Taking off Travel blog

There are few better ways to relax and soak up some stunning scenery than to take one of the many spectacular train routes dotted around the globe. Here are ten of the very best railway lines you simply must travel on. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

The Coast Starlight, US West Coast

Coast Starlight Image Credit

A magnificent route, the Coast Starlight runs from Seattle to Los Angeles on the US West Coast, passing through miles of stunning scenery which includes the Cascade Range’s snowy peaks, Mount Shasta, dense forests and huge stretches of the Pacific Coast. The beautiful sights through your window will stay with you forever.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Video Credit

Famous even before Wes Anderson’s 2007 film The Darjeeling Limited placed it in the limelight; this 50 mile railway line passes over 5 giant bridges and climbs through numerous steep loops on its way from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The mountains of the Eastern Himalayas and the vibrant green tea plantations make a memorable backdrop to an exciting journey.

The Bergen Railway, Norway

Bergen Railway Image Credit

Running between Oslo and Bergen, the Bergen Railway is widely held to be one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. Truly dazzling, at its highest point it climbs to a vertiginous 1,222 metres above sea level. Completed in 1909, the 182 tunnels of the 7 hour journey were carved by a 15,000 workforce over 34 years. Commuters and tourists will agree it was all worthwhile.

The Douro Valley Railway, Portugal

The Douro Valley Railway Image Credit

The gorgeous vine terraced hills of Portugal’s Douro Valley, where port wine is produced, is best seen from the steam train that first began taking people on its picturesque voyage in 1924. Running 175 kilometres from Oporto to Pocinho, the Douro railway meets the beautiful tranquil river at Mosteiro and runs along the bank for a soothing 100 kilometres.

The Ghan Railway, Australia

The Ghan Railway Image Credit

An absolute giant, the Ghan Railway runs between Adelaide and Darwin and is the only train route to travel an entire continent from North to South. The sheer variety of landscapes will have you spellbound, basically introducing the traveller to Australia in all its different guises. An epic experience to treasure.

The Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy

The Bernina Express Image Credit

Winding its way through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, the Bernina Express climbs to 2,253 metres above sea level at its highest point. Travelling across the Alps, the train provides exquisite panoramic views, running past titanic glaciers before travelling besides the banks of Lake Como to Lugano. The Bernina Express really is a magical ride among the mountains.

The Chihuahua Pacific Railway, Mexico

Chihuahua Pacific Railway Image Source

A sixteen hour ride, the Chihuahua Pacific Railway connects the city of Chihuahua with the city of Los Mochis on the Pacific Coast, traversing rugged mountains that climb to 7,000 feet above before dropping down to sea level in the space of 120 miles. There are many canyons along the way, some deeper than even the Grand Canyon.

The Hiram Bingham Train, Peru

The Hiram Bingham Train Image Credit

Run by the famous Orient Express company, the Hiram Bingham train swoops around majestic mountains before running past the tumultuous waters of the giant Urubamba River on its way from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca ruins of Machu Picchu are a wonder to behold.

The Semmering Railway, Austria

The Semmering Railway Image Credit

Held to be one of the great civil engineering projects in an age of innovative railway building, the Semmering Railway runs over a multitude of astonishing viaducts and through a large number of expertly carved tunnels. The soaring mountain landscape was made for photograph albums.

The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer Image Credit

The famous Rocky Mountaineer provides a window on to the wonders of the Canadian Rockies as it makes its winding way through British Columbia and Alberta. Travellers can often catch sight of a wide range of interesting wildlife that includes bears, mountain goats and even bald eagles.

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The Scenic Route was produced on behalf of Hotel Club; where you’ll find hotels in Bali with the perfect scenery.

I only thought about it recently but Jamaica seems to be a place that I visit once every 20 years. My first trip there was as a child, and I don’t remember that much about it. I next visited in the late 80s. I spent three weeks and had a pretty good time. The trip was notable for the acquisition of my first sunburn. I don’t burn easily but with cloudless skies and temperatures in the high 90s to 100s, it was no surprise.

