creative writing on train journey

How to Describe a Train in Writing (30+ Words & Examples)

Riding the rails has captured the imagination of writers for over a century. Trains have been featured in all genres of fiction from romance to sci-fi.

Here’s how to describe a train in writing :

Describe the sight, sound, and motion of trains by focusing on key details like the locomotive style, speed, interior details, and smoking steam from the stack. Use vivid sensory language to transport readers aboard the rail journey.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to describe all aspects of trains from their traits and purposes to stations and ideas for train scenes.

10 Key Train Traits to Describe

Table of Contents

There are 10 traits you need to know to master writing train descriptions:

• Locomotive style

Destination

Locomotive style.

The locomotive style refers to the design and visual appearance of the engine powering the train.

Pay attention to key features that distinguish one style from another, like the shape of the front grille on a diesel or the large boiler on a steam engine.

Mention details like the number of wheels, decorative embellishments, and the general silhouette or profile of the locomotive.

Color Scheme

The colors used to paint the train exterior play a key role in description.

Note the dominant hues used on the engine, cars and any striping or lettering.

Black, gray, maroon, forest green and navy blue are common. Is it a vibrant, glossy color or more muted and weathered?

Size/Length

The general size and length of the train determines how many cars it contains.

An intercity passenger train may be quite long with many attached cars while a subway is much shorter.

Use terms like massive, hulking, and colossal for large trains vs. tiny or small for shorter ones.

Mention any multi-level cars as well.

Identify the train’s primary function to transport passengers or freight/cargo.

Commuter trains take riders on daily trips while freight trains haul predominantly goods and materials across long distances.

Knowing the purpose provides context.

The age and era of a train help establish the time period.

An antique steam locomotive from the 19th century invokes vintage images while a bullet train feels ultramodern.

Use descriptors that indicate the general age — old, historic, futuristic, modern, etc.

The speed a train is moving is crucial to convey, as it feels far different watching a slow coal train vs. a high speed express.

Use words like crawling, moderate, fast, swift, speeding or racing to indicate speed.

Mention how quickly the scenery whips past.

Trains make distinctive sounds from the engine, horn, wheels on tracks and other mechanisms.

Describe the volume – quiet, soft, loud, deafening – and quality of the sounds like screeching brakes or clickety-clack wheels.

Steam locomotives emit copious smoke from the stack which creates a dramatic visual.

Note the volume – billowing, puffing, wafting – color and scent. Smoke evokes key sensory details.

Cars/Carriages

The number, styles and purposes of the attached railcars provide helpful context.

Short commuter trains may have just a few while cross-country ones have many passenger, dining, sleeper and freight cars.

Identify any that stand out.

Knowing where a train is headed, even if just the general direction, adds intrigue and purpose.

Is it chugging toward a big city or traveling through open countryside?

This ties into the overall context.

Types of Trains

There are many types of trains that operate for different purposes.

Here are some of the most common:

• Passenger trains  – Used to transport people between stations. These include high-speed bullet trains, intercity trains, commuter trains and subways.
• Freight trains  – Haul cargo in closed cars or open tops. Examples are unit trains, mixed freight and intermodal trains.
• Light rail  – Urban passenger trains operating on mainline railroad tracks. They are smaller and lighter than heavy rail.
• High-speed rail  – Intercity passenger trains that operate at speeds over 200 km/h (120 mph).
• Steam locomotives  – Antique trains powered by steam engines burning coal, wood or oil. They have mostly been replaced by diesel and electric trains.

How to Describe a Train for Kids

When depicting trains for children, focus on key details that will spark their imagination:

• Bright, vibrant colors on the engine and cars
• Interesting shapes like steam billowing from the stack
• Happy faces or names given to the trains
• The sounds – whistles blowing, wheels clacking
• Child-friendly destinations like the zoo, circus or beach
• Riders waving from the windows
• Special cars like an observation deck or caboose
• Animal characters as conductors or engineers
• Trains that can talk and show personality

Use kid-friendly, sensory language around sights, sounds, smells and motion.

Describe colors, shapes, noises and actions in an upbeat way. Bring the train to life as a friendly character for a delightful ride.

Here is a video to help you learn how to describe trains:

30 Words to Describe Trains

All these tips are good, but what about the actual language of trains?

Don’t worry – here is a list of words you can use when describing trains:

30 Phrases to Describe Trains

Here are some phrases you can use to talk about trains:

• Locomotive giant
• Carriages clattered along
• Whistle splitting the air
• Smoke billowing
• Engine roaring
• Cars rumbling along
• Train slithered along
• Serpentine machine
• Thunder down the tracks
• Caterpillar of cars
• Black iron beast
• Shriek of metal
• Blur of machinery
• Steel wheels grinding
• Slate gray cars
• Snake of steel
• Echoing horn blast
• Ghostly owl lights
• Pistons pumping mightily
• Wheels clacking rhythmically
• Coach lights flickering
• Steam whistling from vents
• Gears churning noisily
• Engine car belching smoke
• Railcars clacking together
• Steel rails humming
• Whistle piercing the air
• Passengers murmuring inside
• Conductor yelling, “All aboard!”

How to Describe a Train Station in Writing

Train stations serve as bustling hubs for arrivals, departures and daily commutes.

When describing a station, consider these key elements:

• Architecture  – The style and materials such as Victorian, Art Deco, brick, marble, etc.
• Size  – The general scale from a small rural stop to a massive hub station.
• Platforms  – The number, length and features like benches, overhangs or digital signs.
• Tracks  – How many railroad tracks run through the station? Are they elevated or at ground level?
• Transportation modes  – Are trains, buses, taxis and other transit integrated here?
• Interior details  – What does the inside look like? Highlight ticketing areas, waiting rooms, shops.
• Lighting  – Overhead lighting, natural light from windows, ambient glow of trains.
• Crowds  – The volume of people, queues, announcements and overall energy.
• Sounds  – The echoes of footsteps, murmuring voices, train arrivals/departures.
• Smells  – Odors from food stalls, coffee shops, engine exhaust or crowds.
• Purpose  – Is it a commuter, passenger or mixed-use station?

Example Train Descriptions

Here are three sample train descriptions in different fiction genres:

The antique steam train clicked and puffed as it pulled out of the station, tendrils of white smoke coiling from its black stack.

The setting sun gleamed on its scarlet boiler as the mammoth iron horse powered down the tracks with the faint scent of coal trailing behind. Emily pressed her nose to the window, admiring the faded golden carriages rolling past quaint countryside toward their destination.

The silent silver bullet train glided swiftly into the station, its metallic sides shimmering under the harsh white lights.

With a barely audible hiss, the glossy doors slid open and passengers disembarked, the train’s electric engine humming. Jane strode quickly through the grim crowd, heading toward the hulking machine that would transport her 200 mph to the next dreary mega-city.

The ancient train rumbled through the misty high mountain pass, its gears grinding and smokestack belching acrid plumes. The black iron wheels screeched against the tracks as the beastly locomotive pulled its rattling cargo cars.

Inside, the air was musty and eerily quiet, the wooden seats weathered from ages of use.

Alana peered out the grimy window at the spectral pine forest sliding past, wondering what magical secrets this transport might hold.

20 Unique Ideas for Using Trains in Your Story

Here are 20 interesting ideas for incorporating trains into short stories or novels:

• An antique steam train time travels to the Wild West
• A magical train picks up lost kids and takes them on adventures
• Clues about a mystery are found on a cross-country train trip
• Ghosts haunt the cars of an old train graveyard
• A futuristic bullet train on Mars helps colonists escape danger
• An enchanted train can fly as well as ride the rails
• A runaway train hurtles out of control toward doom
• An eccentric group of characters meet on an overnight train
• A talking train engine guides riders through fantastical lands
• A young stowaway finds dangers and wonders while riding the rails
• A scientist transforms into animals after a freak lab accident on a train
• A portal in a train station opens to a magical kingdom
• A quarantined train holds a deadly outbreak threatening humanity
• Famous historical figures interact on an express train through time
• A post-apocalyptic survivor finds the last working locomotive
• A train heist happens as villains attempt a daring robbery
• An animal circus troupe rides the rails from show to show
• A miniature train in a model exhibit comes to life at night
• A mechanical train-robot helps fight off an alien attack
• A child befriends the ghost of an old train conductor

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a Train in Writing

Describing trains requires focusing on key details – from the locomotive style and sound, to the speed, purpose and era – that bring these powerful machines to life on the page.

All aboard for more tips on creative writing and blogging as we travel together on this railroad of words!

Be sure to check out the other helpful articles on my website to further polish your storytelling skills.

Read This Next:

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• How to Describe a Rich Person (21 Best Tips + Examples)
• How to Describe Love in Writing (21 Best Tips + Examples)

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How to Describe a Train in a Story

By Isobel Coughlan

Do characters in your novel take a train journey? If you want to illustrate this scene as vividly as possible, we’re here to help. In this post, we cover the topic of how to describe a train in a story.

Something that moves very quickly .

“The rapid train thundered down the tracks, leaving every passerby in shock. This was a sight no one would forget.”

“He needed a rapid train to make it to the interview on time, but the last express service had already departed.”

How it Adds Description

“Rapid” describes a train that moves very quickly or faster than others. If your characters describe the train as “rapid,” it could signal that they’re impressed by the speed. It can also hint that they need to get somewhere fast, especially if they’re looking for a “rapid” train. “Rapid” can also signal that your fictional world has modern technology that allows speedy journeys.

Something that’s old and has lots of value due to its rarity or beauty.

“The antique train rolled into the station, and the cameras started flashing. Such a beautiful locomotive hadn’t been on the tracks in decades.”

“She searched each train warehouse, but she couldn’t find the exact antique train needed for her project.”

