Journey and arrival to puerto Madryn

Good bye 19th century and hello 20th - I have missed you! Travelling with bus and train are two totally different experiences - while the train got me to my destination in a cheap and rather uncomfortable way, the bus ride was so pleasant that I didn't want to get of. Maybe it had to do with being 6 in the morning when reaching Puerto Madryn and at the sime time being exausted from the day before but never the less, it was an excellent experience, from the moment I set my foot in the bus terminal in Bahia Blanca (BB).

As I chose to walk the 3 km from city center of BB, I passed by dark and sometimes rough industry districts, which didn't in any way imply I was on the right way, but suddenly it was there. My salvation, an ultra modern bus terminal with all service imaginable, Internet, clean toilets, showers, all very illuminated and steril - all what is expected from a modern commercial establishment. This was however what I needed at that point - I strolled around, hanged around with the smoking bus drivers, taking the opportunity to catch up before heading on the next trip through the wast lands of Patagonia. There were all dressed in the typical "bus driver way"; suite pants, a white shirt allowing the customary belly to peacefully rest on the tightened leather belt.

I din't have the pleasure to enjoy their company for too long before it was time for departure. as I walked into the bus to find my seat, I was met by this inviting, noble seat I was going to share my life with for the next 10 hours. Having spent a night in a bumpy train, followed by walking arouind in the city, I praised my self for purchasing the "CAMA" class, which is reclinable to almost form a bed, but to a neglecatable price difference. I was unpacking my stuff, making it my home for the coming hours. Off we were - Patagonia, here I come.

My bus seat - cama class

The ride was extremly smooth, maybe it was due to the line straight, almost empty roads or just the skills of the bus drivers, - it will remain unanswered. What one realize on such a trip is which sense of security this incredible machines gives you. Being there, in the dark night, long away from civilization, devouring road mile after mile, keeping you safe and warm. This sense is even more emphasized when overtaking a truck. It is like, seing them together, side by side, they become total authority, embodying the mankinds progress. Add the that some good music, to keep you company while sleeping, in my case Lana del Rey and Ravi Shankar - the only thing missing was my love!

The reclinable seats delivered and I slept through the night and woke up at 06.00 in the morning, in Puerto Madryn, 1400 km from Buenos Aires, ready for the excursion to Peninsula Valdes, a reserve for wales, orcs, pinguins, sea lions.

Welcome committee at bus station in Puerto Madryn