Day 88: Early Start to the Day

Weather Update: Cloudy with showers, High 6c

Elevation Above Sea Level. 3 metres

A Wild Ride to Batumi

Taxi to the Train Station

My taxi arrived, and the driver seemed to rush like crazy. At one point, he swerved to avoid an accident, only to swerve back because the gap he tried to go through was too small. He cursed the driver in front, stopping just inches from crashing.

First-Class Train Journey

The train arrived at 7:30, and we boarded at 7:45, leaving on time. I had booked first class for the 5-6 hour journey, which was a great decision. The first class had wide seats, plenty of legroom, and comfortable seating for 84 GEL (about $50). In comparison, the third class looked cramped, with three narrow seats on either side, and the second class had two wider seats across.

Views and Seating Confusion

I was looking forward to enjoying the views, but first-class windows had advertising pictures on the outside, which restricted visibility. I hoped to sit on the right side of the train for mountain views and chose seat 27 for this reason. However, I ended up in seat 19 on the opposite side. Despite the seating confusion, there were plenty of snowy landscapes as we moved further from Tbilisi.

Misunderstanding with Train Security

I almost had an altercation with train security. Seeing someone with a sandwich, I decided to get coffee and a snack from the restaurant car. When I asked for directions, an official pointed and said "back," which I misinterpreted. Another person clarified it was carriage No. 3. However, there were only vending machines for snacks and drinks. Returning to my carriage, a staff member whispered for me to follow her. I was accused of smoking in the toilets, which I don't do. I offered to let them search me and my belongings. Thankfully, a fellow passenger explained the situation, and I was allowed to return to my seat. The actual smoker was someone else entirely.

Arrival in Batumi and Taxi Hassles

Upon arrival in Batumi, I was immediately hassled by taxi drivers and hawkers. I initially decided to walk the 3-4 km but soon agreed to a ride for 10 GEL. When it came time to pay, the driver claimed he had no change. I found an ATM and eventually gave him 15 GEL, which was more than the typical fare.

Settling into the Hotel

I finally settled into my hotel. With the wine I was given before leaving Tbilisi, I bought a cute corkscrew and spent the evening watching Netflix. More adventures await tomorrow!

Cheers to the adventures ahead and the stories yet to unfold! 🌏✨🏨🍷