Der Nachtzug

The Night Train

The past few months have been filled with all sorts of “well, this is a first” experiences.  One such event was our night train journey from Stuttgart to Wien.  We boarded the train at 23:00 and entered our cozy, comfortable “Schlafkammer” which included a miniature sink, tiny cupboards, lights and mirrors, and two surprisingly large beds.  The porter stopped by to ask for our breakfast order and to report he would wake us at 6:00 – one hour before our Wien arrival.  The train made two stops throughout the night, but we were oblivious.  Closing the door to the Schalfkammer was like shutting the door to a vault.  The rocking of the train lulled us to sleep (we were both surprised).  The next thing we knew our kindly porter knocked at 6 as promised, and ten minutes later delivered our breakfast (great coffee, juice, breads, jams, meats, cheeses).  We then arrived in Wien – sort-of refreshed and ready to start the day.  

Don't let the "Orient-Express" name fool you - the velvet-covered walls, china, and down comforters were conspicuously missing. 

Although it is difficult to see the clock, this is proof that Karla stayed up until 23:00.

Necessities - A towel, a bar of soap, a bottle of water, fruit, and a wish for a good night's sleep!

Would you look at how adorable the sink is!?  And it had HOT water, too.

Trav chooses the top bunk - but safety first, my friend, safety first.

Really?  I have to climb down now?