Slow Train to Switzerland: One Tour, Two Trips, 150 Years and a World of Change Apart

The author and his mother follow the route taken by the first intrepid Thomas Cook tourists. Some of the contrasts between the poor country then and the prosperous country now are amazing, and how the female tourists coped in their crinolines and ordinary shoes through snow and over glaciers beggars belief. An enjoyable, undemanding read, that somehow gives a great deal of information.

A lovely book telling well that route taken these years ago by Thomas Cook, filled with many interesting facts about the country and travelling around in these early days.

Excellent and informative narrative which is far more than just a travel book. Crammed full of historical facts, revealing many aspects of Swiss life of which I was unaware. The juxtaposition of the two journeys is handled successfully. Bewes has created a readable insight into impact of the early British tours on Switzerland and contrasts mid-19th Century life with the present day. I read this while on a walking trip to the Swiss Alps and it was the perfect companion.

A wonderful description of Victorian travel

Well written and easy reading. Interesting to hear how travel in Switzerland has changed over the years and how Switzerland has developed as a country. Maybe a lot of my enjoyment in reading this book was due to the fact that I have been to Switzerland three times and I was aware of quite a number of the places referred to.

Hoped for more exciting reading, but it's adequate and in parts original.

my father loved this book.However I waited ages for this book. For 3 days I received an E Mail each morning, saying my book would be delivered that day, then nothing happened AFTER I'D WAITED IN! Finally I E mailed Amazon to complain and guess what they had arrived whilst I VENTURED OUT at 3pm. They put a card through my door to say I wasn't in. How ridiculous a book easily fits into our postbox. I. bought many books previously for xmas presents no problem. Finally on the 4th day I received a phone call from the delivery man couldn't find the house! I ran to the bottom of the drive and had to sign for it, I have never had to sign for Super Saver Delivery before!.I am disgusted with your delivery service and don't think I will order from you again i spite of a whole list of things I would like!

This is a brilliant book: original, very well-written, highly entertaining and full of arresting information and insights. A triumphant success.