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

A few years ago we spent all day travelling to Switzerland by train - lots of changes but not much longer overall than flying.

So last year we thought we'd be green, avoid flying and enjoy the journey (despite the extra cost & time) from East Anglia to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Using information from seat61.com we were able to get it all booked up - though not until a few weeks before travelling. Why can't you book rail journeys farther ahead?

The first part of the journey, leaving home in the afternoon to London no problem. We treated ourselves to first class on Eurostar to arrive well fed and relaxed in Paris. Taxi to change stations, then time to kill late at night in a station with no facilities (except the plush concierge manned toilets) open.

Embarked on the night train, sharing with one other couple. Lower berth not recommended if the window blind isn't pulled down and much movement in the corridor... So, arrived in Spain to breakfast in the station cafe before the really long leg. Twelve hours meandering across northern Spain (on train video in the afternoon). Lots of interesting scenery but the air conditioning broke down and the train was an hour late at our destination. A short taxi ride to the hotel completed the trek.

A total of 32 hours.

The return trip went more smoothly but more boring, having seen it all before!
We'd certainly contemplate a long train journey again, to a different destination. We have pondered about UK to Japan by train if we could spare the time.

What's useful to take? A cool bag with food supplies, wet wipes and personal music player/reading material etc. Layered clothing that can be used for padding/extra covering.