If you want to include an old or vintage train in your story, “antique” can signal the age and condition of it. “Antique” implies the train is old and very valuable, which might make characters very interested in it. An “antique” train can also be used to show your reader a glimpse of your fictional world’s past.

Something not exciting or interesting.

“She boarded the dull train with a sigh. It was going to be a long and boring journey.”

“The train was dull at best. It has no personality, style, or features.”

The word “dull” signifies the train is not as exciting as other trains, which lets your reader know the characters aren’t interested in it. This could further show your characters aren’t particularly interested in trains or traveling in general.

4. Sluggish

Something that works or moves slower than others.

“The sluggish train took so long to arrive, many of the passengers had fallen asleep at the station.”

“I’m not getting on that sluggish train! Flying is much quicker.”

If you want to emphasize how slow your train travels, “sluggish” can give your reader a clear image. Also, if a character deems the train “sluggish,” it might hint that they don’t want to go on the long journey. “Sluggish” could also imply something’s wrong with the train, hence it’s not traveling at its usual fast speed.

Something that looks new and expensive .

“The sleek train was equipped with high-tech screens, a full-service bar, and a sauna.”

“She was drawn to the sleek train, and her secret wish was to travel across the country on it.”

“Sleek” implies that your fictional train is top-of-the-line, sophisticated, and expensive. Characters may aspire to travel on the “sleek” train to experience its luxury or to raise their social status. This could lead to some characters being obsessed with the “sleek” train, as they desperately want to experience it.

6. Gigantic

Something that’s extremely large in physical size.

“She gasped at the gigantic train. It was obvious she’d never seen a double-decker locomotive before.”

“The gigantic train could barely fit into the station.”

“Gigantic” shows the impressive size and scale of your fictional train. If a character thinks a train is “gigantic,” it can show they’re not used to traveling on large-scale public transport. “Gigantic” could also imply that the train is one of the largest in use, especially if many characters are shocked by its size.

7. Futuristic

Something that looks very unusual and modern .

“He curiously boarded the futuristic train. It felt like something out of a sci-fi film.”

“The futuristic train was groundbreaking. But it cost over $1000 for a single journey.”

The word “futuristic” shows that the train looks very modern or contains the latest technology. “Futuristic” trains might confuse your characters, as their design and features may be different from standard trains. “Futuristic” could also foreshadow technological innovations or tech-based plot points to come in your novel.

Something that’s not expensive or large.

“The modest train looked small in comparison to others, but it worked just as well.”

“He could only afford to travel on the modest train. However, this didn’t bother him one bit.”

The word “modest” hints that the train in question is more affordable and smaller than others. If your characters call a train “modest,” they might be unimpressed or unbothered about it. “Modest” could also signal that the train is older and there are newer and more expensive models.

9. Revolutionary

Something that changes the way something is made or done.

“Thousands gathered for the revolutionary train unveiling. The release was set to change locomotive history.”

“He took his seat on the revolutionary train and waited for the journey to begin. He could hardly contain his excitement.”

If you want to show your fictional train is new and groundbreaking, “revolutionary” is the adjective to use. This word signals that the train is a game changer. Characters attracted to a “revolutionary” train might be interested in progress and the future.

10. Stylish

Something fashionable and elegant in design.

“The stylish train was a fabulous affair. It had a multi-colored design, premium leather seats, and the latest decor inside.”

“He wished he was riding in the stylish train. But he could only afford to travel in the drab shipping container carriage.”

“Stylish” shows that your fictional train is very fashionable and thus might sport the latest designs and bright colors. If your characters are fans of the “stylish” train, they might also be very fashion-conscious and concerned with surface aesthetics. “Stylish” could also hint your fictional society is very advanced, as their transport is not basic or boring.

DraftSparks ✨

53+ ‘Train’ Writing Prompts

Christmas Train Adventure

Imagine taking a long-distance train ride during the Christmas season.

Train of Terror

The protagonist must unravel a murder mystery while onboard a long-distance train.

Twisty Train Tale

Create a tense thriller set on board a high-speed train, where the conductor is murdered and everyone on board is a suspect.

Subway Sorcery

Write a story about a magical society functioning within the subway system of a sprawling city.

Subway Catastrophe

You’re trapped in a stopped subway train as zombies close in from both directions.

The Young Train Conductor

Imagine that you are the train conductor for a day, and write about your experiences.

Underground Subway Pursuit

Write a scene where a detective is chasing a criminal through a maze-like subway system.

Unexpected Train Ride

Write a story where two strangers find themselves sharing a train compartment and feelings begin to develop.

An Unusual Haunting

Create a story about a ghost who haunts an unconventional place such as a train, a concert hall, or a library.

The Secret Society

Engage in a story about a secret society that deals with supernatural threats, their trials and tribulations.

Midnight Train to Nowhere

Write about a train that only comes into the station at midnight, which subsequently leads to a place that doesn’t exist in our reality.

Time-Traveling Train

You’re the conductor of a steam-powered locomotive that can travel through time.

Speedy Gratitude Journal

List five things you’re grateful for today.

A Love Story on a Train

A story about two strangers who fall in love during a train journey.

Mystery Of The Mundane

Find gratitude in the seemingly ordinary or mundane aspects of your life.

Runaway Train

A high-speed train with malfunctioning brakes is all the hype, with lives hanging in balance.

Prophecy of Peril

A prophecy foretells the princess’s peril by her 18th birthday, how does she prepare and confront the impending danger?

All Aboard the Number Train

Write a fun story about ten animals boarding a train, where one animal gets on at each stop.

Rhyme Time Tales

Create a short story comprised entirely of rhyming couplets.

Lost in Holiday Wonderland

Create a narrative where your character somehow gets physically lost during the holiday rush.

Railway Romance in the West

Weave a tale of two strangers meeting on the last train to the Old West, leading to an unpredictable romance.

The Lost Easter Town

Write a story about the adventure of finding a long-lost town that celebrates Easter all year round.

Write about an adventure on a magical train that travels through various era of history.

Train of Trust

Conjure up a situation where survivors must rely on each other and build trust.

Tracker of Fantastical Creatures

Envision being hired for a summer job as a trail guide in a park filled with mythical creatures.

The Murder on the Midnight Express

Invent a tale where a detective must solve a murder aboard a moving train.

Celebrating Gratitude

Start your journal entry by listing down three things you are grateful for today.

Unlocking Creative Spaces

Write about your favorite spot for unlocking creativity and why it inspires you.

The Super Academy

Write about a futuristic school designed to shelter, educate and train individuals with superpowers.

One-Way Train to Unknown Destination

Your protagonist boards a train without a known destination, resulting in a thrilling ride.

Ethics of Pokemon Training

Write about the ethical considerations that come to play in the training of Pokemon.

The Tournament Loss

Describe a critical Pokemon tournament match where your protagonist loses to their established rival.

Magical Transportation

Describe the journey of the Hogwarts Express from a magical point of view.

The Train Through the Years

Write a narrative following the Hogwarts Express through different generations of Hogwarts students.

Lost on the Train

A student has lost something valuable on the Hogwarts Express, portray the search and the people they meet in the process.

Relic of the Rails

An abandoned train station is home to a spectral passenger waiting for a train that never arrives.

Midnight Train

Your character receives a mysterious note suggesting them to board a midnight train.

Camp Half-Blood’s Rival

Introduce a rival to Camp Half-Blood; another camp that trains demigods.

Hidden Potential

Write about an average citizen in the Star Wars universe discovering they possess some level of Force sensitivity.

The Dragon Mastery

Write about an historical account of the first human who managed to train or command a dragon.

The Midnight Train Journey

Your character boards a late-night train where each co-passenger seems to be hiding a dangerous secret.

Dark Magic Academy

Describe a magical academy whose purpose is to train students to control dark powers for beneficial purposes.

Gratitude Glance

List down five things you are grateful for today and explain why.

Scripting a Calm Moment

Visualize a serene moment and write a detailed script of it.

Train of Thought Journey

Choose a random thought and track its journey up to a negative or anxious thought.

Fleeting Connection on a Train

Describe a brief but memorable romantic encounter between two strangers on a cross-country train journey.

Catching the Last Train

Write about two strangers falling in love on the last train ride of the night.

Strangers on a Train

Script a conversation between strangers meeting on a journey, having a deep and meaningful discussion about life.

Ghostly Train Stop

Write about a haunted train station where the departed spirits come to say their final goodbyes.

Echoes in Dreamland

Write a poem focusing on the echo of a certain sound you heard in a dream that has lingered with you.

The Parallel Universe Dilemma

Create a storyline where your protagonist discovers an alternate universe where their life turned out drastically different.

Adventures in Transit

Describe an entire travel experience from the perspective of the journey, not the destination.

The Journey, Not the Destination

Write about a particularly memorable journey or transfer during your travels.

Writing Nestling

How To Describe A Train In Writing (12 Important Steps)

Introducing the art of describing a train in writing is akin to unveiling a portal to a world of captivating journeys, powerful locomotives, and the rhythmic heartbeat of rail travel.

Trains, with their imposing presence and iconic place in the annals of transportation, offer writers a canvas of inspiration unlike any other. In this exploration, we’ll embark on a literary adventure through the intricacies of locomotives, the allure of train cars, and the enchanting landscapes they traverse.

We’ll delve into the use of evocative language, sensory details, and metaphorical expressions, while also examining the significance of historical context and personal observations.

The goal is to transform words into a vivid tapestry that transports readers to the dynamic world of trains, where every description becomes a journey in itself, and the magic of rail travel comes alive on the page.

Table of Contents

How To Describe A Train In Writing

Describing a train in writing involves creating a vivid and detailed picture for your readers. Here’s a step-by-step process on how to do it:

Choose your perspective

Decide whether you want to describe the train from an inside or outside perspective. Are you a passenger on the train, an observer from the platform, or perhaps a combination of both?

Observe the train

Take a few moments to closely observe the train, paying attention to its various components. This includes the locomotive, carriages, wheels, windows, and any unique features that stand out.

