{"title":"Rail journeys gifts","description":"\u003cp\u003eAnyone fascinated by rail journeys will enjoy these books, games and toys all about passenger rail travel experiences and planning. Everything is in stock and delivered overnight across New Zealand.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"riding-the-iron-rooster","title":"Riding the Iron Rooster","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRiding the Iron Rooster\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Theroux is an enthralling travel narrative that captures the essence of adventure, cultural discovery, and the realities of traversing vast landscapes. Paul Theroux, ever the intrepid traveller, sets out from Victoria Station on a rainy April day, believing that a journey by train through Europe, across the USSR, and through Mongolia to the Chinese border will be a soothing, almost leisurely voyage. He imagines days filled with quiet reading, meticulous note-taking, regular and satisfying meals, and serene gazes out of countless train windows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the journey quickly becomes anything but predictable. From the moment Theroux steps onto the first train, he is thrust into an array of peculiar and often challenging experiences. Over the course of a year, he rides nearly every train in China, encountering both the beauty and the brutality of the Middle Kingdom. His encounters are varied, from bureaucratic nightmares and unexpected delays to moments of genuine human connection and tender insights into everyday life in China.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe story is sprinkled with Theroux’s trademark wit and keen observational skills, offering an honest and sometimes acerbic view of his travels. His prose is rich with vivid descriptions and insightful commentary that transport the reader alongside him on his epic rail journey. You feel the rumble of the train beneath you, smell the distinct odours of each station, and see the ever-changing landscape through his discerning eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTheroux's reflections are often philosophical, contemplating the nature of travel, the passage of time, and the intricacies of the human condition. He meets a diverse cast of characters along the way, each adding their own colour to the tapestry of his journey. From fellow passengers and train attendants to the locals he encounters in small villages and bustling cities, every interaction adds depth to his narrative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs \u003cem\u003eTime\u003c\/em\u003e magazine aptly puts it, \"Wry, humourful and occasionally querulous... as Theroux makes excruciatingly clear, travelling alone in the Middle Kingdom is not for the faint of heart or stomach.\" Indeed, \u003cem\u003eRiding the Iron Rooster\u003c\/em\u003e is not just a travelogue but a profound commentary on the rigours and rewards of solo travel through one of the world's most enigmatic countries. For those who crave an adventure filled with unpredictability and revelations, this book is an unmissable read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45693099475180,"sku":"9780140112955","price":26.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/69cd65fac983a2a7b09bd739687bec27.jpg?v=1789340865"},{"product_id":"the-great-railway-bazaar","title":"The Great Railway Bazaar","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Great Railway Bazaar\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Theroux is a captivating travelogue that chronicles the author's epic journey by rail across Asia. This remarkable narrative details Theroux's exploits on some of the most iconic and legendary train routes in the world. From the Direct-Orient Express, the Khyber Pass Local, and the Delhi Mail from Jaipur, to the Golden Arrow to Kuala Lumpur, the Hikari Super Express to Kyoto, and the Trans-Siberian Express, Theroux offers readers a vivid and compelling account of his travels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs Theroux meanders through bustling cities, serene countrysides, and remote landscapes, he immerses himself in a diverse tapestry of cultures, sights, and sounds. Each train journey serves as a backdrop for rich and colourful encounters with an array of fascinating individuals. He engages in conversations with fellow passengers such as Molesworth, a British theatrical agent, and Sadik, a dishevelled Turkish tycoon, while also contending with the persistent advances of pimps and drug dealers. His ability to observe and sketch the human condition is unparalleled, capturing snippets of chat, monologues, and stories that reveal the heart and soul of the regions he visits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFilled with detailed descriptions and poignant insights, \u003cem\u003eThe Great Railway Bazaar\u003c\/em\u003e offers readers a unique glimpse into Theroux's experiences. His keen eye for detail and his profound observations make for an enthralling and entertaining read, paying a loving tribute to the romantic allure and timeless charm of railways and train travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis reissue in the Modern Classics series includes a new preface by Paul Theroux, providing contemporary readers with additional context and reflections from the author. Whether you are a seasoned traveller, a railway enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a well-crafted narrative, \u003cem\u003eThe Great Railway Bazaar\u003c\/em\u003e promises a journey that is as enriching as it is entertaining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45693103833324,"sku":"9780141189147","price":21.