This is a country I had never travelled to before, but I knew was a favourite with my parents and sister. Following a head injury which meant I was unable to fly long haul and make a planned trip to Australia and New Zealand, I decided to try something different and take a train journey. I found a company and booked a pretty expensive trip, made even more so by the single supplement. This is always something which annoys me as I am often a solo traveller. I was anxious about the trip on a few counts. Lifting my suitcase onto trains was one thing that worried me, so I contacted Headway, the brain injury association and got a brain injury ID card to wear around my neck. This would mean that it would be recognised that I had a valid reason for requesting help. I bought an extra light suitcase and then proceeded to fill it with so many warm clothes, it felt heavy. Knowing nothing about it but being prompted by a friend, I booked some travel assistance. To my surprise and delight, it was free. I was given a booking number and told to present myself at the railway station and all would be fine.
You will need to read my book to find out how this trip panned out. The learning experience for me was being able, in a very small way, to step into the shoes of someone who may find the mechanics of travel a barrier. It was, however, also a challenge for me in more ways than one! Switzerland is famous for its scenic rail journeys and winter sports. It is also renowned for its “delectable cuisine” but that is all part of the story. With regard to the culinary experience, I now realise that all- inclusive in the form of meals is not the way to go for me and something I have experienced very little of in my previous travels. The scenery though was breathtaking and I would love to visit in the summer where I guess the beauty of nature would be different but equally enthralling. Travelling by train is definitely a great way to see the country and I would highly recommend it!
