One objective of this blog is to encourage productive discussion and debate within the "comments" forum. Leaving comments has been made easier. No registration is required. Comments can be left anonymously. A Hassle free and easy forum to leave a comment. However, any inappropriate comments will be deleted by blog administrators. Thank you for commenting so your voice can be heard.


Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Take A Train.

Huffington Post has a great idea.  In our hectic day to day life, vacation is a time to relax. In fact, sometimes the best part is getting there. Skip the plane, take the train, and check out our list of the top railway trips ever. Enjoy the ride.

The Glacier Express - Switzerland

This seven-hour trek connecting the Swiss mountain resorts of St. Moritz and Zermatt carries you along the Rhine river through 91 tunnels, across 291 bridges and over the Oberalp pass at its highest altitude of 6670 feet. The journey's signature structure, the Landwasser viaduct (pictured), is one of the most photographed bridges in Europe due to its enormous yet delicate beauty.


The Flam Railway - Norway
Built in 1909, the Flam railway is a true engineering feat. As one of the steepest train lines in the world, you will marvel at gushing rivers cutting deep, narrow ravines through the land, waterfalls cascading down majestic, snowy mountains and charming, wooden farmhouses that date back to the 1600's. Idyllic beauty is only one facet of the Norwegian countryside, however. As the train approaches Blomheller, travelers witness awe inspiring evidence of nature's fury as tracks and trails of past avalanches pepper the countryside.


The Pride of Africa - Africa
Established in 1989 and billed as "the most luxurious train in the world", the Pride of Africa travels through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. The authentic and charming Victorian detail in the coaches dates back to the 1920's, but don't be fooled because each suite is completely modern and features nothing but the finest amenities. From the wild game reserves of Mpumalanga and the desert of Namibia, to the ripe cane fields of KwaZulu-Natal, there is no better way than the Pride of Africa to bear witness to Africa's timeless splendor.
The Alaska Railroad - Alaska
If you've ever watched Iceroad Truckers on the Discovery Channel then you understand why we think the Alaska Railroad is the best way to see the Frontier state. Just kidding. But with many of Alaska's top destinations inaccessible by car, the Alaska railroad is really the only way to get the most out of your trip. In just seven days, you'll visit Denali National Park, ride a dog sled, float amongst icebergs on the Placer River, walk across Spencer glacier and so much more. Best of all, you'll get a chance to sleep under the stars in the comfort of your own bed with the train's glass top roof. How cool is that?

3 comments: