Traveling is one of the greatest things ever! Whenever I have some free days, I spend them on going away from the city I live in. (Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy living in Graz a lot!) I do that because going to a different place has this magical influence on me. Being surrounded by a different environment or culture helps my brain escape from the every day life. I suddenly forget about the routine. That’s very refreshing and somehow creates energy and creativity for the weeks ahead.
One of the traveling ways, which I use A LOT is taking the train. Some may enjoy the steadily swinging wagon and the sound of rails. But if you’re in for a long journey (like 7-11 hours), then you might want to prepare yourself ahead and think of how to kill the time.
I divide the activities, which help me make the trip seem as short as possible into two types: consuming and being productive. Let’s start with consuming. Of course one of the pleasurable ways to spend the time is eating some tasty snacks every now and then (also don’t forget to drink - if there is air conditioning in the wagon you’re in, it will dry you out). It’s good to have something to read, like a newspaper, magazine, or a book, which you were planning to read, but never had time for it. For me watching series and movies is the most absorbing thing (just don’t forget to take headphones, in case you won't be alone in the compartment). Naturally you can just admire the landscape outside the window, which you might have never seen if not on the train. If you have a creative mind, then the productive activities will be just right for you, like writing, drawing or even designing. Another thing, which is very helpful to kill the time is talking to other people! Sometimes it’s worth to get out of your comfort zone and just have a conversation with a stranger - who knows, it might be a life changer!