train travel:

Cassandra Gardiner: A permit to travel

Cassandra Gardiner returns with this week’s offering. Guest opinion articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication. Ed


Experiencing sensations, smells, noises, temperature, flavours and settings in unfamiliar environments. Destinations selected to partake in delights from another, to throw caution to the wind, take the freedom and go. Unrestrained following instinct, adventure or cause the traveller becomes the visitor, becomes the guest.

Putting regularity on hold, advancing some self-centred indulgence born from the individual (or jointly), value, reasons and requirements. Wind-torn escapes, ancient tombs, sun-drenched beaches, red evening skies or city culture, when routine whithers the bearer and refreshment is sought an escape can be a liberating decision. To go outside of the familiar, a change of rhythm, pace, scenery and even language.

The view on fast-forward
Sitting on a train gazing out of the window, the view on fast-forward, snapshots of towns, rivers, fields and occasionally the coast. Smoothly moving along the tracks, speed, distance and landmarks alternate as time unfolds the journey. Perhaps a visit to a loved a one or a farewell.

Moving through the countryside, held in motion, arriving for the first view, the treat, break or get away. Instilled in the mind the traveller waits until arrival to realise why they came.

A passage into new landscapes
Wishful thinking for romance, treasures, thrills or the unknown. Adventure or retreat, diving down or climbing high, a passage into new landscapes, fresh colours and life exerts stimulation on the new-comer like jumping into a cold pool.

As the season breaks and temperatures differ, the needs of the beholder come up for inspection. Satisfaction, sustenance and purpose, exposed by the day-to-day shuffle, wait for repair. Galloping ahead craving a solution, a trip, excursion, holiday or simply ‘I’m off’, planning a journey can float the mind into a trail of exploration and excitement. With a whirlwind of options by sea, train, plane, car, bike, horse (and carriage…) or simply on foot, the horizon opens.

What if
As the light grows and darkness falls away, a warm embrace of options takes hold encouraging the user to think and consider the ‘what if’s’.

To read more of Cassandra Gardiner‘s work, visit her blog.

Image: bortescristian under CC BY 2.0