1. Get to know somebody new: What better way make new lasting friendships than during an extended train journey. You’ll have plenty of time to get to know each other, free of phone calls and ‘always on’ Internet access. Meeting new people and learning about different ways of life is an important part of travel. And you already have things in common as you share your journey.

2. Eat, drink and be merry: On train, your tastebuds will be treated to decadent dishes crafted from regional ingredients as you travel across the country. Pair these dishes with fine Australian wines from producers in the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley, Margaret River, and the like. Try an assortment throughout your trip, as food and drink are all-inclusive — what better way than to enjoy them in the company of others in the Outback Explorer Lounge or Platinum Club?

3. Give photography a shot: This rail journey will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes and scenic vistas. Make the most of this opportunity to fine tune your photography skills or take up photography as a new hobby. Try different aperture settings and play with the light throughout the day, as well as the angles and perspectives of your images. By journey’s end, you’ll have an album of incredible photos to share and enjoy for years to come.

4. Dive into a good book: Pick up a novel you’ve been meaning to read but haven’t had the time to tackle. It’s not often you get a block of time to open a good book. Take this time on train to do something just for you — it’s blissful.

5. Play games: Gather a group to play a favourite game of cards; card games are universal and you may find new opponents. Why not start a tournament and engage in friendly competition with other guests on board? Maybe you prefer a challenging crossword or Sudoku? This is a great way to exercise your brain and relax at the same time, as well providing a sense of accomplishment when you’re done.

6. Meditate or listen to music: It’s not often we get to disconnect and just ‘be’ for a while. Use the quiet of your cabin and the rocking motion of the train to meditate. Even just a few minutes of mindfulness can help reduce stress and increase focus, reminding us to become more present. Maybe you prefer to listen to music. Put together a playlist of your favourite songs and sit back and relax as the world passes by.

7. Unleash your creativity: Whether you like to write, draw or colour, you can get your creative juices flowing on board with limited interruption. Start a travel journal and jot down interesting observations and nuances about the trip and the world around you, paint a picture of the landscape through the window, or capture a fellow guest in a pencil sketch. In a few years’ time, these artistic endeavours will let you relive the journey.

8. Do nothing. When was the last time you had spare time on your hands? Take the time to sit and do nothing. Watch the desertscape through the window as it meanders by and look for native animals and plants. Or lean back and close your eyes, maybe even take a nap. This is the good life and having nothing to do is a precious commodity.

However you choose to spend your time on train, make the most of this it and make it all about you. It’s your journey and you get to choose how you experience it.

Choose your own adventure – explore our range of rail packages here.