It seems the Greyhound bus in the black sheep of the long haul transportation industry. They’re slow because they stop in every little out of the way town. They’re kind of stinky. There seem to be alot of bus crashes, and personal safety is questionable. Even so, traveling by bus is a transportation experience everyone should try. Don’t think of it as a bad experience. Think of it as a memorable experience to be written down in your travel journal.
Let’s start with the bus station. If these things aren’t the armpit of the transportation world, then nothing is. The bus station is always full of seedy characters lurking around, waiting for a ride. Mixed in with that are working class folks who cling to their luggage as if to shield themselves from the general lack of safety all around them. The bus station is dirty and always in great need of maintenance. The floor is sticky, the trash is overflowing, and the smell is never good.
Now proceed to the bus itself. These dinosaurs of transportation are legendary. In fact, get into the romantic and nostalgic mood of days of old. You’re going to need it as you step into your traveling experience. Expect the weirdest person in the world to sit in the seat next to you. Although your safety probably won’t be threatened, you sanity will be. This is the good stuff. Write down everything your traveling partner says. It will make hilarious dinner conversation.
Stops can be fun because they’ll be so depressing. Buy cheap souvenirs. Share them with your friends. Try new junk food temptations. Be careful in the bathroom. It will be gross. Maintenance isn’t a priority in there. Get back on the bus and pray this was your seat partner’s stop, but don’t expect it.
When you get to your destination, be happy you had the travel experience. Be thankful that there is a transportation option for everyone, even if it’s not for you. Who knows. Maybe you had so much fun, you’ll try it again.