Truman Capote and his Train Journey from Granada in 1950

Truman Capote - travelled by train from Granada to Algeciras sometime in 1950. His short story of that journey - more a letter than a novel - illustrates the country, people and pace of life beautifully. 

Having done the journey myself a few years back, I can assure you that little has changed. The journey winds through valleys, forests and olive groves at a snails pace. However, the joy of travelling at such a speed leaves you time to think, reflect and absorb the changing landscape and prepare you for the breezy delights of Algeciras. 

You will also stop of at Loja on route (first stop from Granada). An excellent opportunity to see the town its all its splendid glory (see here for highlights)  - give me a shout if you do, and I promise you a whirlwind tour.  In the meantime, sit back and let your imagination loose on this captivating short story first published in the New Yorker from September 1950.

"Certainly the train was old. The seats sagged like the jowls of a bulldog; windowpanes were out, and strips of adhesive held together those that were left; in the corridor a prowling cat appeared to be hunting mice, and it was not unreasonable to assume that his search would be rewarded."