by Nicky W. Small

Created on: September 20, 2009

Sitting on a crowded bus for long hours might sound terrifying for some people. Especially if that bus goes slowly, stopping often in small villages. However many of us have to choose that journey option in some point in our life. The long journey could be 4 but also can take up to 24 hours as well. Sitting on the bus might sounds relaxing but it is really hard to use that time for useful things as travelling that way is a surprisingly tiring experience.

Some students have to use this transport option during their college years when they want to visit their hometown. They can give the best example of what to do during the journey. Some of them try to study; others are reading a book or listening to music. Many of them know each other and chatting pleasantly all the way.

Most countries in Europe have bus services between its towns. Journey time depends on the country's size; also several countries have a coach service to other countries. These coaches are usually run by two drivers who are swapping the steering wheel in every 4 hour. Travelling between different countries in this way could be a great opportunity to get to know people and you will see much more than taking a plane. If you are travelling on a local bus you will see the real locals and their home towns from a close angle. You can watch the rushing scene of the countryside through the bus window while you have time to think.

Some people chose to travel by bus to very far destinations. Many travel agency offers cheap vacations by bus and the idea might sound good for whom don`t like to fly or looking for the cheapest way to travel. Organized coach holidays, or trips could be fun, as traveling with other 40 people who are going to the same place, is part of the experience. During the 12-24 hours journey, there is enough time to make new friends and get to know each other.

Plenty of water, light food and snack should be taken to the bus journey. It is advisable to wear very comfortable clothes; if you are travelling overnight you might want to wear a tracksuit and take a small pillow. Even in the summer take a jumper on the bus, as you might need it. Don't forget to pack your toothpaste with your toothbrush in the bag you are taking on board as probably the bus will stop in the late evening in a motorway's stop where you can use the bathroom before the long and probably sleepless night. When the bus stops you should get off and stretch your legs, go for a walk and if there is an opportunity use the bathroom. You should take your Mp3 player, a good book or magazine if you can read on the bus without having carsickness, to pass the hours faster.

Otherwise you might just want to sit back and relax for hours staring out of the window, sink into your thoughts. If you are lucky enough you will sit next to a friendly person and a 20 hours bus journey could be enough to make a new friendship. If you are open for new adventures and thinking about the journey as a new and exciting experience you will forget about the lack of space, restless night and you will find the long bus journey less uncomfortable.

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