The train to Nowhere, Latvia. Will I find my way out of this tricky situation? Riga - Ludza (???)

[@steve-marsh]

What was your scariest adventure or travel moment? I'd love to hear it, might even inspire me for my next one :D

[@johnallan4826]

Your vlogs on Victoria bus station always reminds me of a January trip to Brighton in the 80’s, leaving on the last day I thought I’d spend as much time in Brighton than London so decided to get the last train feasible to London, it was a SLOW train and I could feel my connection time slowly getting shorter, arriving at Victoria bus station I had just missed the bus with no money so had to stay overnight in the waiting room in January, at 9am the only bus home was via glasgow and perth so got that, didn’t get into perth until after 9, the only bus left was the overnight to London and my ticket was taken back in London, but thankfully the perth station bus manager helped and I got to Halbeath. Note to self get the first train to London or second last.

[@Timstravels01]

The one that comes to mind was a crossing from Stromness-Scrabster with Northlink. The captain announced to find a seat and stay in it. Then a few minutes he announced “wherever you are, stay there.” I’ve never known rolling and pitching like it. It didn’t help when the emergency alarm started, the 7 short blasts on the ships whistle. Although the crew said they were just testing the system! No matter how much you tell yourself that ships are designed for this, it’s terrifying!

[@pkjlr77]

Has to be on way back from Pompeii to Naples on my first solo trip abroad via circumvesuviana train, to say there were some characters on the train is putting it mildly. Made it back to the train station in one piece and found my airport bus without any problems, was such a relief to get into that bus. I think it must be my experiences of travelling on public transport in my hometown of Liverpool that got me through 💪 🙂

[@markwhidby5148]

We were on a walking holiday in late summer in Slovenia staying in Kransjka Gora. I had planned a walk up to the Vrsic pass where we had some lunch. The return route would have mostly been on the route we had come up on but I let my wife persuade me to go back on a different route so we set off on that. However, it turned quite foggy and we had difficulty in following the correct path (which are clearly signposted in clear weather). Maybe we should have turned back but we tried to carry on. There was nobody else around despite having passed a group of walkers going in the opposite direction just after we started. No wind, no rain, no noise - only fog! I was pretty scared because we couldn't work out where we were. Luckily we eventually found a way down to lower levels but it was a long, long, long walk back to our hotel as we were now in the next valley. The couple running the hotel had been a bit worried about us - a fantastic pair who ran the place all on their own as it was only 6 bedrooms.

[@dazzlingdaz187]

Oh Steve, what a nightmare! I can imagine how scary that must have been, don't do it again! 😆

[@MARKSHEA-rf3dz]

The guy who gave you the ride to Ludza, to the door of your hotel, shows that there are still good people wherever you go in this world.

[@steve-marsh]

So true Mark, my absolute hero!

[@valuetraveler2026]

Mostly in Eastern Europe

[@markotango54]

@@valuetraveler2026 very true

[@martinskesteris8664]

Latvia is Northern Europe. Despite being invaded by Eastern Europe.

[@svetlanasiliniece8291]

We Latgalians are the most nicest people in Latvia😂 thats a reason why you got picked up from Cirma. Ludza is definitely better place than Riga for sure!

[@ihavegreeneyes14]

I'm from the Baltic states, if I saw anyone walking alone in the dark at winter, I'd stop if I was going by in a car. My uncle saved an old man with dementia once like that, he was just wandering around town! We don't leave people out in the cold :)

[@steve-marsh]

You folks are legends! Thank you in advance for the next person like me!

[@emilsr4194]

As a Latvian, I am honestly suprised that they still put stations in the middle of nowhere. For example, the station Cirma (where you got out) has on average 2 passengers a day.

[@davidwebb4904]

To be fair, there only two trains a day…..

[@ne372ne]

ISteve, you’re not alone at getting off a stop too early. Three years agoI did a similar thing. The sight of the train disappering along the track when you realise your mistake! Thankfully I was lucky, it was a hot summers day. Trecked through the forest to meet a main road. Parched and very hungry I came across a roadside restaurant. It was empty. Sat down, ordered food and drink. Halfway through my meal a security team came in, checked the place out and manned all exits. An important group were usherd in. I asked the waiter about the fuss. Turns out I was having lunch with the president of Latvia!

