Bulgarian Transportation of the Week: Minibus
Friday, March 7, 2008
Ah, the minibus (микробус) just like a regular автобус, but without the safety. Minibuses are large vans or small buses (mini, if you will) and tend to service short routes in between large cities or really windy roads way out in the stix. They usually depart from bus stations, bus stops or unmarked places that only the locals know about. You can also flag them down. This PCV has caught minibuses from Dimitargrad to Stara Zagora, from Kazanlak to Stara Zagora and from Smolyan to the middle of no where. They are also usually cheaper than the standard bus and afford even less comfort. Some minibuses will refuse to depart unless every available space is taken, giving situations like this:
Keep in mind, this was a good 10 minutes or so before I departed and the driver was able to sell several more tickets. And what is a Peace Corps experience with with out daily awkward moments? There were six of us travelling together and we all sat in the back. We were the first stop. Hilarity ensued.
Needless to say, travelling by minibus is a great way to meet new people and experience new smells. It only adds adventure to your adventure.
All in all, travelling by minibus is a unique experience and it's not to be missed. You'll come away with a new mode of transport under your belt and a redefined sense of "personal space". I find it's overrated anyway.
Until next week, 4ao!
Posted byJimmy at 9:43 AM
Labels: Minibus, Trasportation of the Week
