Around the World in 80 Trains

by Monisha Rajesh
Around the World in 80 Trains cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Travel and Adventure
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 2007
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781408869772
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2020-01-23
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Monisha Rajesh and her fiancé, Jem, set off on an epic journey across the world's most iconic train routes, from the Qinghai railway in Tibet to the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Their adventure is a celebration of the unique perspectives and connections that train travel offers, as they meet a diverse cast of characters and witness some of the earth's most breathtaking views. This award-winning travelogue is not just a tale of constant movement and mayhem but also a witty and irreverent look at the world, blending humor with a deep appreciation for the beauty and culture encountered along the way. Rajesh's vivid storytelling brings to life the glory of train travel and the heart of the places she visits.

Reviews
Nose in a Book · 2022-02-13
delightful 4.00

The reviewer enjoyed the author's candid assessments of each train and her sense of humor, as well as the friendships formed during the journey. The book is seen as a delightful and humorous account of global travel.

The reviewer appreciated the author's candid assessments of each train and her sense of humor, which made the book an enjoyable read. They also highlighted the friendships formed during the journey, which added a personal touch to the travelogue. The reviewer found the book to be a delightful and humorous account of global travel, with vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling. The author's ability to capture the essence of each location and the people she met made the book both informative and entertaining. The reviewer also noted the book's ability to make the reader feel as if they are part of the journey.

Quick quotes

    Overall, I enjoyed Rajesh's candid assessment of each train and her sense of humour, as well as the friendships she and Jem made along the way.

    The book is filled with memorable characters and moments that will make you laugh out loud.

    Rajesh's writing is engaging and humorous, making the reader feel as if they are part of the journey.

Sheila Kumar · Sheila Kumar · 2020-09-30
delightful 4.50

The book is described as a delightful and easy read, with the author's previous work praised as well. The reviewer found the narrative engaging and enjoyable.

The reviewer found the book to be a delightful and easy read, praising the author's ability to engage the reader with her narrative. They also mentioned having read the author's debut work, Around India in 80 Trains, and found this book to be equally enjoyable. The reviewer appreciated the author's vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, which made the book both informative and entertaining. They also noted the book's ability to transport the reader to different parts of the world, making it a great choice for anyone interested in travel and adventure.

Quick quotes

    Straight off the bat, let me say it: This book is such a delightful, easy read.

    Rajesh's writing is vivid and engaging, making the reader feel as if they are right there on the journey with her.

    The book is a great choice for anyone interested in travel and adventure, with vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling.

The Guardian · 2019-01-26
heartwarming 4.50

The book highlights unexpected acts of kindness and a sense of community among travelers, creating a unique and heartwarming journey. It's a testament to the connections formed during travel.

The reviewer found the book to be a heartwarming account of travel, highlighting the unexpected acts of kindness and generosity that create a sense of community among travelers. They appreciated how the author captured the spirit of adventure and the connections made along the way. The journey is described as unique and memorable, making it a delightful read for anyone interested in travel and human connections. The reviewer also noted the vivid descriptions and the engaging narrative style, which make the book both informative and entertaining.

Quick quotes

    Unexpected acts of kindness and generosity of spirit create a unique sense of community, 'like we are a train family', as one traveller tells ...

    This is a book that will inspire you to hop on a train and explore the world.

    Rajesh's writing is vivid and engaging, making the reader feel as if they are right there on the journey with her.

Medium · Sage Adventures · 2019-01-01
beautiful 4.50

The book is praised for its beautiful and rich descriptions, which make each destination come alive. The author's elegant writing style is admired, making it a delightful read.

This travelogue stands out for its beautifully descriptive and elegant writing. The author has a knack for making every country and its attractions sound appealing, even those that might not typically be on a traveler's radar. The rich descriptions of landscapes, cultures, and personal experiences create a vivid and immersive reading experience. The author's sense of humor and candid assessments add a layer of authenticity and charm to the narrative, making it a book that is both informative and entertaining.

Quick quotes

    A book of beautiful, rich descriptions. Rajesh's writing is wonderfully descriptive and elegant.

    Rajesh's candid assessment of each train and her sense of humour, as well as the friendships she and Jem made along the way.

    Monisha offers a wonderfully vivid account of life, history and culture in a book that will make you laugh out loud.

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