Bulgaria to Bucharest, Romania

Due to a change in the railway routing, it was not possible to reboard the train at Veliko Tarnovo. Instead, taxis were arranged to drive us for approximately 1.5 hours along secondary roads to Ruse station, where we would catch our train to Romania. Travelling in this way provided an opportunity to see more of Bulgaria’s landscape and to pass through several small towns, offering glimpses into everyday life in the region.

Bulgaria is one of the poorest countries within the European Union, and this is apparent in its ageing ex-Soviet infrastructure. I am beginning to appreciate the far-reaching influence of the former USSR across the region—an impact that is evident in both the physical surroundings and the continued legacy over time.

Once at Ruse station, there was some confusion in finding the correct platform and train, as both were labelled incorrectly. The train staff seemed unfazed by the situation, and after sorting things out, we boarded the train for our journey from Ruse to Bucharest, Romania. Crossing the Danube River we leave Bulgaria and enter Romania.

If I recall correctly, every piece of Romanian literature and film I've encountered so far has carried a sense of melancholy. That same feeling seemed to linger over Bucharest when we visited—perhaps because of the heavy grey skies and the brisk, cold air. Although the outdoor cafés remained lively, patrons are now supplied with blankets to keep warm.

In any case, it sure feels like we are now in Europe. The people now look like 'us', while public graffiti and body tattoos have started to re-appear.Leer más