Note the size and type

Describe the size and type of the train. Is it a sleek, modern bullet train, an old-fashioned steam locomotive, or a freight train loaded with cargo? Mention the length and number of carriages.

Details of the locomotive

If visible, describe the locomotive. Mention the shape, color, and any distinctive markings. Note whether it’s pulling the train or pushing from behind.

Carriage description

Describe the carriages. Are they passenger cars, freight cars, or a combination? Mention the colors, any graffiti or artwork, and any noticeable wear and tear.

Windows and doors

Discuss the train’s windows and doors. Are they large and panoramic, or small and functional? Mention any people or scenes you can see through the windows.

Wheels and undercarriage

Comment on the wheels and undercarriage of the train. Describe the size, the sound they make as they roll along the tracks, and any movement or vibration you feel.

Sounds and atmosphere

Explain the atmosphere around the train. Mention the sounds of the engine, the clattering of wheels on the tracks, and the hiss of brakes. Are there any scents associated with the train, such as diesel fuel or hot metal?

Passengers or cargo

If applicable, describe the passengers or cargo on board. Are there diverse groups of people, or is it primarily a freight train carrying goods? Provide details about their activities, expressions, and interactions.

Surroundings

Describe the environment in which the train is situated. Are you in a bustling station, a serene countryside, or an urban landscape? Mention any relevant details about the surroundings.

Emotions and atmosphere

Convey the emotions and atmosphere surrounding the train. Is there a sense of anticipation, adventure, or nostalgia? Use descriptive language to capture the mood.

Summarize the key elements and feelings you’ve described. Leave the reader with a lasting impression or a thought related to the train.

Remember to use vivid and evocative language to bring the train to life in your reader’s imagination. Incorporate sensory details like sights, sounds, and smells to make your description more engaging and memorable.

Understanding the Elements of a Train

The inner workings of a train are like the intricate gears of a well-kept secret. Beneath the majestic exterior, a locomotive is a mechanical symphony, each piston stroke echoing a century of innovation.

The cars that trail behind aren’t mere carriages; they’re time capsules, cradling stories of commuters, cargos, and cross-country odysseys.

To truly understand the elements of a train is to unlock the door to a world where steel behemoths dance on steel tracks, their engines pulsating with power and history.

It’s an invitation to peer into the heart of a juggernaut and be captivated by the soul of transportation itself.

The locomotive, often considered the beating heart of a train, is a marvel of engineering and raw power.

It is a symphony of mechanics, with massive wheels, towering smokestacks, and a relentless determination to conquer the rails.

Whether it’s a mighty steam engine, a sleek electric locomotive, or a robust diesel workhorse, each type tells a unique story of technological evolution.

The locomotive’s thunderous roars and rhythmic chugging are not just sounds; they are the very pulse of progress, propelling passengers and goods across vast landscapes.

With its imposing presence and timeless significance, the locomotive embodies both the romance and the relentless momentum of rail travel, forever etching its place in the annals of transportation history.

Exterior Features

The exterior features of a train are a visual spectacle that captures the essence of both function and aesthetics. The train’s formidable shape, often a study in sleek aerodynamics or rugged practicality, stands as a testament to engineering prowess.

The colors and livery adorning the train’s surface, whether adorned in striking steel-gray, vibrant corporate logos, or nostalgic heritage liveries, tell stories of identity and purpose.

The intricate details such as rivets, windows, and the prominent nose of the locomotive are like the train’s signature, offering a signature style that varies from one model to another.

The exterior of a train is not just a shell; it is the first impression, a bold introduction to the grand journey that awaits, and a canvas that reflects both the era and the spirit of the rail adventure.

Interior Features

The interior features of a train hold a world of comfort, style, and functionality, hidden behind the formidable facade.

Passengers step into a cocoon of well-designed spaces that transform mere travel into a memorable experience.

Seating arrangements, whether in spacious cabins with plush seats or classic cars with rows of bench seats, cater to different tastes and needs.

The decor, from the classic elegance of vintage cars to the modern minimalism of high-speed trains, speaks volumes about the train’s character.

The ambiance, set by soft lighting, soothing colors, and often panoramic windows, ushers passengers into a tranquil realm as the scenery unfolds outside.

The interior is a sanctuary of travel, where passengers can relax, socialize, or work, all while being serenaded by the rhythmic symphony of the tracks beneath, making the journey as much a destination as the arrival itself.

Research and Preparation

Research and preparation are the compass and map of every writer’s journey, guiding us through uncharted territories of knowledge and creativity.

They are the whispered secrets of experts, the whispered tales of history, and the whispered dreams of the imagination.

In the realm of writing, they transform mere words into worlds, characters into vivid personalities, and plots into gripping odysseys.

It’s a meticulous excavation of information, a curious exploration of diverse perspectives, and a passionate embrace of understanding.

Just as a ship requires a star to steer by, writers rely on research and preparation to navigate the vast seas of storytelling, allowing them to embark on adventures that can transport readers to any corner of the universe, be it real or imagined.

Historical context

Historical context is the backdrop against which stories unfold, the silent but influential character in every narrative. It is the master key to unlocking the significance of events, the motivations of characters, and the essence of any era.

Just as a photograph’s meaning deepens with the knowledge of when and where it was taken, a story gains depth and resonance when placed within its historical framework.

It transports readers to the heart of a different time, immersing them in the customs, challenges, and triumphs of the past.

Whether it’s a tale of bygone empires, a revolutionary period, or the quiet moments of everyday life, historical context is the luminous thread that connects the present to the past, allowing us to peer into the windows of history and learn from its wisdom, heartache, and grandeur.

Era and setting of the train

The era and setting of a train are the twin pillars upon which the journey of a locomotive unfolds. They determine not only the physical landscape but also the very spirit of the experience.

Whether it’s the age of steam locomotives chugging through the picturesque countryside of the 19th century, the modern bullet trains racing through futuristic cityscapes, or the nostalgic charm of a heritage railway winding through a historic town, the era and setting lend a distinctive flavor to the adventure.

The scenery outside the window changes, but so do the attitudes, expectations, and aspirations of those on board.

These elements are not mere stage decorations but are dynamic partners, shaping the narrative and imbuing it with a unique sense of time and place.

The era and setting of a train transport readers to different worlds, offering a glimpse into history, culture, and the ever-evolving human spirit.

Observation

Observation is the writer’s closest confidant, the gateway to a world of detail and nuance that others might overlook.

It’s the art of keenly perceiving the ordinary and transforming it into the extraordinary. To observe is to engage all the senses, from sight to sound, touch to taste, and even the intangible feeling of a moment.

It’s the way a train conductor’s cap sits at a particular angle, the scent of the locomotive’s coal or diesel, the sensation of vibrations underfoot, and the symphony of whistles and clanking wheels.

Writers who observe well capture the essence of reality and infuse it into their stories, inviting readers to see, hear, feel, and ultimately, to deeply connect with the worlds they create.

Observation is the lens through which the writer brings the tangible and the intangible to life, illuminating the beauty and wonder that exists in the most ordinary of moments.

Personal experience

Personal experience is the storyteller’s most intimate treasure, a reservoir of emotions, insights, and authenticity. It’s the heart of narrative, the force that breathes life into characters, scenes, and events.

Drawing from one’s own encounters, whether mundane or extraordinary, adds a layer of genuine resonance to writing.

These experiences, like vibrant brushstrokes on a canvas, infuse the narrative with vivid colors and genuine emotions, allowing readers to connect on a profound level.

It’s the joy, sorrow, adventure, and vulnerability that the writer has personally felt, translating into words that resonate with universal truths.

Whether it’s a small detail like the taste of a childhood treat or a life-changing moment, personal experiences enrich storytelling, making it relatable, compelling, and, ultimately, unforgettable.

Utilizing Descriptive Language

Descriptive language is the artist’s palette of words, the alchemy of transforming mere text into a vivid, living canvas.

It’s like a symphony of imagery that dances in the reader’s mind, painting worlds, characters, and emotions with the brushstrokes of words.

It’s the way a single sentence can conjure the fragrance of a long-lost summer or make the reader feel the chill of a moonlit winter’s night.

Descriptive language is the enchanted doorway to boundless imagination, where metaphors and similes become the keys to unlocking hidden treasures of meaning.

It’s the language of dreamers and explorers, a portal to realms unknown, a vivid tapestry that turns words into windows through which readers can peer into the depths of the human experience.

Creating a Scene

Creating a scene is the author’s sorcery, a conjuration of worlds from mere ink and paper. It’s the architect’s blueprint for a journey through time and space, where the reader is the honored traveler.

Each word is a brick, every sentence a doorway, and together they construct the theater of imagination. The scene is a symphony of sensory experiences, an intricate web of sights, sounds, and emotions that can transport you to any realm, be it the bustling bazaar of Marrakech or the desolate expanse of an alien planet.

In the hands of a skilled wordsmith, a scene isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a magic carpet that whisks you away to adventure, emotion, and discovery.

It’s a portal to a realm that exists only in the mind, a place where the author and reader meet, and together, they explore the boundless landscapes of the human psyche.

Setting the Stage

Setting the stage is the writer’s invitation to step into a world of their creation, a theatrical overture to the story about to unfold. It’s the atmosphere, the ambiance, and the sensory palette that infuses life into the narrative.

The stage can be a cobblestone street in 19th-century London, an alien planet’s desolate wasteland, or a bustling cyberpunk cityscape, each with its own unique allure.

Through meticulously chosen details, the writer crafts a portal into an alternate reality, setting the reader on a sensory journey.

It’s not just the backdrop; it’s a character in itself, influencing the mood, the characters’ choices, and the emotions that will unfold.

Setting the stage is an artful act of immersion, and in that carefully constructed world, the reader becomes an integral player, each detail enticing them to journey further into the story’s enchanting tapestry.