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780141189147.jpg?v=1725587104"},{"product_id":"lonely-planets-guide-to-train-travel-in-europe-by-lonely-planet-9781838694968","title":"Lonely Planet's Guide to Train Travel in Europe","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for a sustainable and stress-free way to explore Europe? Hop on board the continent's railway network with this ultimate guide to train travel. Whether you want to take it slow on the scenic route or make the most of the newest high-speed services to get straight to your destination, \u003cem\u003eLonely Planet's Guide to Train Travel in Europe\u003c\/em\u003e shows you how to plan your journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePacked with detailed gatefold route maps and insider tips, this guide covers everything from piecing together a long-distance trip to identifying must-see stops and securing value-for-money tickets. As airlines cut back flights and airfares rise, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the increasing overnight services and flexible fares being offered. The guide also reveals the quirks of different operators and countries, including luggage allowances, rules and regulations, and on-board facilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're seeking a more eco-friendly, convenient—and sometimes quicker—way to get from A to B while travelling throughout the continent, \u003cem\u003eLonely Planet's Guide to Train Travel in Europe\u003c\/em\u003e will equip you to make the most of your time and budget.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eHigh-speed services in France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Spain\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eScenic local routes in key countries including the UK and Scandinavia\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSleeper and long-distance services across the continent\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Lonely Planet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company and the world’s number one travel guidebook brand, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, Lonely Planet has printed over 145 million guidebooks and nurtured a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. Their content is available online, on mobile, in video, and in 14 languages, alongside armchair and lifestyle books, eBooks, and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"David Bateman Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45950108926188,"sku":"9781838694968","price":44.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781838694968.jpg?v=1732747942"},{"product_id":"great-railway-journeys-in-new-zealand-australia-by-david-bowden-9781913679231","title":"Great Railway Journeys in New Zealand \u0026 Australia","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGreat Railway Journeys in New Zealand and Australia\u003c\/em\u003e is an absorbing description of 35 trips that highlight some of the most interesting, scenic, and rewarding railway journeys in both countries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese include the renowned long-distance journeys, such as The Indian Pacific that takes travellers on a three-day trip from Perth to Sydney, and The Northern Explorer in New Zealand's North Island that stretches from Wellington to Auckland. There are also those journeys that traverse stunning scenery, such as New Zealand's TranzAlpine train or the Spirit of the Outback in Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere are routes on which restored steam locomotives operate, and other lines included for the wonder of their engineering. Also included is New Zealand's Coastal Pacific that runs between Picton and Christchurch, now fully operational again since being shut in the aftermath of the 2016 earthquake.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTrains are a great way to travel in both countries, taking you at ground level past superb scenery that often cannot be seen by any other means of transport. David Bowden's entertaining text describes the route, the major features of interest along the way, and any special technical details about the locomotive or the track.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"David Bateman Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46402155872492,"sku":"9781913679231","price":45.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9460803482869.jpg?v=1745749162"},{"product_id":"ultimate-train-journeys-world-by-tim-richards-9781741177350","title":"Ultimate Train Journeys: World","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eUltimate Train Journeys: World\u003c\/i\u003e profiles 30 great train trips from every inhabited continent, selected by long-time rail fan and travel writer Tim Richards. Environmental concerns are prompting travellers to consider the surface route – and the best means of transport at ground level is undoubtedly rail.\n\nTim's curated selection covers the full range of rail options, from the humble commuter train to long-distance night trains with sleeper berths and dining cars, and all journeys are blessed with great scenery. There's the \u003ci\u003eCoast Starlight\u003c\/i\u003e (Los Angeles to Seattle), the \u003ci\u003eDarjeeling Himalayan Railway\u003c\/i\u003e (New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling), and \u003ci\u003eThe Orient Express\u003c\/i\u003e (London via Paris to Venice), just to name a few. Each chapter includes a detailed itinerary, fast facts, photos, and maps.\n\nWith space to move and no road traffic to get snarled up in, the real drawcard of train adventures is that they are immersed within a shifting environment, yet not entirely of it. You can witness your surroundings at a steady pace, and properly get to know your travel companions. The old-school ways of travel are fast becoming new again.\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"The Distribution and Logistics Company (TDLC)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46827648057580,"sku":"9781741177350","price":50.