h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

This answered all those questions I didn't know and should have asked myself! After having travelled on the TGV once or twice, and having seen the Thalys between Brussels and Paris a few times (those trains *really* fly!!) it was very interesting to read a well-written article on the subject.

to really appreciate the TGV you have to also see it from the outside. watching one go by from the platform of a minor TGV station like montceau-les-mines is an experience. the cables start to sing about a minute before you can see the train; if you blink you'll miss it and even if you don't your brain thinks it was just an optical illusion. just amazing. especially compared the the smooth ride when your on it!