It hasn’t taken long for me to regret my choice to go second class. I am writing this at 2 a.m. I have been absolutely freezing, and decided to go stand at the front of the car where the bathroom is not air conditioned space, so I am hoping to increase my body temperature. The train trip from Bangkok to Vientiane is 12 hours. This is a long trip to endure these temperatures!
Attempting to sleep. Where do I begin? The seats are not built for sleeping. I have dozed off occasionally, thankful I chose to bring my sleep mask and ear plugs.
Why can’t the lights be dimmed? Has anyone at SRT figured that out (or the AC moderated)? I think everyone on our train may be willing to chip in so they can go to HomePro, get a few dimmer switches and install them.
Lighting and air conditioning on this car is reminiscent of a morgue, though I might argue I’d get a better sleep in the morgue, even with the unfortunate guests there. I think the morgue would be warmer, the lights dimmer, and at least I could lay down.
I am dreading the trip back. It’s an overnighter again. Contemplating getting to know a single lady with a sleeping berth and offering to just cuddle for warmth for the night. I’m thinking my higher body mass index could be a selling point! Is there an app to connect people for this purpose? What would you call it? FurnEss? Broilr? Cuddlr!
So, if someone spots me sleeping on a warm park bench in a shady spot in Vientiane tomorrow (technically today), you’ll know why! My back is already reminding me that I will be looking for a massage/nap as well.
Looking into the car now, I see the rest of the passengers also freezing their asses off. I am not alone! I would recommend if you’re taking the train trip from Bangkok to Vientiane that you should consider dressing warmly, go in third class (where you’ll have the opposite problem), or book far enough in advance to get a sleeper car in first class. There are certain criteria, but you can book tickets up to 180 days in advance.
I didn’t look too far into it, but I think this would be a nice trip to do during the day. Sure, you save money on a hotel, but it’s not the best way to sleep! I like to see the countryside as well, which you just can’t do at night.
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