My memorable train rides happened from Beijing to Hohhot sleeper train, Aswan to Cairo double passenger private cabin... the train journeys in China were still fresh in mind... Kuranda & Arashiyama sightseeing trains are even more amazing. In Asian countries, however, I didn't have much experience, so this was my first encounter. Train is considered to be a slower option of transportation in Myanmar. This time, our expected length of journey is 10 hours from Mandalay to hill town Kyaukme in northern Shan state. No matter how knowledgeable both parties can be in a certain subject, language barrier is always the most interesting yet annoying thing. At first ticketing counter, we had the staff said “no this train ever!” and then we were directed to another counter. A few minutes later they finally knew what tickets we need but then they advised us to another counter on the other side. The design of the ticketing window is ‘bureaucratic’ and old-fashioned with large sealed glass on top with only one tiny sliding door for service. Bend down and over, stretch your neck, then take a bow and show your money... For foreign visitors the only class that’s available is the upper class (however we did meet tourists in ordinary class train). Ticket costs 3,950 kyats (approx. USD4). Being in this coach I feel like I was at a French corner, no English, no Mingalabar… everyone has gigantic rack sets… such a scene! Inside the coach everything you see is in greyish or green tone, the old-school style x 100. Windows are light grey in colour made of metal with a few fine gaps as ventilation, non-transparent design meant to protect someone important ‘when necessary’. 2-plus-2 dark grey metal-framed cushion-padded seats between idle, all with white-ish seat covers with MR (Myanmar Railway) logo colour-printed. Seats are reclining seats (automatically recline when go through bumpy tracks). Above head are light green fans with metal cage and the 1.5 feet depth luggage racks on both sides. Our train has 1 service staff, unlike the one in uniform in Chinese trains. No dining car, no chicken legs or beef jerky! ..... the enjoyable journey to be continued.