I haven´t seen “T” signs since living in Boston, but that´s what Stockholm uses as it´s metro symbol also. It´s a bit of a hike to the “T” from the harbor, if you are arriving by boat, but the path is well-marked.
I´m on my way to Stockholm central station, only to take a train to a small town in Sweden called Falkoping. I´m going to research my great-grandmother´s ancestry and am meeting a woman, Lillian, who manages the town archives.
I purposedly arrived in Stockholm early in the day so I would have the full day to meet with Lillian. So when I go to the ticket counter to reserve a seat on the fast Swedish train, X2000, you can imagine my dissapointment when I learn that the next 2 trains are booked out. The earliest I can get to Falkoping is the afternoon. I figure I have nothing to lose by asking to get on, so I go to the train track where the next X2000 is arriving.
As I approach the train, a young Swedish conductor asks; “How can I help you?” “Oh, how did you know I had a question?” I replied, as my words broke out into a smile. “I had my eye out on you,” he smiled back. A pause before our knowing smiles opened the door to the train for me that seemed locked shut only moments before. “Wait for me in the restaurant car, and I will see what seats become available. But hide your suitcase in a cabin. I will find you.” I like this clandestine game.
He indeed meets me in the restaurant car shortly after, and quickly gives me a private tour of his wagon before finding me a seat. The passenger had never arrived. I sit relaxed, happy, satisfied.
Train Tip: Like many fast trains, they are often most crowded at rush-hours with business travelers. Book early if you want to travel at the morning or afternoon rush.
Benjamin Thomas
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Hello Ben - It’s Amy (Albert) from way back in the day! I ran into your mom and she filled me on everything you’ve been doing. I am happy to hear you are doing well!