After negotiating the extremely muddy trail from Rasnov back
to the train station we embarked on our train ride to Sighisoara, the birth
place of Vlad the Impaler or in layman’s terms, the original Dracula. Fangs!
All aboard the gypsy train to get there though. As the train
arrives to whisk us away from Brasov we were caught in the midst of the gypsy
scramble, which is simply a mad dash to secure as many seats as possible for
yourself and everyone within your neighbourhood. We were whisked off our feet
as we gypsy surfed our way into the carriage, all the while trying to hold onto
my wallet and other important documents. Thankfully an old Romanian woman hated
gypsies and saved some seats for us to sit down. It was truly wonderful
watching her complete disdain for these rather interesting humans. The next two
hours was spent glancing nervously over our shoulders as the gypsies sung and
smoked and attempted pick pocketing whilst you were looking at them. An
enjoyable and adrenaline filled journey.
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| This how far it is to Sydney from Sighisoara. Of all the plaques, this was the furthest. Be proud Australia. |
Our accommodation was interesting to say the least, or another
word is completely terrifying. Looking like a lost production set of the Texas
Chainsaw Massacre, we were greeted with small green and yellow wooden shacks.
Surrounded by waist high grass and an abandoned swimming pool, it was not going to
be a relaxing sleep. Although it was only $10 a night. And we didn’t die.
Bonus!
The town itself closely resembled the stories of old. Winding
little cobblestone lane ways, broad open squares, creepy cemeteries and some of
the best food we’ve ever eaten. This was of course Dracula’s birthplace and we
ate in his restaurant, well to be exact the restaurant that is situated in the
house where Vlad the Impaler was born. We also had goulash. Made us feel
ghoulish. Oooooo. Without a doubt Romania has been the best decision we have
made. A country full of myths and legends and mystery, but with some of the
most astounding beauty I have ever witnessed. Whilst I didn’t receive a gentle
tickle on the neck by a pale man dressed in a cape with fangs, I thoroughly enjoyed the
authenticity of this gorgeous country.
