Train Routes in the U.S.A. You Can’t Ignore JESS@FriendsTravel.com

Next time you’re planning to take a vacation, why not invest a bit more time and make the journey part of the adventure? Ditch the airport in favor of traveling by rail and you’ll be surprised at just how much more you’ll see.

Pacific Surfliner

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If you don’t relish overnighting on the Coast Starlight from Los Angeles to Seattle, how about boarding the 8½ hour, 350-mile Pacific Surfliner instead? Hop on in San Luis Obispo in the morning, and you could be in San Diego by mid-afternoon. But far better to stop off a little on the way. The tracks hug the shoreline for a significant part of the train’s route, so think about whether you want to enjoy ocean views or cityscapes before reserving your seat. Highlights along the way include Santa Barbara, San Juan Capistrano and of course, the City of Angels itself. Whether you alight to surf the Pacific rollers or wander through the gardens of the old Spanish missions is up to you.

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White Pass and Yukon Route

In the 21st century, would we attempt something as costly and time-consuming as to build a railway through an environment as harsh as that found in Alaska and the Yukon? Fortunately for today’s rail enthusiasts, the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s spurred engineers on through impossibly challenging terrain and the harshest of winters. Embark on a short seasonal jaunt through wild Alaska from the port town of Skagway. As the train retraces the original route to White Pass Summit, passengers enjoy the sight of glaciers, gorges and waterfalls with evocative names like Dead Horse Gulch and Inspiration Point from their vintage carriages. You won’t need a passport, but don’t forget your head for heights.

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Grand Canyon Railway

This round trip departs from Williams, Arizona, around 65 miles south of the Grand Canyon. At first, it’s hard to marry the dense pine forests that surround the train with the desert colors of the landscape that awaits. Eyes peeled for mountain lions, elk, condors and bald eagles, you’ll reach the popular South Rim a little over two hours later. If you choose to return the same day, you’ll have about four hours to marvel at its beauty; it’s understandably tempting to spend at least a night to more fully appreciate this wondrous natural phenomenon.

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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Where do you start when there’s so much to see in the Great Smoky Mountains? A couple of rail trips on offer from Bryson City might just provide the answer. Its most popular departures utilize steam locomotive #1702 and you’ll want a souvenir selfie of this historic engine before climbing aboard. The Tuckasegee River excursion opens up the countryside en route to charming Dillsboro while the Nantahala Gorge excursion follows the Tennessee and Nantahala river valleys across Fontana Lake and through the gorge. These scenic routes take around four hours apiece, making the perfect day trip whichever you choose.

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Maple Leaf

It’s a nine-hour ride from New York’s Penn station to the tumbling cascades of Niagara but the Maple Leaf’s route is one of the most scenic in the country. Winding its way along the pretty Hudson Valley, you’ll appreciate why so many people choose to commute to Manhattan rather than live in the city. Passing through the state capital Albany and the delightfully named Schenectady, the train turns west to pass through the gorges of the Finger Lakes region. It hugs the border from Buffalo to drop its passengers at Niagara Falls, New York, leaving the train to cross into Canada and on to Toronto, as its name suggests.

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Be sure to request your $25.00 per person discount off these trips!

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The Luxurious Rocky Mountaineer To Launch Its First U.S. Train Journey In 2021 JESS@FriendsTravel.com

Rocky Mountaineer Details Changes to 2021 Season Due to Canada Travel Restrictions

Rocky Mountaineer unveiled changes to its 2021 travel season in reaction to the continuing travel restrictions in Canada and uncertainty. The luxury train company is extending the inaugural season of its new route in the United States, Rockies to the Red Rocks, by four weeks, and delaying the start of its Canadian travel season until June 1, 2021. TBA

“The travel landscape is almost unrecognizable from 17 months ago when we last operated our trains, and much uncertainty remains around when the Canadian and provincial governments will lift the travel and health restrictions that make it impossible for us to welcome guests on board our Canadian routes,” said Armstrong, founder and CEO of Rocky Mountaineer. “We are hopeful the vaccination programs underway in the United States and Canada will soon be sufficient, so we can get back to doing what we do best, which is hosting guests for an incredible experience on board our trains.”