A the end of this week, I’ll be going again for an extended weekend, staying in Port Royal, an old pirate haunt which these days is much more likely to be filled with tourists than buccaneers.

I don’t really know what to expect – 20 years is a long time, in which a place can change beyond recognition. One thing that will certainly be the same is the hospitality and welcome offered by the Jamaicans. That really struck me on my last trip and I’m sure it will again.

Jamaica is popular with US tourists. You can fly to Kingston or Montego Bay via a number of airlines and you don’t need a visa for stays of up to six months. (If you’re flying from JFK, a popular departure point, then check out our JFK airport parking opportunities.)

While I’m there, I expect to check out the beach, visit the mountains and, since you can’t go to Jamaica without sampling some Blue Mountain coffee, drink some great coffee. As the birthplace of Bob Marley, the soundtrack to the trip will almost certainly be reggae. Watch out for some trip reports next week.

Image: Christian y Sergio

If you’re planning to visit Washington, D.C. and see its inspiring monuments and museums, dine at a diverse selection of restaurants or play in “the people’s” spacious parks and funky neighborhoods, then walking, biking or taking the Metro will get you there safely, and hassle-free. So many historic institutions here are free, there is little to no use to rent a car, and kids are welcome everywhere; making D.C. a budget-friendly and super educational destination!

Driving and parking are 2 things most local residents avoid at all costs; streets are narrow, there are plenty of government motorcades and rush hour backups, and too many 1-way streets to mention. Parking in garages is extremely expensive, and metered areas are speckled with ambiguous rules; and then there’s the problem of meter coin slots not working (due to ice storms or just mechanical challenges)—but of course that won’t keep you from getting a ticket. Over 40% of D.C.’s annual revenue comes from parking and driving tickets, which should be the only clue you need to stick to public transportation!

The Metro

Washington, D.C.’s train service, known fondly as The Metro, has rail lines that are color-coded according to the direction in which you’re heading. Simply locate the stop closest to you and your destination stop and then figure out your route. Check online or merely ask the friendly station masters. The Metro is clean, well maintained and everyone rides; from capital staff to teachers, and used for getting to sports events to Saturday night dates. Locals are easy to approach for directions and there are directories inside each stop.

Metro paper passes can be purchased from vending machines with cash or credit cards. Plan ahead and purchase a Metro Card in order to get more for your money (these also work for Metro bus fares). Another option is buying a one-day pass, but check the hours with the station master to avoid any misunderstandings. Outside all of the downtown stations you will notice D.C. Information Staff dressed in red and blue and they can guide you anywhere you need to go, once you’ve arrived at your stop.

Buses

While many big cities have dirty, uncomfortable buses, Washington, D.C.’s bus system is modern, relatively clean, efficient and inexpensive. Many of the buses also stop at the metro stations and offer reasonably priced transfer options. With the exception of airport express buses, most rides cost no more than $3.85 per person. Weekly passes are also available and children under 4 ride for free. Check the website for routes and your closest stop for boarding and destination cross streets. Note you must have exact change or a pass, or you’ll be donating what would have been your change to the city.

Bikes

Bikes are one of the best transportation options during D.C.’s warmer months. Ride past popular monuments, zip through Chinatown or feel the breeze against your face in Rock Creek Park. Biking also allows you to “mix and match” your transportation options. With the exception of peak hours, you can transport up to 2 bikes on a rack located on the front of each Metrobus. If you’re traveling by air, most carriers will charge a modest fee of $25, but if you’d prefer the convenience of renting a bike while in D.C., then check out the city’s Bikeshare program. Since you must become a member of Bikeshare in advance, it’s best to do some pre-trip planning by visiting capitalbikeshare.com. It’s not currently that cheap, but is getting better.