[@steve-marsh]

That is the coolest story I ever heard!

[@no_soy_rubio]

Very cool 🤣

[@DavidPeacock1972]

Once did that in Yorkshire, Hebden Bridge. Got off the train thinking I had a connection for my train home. Nope, I missed it. And another time in Manchester, spent the night in a police station reception area 😂. Although, being in a foreign country must have been terrifying, especially in the cold.

[@BoB4jjjjs]

I hope you shared your sandwich with him? 🤣

[@dobisss_]

@@steve-marsh There wouldn't be a special security team for our president. Story seems made up.

[@therookeryvanlife5612]

I am watching this a year after it was posted but it was terrifying. You were in pitch dark, alone, language barrier, wolves, snow and cold. I would have been in tears! So glad a sweet soul gave you a ride.

[@nrk9857]

Baltics are much safer than they seem, very low crime, generally nice people, almost not dangerous wildlife (excepts tics)

[@fishigl]

One year later - I don't really have much to add to what was said by others in the comments, except for one miniscule detail: I believe that you got confused when you've heard the word "LŪDZU..." which means "please.." (as in "Please mind the gap" ;-) ) At least, I'm glad that you've lived to tell the tale, and even unharmed 🙂. Thank you for sharing your travel experiences with us! I am absolutely sure that you're one great companion to travel with!

[@ColinSlocombe]

What a legend of a driver saving you 👏

[@lisamckay5058]

I am having a complete mom moment, equally inclined to yell at you for taking a risk and to send you a virtual hug for being safe.

[@erastmatej2425]

I'm from Latvia and you brought back so many memories, as I used to for years travel to Riga and back with Zilupe train for work. On other note, I had a feeling you might get lost, as even locals sometimes get confused when to jump off the train, esp when it's so dark everywhere and I can imagine the fear. You got out in probably most old fashioned, poorest, most undeveloped part of Latvia, where most towns don't even have a hotel and no one speaks English. But people there are nice and friendly. And often times, esp in winter, there are wolves migrating in those forest from Russia. It's no joke man, glad you got out alive. 😂

[@steve-marsh]

Oh boy, that was one of my big worries, glad I only found this out after!!! Cheers for coming along to somewhere very familiar!

[@EvilVon777]

@SteveMarsh Eurasian Boar, too... lucky man

[@piggyraccoon5464]

Dude, you are sick. Im from Latvia and i have always wanted to go that route. At least i know where to better not drop off

[@joannamorgan6911]

Thank God you were saved that night x

[@petemchardy]

I love your message

[@skoro-vernus]

Speaking about East Latvian places with lovely Scottish accent is priceless. Thank ye.

[@DanAmsterdam]

Hey man I’m glad you made it out safe and sound. A year ago I made a huge mistake as well. As I was travelling in Amsterdam, I forgot my passport (I’m a non-EU citizen), my cash, and all essentials that were stored in my backpack in the lavatory of one cafe outside the city. I realized that when I got 3 stops away from that place. Luckily, the bartender was very nice and had my stuff reserved at his desk which I was soooo relieved to see… damn that anxiety was bad

[@Timstravels01]

What can I say? That looked absolutely terrifying. Pitch black in the middle of nowhere in the freezing cold. The stuff of nightmares. On the other hand Ludza looked beautiful - well worth all the hassles you endured. Thanks so much for the mention and remember, you’re not an idiot! We all make mistakes.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers mate! The carriage looked exactly the same as what you guys had. Was so toasty warm, and then in an instant it was very different :D

[@for.tax.reasons]

That little old lady that opened her door to a Scotsman in the middle of the night in Latvia 😂 is going to be starting a local legend, keep the kids indoors on winter nights! Glad you survived this journey :) thank u for sharing it with us

[@andrewplummer1682]

Fair play to you for visiting obscure places like this. Very interesting. Hope that your saviour guy who gave you a lift does get in touch with you. You'll probably remember him for a long time getting you out of that situation!

[@steve-marsh]

Aye, that lad has a good bottle of whisky waiting for him :)

[@Rih4rd_dota]

I am Latvian and the exact same thing happened with me in Switzerland (I left the train before my station). If you travel in an unknown area, double check with Google maps where you depart

[@stephenpearlman958]

Well, I suppose that all's well that ends well. However, the idea of being lost in rural Latvia at night in the winter gives me shivers sitting here in my living room. We love you and your channel. Please be careful.