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/25760973482807.jpg?v=1758175629"},{"product_id":"around-the-world-in-80-trains-by-monisha-rajesh-9781408869772","title":"Around the World in 80 Trains","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWINNER OF THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER AWARD FOR BEST TRAVEL BOOK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSHORTLISTED FOR THE STANFORD DOLMAN TRAVEL BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'Monisha Rajesh has chosen one of the best ways of seeing the world. Never too fast, never too slow, her journey does what trains do best. Getting to the heart of things. Prepare for a very fine ride' — Michael Palin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the cloud-skimming heights of Tibet’s Qinghai railway to silk-sheeted splendour on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, \u003ci\u003eAround the World in 80 Trains\u003c\/i\u003e is a celebration of the glory of train travel and a witty and irreverent look at the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePacking up her rucksack – and her fiancé, Jem – Monisha Rajesh embarks on an unforgettable adventure that takes her from London’s St Pancras station to the vast expanses of Russia and Mongolia, North Korea, Canada, Kazakhstan, and beyond. The journey is one of constant movement and mayhem, as the pair strike up friendships and swap stories with the hilarious, irksome, and ultimately endearing travellers they meet on board, all while taking in some of the earth’s most breathtaking views.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46832353837292,"sku":"9781408869772","price":27.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/16808413482689.jpg?v=1758380406"},{"product_id":"hape-mars-launch-rail-set","title":"Hape: Mars Launch Rail Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eBlast off and chug away to the stars!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur Mars Mission Launch Set merges the classic railway excitement with cosmic rocket launches. Let your child explore both tracks and space, making playtime an out-of-this-world adventure.  Follow the guide to assemble the satellite-linked launcher and tracks, enhancing problem-solving skills. Propel the space train on its beech tracks, then ignite creativity with an epic launch. With the Mars exploration rover and glow-in-the-dark elements, children will dive deep into imaginative space scenarios, promoting their cognitive development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIGNITES CREATIVITY: This toy helps to spark your child`s creativity and imagination as they explore the limitless possibilities of space travel and exploration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFUNCTIONAL LAUNCH PAD: Your child can experience the thrill of launching the space train by flipping the knob and lifting it to a 90-degree angle on the launch pad.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVARIOUS VEHICLES: Explore various means of transportation, including a space train, satellite vehicle, and Mars exploration rover. The satellite car`s solar panel leaves can rotate for added engagement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eINTERACTIVE ELEMENTS: The launch pad comes with detachable radar and antenna components for interactive assembly. Plus, a designated refuelling port on the shuttle`s side allows astronauts to simulate fueling, enriching the play experience. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGLOW-IN-THE-DARK FUN: Enhance the play experience with stickable luminous stickers that can be attached to scenes and tracks, creating a captivating glow at night.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSUPER SPACE MISSION: Lift off with the enthralling manned rocket, elevating your space-themed playtime to new heights of adventure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Sweetpea Marketing Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47402033578220,"sku":"BH-61209197","price":90.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9NE3798_2.jpg?v=1774569840"},{"product_id":"ticket-to-ride-europe-first-journey","title":"Ticket to Ride Europe First Journey","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart your trip across Europe with \u003cem\u003eTicket to Ride: First Journey (Europe)\u003c\/em\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2-4 Players | Ages 6+ Years\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTicket to Ride: First Journey\u003c\/em\u003e takes the gameplay of the \u003cem\u003eTicket to Ride\u003c\/em\u003e series and scales it for a younger audience. During the game, players will collect train cards, claim routes on the map of Europe, and try to connect the cities shown on their tickets. The first player to complete six tickets wins! With the same gameplay as the first \u003cem\u003eTicket to Ride: First Journey\u003c\/em\u003e game, but now featuring a map of Europe, this game is perfect for any young conductors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eThe classic gameplay of \u003cem\u003eTicket to Ride\u003c\/em\u003e, scaled to suit a younger audience\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eTravel between the major cities of Europe on a new map\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePlayers must collect train cards to build more routes and expand their train network\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCompete to complete tickets in order to score additional victory points\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Asmodee","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47684776263916,"sku":"BH-65282525","price":69.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/824968200278.jpg?v=1780029351"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.pro\/collections\/rail-journeys-gifts.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}