A recent journey from London to Istanbul, retracing the historic route of the Orient Express, involved traveling approximately 2,450 miles by rail. Departing from London St Pancras, the journey passed through Paris, Vienna, and Bucharest before reaching Sofia. As the train approached Istanbul, the scenery transitioned from brake lights on the tracks to glimpses of the city’s skyline, including prominent minarets.
The writer’s engagement with train travel began in 2010, where extensive exploration of Indian Railways revealed the unique character of the trains, each offering a different experience. Initially viewed as mere transportation, the night trains provided a chance for tranquility and reflection amidst the chaos of daytime travel.
This retrospective appreciation comes in the context of a declining trend in sleeper services across Europe, which has seen a revival in recent years due to changing travel preferences and increased environmental awareness. Notably, post-lockdown, interest in rail travel has surged, with new companies launching sleeper routes and established services expanding routes to cater to increasing demand.
During recent travels, encounters with passengers revealed a diverse mix of individuals using night trains for leisure or adventure. Experiences varied from families enjoying the journey to young couples celebrating their honeymoon. However, the reality of night train travel includes challenges such as discomfort and occasional delays. Despite these issues, the social aspect of travel remained strong, with passengers often embracing opportunities to connect with each other during the journey.
The future of night trains appears promising, with new routes emerging and a growing recognition of the benefits of slower travel. The writer reflects on these journeys as more than just transit; they offer a chance for reflection, connection, and appreciation of the landscapes traversed. Monisha Rajesh’s new book, “Moonlight Express: Around the World by Night Train,” is set to be published on August 28.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2025/aug/23/sleeper-hit-how-europe-is-revelling-in-the-return-of-the-night-train