There is something magical about taking the train when you want to explore a new place for the first time.
If everything goes to plan and the trains are clean and on time, then there is nothing better than sitting back and watching the world go by.
I have enjoyed some wonderful journeys through Europe and afar and they all live in the memory for not only the actual trip, but also the people you meet on board.
You can truly relax and take in such sights as Australia’s stunning outbacks, Canada’s snow topped Rockies or closer to home, the West Highlands of Scotland line, which is out of this world. My particular favourite was the Artic line from Norway into Sweden, travelling through snow with a hot chocolate in hand was just heaven!
Train expert Monisha Rajesh has taken it one step further and produced the wonderful ‘Epic Train Journeys’ book which highlights 42 specially chosen routes around the world which have been inspired by her travels over the years.
The book has some stunning images and also helpful tips on how to travel safely and even how to strike up a conversation with fellow travellers, after all lots of trips are lengthy, so an ideal time to discuss everything from religion to politics!
Monisha’s love of trains began after she went on a four-month trip around India by rail, which led to her ‘Around India in 80 Trains’ book, followed by ‘Around The World in 80 Trains’, which won the National Geographic Travel Book of The Year prize in 2019.
Epic Train Journey covers a variety of routes to satisfy everyone’s curiosity, budget, and wanderlust. From local day trips to cross-country connections, this is a showcase of everything from cheap seats to luxury locomotives.
More than just route suggestions, Epic Train Journeys ensures you are on the right track to making the most of travelling by train.
‘Epic Train Journeys’ is available to buy via the Gestalten website, priced at £35.
Rebecca Hay is an experienced travel writer and member of The British Guild of Travel Writers. Follow her adventures with her family on Twitter and Instagram @emojiadventurer and on Facebook via EmojiAdventurers2.
Photographs courtesy of Gestalten
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