[@steve-marsh]

Here’s Stephen! No more of this nonsense (for a while) ;)

[@ofpWolf]

Hey, Latvian here. If you are traveling from Riga to Zilupe, then it's better to stop at Rezekne, than Ludza. Rezekne sits on an important trade route crossroad about 50 km from Russian border, is bigger and a bit more developed, it also has castle ruins, some historical landmarks, and it is really hard to miss when traveling by train 😁

[@BobTravellin]

Steve, that is what I call a travel video - none of this business class, lounge access, smart hotel nonsense but a proper view of small town Eastern Europe. Absolutely top drawer filming and reporting! No doubt it will put a lot of people off - but I'm sure it will inspire a lot of us too. Reminded me of some of the little villages I've driven through in eastern Poland......and I always wonder about their histories and what life must be like there. Thank you for sharing!

[@Abc-jj2qd]

Latvia is the Northern country.

[@truefaith96]

It's because Latvia was part of the USSR and they still it's in Eastern Europe. Should have done some research before posting a comment

[@Abc-jj2qd]

@@truefaith96 Tell it to United Nations, that Your knowledges are better 🤣

[@truefaith96]

@@Abc-jj2qd Well, the UN has changed it to Northen Europe years ago so I can't be bothered with that. Being a Latvian, it's not pleasant to see that we still are considered to be in Eastern Europe

[@Lachausis]

It's North-eastern Europe. Latvians do not like to be put in Eastern Europe.

[@Ervins_from_Latvia]

A friend of mine just shared this video with me 😁It made my day 😅 On the downside, however, as a native Ludza guy, it is a pity to conclude that there is not much to do here in the wintertime. Not as a lone tourist. And yet, since you did not come across any bears or wolfs in Cirma's forest, that's still something to celebrate 🤣Best!

[@steve-marsh]

I was so worried about them! I'd be a great meal!

[@markaf2887]

I’m a westerner who lived in Latvia near where you got off the train. I’m familiar with those woods and felt nothing but terror for you watching the video. The cold alone was dangerous enough, but the Forrest are also home to wolves and boars. Happy you made it to Ludza safely. I have only been there once. They have a living museum there that is interesting if you ever go back. Also, knowing a little Russian goes a long ways in that area.

[@renars9990]

As a latvian i can definetly see how much effort you took learning latvian and with that i hope you have a great day.

[@rabh6746]

Damn Steve, that was a real scary situation you got yourself into! A 4 hour walk in those conditions is not something you want to experience ever! That young fella was a real life saver👍

[@steve-marsh]

He really was! I hope he'll get in touch!

[@ColinSlocombe]

Hi Steve 👋 those seats on your train look like old coach seats back in Britain

[@birgitnazarian8767]

This is like a nightmare I would have. I have taken the train in Latvia and am always glad I managed to get to the right place! 😬 That was dangerous because of the cold weather. Glad you found a nice person to help! You did well showing gratitude. 🙏☺️

[@steve-marsh]

Thank you! :)

[@zin.nesis1]

Just for the future (possiblly applies also to other Baltic countries) the main city stations will be unmistakable from the small ones between towns. They will have good lighting and a better looking station, as you got out somewhere that had no station. Good luck in your travels!

[@pamelahewitt7836]

That looks seriously scary. Being out all night in those temperatures could have dire consequences. Thank goodness someone picked you up.

[@lindahart6049]

I love your adventurous spirit!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Linda, but will I be allowed out again???

[@weskerlin8566]

Glad for the lad that gave you a ride. I lived in Alaska for 11 years and the cold is nothing to take lightly. Thanks for showing us places so many of us would never see. When you make it back my way, I will be sure to take you out on our boat for a tour of the Puget Sound.

