STRANDED
April 2nd, 2004 | Posted by Shannon
We are back in Madrid. Today, we got on our train and there was a delay, due to security reasons. Well the security reason was a bomb somewhere on the tracks. We were on the train for five hours. After three hours most people left but we found ourselves on the train with a group of about 15 Spaniards who refused to leave and also told us we could not leave. (Essentially.) The reason being if we get off the train we will never get to Sevilla. The police came and negotiators and it was totally bizarre. The passengers were refusing to leave and it was a big scene with much loud discussion by all parties at the same time. Eventually there was no hope and we got off the train and into Atocha station where all the people from all the trains were stranded too. One customer service person told us we could get on any train (assuming there will be a train) with our used ticket. Another told us no way. So, we are in Madrid. We don’t know when we can get to Sevilla because it is holy week and every train is sold out. This is why the Spainiards would not leave the train, because they are pretty sure there will be no way to get to Sevilla for awhile.
We did not know about the severity of the bomb scare and how close we were to being on a bombed train until we got to the hotel. It was on CNN… the bomb was on our track and there was a 12 o’clock train, and then us (the 1 o’clock.) So, even though this has been a hellish and freakish day we are just happy that we are not in a worse place right now.
Onward. We are going to go and eat some fried seafood and try to chill out a bit.
April 2nd, 2004 at 2:12 pm
Glad you are loving Spain! Sorry about the weather. I love rain and cold at home and don’t mind it too much on vacation, but no photo ops and wet shoes get tired very fast.The bomb scare was on the news and I said to Martin, “I hope it did not affect, Shannon,” never dreaming of course that it really had.Do be careful though, Venice tells me she is getting a little jealous. Ruth
April 2nd, 2004 at 6:22 pm
Shannon!
Chris just alerted us to your blog entry – when I saw the news about the bombs I thought you were already safely in Toledo! How scary for you and everyone else.
Your guardian angels are watching out for you for sure … Glad to hear that you and your mom are coping okay.
April 2nd, 2004 at 7:10 pm
What a scare! This is hitting a bit too close to home. Enjoy your extra time in Madrid. Hello to Connie!!
April 3rd, 2004 at 12:31 am
Holy shamoly Shannon! I was thinking about you when I heard the news and thought NAH! Glad to know that you are safe. Head on over to Bar San Pietro for great shimp and fiun in Madrid. I wish I could remember all of the places I used to go to but am a little foggy. Give my love to my third favorite city in the world
April 3rd, 2004 at 9:51 am
I can’t believe you were on that train!! I heard the news and started to get worried about you, and then Stefano said, “Stop being such a MOTHER, for the love of Christ.” But, see? I was right.
Jesus. I am being a mother, aren’t I?
Take care. You’ll make it to Seville. R.
April 4th, 2004 at 3:11 am
Shannon – glad you’re okay. My heart stopped a moment when I read this.
On the brighter side, the news agencies here are reporting they’ve added extra trains to help stranded passengers. Here’s hoping you’re able to continue onto Seville.
Take care and be careful!
April 11th, 2004 at 1:29 pm
I think you need to light a candel somewhere!
I remember travelling in Israel and always missing being on the bus with the bomb!
Buona Pasqua!
March 9th, 2005 at 7:53 am
I’M HAPPY YOUR OK. HAVE A NICE B-DAY AND CALL ME WHEN YOUR BACK. -1-800-289-7242