Walking

Like New York, London and Paris, Washington, D.C. is a city that’s meant for walking. Grab a comfy pair of shoes and wander through neighborhoods that range from cultural to quaint, and historic to hip. Spend hours meandering around Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Eastern Market and Penn Quarter. Keep in mind that if your tootsies begin to tire you can always take the Metrorail, the Metrobus.

Taxis

A note about cabs: they are expensive, many drivers barely speak English, and they do not like credit cards (they have to pay the processing fee themselves). Remember you have the right to enter a cab you’ve flagged down, or not (if you feel uncomfortable). They must also post the number of the local taxi authority—be sure to file a complaint if you have a bad experience or the rude ones will never be weeded out. If you wonder why an empty cab won’t stop it’s either a) they are on their way to a reserved call, or b) they are from another county and not allowed to pick you up in D.C. If you happen to catch a great driver, ask for their card (most are independent) and make future appointments with them directly.

Car Rental

If your heart is set on taking a car for a spin around town, lease a car through the awesome company known as Zipcar. Zipcar is a for-profit, nationwide car-sharing program. Zipcar members simply make a reservation and then can go to the nearest company location to obtain their vehicle. While Zipcar’s prices include gas and insurance, you do need to become a member in advance of renting. Check out their website, zipcar.com and join before your trip (they actually check your driving record because they pay the insurance). You can pick up your Zipcard once you hit town or have it mailed if you have the lead time; your choice of cars will be parked within a block or two of most downtown locations (or at many Metro Stations), and can be easily reserved online or at the last minute on your smartphone.

With all these transportation methods, planning ahead will save you time and money. Consider the length of time you’ll be visiting, your budget and your interests. By giving your transportation in Washington, D.C. some thought, you’re certain to have a wonderful adventure in the most famous capital city in the world!

Tony Sutherland is an insurance consultant and he recommends checking online for auto insurance quotes when you are considering an out-of-state move. For example, if you live in Virginia you can instantly request Pennsylvania auto insurance quotes online.

This is the second and last part of Nicole Rodgers’ article on US road trips.

6. Going-To-The-Sun Road
If there’s ever been a reason to visit Montana, it would be to check out this amazing 52-mile expanse of land that will show off Glacier National Park in its full glory. The main caveat is that it’s only open from early July to mid-October, or basically until the first snowfall of the season. However, nature buffs will appreciate amazing views left in the Continental Divide, including the 6,000-foot high Logan Pass and the Jackson Glacier Overlook. This is definitely one of the best scenic roadtrips in the US for those who love unadulterated panoramas.

7. Utah Highway 12
One of the only designated All-American Highways, Utah Highway 12 lives up to its name by showing off the Southwestern United States in its full splendor. Imagine red sunsets and wide mountain expanses as cars speed down towards great locations as the Capitol Reef, Boulder Mountain, and Dixie National Forest. For those who have lost their faith in the wide expanse of American Natural Beauty, all it will take is a few days on this glorious stretch of land to convince them otherwise.

8. California State Route 1
Encompassing a majority of the Pacific coastline, this is perfect for travelers who wish to capture a vast majority of Southern California in a single trip. Starting in San Luis Obispo, this takes drivers all the way to the lush forests of Monterey, stopping in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego along the way. This is one of the better roadtrips for families, since the younger ones will love stopping in the cultural districts in the major cities, while the adults will be able to fully appreciate the natural wonder that is the California coastline.

9. Hana Highway
Despite being a group of islands, Hawaii is home to one of the most scenic roadtrips in the United States. Starting out in Paia on the island of Maui, this ride features coastal vistas, amazing shore views, and some of the most serpentine roads in history. This is great for travelers who want to put the top down on their car and just feel that amazing Hawaii breeze through their hair in one of the most spectacular trips out there.