[@steve-marsh]

Sounds absolutely wonderful!!!! Thank you

[@alicja4139]

It was so scary! Btw we call icy pavement “glass” in PL😁

[@TriciaBute]

I can see why! 🥶

[@davym44]

Hi Steve. We all make small errors in life my friend. I noticed the uncertainty on your face after the old lady closed the door on you. That was a scary isolated place you found yourself in. Thankfully a very kind young guy came to your aid and delivered you safely to the hotel in Ludza A great video and thanks for sharing. Ps. You were out of your comfort zone there for a while. 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Haha I really was mate! I guess it makes the relief of living to tell the tale all the sweeter :D

[@oldmanofsacramento]

Mr. Marsh I was unable to watch your posts the past few months (fighting my own battles), but the two I managed in the last three days (this one and the train to Moldova) reminded me why I can't miss any (and why I love Bald & Bankrupt). Thank you so much for taking us on these grand trips. Follow your heart sire, and take us along. Thank you.

[@steve-marsh]

Wishing you all the best mate, thanks for the kind comments :)

[@Bearhugsx]

That was a scary experience for you Steve. Good to know that there are still good people around to help others. Glad you're home safely.

[@steve-marsh]

Well said Will - I'll look at hitch hikers with a bit more sympathy from now on!

[@MrDangerhere]

Scary stuff, I could feel your anxiousness thru the screen. Lucky, lucky...

[@pete_bluscorp7718]

Marshy Marshy Marshy, cheers for showing & sharing a part of the world I’m unlikely to ever visit, cheers mate

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Pete! :D

[@glenyshillary4195]

Steve my heart was racing for you! Glad you gotthat lift.

[@Edmant]

Welsh guy here, Been living in Riga for 15 years, and always thought about going to Ludza, so fascinated by your excellent, positive vlog. A bit of Latvian goes a long way when you get outside Riga, but well done for a brave attempt.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Eddie! Gutted the camera failed when I got there - incredible wee place!

[@ColinSlocombe]

Ha ha ha very funny stepping in snow

[@rimizoem]

Scary stuff, glad you're ok!!!!

[@gypsyskyy9451]

Whoa Steve! That was a nail biter! I'm so relieved nothing bad happenned to you. Love that you go to the old towns. I guess Europe doesnt salt their streets when its icy or snowy. LOL Take care, Mary Ann from Delaware USA 🤗

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much! I learned a few lessons that night!

[@ColinSlocombe]

Glad you are safe and thanks for your tour of another country 😊

[@balticbushcraft]

Glad the famous Latgale region hospitality saw you alright in the end. As you approach each station, the anouncement always says what it is plus what the next stop will be... so that probably explains what happened. There should have been a couple of conductors on the train to ask (at least one of them usually speaks some English). But kudos to you for heading so far off the beaten track. A shame you didn't get to see the restored synagogue, which is really nice. Hope to see you back in Latvia soon!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much and that explains it perfectly, makes sense now - I'll be ready for next time :)

[@pedclarkemobile]

Same in Russia, I have left the train a stop too soon many times... Lots of Moscow suburban rail stations don't even have the station name on a sign on the platform (infuriating)... But they all have several huge information boards .... The only important info is the feckin name of the station.

[@adrianburn7178]

Fascinating video. Thanks for taking us along for the ride.

[@danielbrown6112]

6 months ago they had trains going to St. Petersburg, Moscow, and Minsk out of Riga Station; as well as busses that went to St Petersburg that I saw. I was surprised when I saw this myself and figured it would change soon after.

[@hereandthere6863]

You are one lucky traveler! Thanks for sharing that crazy mistake with us.

[@colingillbanks4022]

Crikey! I could feel your panic myself there. What a sticky situation. Glad you got out of it to tell the tale. 😬

[@steve-marsh]

I almost forgot to film any of it :D Glad I switched on for a wee while but had other things on my mind!

[@colingillbanks4022]

@@steve-marsh it was genuinely scary and it came through on the film. -10° on a forest path in Latvia, 4 hours on foot from your destination with no-one around speaking the lingo! I'd be staying home for the rest of my life after that.

[@Hectorsdad]

Steve. Just caught up on this one as we watch your blogs in a totally random order. So full of admiration for your work, sense of adventure and the ability to keep smiling whatever the circumstances.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha memories from that one mate! :D

[@TXMEDRGR]

Once in Baltimore, Maryland in the United States, a cab driver dropped me in the wrong part of town and I got chased by a gang of hoodlums. I saw them coming down the street and knew I was a target and so calmly walked around the corner and then started running. I dashed across a busy street and fortunately saw a taxi and hopped in. I too have gotten off at the wrong station but never in so desperate a situation as yours, thanks for sharing your misadventure. Ludza was beautiful and it wasn't a total loss.