Incorporating Surroundings

Incorporating surroundings is the writer’s method of breathing life into the narrative, painting the world with a brush dipped in the vivid hues of context and atmosphere.

The surroundings are more than just background; they are the soul of the setting, characters, and events. Whether it’s the sun-kissed meadows of a countryside idyll or the dimly lit, mysterious alleyways of a noir thriller, the surroundings set the mood, evoke emotions, and influence the narrative’s trajectory.

They are the intricate details – the whispering leaves in a forest, the distant hum of a bustling marketplace, or the ominous shadows lurking in a deserted mansion – that draw the reader into the story’s immersive embrace.

By incorporating surroundings, writers invite readers to not merely observe but to experience, to wander through the textured tapestry of the narrative’s world, adding layers of depth and authenticity to the story.

Interaction with Characters

Interaction with characters is the heartbeat of storytelling, the dynamic exchange that brings the narrative’s inhabitants to life.

It’s the way characters converse, collide, or collaborate, revealing their innermost thoughts, dreams, and conflicts.

These interactions sculpt the relationships that drive the plot, from the tender love between star-crossed lovers to the bitter clashes of adversaries locked in a battle of wills.

Through dialogue, actions, and reactions, characters breathe with authenticity, and readers become intimate observers of their personal journeys and growth.

It’s the subtle nuances, the sparks of conflict, and the warmth of camaraderie that make characters relatable and memorable, and it is within these interactions that the pulse of the story beats, creating the emotional resonance that leaves a lasting imprint on the reader’s heart and mind.

Structuring the Description

Structuring the description is akin to the delicate architecture of a suspension bridge, where each word and phrase is a carefully placed cable, holding the reader’s imagination aloft.

It’s a blueprint for the mind, a strategic arrangement that takes readers by the hand and leads them on an immersive journey.

Like a skilled conductor leading a symphony, structuring description means orchestrating the crescendos and pauses, the ebbs and flows, creating a narrative rhythm that is both mesmerizing and captivating.

With an opening that’s a siren’s call, paragraphs that dance in harmony, and transitions that are seamless, the writer forges a path into the reader’s heart.

It’s a blend of art and science, a mosaic of details and context that turns the story into a vivid, living tapestry where readers can walk, breathe, and experience the narrative’s essence, leaving them forever enchanted by the power of a well-structured description.

Tips for Capturing the Train’s Essence

Capturing the train’s essence is like catching a fleeting whisper of history and adventure in a bottle. It’s about summoning the spirit of steel behemoths hurtling through time and space and weaving it into words.

To encapsulate the train’s soul, one must become an alchemist, mixing the heady aroma of locomotive steam, the rhythm of wheels on the tracks, and the echo of travelers’ stories into a literary elixir.

But remember, it’s not just about the clangor of machinery or the thrill of speed; it’s the subtle symphony of emotions, the nostalgia of long journeys, and the promise of new horizons that you must distill into your prose.

Tips for capturing the train’s essence are akin to following a treasure map to the heart of transportation, where each tip is a clue that unlocks the secrets of this timeless and magnificent journey.

So, breathe in the metallic tang of adventure, close your eyes, and let the tips be your guide on this wondrous literary expedition into the essence of the train.

Focusing on the unique

Focusing on the unique is the writer’s compass to uncharted storytelling territory, an expedition into the unexplored corners of imagination.

It’s about eschewing the trodden paths and seeking out the hidden gems that make a story exceptional. Whether it’s an eccentric character with peculiar quirks or a plot twist that defies convention, the unique elements infuse a narrative with freshness and intrigue.

These are the precious details that set a story apart, that make it a standout among a sea of tales. In literature, as in life, it’s the singular, the extraordinary, and the unrepeatable that captures our attention and leaves an indelible mark.

When a writer focuses on the unique, they beckon readers to a world of wonder, where the extraordinary becomes the ordinary, and the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary, making storytelling an exhilarating journey of discovery.

Engaging the Reader’s Emotions

Engaging the reader’s emotions is the storyteller’s alchemy, the art of weaving invisible threads between words and the human heart.

It’s the power to make readers laugh, cry, tremble with anticipation, or swell with empathy, all within the confines of a few pages.

Whether it’s a character’s triumph over adversity, a heartbreaking loss, or a moment of sheer joy, the writer holds the key to unlocking the reader’s deepest feelings.

The emotional journey in a story is a rollercoaster, each twist and turn orchestrated to elicit powerful responses. By igniting emotions, writers create a bridge between the imaginary realm and the reader’s own experiences, forging a connection that transcends the written word.

It’s in these emotional connections that stories take root in the reader’s soul, leaving an enduring impact, reminding us of the extraordinary power that words possess to touch, move, and inspire.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about How To Describe A Train In Writing

What’s the importance of describing a train in writing.

Describing a train in writing can help set the scene, create atmosphere, and engage the reader’s imagination. It’s essential for creating a vivid and immersive narrative or description.

What are some tips for making a train description more captivating?

To make a train description captivating, focus on sensory details, use vivid and descriptive language, and consider the perspective from which you’re describing the train.

Should I describe the inside or outside of the train in my writing?

The choice between describing the inside or outside of the train depends on your narrative’s context. You can do both or select the perspective that best serves your story or description.

What are some key elements to include when describing the exterior of a train?

Include details about the type of train, its size, locomotive, carriages, wheels, and any unique features. Mention its location and surroundings as well.

How can I describe the interior of a train effectively?

When describing the interior, focus on elements such as the design of the passenger or freight cars, windows, doors, passengers, and the ambiance. Capture any sensory experiences and emotions.

What’s the best way to convey the sounds associated with a train?

Use onomatopoeic words and descriptive language to convey the sounds, such as the engine’s roar, wheels clattering on the tracks, and the hiss of brakes.

How can I evoke the emotions associated with a train in my description?

To convey emotions, pay attention to the atmosphere around the train, the behavior of passengers or crew, and the surrounding environment. Use descriptive language to capture the mood and feelings.

Should I include historical or technical details about the train in my description?

It depends on your target audience and the purpose of your writing. Technical or historical details can add depth and context, but be mindful not to overwhelm the reader with excessive information.

How do I conclude a train description effectively?

Conclude by summarizing the main points and leaving the reader with a thought, feeling, or image related to the train. Create a sense of closure and completeness.

Can you provide examples of well-described trains in literature?

Some classic examples include the iconic Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter series, the Orient Express in Agatha Christie’s novels, and the hauntingly described trains in Haruki Murakami’s works. Studying these can offer insights into effective train descriptions in literature.

Remember that the key to a compelling train description is creativity and the ability to transport the reader into the world you’re describing. Tailor your description to fit the context and purpose of your writing .

In conclusion, the art of describing a train in writing is an enchanting journey through words and worlds. Trains are not just vehicles; they are vessels of history, culture, and human connection.

Mastering the craft of vivid descriptions in train narratives allows us to capture the essence of these magnificent machines, the ambiance of their surroundings, and the emotional resonance they evoke.

Through the use of evocative language, meticulous research, and a keen eye for detail, writers can transform a simple train ride into an unforgettable literary experience.

As we conclude this exploration, we’re reminded that the power of storytelling lies in the ability to transport readers to places and moments they may never physically visit, and trains, with their timeless allure, offer a unique and compelling canvas for writers to create and readers to journey upon.

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In this blog post, we will explore the art of descriptive writing, focusing our lens on the mesmerising world of trains, and learn how to craft vivid and evocative descriptions that transport our readers to the tracks, where the wheels of imagination meet the steel of reality.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the train emerged from the shroud of twilight, its metal behemoth illuminated by a cascade of golden, molten light. The locomotive, a colossal steed of industry, exhaled great plumes of smoke and steam, shrouding the platform in a misty veil, through which the world appeared in fragmented glimpses. The platform thrummed with a symphony of life and motion, a frenetic ballet of travelers, each with their own story etched upon their faces.

The train itself stood as a monument to progress, an intricate tapestry of rivets, pistons, and wheels. Its iron flanks bore the scars of countless journeys, a weathered testament to the unforgiving passage of time. As the whistle’s haunting cry pierced the air, the locomotive roared to life, its heartbeat reverberating through the very bones of those who stood witness.

Inside the train, passengers found themselves in a realm both familiar and otherworldly. The rhythmic clatter of wheels against tracks served as a hypnotic lullaby, an intricate melody composed by the hands of engineers and the whims of destiny. Carriages were a canvas of diverse humanity, a mosaic of characters woven together by the iron threads of their shared journey.

Beyond the windows, the landscape unfurled like a panoramic dreamscape. Moonlight spilled over vast, open fields, painting them in shades of silvery enchantment. Trees whispered secrets in the language of rustling leaves, while rivers carved pathways through the earth’s flesh, their waters glinting like liquid diamonds.

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Occasionally, the train passed through tunnels – moments of darkness, punctuated by fleeting glimpses of distant stars. These interludes became metaphors for life itself, moments of obscurity that heightened the appreciation for the radiant moments when the train burst forth into the open, revealing the world anew.

All the while, the train hurtled forward, an unstoppable force that bridged the chasm between departure and arrival. In this moving sanctuary, strangers shared smiles, stories, and stolen glances, connecting in fleeting yet profound ways.

As the night deepened and constellations danced above, the train became a vessel of dreams, a realm suspended between the realms of the ordinary and the extraordinary. The rhythmic pulse of its wheels, the symphony of its whistle, and the poetry of its passengers fused together, creating an intense atmosphere of journey, wonder, and the unyielding passage of time.

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• Paragraph Writing
• A Journey By Train Paragraph

A Journey by Train Paragraph - Check Samples for Various Word Limits

You have not enjoyed your life if you have not travelled by train. There is nothing that can be compared with a train journey. Nothing is more exciting than a train journey and when you are with your friends or family. It is the most exciting and stress-free journey for me. In our school life, we must have been asked to write a paragraph on a train journey experience. Check the samples provided below before you write.

