You’re going on a cross-country trip. Airplane, train, bus, car, or bike?
If I’m going cross-country, the train wins every time. There’s something about the steady rhythm of the tracks, the gentle sway of the carriage, and the absence of airport chaos or motorway monotony that makes train travel my preferred choice. It’s a way to get from A to B without feeling drained by the journey itself.
The last time I went cross-country was for work—a six-hour trip to a small city where I stay for a few days every few months, for work. It’s a routine I’ve settled into, catching up with colleagues, holding meetings, and getting a change of scenery. The journey itself is long, but it doesn’t feel like a chore. I can read, think, write, or just sit back and watch the country roll past the window.
That said, my last trip was something special. I got lucky and managed to book first-class tickets for the price of standard ones. What followed was a journey of pure comfort—big, cushioned seats, air conditioning, and table service. They served food and beverages, not just the overpriced snacks you usually get on trains, but proper cakes and sandwiches brought straight to my seat. It felt like a rare glimpse into what train travel used to be—an experience, not just a necessity.
The return journey had another surprise in store. The first-class lounge. Sofas, a TV, free coffee, biscuits, crisps, and even a shower (which I didn’t need, but still, that’s what I call service). The atmosphere was calm, nothing like the usual hustle of train stations, and the whole thing left me wondering why this level of care isn’t the standard across the board.
Credit where it’s due—Great Western Railway delivered. Their staff were smartly dressed, friendly, and genuinely excellent at their jobs. In a time when good service is hit and miss, they stood out. I was so impressed I left a five-star review and even wrote to head office about one particular staff member who went above and beyond.
Will I be travelling first class again? Probably not, unless I get lucky with another deal. But even in standard class, the train remains my top pick. No stress of airport security, no endless motorways, just a seat, a window, and time to breathe.
The Narratives - Mohamed Miah 
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