Art

There comes a time in everyone's life when they really just want to concentrate on the higher things of life, the more esoteric pleasures. Like art.

Now perhaps you have a particular passion for a particular artist or style of art; or maybe you just want to experience that rush that one gets in the presence of greatness. Or perhaps you actually want to learn to paint - there are plenty of painting schools in glorious, inspirational locations all over Europe, Japan, America and Australia.

It may seem self-indulgent, but some of the best holidays are based on a desire for fulfilment and enlightenment, and so why not make art the focus of your next break. Travel on your own, or with a friend, or as a couple, and go and seek things of beauty.

And the train is the natural vessel to convey you thence - it is the most aesthetically acceptable (okay, and it's cheaper and easier than flying or driving as well).

Where to go? Well the whole of Europe is a living art gallery. If you just hop on Eurostar and get as far as the Louvre in Paris you will be doing well - it reputedly takes many days to do it justice. Prefer modern art? Well, Barcelona is a pumping, vibrating powerhouse of creative energy, or there's always the Prada in Madrid. But the ultimate destination for art lovers in Europe has to be Florence.

Or you can try further afield. Japan has spawned many different art forms, from ukiyo-e to manga, and has much to offer the culture vulture.

The Americans have squirreled away many of the world's greatest paintings - you could start with the Guggenheim in New York, and then catch the train to Boston and check out the art galleries there.

Or take the Ghan (named for the Af-ghan workers who built it) through the Australian wilderness in search of Aboriginal treasures.

Go on - you deserve it.