cell with three experienced cell mates, and a neophyte like me. I quickly decided to hang out in the hallway, where I soon met three of the most interesting and friendly Russian doctoral students. I had the best time getting to know them, and their culture. And likewise for them, as they had so many questions about the U.S. We spent all of our time together, shared several meals, and made the time pass by too quickly.

Though I was not happy about being stuck in second class, this travel incident became one of the highlights of my trip. As I said, expect the unexpected. I got far more than I deserved or asked for. It made my TSR trip!

Wherever that young Russian man might be, I owe you to pay it forward. I do at every chance I get, no matter where I am. Never underestimate the kindness of strangers, even in the bleakest situations.