The butterflies in my stomach began to leave as I learned that I had the double sleeping compartment to myself on the overnight train leaving from Tbilisi, Georgia. I took a walk down the windowed corridor and on my way back I accidentally stepped into the wrong compartment! This led to smiles and an invite for a soft drink and chat. I accepted and my remaining butterflies left.

Back in my compartment, the train eventually reached the same “airplane quiet” as a long haul flight. When it was time to turn in, I found the bed surprisingly comfortable. As daylight filtered through the curtains,there was a wake up knock on the door and a soft, songish, “Good morning” from the train attendant.

Where and when have you experienced “better than expected” on overnight travels?