8.5 Hour Train Rides with the TravelRest

Traveling by train has both positives and negatives. Some of the best things about traveling by train is that its pretty hassle free, convenient because train stations exist everywhere in Europe, and you get to see a lot of beautiful scenery on the way.

If you have a train pass like I do in Europe, then you probably want to get the most out of it that you can. Train passes aren't cheap, but they are definitely worth your money if you make trains your main form of transportation. That stated, you may opt for a pretty long train ride somewhere over a plane flight in some cases. In one particular case on my way to Croatia I chose to take the 8 and a half hour train  ride from Munich to Zagreb. It was the longest train ride I had encountered since I began my trip, and didn't know whether the train cars would be old or new. Well, the the train was pretty old, the seats were rather rigid, and the seats were also too short in height to be comfortable. 

Yet another moment when the TravelRest saved the day! I set the pillow up so it was partially attached to the headrest, and the bottom half would be used freestyle. I shift around in my sleep, so this method of using the TravelRest pillow is great because the pillow will automatically adjust with my varying positions. One exception is that it won't automatically shift to the other side of your head. We're still trying to figure out how that might be incorporated one day. 

If you haven't tried this using the TravelRest pillow like this, definitely give it a try and let us know what you think :) Or if you ever have feedback for us, we would love to hear from you so we can improve your experience with the TravelRest! Email us at info@travelrest.net

On another note, it might be beneficial to bring the TravelRest blanket with you on a European journey too. I've encountered hostels where providing your own blankets is expected. Almost all the trains I've ridden completely lack lumbar support, and the TravelRest blanket is a great way to support your back and keep from ending up in a slumping position. 

Ireland: Dublin's Pubs and People

TravelRest is always trying to make our pillow better, so you can have the most rested, and best possible experience traveling. The first stop TravelRest made on our journey through Europe was Ireland, and guess what was #1 on our packing list? The TravelRest pillow, of course!

The TravelRest pillow isn't exactly the most fashionable accessory out there, but it's sure worth those precious moments of shut eye. If you're a female traveling through Europe on a budget, then packing for your trip may prove to be a difficult task. I used this website to help guide me: http://herpackinglist.com/2011/12/ultimate-female-travel-packing-lists/

Maybe these packing lists will help you out a little too, but don't forget to add the TravelRest pillow to your personal list!

A little tip on getting to Europe: Ireland is a great place to start. Not only is Ireland a country where English is used widely, but it's also one of the least expensive countries to fly to from the US. Aer Lingus is known as one of those airlines with cheap tickets, so check them out. 

Dublin is a city with a dark history, pretty drab architecture, but the pubs and people are spectacular. Every street you turn down has at least one pub if not multiple, and the drink of choice is usually Guinness - what's sometimes referred to as the tall blond in a black dress. If you find yourself in Ireland, you must order a pint of Guinness. Unlike many dark beers, Guinness has a smooth, creamy taste (some liken it to chocolate milk). If you visit the Guinness Storehouse Museum/Factory then you'll learn that it takes exactly 119.5 seconds to pour a perfect pint of the beer. You'll even have a chance to pour a perfect pint yourself and gain expert certification ;) I did!

If you're a solo traveller like I am, then don't be intimidated by going out to any of these pubs. One of Irelands best qualities is the people. Everyone is so friendly and helpful! I got lost in Dublin more than a few times and someone was always kind enough to stop and help me on my way. You can strike up a conversation with almost anyone. Meeting other travelers is great, but try talking to a local, they'll give you an extremely warm welcome and introduction to the country they love calling home. 

Lastly, look up some free walking tours of Dublin. Dublin is easy to travel through by foot and a tour guide can help explain some important historical information about the city and country. 

(If you come to this spot, ask someone about the significance of Lady Justice's facing)

Make sure to learn some gaelic words while you're there too! Sláinte! (pronounced Slahn-cha; means cheers)