A Journey by Train Paragraph in 100 Words

A journey by train paragraph in 150 words, a journey by train paragraph in 200 words, a journey by train paragraph in 250 words.

• Frequently Asked Questions on A Journey by Train

Before you write a journey by train paragraph, you can check the samples provided below for your reference and get a better idea about the same.

A long journey by train is just an exciting experience. At times, it can be tiring, but we get a lot of pleasure. I remember when I was in Class 8th, I went to Bangalore with my whole family to spend the summer vacation. Flight journeys might take only a few hours, and train journeys are time-consuming, but I love to travel by train with them. We see a lot of vendors coming in to sell tea, ice cream, biscuits, peanuts, etc. Those are the most exciting parts of a train journey when we buy food and share it with everyone. We meet a lot of new people around us and spend some time with them.

A train journey is the most precious thing for me. It is even more exciting when I am travelling with my friends and family. I remember when I was travelling to Mumbai with my whole family for my cousin’s marriage. It was a great experience for me because it was the second time when I was travelling out of my hometown. It was beautiful to watch people crossing the train, which looked like a train and bike competition, and some kids waved their hands to say goodbye. Compared to a flight journey, sitting on the window seat and enjoying nature is so precious. It is even more beautiful to watch the sunset between the hills while enjoying the evening tea. Every time a tea vendor crossed, my mother would call him and buy us some snacks. Even if you are on a diet, it becomes hard for you to restrict yourself to rush to the food stall in every station. If you are bored, you can read a newspaper or a magazine, a story book, etc.

Train journey is the most exciting and most enjoyable experience of my life. I remember when I was travelling to Bangalore with my friends. My friends were the add ons to my excitement. We were seven friends travelling together and we enjoyed the most in those 24 hours. We were the attraction of all the passengers around us as we engaged them all with different games, music, and dance. We bought food and shared it with them. The beauty of nature can be enjoyed while travelling by train and it is more exciting when you are with your friends or family. When the train stops, we would rush to a food stall and eat different foods of our choice and they gave us immense satisfaction. When the vendors cross by us shouting and repeating all the foods, we would just look at each other and order the food without even a second thought. We would have eaten tummy full but still order the food just to satisfy our cravings. After we reached there, my friend’s family waited for us and treated us really well. But we were not so satisfied with those hours. We shared the contact numbers of our fellow passengers and are still in contact with them.

I have travelled many times with my family. I have travelled by flight, by train, etc. But the most exciting one was when I was travelling to Mumbai with my family. The plan to visit Mumbai was made just to have a great time by train. There was no specific reason to travel or visit Mumbai but the train journey is so fascinating for us that we decided to travel by train. We just spent three days in Mumbai and had a great time shopping but we spent 5 days travelling by train. A train journey can never be compared with any other journey or any other excitement. Travelling by flight would just take a few hours and it is the fastest means to travel and saves a lot of time. But at times, we just miss our train journeys, we miss the continuous calls of the stall vendors shouting biryani, chai… garam chai…, bread omelette, etc. When we miss the train journeys, this chorus would just bounce in our ears. The train would pass through the villages, forests, seas, rivers, etc. This makes the train journey so exciting because we meet nature closely.

While travelling from one place to the other by train, we get in contact with different people. We make new friends, the children enjoy the most, and there are a lot of memories. It is so hard to control our cravings while travelling by train. We would rush to a food stall and buy any food, and parents would not even stop us.

Frequently Asked Questions on A Journey by Train Paragraph

Why is a train journey so exciting.

A train journey is so exciting because we get a lot of time to travel and meet many new people around us. People from different places would be sharing food items and many conversations. We can enjoy the beauty of nature very closely.

How do we write a journey by train paragraph?

You can write a journey by train paragraph by explaining your own experience of travelling by train. You can explain about the kinds of food you had, people you met, etc. in the paragraph.

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Creative Writing – “Train Ride”

Arts/Entertainment

By Stephanie Alpizar | Writer

May 8, 2015

She was fixated on the rolling hills and mountainside outside the window. Lush trees covered the landscape with a flourish of warm colors. Daisy yellow, sunset orange, and apple red swirled together as the wind ruffled the leaves. She could barely hear the soft squeal of the machinery propelling her across the Earth. She sighed with content at the sun’s placement, it was perfect lighting to continue reading. Her trousers caught her eye as she spotted a piece of lint on her mid-thigh. With a swift flick of her hand she did away with it. The girl found it as good a time as any to take into account the rest of her ensemble. Her shoes were clean and shining, her hands and fingernails clean and steady, her pants ironed to perfection. As she started to open her book with satisfaction, she noticed a stain on her white blouse. She let out a displeased “humph” as she pulled on it to examine it better. It appeared to have been from the tomato basil soup she’d eaten earlier that day for lunch.

As she was contemplating solutions for her problem a quick flash of the door stole her attention away. A small and thin figure had slipped in and was now sitting across from her. The girl could only be described as grimy. Her hair was half up, showing blonde highlights that contrasted the rest of her honey brown hair, making her emerald eyes pop with a vibrancy closely related to spring grass after a long winter. There was a goofy grin plastered across her face. Her clothes were simple, efficient, and seemed durable. However, the knees were worn and dirt powdered her whole body. Jane noticed that the strange girl’s breathing was ragged and quick. She wiped her nose swiftly, out of habit. This action gave Jane the opportunity to see the girl’s hands were rough with calluses and overwhelmed by dirt. She was so entranced by the appearance of this creature that when she spoke, Jane could hardly comprehend her.

“Hi ‘ya!” the ruffian-looking girl said confidently. When Jane gave no response, the girl cocked her head to the right, squinted her eyes, and scrunched up her mouth as if investigating Jane. “You a mute or something?” the girl questioned.

Jane flushed with embarrassment as well as contempt, she was almost never at a loss for words and didn’t take kindly to others implying that they thought her unintelligent. “I certainly am not.” Jane’s words were sharp and quick.

“Thought not.” The girl said with a shrug. Jane let out an exasperated sigh; she anticipated a larger response from the girl. While Jane contemplated how she might be able to demonstrate her intellectual prowess, the girl was abruptly getting up, and heading towards the door.

Surprised to see her leaving so soon Jane lost control of her emotions and practically yelled at the girl, “Where do you think you’re going?” The girl had one hand on the doorknob, her body tense. When she looked back at Jane she had a scowl on her face.

“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t yell like that. I simply needed this room briefly to avoid some other passengers, but I believe that I am no longer in danger. Therefore I will be taking my leave now, and I don’t need you to help them find me. So go back to your book and stay quiet.” Her last words were said with a finality that suggested that any sort of reply from Jane would be unwelcome.

Jane felt herself pouting, but caught herself. What was it about this girl that made her want to prove herself? She was obviously not of high stature, not well educated, or well mannered. She had no regard for her appearance and emitted a flippant teenager. So why did she want the girl to stay? Why did she want to know everything about her when she was so obviously a polar opposite to herself? Despite these thoughts, she asked the girl, “Why are you avoiding others?”

“What makes you think that’s you’re business?” Jane was taken aback by this remark. It wasn’t that it was said rudely, but it held a truth that Jane had never thought of before. What made her think that she could demand information from someone? Just because she had money, nice clothing, and a high societal placement didn’t mean that she had any authority over others.

Jane, feeling defeated sat back in her seat with a resounding “plop,” her eyes down and hooded by her eyelashes. She heard the young girl sigh and walk back to the seat opposite of Jane. “Look, I’m not someone you want to associate with. I don’t want to pull you into this, so just stay put and if you know what’s good for you you’ll tell anyone who asks that you’ve never seen me.”

Jane’s next words spilled out of her before she could stop them. “What if I don’t want to be safe? What if I want to live?”

The girl’s eyes narrowed, and she bit her lip. She looked out the window with a pensive countenance. This gave Jane a moment to think about what shed said. What made her think that she wasn’t already living? She had a nice home and wealthy parents, an older brother who was doing well in life and a younger sister who doted on her at every moment. She was always invited to proper functions and spent her time learning music and sewing and reading books. She looked down at the leather-bound novel in her lap. She hadn’t noticed until now that she was clutching it with strength she didn’t know she had. Her knuckles were white and started to ache. The gold ink of the title glared at her with a mysterious glint. It read, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea . Like many of the other books she read, it was filled with adventure and danger at every turn. But above all it made her realize that she was trying to live a different life. She didn’t know who she was in the confines of her nineteenth century society. She tried so hard to be the person that was demanded of her, but the appearance of the wild girl allowed her think that there was another option.

Before the girl could say anything Jane spoke with a determination and authority that she had never used before. “I’m coming with you.” The girl turned to her tersely with her emerald eyes wide, mouth slightly agape. But slowly the girl’s face changed to resemble Jane’s, and soon they were both smiling with bright eyes and wonder at the countless possibilities of the events to come.

4 Comments on Creative Writing – “Train Ride”

OMG!!! engaging sotry…

That is really amazing i can’t write that much

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD STORY

Love the story, great writing Do you help other writers I would love to pay you to help me with a chapter in my book. Email me if you are interested Thank you Joy

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Essay on Train Journey for Students and Children

500+ words essay on train journey.

First of all, a journey refers to traveling from one place to another. When it comes to journeys, train journeys take the top spot. A train journey certainly is a wonderfully joyous occasion. Furthermore, train journeys fill individuals with a feeling of intense excitement. This mode of the journey is best when the travel distance is long. A train journey creates an aura that cannot be experienced with other types of journeys.