[@steve-marsh]

Scary stuff! Amazing how the adrenaline kicks in, but then as soon as you're safe, it just drains away!

[@generalkawasaki9485]

harrowing experience... I hope that never happens to me, ever, once in Madrid I was dropped off near a metro station called MAR DE CRYSTAL, and I saw a small army of angry looking Spanish gypsies pointing at me and about starting to move, hurried myself into the metro cars that so happened to just arrive..my, with a name like MAR DE CRYSTAL you expect something special to see there, but there is zilch .. and that centro comercial isn't worth anyones' time.

[@BlueBuster-c7h]

Been watching several of your videos, Steve and I'm glad you made it out of the one

[@DSTWizz]

"Unfinished business, I'll be back", says our intrepid voyager! But not making the mistake of getting off in a snowy wilderness! Count your blessings Steve; all's well that ends well.

[@steve-marsh]

Here here! The plan is to go to Lithuania next and complete my Baltic States :)

[@LynnB_Ky]

Oh my! Thank goodness for that kind soul who gave you a lift Steve. I wonder if he watched the video? Glad all was well in the end

[@patriciagrant5100]

What a scary time you had Steve but an easy mistake to make. We did enjoy the rest of the video after your adventure. Well done to the young man who gave you that lift, what a hero. Do let us know if he does get in touch.

[@steve-marsh]

I sure will let you know Pat, fingers crossed!

[@r.khannaberry246]

I couldnt imagine getting off a train in the middle of winter, in the middle of the night, in the middle of nowhere near the Russian border at the WRONG stop! You're a far braver man than i ! LoL Glad you survived! Loved seeing a bit of Latvia!

[@isobelirvine3288]

Oh Steve my heart went out to you,that was scary! I did the same years ago,got on the last train for what i thought was Berwick upon Tweed but it was the North Berwick train,cost me £75 for a taxi to my destination but like you i was so relieved to get there ,really appreciate your great videos 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Ouch! We are making painful mistakes!!!

[@wildscotsman1]

We had similar experience on our way to a wedding in Austria. Having arrived in Vienna from Budapest, we just managed to catch a wee local train to take us to a small town further south. We came into a station which we thought was the end of the line as everyone got off. So as we dragged our suitcases out of the station we saw a sign telling us it wasn't our stop, but then the train moved off. We decided to get a taxi. The taxi driver loaded our cases and I told him where we wanted to go, he gave us a strange look but drove off. We drove for about 200 metres and turned a corner and he stopped......there was the train and the place we were supposed to get off 🤔😂

[@steve-marsh]

Haha this is brilliant! :D

[@harrybond9282]

haha 😄

[@ivonna3583]

Haha this is the best "getting lost" story I've heard 😁 I can visualize very clearly the look of the taxi drivers face 😁

[@Tramigais]

Thank u Steve for sharing this video. I did not now about Ludza i's oldest town in Latvia. I'm Latvian and living in Scotland for last 7 years, This April I moving back to Latvia. I seen in google maps this places, loots of lakes, I planning take Camper van and go for one week see this places, of course in summer, and try to jump in couple lakes. Thank you for sharing your experience, lonely train station in the no where, was brilliant ))) Keep going 👍

[@gabrieleortiz5041]

You have the heart of a true adventurer! So glad for the rescue, and for bringing us such great content. 👍🏼

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Gabriele! It wasn't until I was safely in that wee room that I was able to enjoy the thought of it all!

[@beth68ann]

Thank goodness for the kindness of a stranger, you are a very lucky man.

[@steve-marsh]

So true Beth! I can't imagine picking me up in the middle of the night in the middle of nowhere! :D

[@Jimsraisedbedgarden]

Wow Steve , bet that was a shock to the system lol , thank goodness for the young man who gave you a lift , hopefully he will get in touch with you , loved the update as usual but what a place Latvia is , credit to you for visiting and sharing your experience, keep up the good work and stay safe 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Jim! A really heart-sinking moment, even when editing the video :D

[@Jimsraisedbedgarden]

@@steve-marsh I bet Steve , I feel your pain lol 😂

[@CalmYourTitts]

Hello. I'm from Latvia, and boy I would be so happy to pick up hitchhiker like you, to listen to you bizarre story. I'm happy you're OK, and can't wait for the next video.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Tomass! I hope one day you find me wandering along the side of the road - it is very likely! :)

[@kudzumoose3861]

Ya know Steve, one of the things that is best about your videos is that you are real. When you travel, stuff happens. I really felt for you when you got off the train at the wrong place. OMG! So glad that worked out but I know you were "concerned." I can imagine the panic I would have felt. But on the other hand, it was interesting. You prevailed and it was a good visit to the town.