“We also have high hopes for the preview season of our newest rail route in the Southwest USA, Rockies to the Red Rocks,” said Armstrong. “We are seeing a strong interest from travelers with some high-demand dates nearing capacity, and signs are pointing to a strong U.S. domestic travel season for the year ahead. After the challenges of the past year, we truly appreciate the support and interest we are receiving for this route. We are adding more departure dates for 2021 and adding rail cars to each departure, so we can host even more guests throughout the preview season.”

Rockies to the Red Rocks is a two-day train journey between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Co., with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Co. The preview season for the route starts on Aug. 15, 2021 and, with the extension, will run until Nov. 19, 2021. With some departure dates nearing capacity, Rocky Mountaineer is adding rail cars to increase the guest capacity and distancing on all dates and adding 16 new departure dates to the preview season.

For guests affected by the delayed start to travel in Canada, Rocky Mountaineer is offering several benefits, including a future travel credit equivalent to 110 percent of monies paid; holding its 2021 and 2022 rail pricing at 2020 levels; and providing a price guarantee for its vacation packages to ensure travelers can book a similar tour at the same price, once the present force majeure event has passed, even if third-party hotels or tour operators raise their prices. Guests can choose to transfer their booking to the new route in the U.S., Rockies to the Red Rocks, with an added incentive to return to travel on the Canadian routes in the future.

Understanding that some guests may be hesitant to select a new travel date immediately, Rocky Mountaineer has added greater flexibility to its bookings, which allows guests to change their departure dates, or people on the booking, up to 30 days ahead of travel, without charge or penalty. For more information, EMAIL:

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Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips JESS@FriendsTravel.com

Rocky Mountaineer giant picture window and glass ceiling for incredible viewing!

Rocky Mountaineer

Want to leave the driving to someone else! A luxurious journey through the Canadian Rockies aboard one of Rocky Mountaineer‘s comfortable, glass-domed railway cars is your ticket. Choose from several options, like the Canadian Rockies Getaway Circle With Post-Tour Alaska Cruise. This 16-night trip includes four days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer and seven nights on a Glacier Bay Inside Passage cruise on either one our small ships, or large ships.

The journey begins in Vancouver with time to explore and rest. The next morning, you’ll board the Rocky Mountaineer and travel through forests and river canyons to the shores of Kamloops Lake. Up next: Wind your way through the Canadian Rockies to Jasper National Park, then enjoy the scenic Icefields Parkway, which will bring you to the Columbia Icefield. Here, you can ride an Ice Explorer to the middle of Athabasca Glacier. Upon arriving at Lake Louise, you’ll have time to explore before heading to Banff and back to Vancouver.

After a few days of relaxing and touring Vancouver, you’ll hop on the cruise ship and head to the Inner Passage to visit Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Several price options are available for each itinerary, using small ships and large ships, and you can plan your trip:

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USA, Canada, Europe Rail Vacations JESS@FriendsTravel.com

Best Yellowstone National Park Rail Vacations

• Highlights of America’s first national park and its history with the railroads
• Uncover must-see protected natural wonders and scenic highlights
• Discover popular itineraries to this sought-after destination
You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and gain insight from a Rail Specialist at #FriendsTravelWestHollywoodCa90069

The Best of Alaska By Rail

• Alaska’s iconic railways and what you can expect onboard
• Uncover charming towns and natural landscapes that will take your breath away
• Discover itineraries that offer an authentic Alaskan experience
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Canada Rail Vacations
• Key takeaways about Canada rail vacations 
• Discover Canada’s signature trains and their onboard experiences
• Explore popular destinations connected by each route and a variety of bucket list itineraries
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Luxury journeys through the Scottish Highlands onboard the Royal Scotsman. JESS@FriendsTravel.com

#Luxury journeys through the #ScottishHighlands are available onboard the #RoyalScotsman.

Returning soon in 2021 : A luxury train with whisky tastings and castle tours

For fans of the popular television series “#Outlander,” train travel is one of the easiest ways to soak up the sites of the Scottish Highlands.
Since the debut, the number of visitors to the mostly rural northern part of Scotland has increased so much that the rise in tourism is called the “Outlander Effect.”

Come April, fans of the show — or the books on which it’s based — can tour the area in style when the Royal Scotsman begins operating train trips again. Though still months away, many of the early journeys are sold out, while others have only one carriage open.

Privacy on the Royal Scotsman
While the train first launched, its original carriages were replaced with 22 Edwardian-style cabins for journeys ranging from one to seven nights.