My Experience of Journey by Train

I have always been an avid supporter of train journeys. My involvement with train journeys began in childhood . I live in Lucknow and from here I have undertaken many train journeys. Furthermore, since childhood, I have paid several visits to the hill station of Almora to meet my relatives. Almora is a hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand. Most noteworthy, Almora is situated in the Himalayan mountain region. Due to this, trains cannot travel directly to Almora. Consequently, Kathgodam is the last town station accessible by trains before the mountain range begins.

The trip from Lucknow to kathgodam is quite a lively experience. I have always ensured the reservation of my seats beforehand. So, my train journey begins from Lucknow railway station. As the train undergoes motion and leaves the Lucknow railway station, my excitement begins to rise. Moreover, as the train gathers speed, a thrilling feeling overtakes me.

My train journey from Lucknow to Kathgodam is probably 8-10 hours duration. However, I enjoy every minute of it in spite of the journey being so long. Furthermore, all along the journey, one can purchase items of food and drinks. I almost always purchase meals and refreshments at least twice in the journey.

When slumber overtakes me, I make use of the sleeping berth. I personally find sleeping on the train berth very comfortable. When I wake after a deep sleep, mountains are visible from a distance. Moreover, as the train approaches Kathgodam with menacing speed, the view of mountains gets bigger and bigger. Also, my amusement greatly rises as I see the Himalayas draw closer. Finally, as the train stops at Kathgodam, my delightful train journey comes to an end.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Why Do I Like to Travel by Train?

Comfort is one of the biggest advantages of a train journey. Most noteworthy, one can move freely in a train cabin. Furthermore, in trains, there is a possibility of an ample foot room. Moreover, trains offer comfortable sleeping berths. All of this makes the train journey a relaxing experience.

Beautiful sightseeing is another noteworthy benefit of train journeys. As the train travels, one can enjoy the views of the countryside, farms, forests , factories, etc. This makes train journeys more comprehensive than journeys by air or road.

Train journeys offer a variety of opportunities to pass time. Furthermore, the train offers a sociable environment. In train journeys, conversations between passengers almost always take place. One can make new friends with traveling passengers on the train easily. Also, one can spend time in a handsome manner on a train journey. In a train journey, one can spend time reading something, listening to music, watching videos, sleeping/resting comfortably, etc.

To sum it up, train journeys are truly one of a kind. The train journey offers uniqueness like no other journey. Most noteworthy, the charm of such a journey is unmatchable. The train journey certainly offers an unforgettable rich experience.

Q1 Why does the writer sleeps so deeply in trains?

A1 The writer sleeps deeply in trains because he finds sleeping on the train berth very comfortable.

Q2 What makes train journeys so journeys so comfortable?

A2 Trains journeys certainly are very comfortable. First of all, one can move freely in a train cabin. Furthermore, there is ample foot room possibility and comfortable sleeping berths on the train.

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Sunday 22 february 2015, creative writing - the journey.

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Writing Prompt Story Starter: Trains

While I’m working from home, I’ll occasionally hear a train in the distance, sounding its horn as it passes through our little station . . . and I’ll feel a Story Starter coming on!

Every time I hear it, it reminds me how much I’m looking forward to the day when we can travel freely again. And every passing day is one day closer.

In the big picture of what people are going through at the moment, not being able to travel is not even a ‘thing’, but travelling by train again is definitely something to look forward to.

The inspiration

Railways, and train stations, have been popular in stories since there have been railways! I’m thinking of “The Railway Children”, “Brief Encounter”, and if you’ve read the Harry Potter books, you’ll know the Hogwarts Express and Platform 9 ¾.

Bringing people together. Travel. Going on a journey.

The first steam trains. The ‘iron horse’. Puffing Billy and Stephenson’s ‘Rocket’. The Flying Scotsman, 4472.

The Victorians, and their spirit of enterprise. Building the railway bridges, and stations .

The Orient Express. Luxury travel. Second class. And third!

Trips on the train. The ‘sleeper’. The underground – in Glasgow, the Subway .

Tickets, please! Railcards. Commuting.

Train station cafes. The buffet car.

Little stations. Level crossings. Dr Beeching . London stations – for us arriving from the east coast of Scotland, it’s usually Kings Cross.

Train journeys in other parts of the world. Transcontinental; coast to coast.

A journey to dream about

I saw a lovely programme on ‘catch-up’ this week – The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys – all about a train journey through the south-east of Sicily.

At the moment, all non-essential travel is off-limits, but it’s nice to have a journey to dream about/plan for/start a savings jar for, once all this is over, wherever our journeys might take us.

Good luck with your writing this week.

Click here to pick out another Story Starter from Fiction Ed Lucy’s archives.

• Story Starter

Lucy Crichton

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Journey by Train - Prose by Jules Verne - Term 3 Unit 1 - 7th English - Writing and Creative Writing | 7th English : Term 3 Unit 1 : Prose : Journey by Train

Chapter: 7th english : term 3 unit 1 : prose : journey by train, writing and creative writing.

An itinerary

An itinerary is a detailed plan of a journey. It includes dates, time, stops, activity and mode of transport.

K. Your friend is coming to your city / town to spend a week with you. He / she wants to visit some tourist places, and enjoy the special food items of the place. Prepare a two day itinerary for the visit.

CREATIVE WRITING

L. You are waiting to board a train in a railway station. The train is delayed by an hour. Write a paragraph about the crowded scene in the railway station based on your observation.

I was waiting to board a train at a railway station. The train was delayed by an hour. A lot of families were waiting eagerly for the announcement of the arrival of the train. Some of the porters were carrying the luggage of the passengers. Piles of luggage were seen all over. There were fruit vendors, tea vendors and other shops selling water, milk and snacks. By the ticket counter, there was a queue, waiting to buy tickets. The scroll board was displaying the necessary information for the passengers. The porters were also using trolleys to carry the luggage.

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Try your hand at travel writing

Reading travel writing.

Read this extract from Monisha Rajesh’s journey where she reflects on the eleven days she’s just spent on the Trans-Mongolian railway, which took her from Moscow through Mongolia and on to Beijing, a journey of some 5,700 miles. See if you can pick out any words or phrases which describe this moment in the journey and how she connects the way she feels to her reader. Clicking on the highlighted text will take you to a reflection on the writing:

'Over the previous eleven days the Trans-Mongolian had shown me that there were no real beginnings or endings, borders or boundaries.  I’d watched lakes grow into seas, mountains rise then recede, deserts expand then shrink . Passengers had come and gone with a gradation of features that sharpened and darkened from one end of the line to the other. For days, the train’s trajectory across space and wilderness had plagued me with a feeling of displacement, the state of being in between . But now, I had a greater sense of place than ever before, bearing witness to the truth that the world was small, close and connected .’

Rajesh, M. (2019) ‘Around the World in 80 Trains’, London: Bloomsbury, p. 42.

I’d watched lakes grow into seas, mountains rise then recede, deserts expand then shrink.

Note how Rajesh chooses her words carefully to illustrate what the journey looks like from her train window. Lakes ‘grow’, mountains ‘rise’ and deserts ‘expand then shrink’. This is what happens when you’re on a train, you pass by so fast that the landscape seems to change shape and size as you get closer and then move far away.

The train’s trajectory across space and wilderness had plagued me with a feeling of displacement, the state of being in between.

When you travel from one place to another particularly if you’re in a car, train or on an airplane there is this feeling of not quite being anywhere and of time having no meaning. Rajesh uses this idea to convey how she feels here, slightly apprehensive and uncertain about what might lie at journey’s end.

The world was small, close and connected.

This short simple statement sums up travel today where forms of travel connect us like never before. Wherever we go in the world, there are people like us, travelling as we do with places to go and their own reasons for going there. This is also reflected in her opening statement about there being ‘no real endings, borders or boundaries’. This is what makes good travel writing universal and how it connects with a reader.

Now start your travel writing journey

If you’d like to have a go at some travel writing of your own, below is an activity to get you started.

Consider the last journey you took. Which of the following reasons might apply to that journey?

• To break the routine of everyday life.
• To visit family or friends.
• To search for adventure and to open your mind to new cultures and experiences.
• To visit or revisit a place that has personal significance for you.

Now try writing 200 words about the start of that journey and why it was significant to you and focus on how you felt as you started out. For example: were you hopeful, nervous or excited? Use whatever emotion you felt to discover the images and memories that have stayed with you. This is the start of your journey. 

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Revision: GCSE Descriptive Writing: 'A Train Journey'

Subject: English

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A quick and easy GCSE writing skills revision lesson which prompts students to describe a journey.

The lesson focuses on students revising how to apply different sentence structures and ambitious vocabulary whilst also focusing on a developing a clear structure which they could apply to any exam prompt.

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9 Creative Writing Tactics to Enrich Your Travel Writing

My Top Travel Writing Secrets I Probably Shouldn’t Share

I have been writing about travel for two years now four years now ( update 2022 ). When I started this blog, I wrote about personal growth and life inspiration. But because I travel constantly and I relish writing about nature, people, and experiences, I began writing travel articles on On My Canvas. ( I’m an itinerant writer now.)

When I first ventured into travel writing, I panicked every time I put down my solo excursion tales and travel guides. I didn’t know how to write about traveling. I didn’t have the right tools. I remember telling my partner it would be a long time before I write good, relatable travel stories readers will enjoy. ( my ideas about good writing .)

But even as a beginner travel writer, I wrote subjective articles such as  why I travel  and how can we stop ourselves from turning into the worst dictators (inspired by Cambodia). I have always preferred penning down personal travel memoirs rather than writing about the five things to do.

Some of my travel writings turned out to be good and some bad. So while this piece on  the love and hate relationship with India  won accolades, I’m still ashamed of this  Vietnam photo essay .

I continued writing about trips to Southeast Asia and South America . As I published frequently, I started getting a hang of  travel writing.

Now instead of fumbling with how to write a travelogue or a guide, I was rejoicing at heartwarming comments and emails from readers.

