A big part of the celebration of my [ahem] milestone birthday next year is interrailing. The current thought is two months roaming wherever the mood takes us. I was just looking into Bruxelles to Prague sleeper trains … I’m saving this piece for a re-read nearer the time. You’ve captured the paradoxically dreamy reality of it all. I’m an avid reader of Theroux’s train journeys, admiring his ability to sneak into cities through the gritty portals railway stations represent.
Such a short and sweet meditation — I have fond memories of that Marseilles train, and "a portal powered by dreams" is the perfect way to describe the experience of traveling by rail at night.
I love the neon sign! Those boys of yours will surprise you in years to come with their memories of this holiday. Thank you for a beautiful, evocative piece. X
Wow that line is so apt for your moments with the boys. Your story brought me back to my only train ride in France. I am happy I could relate to your words. Happy weekend!
Wonderful reflection on trains. I have a long train booked from Melbourne to Sydney next year. Although I could have taken the trip at night, I chose the day option so I could see the country-side. In Egypt, I took the night train but it was anything but relaxing!
A big part of the celebration of my [ahem] milestone birthday next year is interrailing. The current thought is two months roaming wherever the mood takes us. I was just looking into Bruxelles to Prague sleeper trains … I’m saving this piece for a re-read nearer the time. You’ve captured the paradoxically dreamy reality of it all. I’m an avid reader of Theroux’s train journeys, admiring his ability to sneak into cities through the gritty portals railway stations represent.
Ohh, what a brilliant way to celebrate a birthday! You will have the best time, I’m sure. 🚆
Such a short and sweet meditation — I have fond memories of that Marseilles train, and "a portal powered by dreams" is the perfect way to describe the experience of traveling by rail at night.
I’m so glad you think so! I’m already plotting my next trip…
I love the neon sign! Those boys of yours will surprise you in years to come with their memories of this holiday. Thank you for a beautiful, evocative piece. X
Thank you, as ever, for reading, Jude.
Gorgeous Laura. It evokes so many memories and feelings of train travel for me. And the sigh for your babies grown up… 🖤
The sigh! Thank you Katie.
Beautiful reading!
I appreciate the photo too. It’s beautiful.
Wow that line is so apt for your moments with the boys. Your story brought me back to my only train ride in France. I am happy I could relate to your words. Happy weekend!
Ahh, thank you so much for reading!
It’s such a pleasure to find your writing thanks to Mr. Fogchaser himself🙂
Ahh, an honour!
Memories - thank you x
Thank you for reading, Sarah.
Lovely read. Really liked the last few lines, made it complete, bringing it full circle.
Thank you so much, Nick.
Lovely memories from my train travel days in Europe as I read yours!
Ahh, I’m so glad Diane!
Wonderful reflection on trains. I have a long train booked from Melbourne to Sydney next year. Although I could have taken the trip at night, I chose the day option so I could see the country-side. In Egypt, I took the night train but it was anything but relaxing!
Have a wonderful trip, Laura 🚆
Beautiful, nostalgic and now I want to travel somewhere by train… 🙏🏽
And I adore that dreamy photo Laura!
Thank you so much, Susie. It’s always a good day to take the train…