The mahogany-paneled dining cars on the Royal Scotsman.

The Royal Scotsman has capacity for just 40 guests, which may be preferable for anyone feeling nervous about traveling with larger numbers of people. Single, twin and double bed cabins with en suite facilities are designed to ensure passengers’ privacy.

In the train’s observation car, guests can go on the open veranda to get an outside glimpse of the passing scenery. They can hear after-dinner storytelling from a Highland clansman, or local music, with a glass of one of the more than 50 different whiskies from the observation car bar.

One of two treatments rooms in the train’s Bamford Haybarn Spa.
The first ‘spa on rails’
If a private cabin and onboard entertainment aren’t enough, the Royal Scotsman has a spa carriage where guests can book treatments like massages and facials. The Bamford Haybarn Spa is the first of its kind aboard an overnight rail journey in Britain.


“When I think of Scotland, walks in the Highlands, fresh air, rushing streams and beautiful heather-covered hillsides come to mind,” said Haybarn founder Bamford. “After a day of exploring the Highlands, guests can enjoy a deeply relaxing experience in the calm and tranquility of the spa.”

The “spa on rails” is a replica of the Bamford Wellness Spa at the Daylesford Organic Farm in the Cotswolds English countryside.

Clans, castles and wizards
The Royal Scotsman departs from Edinburgh Waverly station, with journeys stopping at locations such as the Isles of Bute and Mull.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct, near Scotland’s west coast.

The Royal Scotsman’s five-night “Clans, Castles and Isles” trip passes well-known landmarks, such as Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which featured in the “Harry Potter” movies.

Alnwick Castle, which played part of the setting for Hogwarts, Harry Potter’s school, is on the Royal Scotsman’s “Glorious and Grand — a Private Garden Tour.”

For anyone looking to make the most of the Highland’s great outdoors, other activities include gorge walking, clay pigeon shooting, fishing and golf!

How much it costs?
Tickets aboard the train depend on the journey, which vary by destination, length and, in some instances, topic of the trip.
Scotch enthusiasts can embark on a dedicated five-day tour of Scotland’s renowned distilleries. The tickets, include a year’s membership to the Scotch Malt Whisky Society.

The Royal Scotsman’s journeys aren’t limited to Scotland, with a seven-day “Grand Tour of Great Britain,” which includes guided tours of the Roman ruins of Bath and a steam train trip to Snowdonia National Park

Rates quoted on a per client basis, curated  on the number of days, 1-7 nights, dates, times they are confirmed. All rates are Plus Applicable #DiscountAirfares First, Business or Coach. Private Jet Charters available.

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Most Scenic Train Trips in the USA JESS@FriendsTravel.com

Coast Starlight
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON TO LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Courtesy Amtrak
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic American road trip, but to really get the full effect of the stunning seaside cliffs, take what many call Amtrak’s most beautiful train ride, the Coast Starlight. It’ll take you 36 hours to take the 1,377-mile trip, but you’ll hit all the highlights such as San Francisco Bay, the snow-covered Cascades, and Puget Sound. If you want to travel in style, get the upgraded package with a private sleeper car.

White Pass and Yukon Route Railway
SKAGWAY, ALASKA
Train going through mountains
Credit: emperorcosar/ Shutterstock

This breathtaking 2.5-hour, 40-mile, round-trip train journey will have riders thinking back to a time when prospectors adventured to the Yukon in search of fortune during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. The train leaves Skagway and climbs 3,000 feet in just 20 miles — taking riders past glaciers, mountain lakes, towering trestles, and scenic waterfalls. The White Pass and Yukon Route is a piece of Americana that can’t be missed.


California Zephyr
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS TO SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
Train going through rocky landscape next to the Colorado river
Credit: Ricky Batista/ iStock

The California Zephyr took its maiden trip in 1949 and still draws tons of travelers to this once-in-a-lifetime scenic trip across America’s heartland. The Zephyr comes complete with four vista domes that provide passengers with breathtaking scenery as you pass through the Rockies, across the desert country of Nevada and Utah, and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains in California. This scenic and historic train route promises to showcase the heart of Gold Rush country on its two-day, 2,800-mile rail journey.