A beginner travel writer messaged, “Probably your blog is the most useful one I have come across. Most of your posts are stories and experiences rather than what you see in usual blogs. It helps the readers connect.” 

So many writers loved my 11 best tips for bloggers I was overwhelmed. I pitched guest posts to many travel websites. All of them accepted my articles as soon as they read my travel stories. I got the Best Travel Writer award on Medium (which expired as I have stopped publishing on Medium). After reading my blog, editors and freelance clients reached out to me. Some editors said, to quote, “No doubt you’re an excellent storyteller.”

When anyone compliments my travel writing or says I have immense writing talent, I quietly remember the nights and days I spent bent on my computer writing, editing, reading aloud, deleting, rewriting, poring through writing tips for beginners , and so on. I want to stand on a rooftop and scream that writing is less of an inborn talent and more of a muscle that strengthens as we exercise it more.

I would be lying if I say I didn’t write before starting a travel blog. I began my writing career as a fiction writer. The first-ever rules I learned about writing were creative writing tactics. So to say, I launched into the travel writing world on a creative writing broomstick. 

Now I’m not Stephen King or  Ruskin Bond , but I write short stories, personal essays (like this one ), and poetry , too. Some of my work is published .

Within a few months of writing about traveling, I heard many times that I was not doing travel blog writing.

A reader’s comment read , “Beautiful written, your prose is lyrical that reads less like a blog and more like a novel.” That reader has a Ph.D. in literature.

I was writing travel stories and memoirs using my creative writing skills. And travel writing and blogging about travel are all about storytelling — at least they should be.

In this writing guide, I am sharing the indispensable creative writing techniques that have helped me write engaging travel stories.

In a storytelling workshop recently, the six attendants said I should have added more exercises to the class. I took the advice to heart. I have included a writing exercise with all the travel writing tips. Complete the exercises while reading or bookmark the article and get to them later. But remember, you can only master these travel writing tactics if you practice. 

Travel writers, fasten your seatbelts as I am going to take you on a ride. 

1. Write about travel, but don’t forget to Tell a Story

Stories hold words together.  Without a story, words are black noise on paper.

Do you know why we don’t look forward to academic texts and instructional blogs? Why do we enjoy reading Sapiens even though it is a non-fiction book about our entire history?

The former don’t have a story and the latter has.

Expecting your readers to enjoy your story-less writing is like expecting them to enjoy bland food.

Travel blogging needs more storytelling (as I keep repeating and even Jodi from the popular Legal Nomads travel blog started emphasizing a decade ahead of me) . To blog doesn’t mean to give information only. To blog implies to weave our experience in a tale that readers not only can’t keep down but believe in (since the beginning humans have got others to join them for a cause by telling stories).

A story arc goes like this:

• a scene or an event introducing the story and the characters (exposition)
• a buildup on the scene using the characters and their background (the rising action)
• a high-tension point (climax)
• arriving at the end while resolving those tensions or providing (and refusing) the characters’ desires (the falling action)

This video by Chungdahm Learning explains the story arc well.

For example, m y travel narrative of climbing the Volcano Villarrica begins with these lines: “The alarm rang at 3:30 am. In the dark hostel dormitory, I peeked out of my blanket and cursed myself for signing up to hike the 2,800-meter active volcano.” 

By opening the travelogue with a hint of the oncoming adventure, I make readers curious.

Then I share why I was climbing the volcano and that the hike was challenging — I lay the background.

Bringing the travel memoir to a middle point I say, “A thought that I might not be able to complete the hike knocked my head.” — This is a high-tension point because from here on either I will give up or achieve my goal.

I make the characters clash — “After a few hours of trudging up the volcano, I wanted to give up. So when Alejandro and Alison told me I had gone too far to quit, I didn’t relate with their relentlessness. Why couldn’t I watch the summit from a lower altitude and enjoy the majestic vista bordered by icy volcanoes?” — Though the character conflicts are subtle, this much tension is usually enough to drive a travel story.

I take the travelogue further by talking about how the guide and my friend cheered me — the falling actions. The story ends with me making it to the summit.

“ Every story is about something bigger than ourselves,” Neil Gaiman says, and I concur. The main point of the story was not trekking the volcano. It was about conquering my greatest fears and pushing myself to climb despite them. Ask yourself why do you want to write your story. Remember the reason while writing the travel tale.

One of the loveliest comments I received on the travelogue says, “I really enjoyed reading your story. It made me want to hike the volcano but it also made me slightly terrified of it.”

My purpose was achieved. I wanted to inspire people to climb the thing for I knew what an incredible experience they would miss if they gave in to their fears.

We have to narrate our travel guides like stories or a collection of many anecdotes. And for every travel article that cannot be a continuous story — such as logistical pieces like how to get a visa to Malaysia, things to do in Dharamshala et cetera — I begin by telling a related incident and then write down the information strewing many more tales throughout.

Writing Exercise —  Look at your drafts or a published piece. Or write about traveling to a place you loved. Write/rewrite as if you were telling the story to your best friend.

How cool would be to tell this story! The Sleeping Gypsy and The Lion, by Henri Rousseau / Public domain

2. Show, Don’t Tell

Show, don’t tell was one of the first writing advices I got. 

What does “show, not tell” means?

When you “tell” (not show), you dictate information to the reader, rather than letting her deduce it. 

When you show, you paint a picture of the scene rather than throwing all the facts at the reader .

In the  travel blog on Manikaran, Himachal, I could have written — The Gurudwara is white. The Parvati river flows by its side .

But I wrote — The milky gurudwara complements the white froth of the unstoppable Parvati bellowing by its side.

A few more travel writing examples on telling and showing :

If we tell, the story feels less like a story and more like a boring monologue spilled out on the page. But when we show, the reader watches the scene unfold in front of her, becomes a part of the journey, and draws her own conclusions.

To show what is happening, write using your senses. See, smell, hear, touch, and taste. Now write what you find.

Writing Exercise  —  Pick up an existing work or continue working on the travel piece from the first bullet. Or write about what you see now. Don’t tell, show. You cannot use the words sad, angry, hungry et cetera. Use your senses.

When you are writing about a trip, describe not just the people but also the mountains and the lakes. The Lone Lake by Franklin Carmichael / Public domain

3. Be Descriptive – One of my most important rules while writing a travelogue

This point is a continuation of the above tip on showing, not telling. 

To create a story, we need to give details about the setting, the scene, and the action.

In the  travel blog on Manikaran, Himachal I could have written — Tourists were getting photographed. It was a beautiful place with narrow streets. Shops lined the roadsides. People were shopping. Sikhs were visiting the Gurudwara. Mothers were taking their children to the hot water springs to bathe them.

But here’s what I wrote: 

“ Young girls dressed up in traditional bright Kullu dresses and Himachali topis waited to be clicked. Streets were lined with kitschy souvenir shops flaunting neon plastic toys, rudraksha malas, and brass bracelets.

Devoted Sikhs with their  Kirpans  hanging around their waist walked swiftly towards the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara. Hindu families strode to the Shiva and Ram temple to bathe their young ones. The children trailed behind eyeing the hot jalebis and crispy samosas displayed at the roadside sweetmeats’ shop. “

In the first method, the writing reads boring, incomplete, and doesn’t help us see the place. I could be describing any religious site.

In the second method, I have added colors. I have not only used my senses to show, but I have focused on the little details that make Manikaran the place it is.

Zoom in and then use the five senses to show what is happening. 

Writing Exercise   —  Pick the story or the paragraphs from the above exercise. Edit the piece while filling in the details. So now you want to draw more lines, more leaves, more grass, and pour in some more color.

Traveling 160 years ago. The Traveling Companions by Augustus Egg / Public domain

Inspirational Read: How to Keep Going When Writing Seems Hard

4. Be specific

Specificity adds nuance and makes the scene real. Ditch common nouns and use proper nouns. 

She kept her copy of ( a book ) The Color Pur ple on the table. 

Celebrations were spent huddled around the barbecue with  ( a drink ) terremotos in hand. 

When I got tired, I walked back to the homestay and listened to ( music ) Anoushka Shankar fill the treehouse. 

There was ( a car ) a white ambassador with a broken headlight on the road.

Writing Exercise  — Take any travel article and replace all the common nouns with proper nouns wherever it makes sense.

To help the reader relate, talk about your fears and apprehensions often. Franklin Carmichael / Public domain

5. Tell what you care about, but don’t ignore others

Consider this paragraph: “I arrived in Manikaran at noon. I wanted to take a long hot bath in the thermal pools so I walked to the temple. But as families and their children had already crowded the bath, I got out early. After the bath, I was hungry so I ate a samosa. The rudraksha males were beautiful so I went to one shop to buy. “

A lot of travel blogs read like the above. 

Why would anyone be interested in my monologue? People would rather binge-watch Netflix.

Virginia Woolf said ,

“Your entire devotion is due to your story. You cannot leave it to attend to some personal grievance. Let not anger tug at our imagination or devotion and deflect it from its path.”

We only read when we can relate with the writing while getting entertained (I will talk about entertainment in another point). And readers would only relate to our writing if they can imagine themselves in our shoes.

If our writing is relatable, it will be enjoyable, too. The reader would laugh along and would be embarrassed when we fall flat on our faces at the crowded Andheri railway station. 

To make the writing relatable, we show what is happening with us, but we don’t skip the world. So the floodlight is on us, but the rest of the stage isn’t dark either. And in this space the reader can scooch in wherever she likes.

Rewriting the above lines:

“ When I arrived in Manikaran at noon, the town was bustling with activity. Tired from the journey, I headed to the temple to bathe in the natural hot springs. Some twenty children were playing in and around the temple pool. The mothers yelled to get the children out of the water.

