One Day as a Greyhound Passenger: Why a Bus Breakdown in the US Is Not an Emergency, But Part of the National Character

Founded back in 1914 by Swedish immigrant Eric Wickman (who started the business with a single seven-seat Hupmobile charging 15 cents per ride), Greyhound Lines is a true industry veteran. Today, this giant belongs to the German holding company Flix SE.

For me, a person accustomed to the vast expanses of Russia, this trip became a genuine immersion into the reality of America's "Rust Belt."

A Tale of One Breakdown

My acquaintance with the American transport system began with a glitch. The bus from New York to Cleveland broke down right on the exit ramp out of Rochester. We stood on the shoulder for two hours while mechanics tried to resuscitate the engine. In the end, passengers were split up: those heading to Toronto were transferred to another coach, and our old crew was hauled away by a tow truck.

Later, Americans explained to me that delays, lateness, and breakdowns are an absolute norm here. It is simply part of the logistics of a country that lives on highways.

Comfort vs. Reality

The cabin itself turned out to be quite suitable for survival. It was old but clean. I got lucky enough to occupy two seats at once, which allowed me to get some proper sleep. The presence of Wi-Fi and power outlets made the wait bearable.

In Buffalo, I transferred to a Barons Bus. The difference was noticeable: the vehicles were newer, and the interior was more spacious. Later I learned that Greyhound itself is currently buying these exact new coaches to update its fleet. However, my experience confirmed one rule: for long distances in the US, a plane or a personal car remains more reliable.

The Legacy of an Empire

The history of this company deserves a place in textbooks. The name "Greyhound," according to legend, was coined by driver Ed Stone when he saw the reflection of a speeding bus in a store window—it reminded him of a running dog.

The company survived the Great Depression (when its debt exceeded one million dollars) and the massive drivers' strike of 1990, which was accompanied by violence and even the murder of a striking worker ("scab") by a replacement driver behind the wheel. Today, the network spans Canada and Mexico, remaining a symbol of nomadic America.

David Polyakov (Special Correspondent for API TV from Buffalo, USA)

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