We’ve always thought how nice it would be to go on one of the long rail journeys we often see on the television. The opportunity arose when we received an invitation to stay with friends in Western Australia. In August 2016, we flew to Sydney and boarded the Indian Pacific for three days and nights of enforced relaxation. As well as flawless hospitality on board, we enjoyed off train excursions at Broken Hill, Adelaide, Cook & Rawlinna.

We were met at the station in Perth by Judith & Dave, who we hadn’t seen since our first meeting in Benabbio, Italy in 2014. They showed us the sights of Perth and surrounds, as well as four days eating, drinking and exploring the beautiful Margaret River Region. We were joined for the last three days in Perth by Linda & Gary from Adelaide, also compatriots from Benabbio. We had a wonderful holiday and hope to return to W.A. one day – there is so much more to see.