The Coach has all kinds of smells

By now I have traveled enough on trains to not have noticed the motley of smells that sometimes engulf the coach cars. A number of passengers never fail to bring food on board, since it is much cheaper than the food from the dinning car. While this economical decision makes perfect sense, and I would strongly encourage passengers to bring their food, I would expect people would be more conscientious of the smell of their food. There is no need to bring a tuna sandwich, and if you do, then there really exists no reason to eat it in the coach cars instead of the lounge car or observatory.

Then there is basic hygiene. I know some travelers remain on board for two nights, but a general good rule is to shower before heading to the station, and taking an extra pair of socks (and maybe underwear). Dirty socks, the build-up of dead skin cells, and the sweaty bodies definitely do not make the ride a pleasant one, especially at night when people are trying to sleep. It is a good idea to bring baby wipes, cologne or perfume, and other basic hygiene products.

What other smells does one find in the train? Cigarette odor from passengers who just returned from their brief smoke break, gasses from passengers who don’t have the courtesy to head to the bathroom downstairs, and depending on the region of the country, the smell of humidity.

I do not mean to complain. No, no. How could I complain about the subtle smells, especially when compared to some trains in Peru and India. Yet, there’s just something not idyllic about going through gorgeous scenery while smelling less than pleasant odors.