Postponing my desire to take a long bath I was out of the water in a few minutes. Soon I was on the street. The thick fragrance of the freshly fried samosas pulled me towards the sweetmeat shop. There was a long queue, but I got my samosa. Right opposite the shop, an old man sold rudraksha malas. The sunlight seemed perfect to click the ruddy necklaces. so I walked to him. Who knows, I might buy one this time. “

I’m still talking about myself, but while describing the people, places, and scenes I come across.

Writing Exercise   —  Read what you have written. Do you hear “I,” “me,” “I,” “me,” or does the story care about others, too? Make a friend read the draft. Ask her what she thinks.

Quiet a landscape, eh? How will you describe it in words? Karl Paul Themistokles von Eckenbrecher / Public domain

6. Weave the facts throughout the story 

Fiction writers never give all the facts and data in the first paragraph of the story. Travel writers shouldn’t stuff all the logistics and information at once either. Otherwise, the piece will become a read-before-sleep rather than a read-because-you-can’t-stop concoction.

Read this: “ The museum was opened in 1871. With the ticket, we got an audio tour of the museum. The museum had four walls, all painted white, and four galleries. The first gallery is of the realism paintings. Then comes the second gallery with oil paintings. The third gallery is of natural paintings. By the fourth gallery, the writer d..o..z…e..s.s. off… The reader d.o.z…z…e.s off…   “

Now consider this :

“ The ticket to the museum said it opened to the public in 1871. Out of the four museum galleries, I first walked towards the realism paintings gallery.

…Journey in the realism paintings gallery…

After half an hour, I exited the realism to enter the world of oil paintings, the second gallery. The audio tour was so helpful I haven’t had to look up anything on Google, yet. Et cetera. Et cetera. “

As travel writers, we have to share information and facts. But we can’t burden the reader with all the information in one go. Unfurl the truths of the place slowly. When you write about a trip, weave the dates and the data in your narrative.

Writing Exercise   —  Check your piece for facts. Weave them subtly in the article.

7. Show more than you are comfortable with – Writing travel articles would need you to open up.

Personal essays and travel stories read real when we share how we feel. Of course, it is hard to open up on a public platform. Nor do we feel comfortable knowing others can see into our personal lives.

But to become a travel writer, you have to compromise on privacy. You have to let people inside your head. Else you will not be writing books but would only be protecting your identity. 

Here is something personal I wrote about my first solo travel in Thailand : “One morning in Chiang Mai, I was walking in the middle of a street. Clutching my bag, I was trying to read menus written in Thai. Just then, on a phone call back home, my mother said she would never forgive me and hung up. She wanted me to return home immediately but I wanted to travel more. “

I wasn’t comfortable sharing the entire conversation. But to progress the narrative and give context to my subsequent feelings and actions, I shared a less dramatic version of the phone call.

If we are not writing about a travel experience from a personal point of view, the piece would just read like a report on the destination. 

Don’t be shy. Share how you feel so that people can relate. After all, you are not the only one struggling with angry mothers and Thai menu cards. 

Readers want you to hook them from the beginning. Christen Dalsgaard / Public domain

8. Don’t bore the reader. Make her laugh. Make her cry. But never bore her.

We read to get entertained.  We read to forget ourselves for a while and get lost somewhere else. Reading is another form of meditation.

Recently in a storytelling workshop, I asked the six attendants why they read.  Their reasons ringed close to entertainment though they never used the word.

There is nothing wrong with reading for fun. Even though we might be learning alongside, growing as a person, getting out of the mundane, and venturing into different worlds, we wouldn’t read unless we were having fun.  ( these 21 books changed how I look at life .)

By enjoying a book, a story, or an article, I do not mean the reader would always be rolling on the floor laughing. She might cry. Her heart might get broken. She may miss her family. She might regret something she did ten years ago. 

As writers, our job is to make a reader feel all those emotions she was hiding from — that is the entertainment.  At the end of the read, the reader should feel as if she has just come out of another world (the one we will serve on a plate).

How would you make sure your travel writing isn’t boring? 

Read your work aloud. Cut every redundant and dull word and line. Be more frugal than the Michelin star chefs.

Laugh upon yourself if you have to. Talk about your fat nose. Tell us about how you were blown away by the wind. Open up about that embarrassing morning when the hostel bathroom was occupied and you had eaten too much salsa picante . 

Use metaphors. They will be a hit and miss in the beginning but you will soon make sense. 

In an essay on changing my career to become a writer , I wrote — Parents didn’t allow their children, especially girls, to go out and play with friends, and Voldemort wasn’t the reason. Men ogled women on the streets freely, and I was grabbed a few times even in crowded places as soon as I hit puberty.

I talked about why children weren’t allowed to go out by sharing a dark reality but putting in a little punch of Voldemort laughter there. 

Here’s another example of travel writing from an essay on being clueless in Chile when people spoke in Spanish :

Suddenly, I was the toothpaste cover girl: silent and vacuously smiling. Like the referee in a tennis match, I turned my head from one speaker to another to understand the expressions. I was the excluded newcomer in the class; rarely asked for advice or answer unless directly involved. Avoiding conversations was a new skill that I was assimilating. The quick cat who used to jump at everyone (literally with words) was out of breath and was watching silently from under the bed .

Unless my piece entertains me, I keep editing it. When you can’t enjoy your writing how would anyone else enjoy it? 

The scene could be soft and slow. But you have to write it such that people don’t get bored. On the Desert by Jean-Léon Gérôme / Public domain

9. Read like a Writer

As I am writing more, I am reading more, too. I have talked about the importance of reading in my 27 tips on improving writing skills , too. (my best non-fiction books from 2020 and best fiction books from the same year.)

Not just reading, but reading as a writer is one of the most important practices for any writer.

When I started reading travel blogs, I was overwhelmed. They were so many. How could I ever finish? But I realized I could read only some of those blogs. The rest were either boring or too short or just talked about how the writer enjoyed the place and didn’t give enough information, and so on (no offense to anyone for I am just sharing my reading experience).

I picked up the dos and the don’ts of good travel writing from my own experience as a reader.

While reading, notice what made you laugh or which part of the travelogue made you put the article aside. Was there an awkward word? Was the information weaved into the story? Would you read more of this writer? Why?

Learn from other writers. 

Here are books that have helped me progress as a writer (or at times have helped me write at all),

• Sapiens: a Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari — I’ve included this one because Sapiens establishes how humans could (cognitively and otherwise) evolve by telling stories to each other
• Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl — One of the best non-fiction memoirs I’ve ever read by such a young author
• Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life — for inspiration to write, and also to let go in the avalanche of warmth that flows out of this book
• On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft  by Stephen King — Learn from the best. King always knows how to cut the noise.
• Letters to a Young Poet by Rilke — Another book which suffuses me with strength, courage, and belief all writers so badly need. 
• A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf — Inspired by A Room of One’s Own, I even have a meditation on Woolf’s advice on writing and life . Virginia’s essay is a must read for all writers (and those aspiring to write).
• The Letters of Vincent van Gogh by Vincent van Gogh — In these priceless letters to his brother Theo, Vincent inspired everyone to pursue their art with utmost devotion. I read the letters frequently to fill myself with courage, focus, and belief.
• Wild Mind: Living the Writer’s Life by Natalie Goldberg — The title says it all. But this one stays with me wherever I go.
• The Elements of Style by William Strunk, Junior and E.B. White — for learning the basics of grammar and, literally, how to write
• Telling True Stories: A Nonfiction Writers’ Guide from the Nieman Foundation at Harvard University — another must have on non-fiction. I’m always reading this one yet I have so much more to learn 
• On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser — a must have in my opinion
• Manage Your Day-to-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind (99U) — a brilliant book from the creatives around the world on how to manifest the creativity inside us in our work

Now go get them.

for as Vincent said , what is more artistic, doing it or not going it?

Writing Exercise   —  Pick up any travel story. Maybe take one from my blog  (could be this BR Hills piece ) or any other blog you love. Print it out. Now keeping the tips for travel writing discussed here in mind, read the story. Underline the descriptive words. Circle the boring parts. Mark the sentences that tell instead of show. Understand where you got bored or what kept you going. Now do it with one of your pieces. Rewrite the things that don’t feel right.

I hope these ideas on how to write about travel help you write better. Word by word, my friend, word by word.

Follow Up Reads: My best Blogging Tips from 2 years of blogging , Creative Routines for everyone , and an inspiration on pursuing our dreams

Are you writing about traveling, too? Do you now have a better idea on how to write a travel article? Let me know in the comments.

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5 thoughts on “9 Creative Writing Tactics to Enrich Your Travel Writing”

नमस्कार क्या आप मुझे बता सकते कि कहानी को लिखने का सही तरीका क्या है क्योंकि मैं बहुत दिनों से ट्राई कर रहा हूं पर लिख नहीं पा रहा हूं।

Hey priyanka, It was a great blog. I liked the whole blog specially the second point of Showing instead of telling. Keep going

Very good information blog! it is useful to me to write a Travel blog and thank you for posting.

Hi Priyanka, This is a wonderful article. Congratulations! I have just completed a travel book called ‘The Last Train Through the Heart of the Americas,’ for which I am trying to find a publisher, so I can very much relate to the travel tips you give in the above post, as I had to learn most of them the hard way. My book has been 30 years in the making and still isn’t published…. And I too worked in investment banking before setting off on travels to India, South-East Asia and South America. Although you are in India and I am in Canada, we have some things in common. You have used lovely illustrations in the blog post too, which added to the pleasure I got from reading it. And that’s how I write my pieces as well, keep rewriting and rewriting until it amuses me, and hence the reader. All the best, Ian Birch

Hi Ian, thanks a lot for your lovely message. We have so much in common it surprises me. And I have some many good friends from Canada. Your book will soon get published 🙂

Also, appreciate your feedback on the pictures. I take some time to find good images and paintings that would complement the piece. Here are some old paintings that are getting dust on Wikipedia so I thought to share them with all.

Good luck. Stay in touch, Priyanka

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