For several days, the mail was left to accumulate at the washout. It was held there for nearly three weeks, even though it could have been taken back to Adrianople, just a few miles away, and sent via Bucharest by another route. However, no one seemed to consider this solution, even though such accidents and traffic disruptions happen every year. This lack of planning is common and shows poor management.
The Problems with the Orient Express
Passengers traveling on the Orient Express, the most expensive train in the world, also faced problems. They were allowed to leave Constantinople, but were then carried to the washout. Tickets were sold for destinations like London, Paris, Berlin, and Vienna, and passengers were charged the full sleeping-car fare. However, all tickets were limited to the specific day printed on them. The railway company would not extend tickets or provide refunds or rebates. Passengers who were carried to the washout still had to pay the regular fare and also a “speed supplement” charged for express trains. They also had to pay the full sleeping-car rates Busy Streets on the Bridge.
Unfair Practices of the Railway Company
When passengers tried to get a rebate or refund for their money, the railway officials calmly informed them that it was not the company’s practice to redeem its tickets. After the disruption was resolved, passengers who wanted to continue their journey were forced to buy new tickets and pay again for the regular fare and sleeping-car charges. This unfair treatment shows the disrespect for customers and a lack of responsibility from the railway company Ephesus Tours.
A Traveler’s Experience
A traveler who purchased a ticket from Vienna to Constantinople was forced to turn back at Sofia, which is about halfway on the journey. He asked the railway officials to redeem the unused portion of his ticket, but they refused. The reason for the refusal was that he had not provided a reason for the request. The traveler then explained that he had received a telegram about a family illness and needed to return to Vienna. He asked for a refund or an extension on the ticket so that he could use it later. However, the railway officials simply replied that they did not consider the reason provided to be sufficient.
This situation highlights the poor customer service provided by the railway company. Passengers were treated unfairly during a major disruption, and the company did not offer reasonable solutions or show any empathy for the travelers’ circumstances. The railway’s refusal to refund money or extend tickets shows a lack of responsibility and consideration for their customers.
