I like that response!

I should have put “sarcasm” in my earlier post because after about 100,000 kms of global rail travel (thanks to Paul Thoreaux for planting the seed), I find the sounds an absolutely essential part of the rail travel experience. I would not be able to get to sleep if there were no sounds of bunks squeaking and parts clanking, and people snoring, etc...although as a wise FT member posted above, the simple answer is ear plugs.