[@steve-marsh]

I appreciate that a lot, thanks! And I'm glad I had the foresight to at least capture a small part of it on film :D

[@devanman7920]

I can only imagine the feeling of relief when the car stopped and he nodded his head yes when you said "Ludza"!

[@elliebeep27]

What a nightmare... glad you made it safely! This situation terrifies me especially as a woman because you never know what could happen getting picked up as a hitch hiker needing to get somewhere warm and dry!

[@steve-marsh]

So true Elaine!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Wow Steve, that was not what I was expecting! Rather you than me mate - especially in those conditions but fair do’s for eventually getting there, I could tell you were relieved!

[@chargingabout]

When interrailing in eastern Europe in 1991 2 years after the Berlin wall fell, we got off the train in Berlin at 10pm. Unfortunately it was not central Berlin, but a run down area of east Berlin. A 6 hour sleep in a drafty shelter later saw us on the next train

[@steve-marsh]

Oh there's an adventure! Those are the moments you remember though eh!? :D

[@TheNgandrew]

I work on the railway. The longer I have, the more it's convinced me that most people are nice. Your video supports my view. Fantastic video BTW. I really must get to Latvia.

[@CiaranRKelleher]

Steve, as a fellow Montrose newbie, I feel an odd sense of fraternity with you. At this stage in my life, travel like this ain’t an option. So you’re like an avatar for me. Though I’m glad it wasn’t me stuck in a dark station platform! Keep up exploring all these lesser known places.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers neighbour! Hope you're enjoying Montrose! (although not today's weather eh?) Be sure to say hi if we pass! :)

[@derektaylor2941]

This is one of my favourite videos. I am watching it 6th October 2024- so coming up for two years after uploading. It is just so very different to what most of us will ever experience. We've all got off the train or bus at the wrong stop once in our life, but to do so in such a remote area- in winter- at night? Anyway, a pointless comment from me that will likely never be read by anyone. BUT every comment counts on YT algorithm to increase the visibility of this great channel.

[@otofoto]

12:40 Those are absolutely deadly - suspicious look at icicles in freezing weather 13:54 Completely safe - goes through barely standing ruins where falling stone can smash your head any moment 😂

[@ihatebalrog]

Oh my...wow. Dude, I'm a Latvian journalist, now living in Riga, but originally from Ludza. And ohboy, when I noticed you were going to my tiny hometown...it's a magical place. Ludza, and the region in general is kinda like the Texas of Latvia - and being so far, very few folks speak English. Was super worried!

[@RaymondCalloway]

This was truly an adventure not soon forgotten!!!

[@steve-marsh]

Ain't that the truth Raymond! :)

[@ParanormalFun-i1i]

That was a scary one Steve and talking about the icy pavements! Yo must have thought you were back on Scottish ones. Well done to that guy helping you out!

[@matthewbanjomanwalker]

Grand video and technical issues is something we all have 😆 if I was in your shoes I would have a major panic attack! Can't imagine being lost in another country like that... I'm glad you managed to get some help there!

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers mate, I was proper scared, and it made me forget to keep filming :D

[@ukdavepianoman]

It's a year since this was posted - thankfully we know you got out of this situation safely. This was genuinely scary. I can only imagine the panic that set in wondering what on earth to do being lost several km from Ludza in the cold and pitch black. It definitely serves as a warning lesson. Probably best to ask someone on the train if this is the stop etc. And don't go to random places in the cold/dark. Paldies to the guy who gave you a lift

[@Beechhill]

Good one, mate. Have tried navigating blind across foreign logistics, languages, and alphabets myself, and a fair few times things went a bit south as well. But we managed, and, as my friend says, if it wasn't a fun experience it's usually a good story! Safe travels!

[@steve-marsh]

Well said :)

[@russmeans]

Dude, that was truly life-threatening! Thank goodness for that young man. On the positive, a roll of the dice and discovery of an interesting little village. Stay warm!