10. Blue Ridge Highway
Even if the Southern Appalachian Mountains might not be the first guess when one thinks of amazing US roadtrips, but it should be taken into consideration that this roadtrip involves going through Virgina’s Shenandoah National Park and North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains. Hence why this expanse has been lovingly referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive.” Measuring in at 469 miles long, it’s certainly one of the most ambitious drives on this list, but one that rewards the traveler in some truly awe-inspiring sights of rolling greens and pristine mountain views.

These are just some of the most scenic roadtrips in the US. These are best to be taken when one has a few days to spare for diversion and possible stops in accompanying cities. Of course, always make sure to bring a camera with plenty of batteries, since you’re going to have more opportunities than you can count to take some truly epic pictures.

Nicole Rodgers has been blogging for 3 years; she currently helps people use budget software to plan their finances to travel and she always buys a t shirt to commemorate the places she has traveled. (Photo: Ash Crowe)

If you’re looking to get away for a few days, be sure to check out the 10 best scenic roadtrips in the US. The United States is best known for its natural beauty and amazing vistas, which is why the following scenic roadtrips are sure to please any traveler. While rising gas prices might get you down, the following scenic roadtrips are some of the best and least expensive ways to explore the great outdoors of the United States.

1. U.S. Route 1
If you’re looking for a great scenic roadtrip in the US with amazing historic value, consider driving across US Route 1. Encompassing 5 beautiful states across New England, namely Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, this is perfect for those looking to spy great autumn foliage. Starting in Connecticut, drivers can travel up the coast of the Atlantic towards Maine, driving through Rhode Island’s historic colonial sites and the heart of Boston’s industrial districts. Moreover, Maine offers amazing outlet shopping, wonderful vistas, and gorgeous national parks that are perfect for families and couples alike.

2. Sonoma And Napa Valleys
This is one of the best scenic roadtrips in the US for younger or older couples. Starting in Santa Rosa, which is just north of San Francisco, travelers will cruise through 132 miles of gorgeous California highway, such as the Sonoma Highway, St. Helena Highway, and Redwood Highway. Tourists will be greeted with panoramic ocean views, rolling hills covered with scenic forests, and of course, rustic vineyards with dozens of exotic flavors of wine. While drinking and driving is certainly something that should be avoided, this is the perfect roadtrip for two who want a week to immerse themselves in great wine and even better natural beauty.

3. Seward Highway
This is one of the roadtrips on this list that might not be as accessible as the others, simply because it involves traveling all the way up to Alaska. Once there, however, interested parties are greeted with some of the most beautiful wilderness in America. Trailing from Anchorage to Seward, a small portstown on Resurrection Bay, this roadtrip will take travelers through pristine white forests, alpine meadows, and truly breathtaking glaciers. This is definitely the type of trip that will make a photography enthusiast squeal with delight, given that it has a seemingly-endless supply of great picture-taking opportunities.

4. Red Rock Scenic Byway

At only 7.5 miles, it might seem like a paltry addition, but the Red Rock Scenic Byway is anything but ordinary. Flanked by beautiful desert scenery and gorgeous rock formations, this is the roadtrip picked specially for those looking to get out in the great outdoors. Stand in awe of the power of nature with rock formations and mountains that look like they’re straight from the movies, and revel in the luxurious green plains you’ll find near them. State Route 179 near Sedona is definitely the place to be for those who don’t want to commit too much time to a roadtrip but still want to be immersed in the splendor of it all.

5. Million-Dollar Highway
Breaching through western Colorado and parts of San Juan, this is truly a scenic roadtrip that lives up to its name. Passing through US 550 to see old mining towns such as Silverton and Ouray will definitely please American History buffs, while views of the Red Mountain Pass and Uncompahgre Gorge will look like they’ve been plucked right from a postcard. The views in the springtime include unprecedented amounts of wildeflowers and rolling greens to make New Zealand jealous, while the great prevalence of bears, deer, and elk along the roadside are proof enough of the great expanse of land that is the Western United States.

Nicole Rodgers has been traveling all her life; she current helps people find great deals on designer eyeglasses and uses Savings.com to find great deals online.

(Photo: dougtone)