Southwest Chief
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS TO LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
Sedona National Park at sunset
Credit: LeStudio/ Shutterstock

Once dubbed the “Train of the Stars,” the Southwest Chief was America’s first all-Pullman sleeping car train. Today, you don’t have to be a celebrity to take the same route between the Windy City and L.A. You can still enjoy a sleeping car and some of the nation’s most iconic sights such as the red cliffs of Sedona, the Grand Canyon, the Rockies, and Arizona’s missions.

The Grand Canyon Railway
GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
Grand canyon railway train
Credit: Ingus Kruklitis/ iStock

You’ll definitely get a feel for the “Wild West” as you take a ride on the restored cars of the Grand Canyon Railway. The 65-mile trip will take you across the high desert to the South Rim of the canyon, offering terrific views of America’s most iconic, natural landmark. The trip features Old West entertainment complete with authentic characters passing on folklore and musicians providing a hand-clapping and foot-stomping good time.

Sunset Limited
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA TO NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
Mountains with golf course in front
Credit: Wildroze/ iStock

You would be hard-pressed to find a train trip with a more diverse slice of the U.S. than the Sunset Limited. This 2,000-mile mega trip includes it all. From the golden deserts of the Southwest to the rugged plains of Texas to Louisiana’s Bayou, the Sunset Limited will be sure to please both train enthusiasts and novices alike. Along the way, the train makes stops in Palm Springs, Phoenix, El Paso, and San Antonio before pulling into the station in New Orleans. So sit back and relax as the panorama of America’s coastal and desert landscapes slides by your window.


Alaska Coastal Classic
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA TO SEWARD, ALASKA
Train tracks going past Chugach mountains
Credit: A&J Fotos/ iStock

Alaska has some of the best scenery around and a cruise isn’t the only way to enjoy its magnificent wildernesses. Hop aboard the Coastal Classic and ride the 114-mile journey from Anchorage to Seward. You’ll have to plan your excursion because the train only runs from mid-May to mid-September. Be on the lookout for bald eagles and whales as the train takes you past the Chugach Mountains and along the Turnagain Arm waterway. Then it’s off into the wilds of the Kenai Peninsula backcountry for fantastic views of ancient glaciers.

Empire Builder
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS TO SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
Empire Builder train going over a bridge
Credit: Loco Steve/ flickr

History buffs will love a ride on the Empire Builder. The route traces parts of the Lewis and Clark Trail from the heart of America to the towering evergreens of the Pacific Northwest. This 46-hour trip is a fantastic way to see a big chunk of the U.S. From Chicago, you’ll cross the mighty Mississippi, see Montana’s Glacier National Park, and pass chug past the Cascade Mountains on your way to Seattle’s Puget Sound.

You may also like: The Most Jaw-Dropping Train Routes in the World

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Be sure to ask about our $25.00 per person discount on any of these rail journeys for 2021-2022

5 Most #Luxurious #Train #Rides #Worldwide JESS@FriendsTravel.com

Whether you ride a bike for exercise, leisure or as a form of transportation, there’s no denying that being on two wheels is fun. It’s so fun, in fact, that cycling has risen in popularity in the past ten years and more people are choosing to commute to work via bicycle.

Nothing channels the Golden Age of Travel quite like a luxury train. There’s something undeniably romantic about falling asleep to the rhythmic sound of the wheels clacking over iron rails and waking up to sun streaming through the window that provides a new but equally fabulous view every morning. If money’s no object for your next rail vacation, which are the world’s most luxurious train rides? Here are our picks for the five best trains on the planet.

The Blue Train, South Africa
Interior of private cabin on The Blue Train

The #Blue #Train links #Pretoria and #CapeTown on a two-night journey of almost a thousand miles. In this, the most opulent of African trains, deluxe suites feature not only en-suite facilities, but a bath tub. It’s the attention to detail that sets this train apart: air conditioning, underfloor heating, marble bathroom, goose down duvets and cotton percale bedding. Luxury suites are even more extravagant. They come with a personal butler, private digital entertainment system and a little extra space. Train Set 1 caters for just 54 guests, while on the days Train Set 2 operates, it accommodates 82 guests and trails a conference compartment and observation car. Every passenger benefits from the onboard WiFi, so it’s as easy as you like to share envy-inducing photos of this incredible train.