[@paulharvey9149]

Wow, I was worried for you too there, Steve! In the days of my very misspent youth I have on occasion taken myself to remote places with a view to not returning - but not in temperatures of -10 C without anyone whom I can even communicate with! And there's you, dressed little better than the average tourist about to tackle Ben Nevis in his sandshoes... Thank-goodness for your good Samaritan - let us know if he gets in touch with you, as I think there may be a long queue out here who also want to thank him for saving your life... When you got out of the station at Ludza it looked very much like some of our Highland towns - maybe Ballater or Grantown-on-Spey - just a bit bigger. Is that how it felt? And that ice is just ridiculous - how does anybody stay upright in that? There must be people who are effectively imprisoned in their own homes for literally half their lives - and we think we've got it bad, eh? Thanks for the movie though - your pics are mighty grand by the way, as they invoke their own atmospheres. It's a real eye-opener.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much Paul! Aye, I can see what you mean about the comparison, but at the time it just felt very isolated and a hard life! Aye, I'll let you know if he gets in touch, really hope he does!

[@garbarian639]

That freezing rain doesn't happen often, not even every winter and it lasts for a couple of days maximum, but still it's scary to walk around in that...

[@yamyam_1978]

Woah ... and that ice was a killer too 😬😬😬😬😬

[@steve-marsh]

Haha was it ever! That could have been my downfall, literally :D

[@yamyam_1978]

@@steve-marsh I nearly fell over in Wolverhampton, about 2 days apart, in the same bit where it snowed. Think it waited for me to reach that part of the road. Glad you made it out ok 👌🏻

[@yamyam_1978]

I thought you were from Glasgow too & those people are really tough, so the rest of us wouldn't have been so hardy (I would've freaked out & probably died in those scary woods). Sometimes impromptu trips aren't such a good idea (but you did show a cool place & the people with hardly anything always seem much nicer than our lot over here with everything)

[@no_soy_rubio]

Getting off at the wrong stop is one thing, but when it's literally Baltic winter weather outside, that's pretty extreme 🤣😱

[@steve-marsh]

Aye, it didn't take long to miss that cosy train

[@xerxeslv]

​@@steve-marsh So strange to see my home country from a perspective of someone (from UK I would guess) and I can relate somehow, probably cause spend last 10+ years in Scotland, but that aside, what really surprised me: You don't use google maps to check your location before you get off the (last) train in unknown place, winter, at night?

[@Tatia146]

Once when I was in Morocco I had a similar mistake. Met 2 the most amazing Americans who saved my life! You need to invest in some shoe grips which you can put on if the road is icy. We use them here. There are places here in Finland where you can actually stand on the border! Some Brits were caught wondering into and out of Russia last year. Glad you survived your wee nightmare!

[@steve-marsh]

The moments and people you remember eh! Aye, rookie error - ice cleats on order :)

[@poetgoeswalking]

Jings! Of Murphy’s Law the traveller should be wary. Your Latvian adventure part 2 is best described as hairy. Top marks to you Steve for surviving a trip full of worry. You won’t be forgetting about Ludza in a hurry.

[@ad5792]

I am from Russia. Thank you for interesting and informative video. It felt like I went back in time and ended up in some old Soviet village. The train station and the trains made the picture so much more real. Wow!

[@jackielouise7538]

I've only just watched this more than a year after you filmed it; so, obviously, you got out of that terrifying situation and you're ok. However, I was still sat on the edge of my seat holding my breath and hoping you were going to be alright..... That was such a scary situation to be in and I'm so glad that such a kind and thoughtful person came to your aid 🙏😊

[@robadelaide1]

Your rescuer shows the kindness of people transcends language barriers. And you got a great story out of it.

[@steve-marsh]

Absolute hero mate, for such a small gesture

[@andrewdolinskiatcarpathian]

You Sir, are one brave traveller. Your mistake getting off the train one stop early in the depth of the night scared me senseless. Thank you for an extraordinary video. BUT, what is the unfinished business and the need to return? 🤔😎

[@TomazzA123]

Oh no, what a nightmare! You handled a very tricky situation much better than most people would have! Think you might have misheard the town "Ludza" for the word "lūdzu" which can mean "please" or "you're welcome", and is quite often used to end sentences politely, like would be done on a train announcement. Won't be a mistake you make again I'm sure!

