A Turkish traveller, who is planning to complete the around-the-world lonely trip “Istanbul2Instanbul”, is asking: “Everybody is talking about the danger to cross the Road of Bones alone, however, there are lots making lonely trips with thier motorbikes or cars. Do you think that it is dangerous to be alone on this road? If so, can it be a solution, for example, to go together with a truck which carries goods from Yakutsk to Magadan, if there is any?”
A right question. Security is a very essential issue in travelling even in Yakutia.
First, I need to say that Yakutians are very hospital. When locals meet international guests, they are very proud of seeing travellers in their area. By arriving in Yakutia, tourists unconsciously express their respect to their land. Just imagine what they are thinking “Oh, irrespective of high travel cost, this man decided to pay his/her visit to the far away place. This person must be crazy or very open-minded. Whatever he/she is, this man deserves warm welcome, utmost esteem and help, if needed.” Of course, it is my simple interpretation and explaination. However, that’s true.
Nevertheless, visitors must be alert all the way. That’s what is actually required in every corner of the world. So, the precautionary measures to be applied on the Road of Bones are universal. Avoid any suspect, shady people. If you feel that someone might be harmful, try to evade this person. Don’t risk, when it is not required.
Keep in mind that there are a few types of people you need to be careful in dealing with.
Completely drunk people. Especially when you see a group of drunken guys. That’s like everywhere. Drunk people cannot control their behavour. Even if they doesn’t have bad thoughts towards you, you’ll never know what can offend them and get angry with. By the way, when offered to drink with them, try to reject not so obviously. Otherwise, you’ll be considered unpolite. When people offer a drink, they say it sincerely. So, find any excuse and promise them to enjoy their company on the way back or something like that. If you’re the experienced traveller, you must know what to say in such situations.
Tip #1. Be alert when it’s late evening or night. It would be much better for you to spend night at someone’s place or far away from public places, like 24-hr stores, road cafes, etc. That’s the time when locals spend their free time responsibly or irresponsibly.
Walking wayfarers on roads, especially on the part Kyubyume – Ust-Nera – Magadan Oblast. Strangers without cars might be just harmless locals or, attention, wandering gold-diggers some of whom might be ex-prisoners without money and fears. You know, a person who has nothing to loose might appear to be dangerous. That’s another universe truth.
Tip #2. When you meet a stranger on the road, it’s all about your decision to pick up or not. Btw, never leave a person who is in danger, the act of indifference is considered as a crime according to local laws.
Thieves. Well, they might be on your way.
Tip #3. Don’t leave your stuff unattended. Hope you don’t do it in your hometown. And the Road of Bones is not paradise either. All sorts of people do live over here.
And yes. If there is a chance to go with someone else together, use it. Why not?
Similar Posts:
- Is it secure in Yakutsk?
- Yakutsk – Magadan: A satellite phone is a must! Or how Norwegians were lost and found on the Road of Bones…
- 2009 August Road Report: the condition of the Kolyma Highway (the Road of Bones) in Oymyakonsky Ulus
- What are requirements to ice roads?
- The old Kolyma roadway: Kyubyume – Magadan Oblast
