10 BEAUTIFUL TRAIN TRIPS TO EXPERIENCE THIS YEAR AND BEYOND
Train travel was once as common place as commercial flight is today.
While preferred modes of transportation have adapted over the years, many still prefer the experience afforded by coasting along the tracks, accepting the occasional jostle as part of the charm, and taking in the scenery around them.
Let someone else do the driving!
Here's 10 Top Rail experiences, to add to your bucket list.
Whether a short hour-long excursion or a transcontinental journey - here's for your consideration:
ROCKIES TO THE RED ROCKS (Canada + US)
Traverse the rugged Rockies, from the Mile High City to the natural beauty of Moab, the gateway to Arches National Park in Utah. Our Canadian icon, ROCKY MOUNTAINEER just opened their first US line in 2021.
Photo: Gold Leaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer - Canada
This unique train experience ensures you don't miss a single second of stunning scenery as the train only travels during the day.
What does that mean to you as a passenger? Enjoying the sites on foot and stretching out in a hotel room each night.
It's the perfect trip for those leery of tight quarters so often associated with rail travel. Take pleasure in a luxury train ride through one of the most breathtaking routes in North America.
ROYAL GORGE ROUTE RAILROAD (US)
While in Colorado, don't miss the chance to travel along another stunning route, the ROYAL GORGE ROUTE RAILROAD.
Photo: The Royal Gorge Route - Colorado
It'll carry you along the meandering Arkansas River, as it winds through the gorge formed by the Rocky Mountains.
Savour a delicious meal, while enjoying the journey - with time to breath in the fresh air from the open-air car too.
This short day trip through the mountains may be exactly what you need to clear the cobwebs.
CLASSIC CANADA COAST TO COAST (Canada)
Amtrak's CLASSIC CANADA COAST TO COAST journey is at the top of the list when it comes to long, slow train rides.
Photo: Niagara Falls - One stop on Canada's Coast to Coast
Sweep the great nation of Canada, from Halifax to Vancouver, experiencing stunning scenery and enlightening history along the way.
The full trip - including stops - lasts 16 days, so let's start planning soon!
ROYAL SCOTSMAN (Scotland)
Experience the Scottish countryside from the comfort of your own wood-paneled suite. Sip and savour your way through their dining car or pamper yourself in the onboard spa (yup, you heard that right!).
Photo: The Royal Scotsman Spa
With multiple itineraries to choose from, including Scotland's Classic Splendours and Taste of the Highlands, there's options for everyone.
They offer Whisky Tastings, Castle Tours and more ... they book up fast, so don't wait!
VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS (Europe)
In my previous newsletter, I offered a "taste" of what to expect on one of these iconic adventures.
The ORIENT EXPRESS has been immortalized on screen and in print over the years - a name that personifies European travel from the early 20th century.
Photo: La Campagne Suite on the Venice Simplon
The original line steadily reduced in length over the years, finally ceasing operations in 2009, after over 125 years in service.
Thanks to Belmond (a luxury rail brand), your dreams are being brought back to life!
The VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT EXPRESS began operations in the 80's, breathing life back into this historic journey.
Take a step back in time and experience the elegance of the elite, as you criss cross through Europe in expertly restored and styled coaches.
ORIENT SILK ROAD EXPRESS (Central Asia)
Follow in the footsteps of Marco Polo as you traverse central Asia by rail. Routes vary, depending on the company and package you choose.
Photo: The Orient Express Silk Road - Asia
You don't want to miss the rich history and culture to be found along this ancient route. Journey through the heart of the region, where the goods are traded and Eastern and Western philosophies mingled.
ROVOS RAIL (South Africa)
Exemplifying the "class" of first class travel, ROVOS RAIL transports its riders around southern Africa in the very lap of luxury.
Photo: Rovos Rail Dining Car - South Africa
Spend your time enjoying the beautiful landscapes as they roll by - relishing a revolving menu during your time on board, sampling local dishes.
Embark on various advenures with a guided tour, which I can curate for you.
TRANZALPINE (New Zealand)
When you find yourself on New Zealand's south island, you won't want to miss the serene beauty of the Southern Alps/Ka Tiritiri o te Moana.
Photo: The Southern Alps of New Zealand via rail
What better way to experience their grandeur, than via train from Christchurch to Greymouth. One of three major train lines connecting the country, you cross the island in approximately four hours, leaving your eyes free to embrace the natural beauty abound.
AURORA AUSTRALIS (Australia)
The AURORA AUSTRALIS line takes riders out from Sydney's Central Station and returns them to the same place. The circular route ensures riders don't have to find additional transportation to get back from where they started.
Photo: Aurora Australis - Australia
There're numerous trips to choose from, depending on the sites you're looking for. Anywhere from a coast cruise to Byron Bay, to the Hunter Valley Wine Region. So much NOT to be missed!
ANDEAN EXPLORER (Peru)
The ANDEAN EXPLORER takes riders to new heights, literally!
Photo: The Andean Explorer - Peru
The train takes you from the capital of Cusco to Lake Titicaca and beyond.
Both locations sit at over 11,000 feet above sea level. Even the Arequipa, the other end of the line, is over a mile high.
Come prepared for the change in altitude and potential sickness that comes with it, but the train ride through the peaks is just what you need on your next exciting journey.
Travel by train can provide more social distancing opportunities than air travel, especially on a smaller, high-end train. While travel continues to adapt and change, you may want to consider riding the rails in your very near future.
It's travel that's slow enough to see the views, develop relationships while on the move, meet the locals - but see the world from a completely different perspective.
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