[@steve-marsh]

Ahhhh a very good chance that's exactly what happened! Thanks so much

[@inga4869]

👍👍👍

[@amtrakharry]

Yikes!!! Thanks for doing this for us Steve...👍👍👍

[@steve-marsh]

Any time! (no, never again!)

[@ndrmkhn6559]

Hi Steve, Nice story. As a Russian who lives in Russia and who traveled in Latvia in my Soviet's childhood i may tell you werent in real danger until approaching the border sign and trying to cross the line. Next time, when the war is over you should travel to Russia definitely. I hope there will be time when it will be possible again.

[@pedclarkemobile]

I drove from Dublin to Moscow at the end of August 2022. Spent 4 days and 4 nights in my car waiting to cross from LV to RU. Very few foreigners in Russia these days. I hope the UA situation will be resolved soon.

[@judym5822]

OMG Steve, the sheer terror you must have felt alone and isolated at that station. My heart went out to you. I really hope the guy who rescued you gets in touch what a star. Thank you for sharing this with us I really enjoyed the adventure and Ludza is a lovely place. ❤ xx

[@ve2vfd]

That is a Mr. Bald level adventure! :) Not sure I'd want to get too close to the Russian border these days (which is sad as I really enjoyed visiting St-Petersburg during better days). Ludza does look lovely, must be pleasant in the summer.

[@steve-marsh]

Ah Pat we had big plans to go to Russia too, but I think this is as close as I’ll ever get!

[@trevorbaker4608]

Thanks

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Trevor!

[@General_Confusion]

The old lady at the station spoke perfect English, it was Scottish she couldn't understand. When she shut the door, her husband said "Who was that at the door love" She said, I don't know he kept saying "Oui" i think he must be French.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha love it! :D Seriously though, poor woman coming face to face with me in the middle of the night!

[@wandaenman5630]

OMG Steve, that was terrifying, I was scared just watching you walk down those dark roads. Good grief, be careful.

[@RebMordechaiReviews]

Yes, that bit was really scary Steve. But when I saw where you were heading, to Ludza it sent shivers down my spine. Didn't any of the tourist information or residents tell you about the town's Jewish history?????? There had been a large Jewish population there since the 16th century. Before WWII, a third of the population of Ludza was Jewish with half the stores and tradesman being Jewish. Ludza had many synagogues and Jewish schools and yeshivos. Some very famous Rabbis came from there. In 1938, the residents attacked and burnt to the ground over 200 Jewish-owned stores, looting, murdering, raping and destroying. In 1940 the many beautiful synagogues and schools were attacked by local residents, looted and burnt to the ground. Ludza was occupied by the Germans on July 3, 1941. They were welcomed by the residents who preceded to fully cooperate with them, in rounding up all the Jews, around 2000 of them. The Ludza ghetto was founded on July 20, and soon after, the murders and slave labour began. On August 17, 1941, most of the remaining Jewish population, mainly women and children, were marched to Lake Zorba just outside of the town where they were stripped naked and all murdered. Only a few hundred Jews escaped. About 100 Jewish Holocaust survivors returned to the town after the war to reclaim their property and belongings. They were beaten up by the residents and ordered by the police to leave. They were picked up by a Zionist Jewish displacement organisation and put on a ship to Israel, where the surviving Jewish population and their descendants of Ludza live today.

[@richardgorbutt9349]

I really do enjoy your vlogs, they're well done, good production values and this one showed some raw emotions. I like the way you show warts and all. Keep going.

[@vilnaszekje]

9:05 Of course the TV is programmed for Russian channels :D

[@steve-marsh]

My entertainment for the night :D

[@vinnymchale3914]

Dear Steve, I just discovered your channel last weekend. I spent the entire time watching your videos. They are brilliant. Really entertaining and educational. This one has been my favourite to date although I have many that I really like. Best of luck and safe travels.

[@PietMeijer_DE-III]

Chapeaux how you managed to get to the right place in these circumstances from the middle of nowhere!

[@clareclark6535]

That is quite scary Steve.... Glad you got rescued xxx

[@sueelphick9060]

Well done Steve.....I must say I'd have panicked !! But glad it all ended well ....Hats off to you ....Keep finding these remote spots to share !