Unforgettable Greyhound Experiences That Will Shock You

Traveling on a Greyhound bus has its share of memorable moments, but some experiences stand out more vividly than others. From unexpected encounters to bizarre situations, this article delves into some of the strangest stories shared by travelers.

Second-Hand Marijuana Smoke Smell

One Greyhound bus ride truly stands out for its unusual occurrences. It was a chilly winter afternoon when a scruffy-looking couple got on the bus and strolled into the bathroom. Moments later, everyone on the bus was bombarded with the scent of second-hand marijuana smoke coming from the vents. The bus driver made a polite announcement requesting them to smoke elsewhere, to no avail. The smell persisted until the bus reached its final destination. This led to curiosity among passengers about why they couldn't hold on until the stop, especially considering they had boarded only a few hours earlier.

A Romantic Note from a Stranger

On another Greyhound bus ride in October 1997, a 21-year-old student embarked on a journey back to Toronto from New York City. Grabbing a window seat alone, the student received a note from a middle-aged man in transit. Though the era pre-dated 9/11 and subsequent heightened security, the note was unexpected and tender: 'I loved watching your red hair shine in the sun.' The romantic gesture came as a surprise and caught the student off guard, making the journey more memorable.

Encounter with a Pimp

A more disturbing incident involved a Greyhound solo traveler sitting next to a charming man. The man, around 35 years old, initially engaged in small talk. However, as the bus neared its destination, the conversation took a concerning turn. He began discussing his wealth and possessions, how he could drastically change the traveler's life, and pressured her into meeting him sooner. Despite the traveler's insistence of having a boyfriend, the man became irritated and disrespectful, saying 'your boyfriend can’t give you what I can' and urging her to leave him behind. The experience was deeply unsettling, prompting the traveler to report the incident to her boyfriend, who took the matter seriously and advised her to avoid such situations in the future.

The Aftermath

After getting off the bus, the traveler, overwhelmed with emotion, broke down in tears. Her boyfriend was deeply concerned and shared that these encounters are common among Greyhound travelers, often leading women to make dangerous decisions in hope of a better life. The traveler's boyfriend emphasized the importance of awareness and safety, suggesting that such encounters are likely ploys used by pimps to recruit vulnerable women.

These experiences highlight the unpredictable nature of Greyhound bus trips and underline the importance of vigilance and preparation. Whether it's an unexpected romantic note or a disturbing encounter, Greyhound bus journeys can be both pleasant and enlightening, but always with an element of surprise.