You may also like: Stunning Train Stations Around the World
#Belmond #Andean #Explorer, #Peru
Interior view of train with bar and seating

The new kid on the luxury block is Belmond’s Andean Explorer, which links Peru’s two southern belles, Cusco and Arequipa. It launched in May 2017 as South America’s first high end sleeper service, targeting travelers who required only the finest levels of quality and service. Step on board and you enter a world of privilege where the elegant compartments are roomy enough to have their own wardrobe furnished with robe and slippers, and the walls are decorated with linen. But that’s not all: the train has a dedicated spa car, where you can relax with a range of treatments as you cross the Altiplano in style. Try the clay wrap with coca leaves and local flowers. Designed to regenerate and refresh, you’ll step off the train feeling better than ever.

#Venice #Simplon-#Orient #Express, #Europe
Interior view of sleeping cabin on the Venice Simplon-Orient Express

No luxury train epitomizes the glamour of yesteryear quite like the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. This train is an art deco icon, richly furnished with decadent fabrics and antique fixtures and fittings. Cabins are lovingly restored 1920s originals. The Venice Simplon-Orient Express harks back to an era when it was important that wood was polished to a high sheen and staff recognized the importance of etiquette and manners. For many of today’s passengers, enjoyment comes as much from the culinary journey as it does from the scenery glimpsed through the windows. This is a train ride worth dressing up for.

The #Deccan #Odyssey, #India
Interior of train cabin with seating and a bar

Following the success of the Palace on Wheels train, the Maharashtra government and Indian Ministry of Railways have teamed up to bring visitors the Deccan Odyssey. Described as a five-star hotel on wheels, the train offers six spectacular routes taking passengers to some of India’s most captivating cities – Agra for the Taj Mahal, the pink city of Jaipur and Mumbai, the home of Bollywood. There’s no question that passengers are treated like royalty on this train fit for a maharaja – nothing is too much trouble for your own personal attendant. Facilities such as an in-room safe, telephone, en-suite bathroom and air conditioning ensure the focus is on comfort, while the onboard restaurants, bar and even spa pamper to guests’ every need.

The #Ghan, #Australia
The legendary Ghan traverses the Australian continent, effortlessly completing the journey from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north as it has done for 90 years. But what sets this train apart is its varied program of off-train experiences. Package up your journey with a cruise along the Katherine River Gorge, a thrilling flight over Kakadu National Park or the opportunity to visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service Base in Alice Springs. First, though, you’ll need some persuasion to jump off this amazing train and leave behind the luxurious amenities of your Gold Service accommodation, with its en-suite bathroom, high quality bed linen and in-room audio commentary.

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What Type of Traveler Are You?
Wondering what type of rail vacation would suit you best! We have the answers. From fully-guided, escorted tours to independent, solo options and group travel, Rail Vacations has it all. Explore your options below and start planning your next vacation.
We hope to travel with you soon!
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Independent
Customized itineraries that allow you to travel on our your own.
✓ FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE ITINERARIES
✓ TRAVEL AT YOUR OWN PACE
✓ FLEXIBLE DEPARTURE DATES
“I like the freedom and flexibility of traveling on my own.”

Escorted
Travel in a small group on a pre-planned itinerary accompanied by a tour manager.
✓ LED BY A PROFESSIONAL TOUR MANAGER
✓ COMPREHENSIVE DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARIES
✓ SET DEPARTURE DATES

“I like to travel in a small group with other like-minded people and have someone take care of all the planning and details.”
Make your own small group with Family and Friends!

Locally Hosted
Independent travel with access to a local expert for guidance and assistance.
✓ FLEXIBLE, PERSONALIZED ITINERARIES
✓ LOCAL EXPERTISE AND SUPPORT
✓ SET YOUR OWN SCHEDULE
“I’m comfortable traveling on my own, but want access to a local expert if I need help.”
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1. The Flåm Railway, Norway

Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, this 12-mile route takes you from the end of #Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the #Sognefjord, up to the high mountains at #Myrdal station. Along the way, you will pass waterfalls, deep ravines, snow-capped mountains, and high-altitude farms, all while watching the weather shift from sun to rain.  #Flåm Railway, #Norway

2. Geibi Line to Fukuen Line, Japan

You can get a taste of the #Japanese countryside as you travel  from #Hiroshima Station to #Fuchū Station on the #Geibi Line turned #Fukuen Line. The route passes through the mountainous area of the #Chūgoku region, so expect to see stunning bridges and long, dark tunnels cutting through mountains. THINK #SkiNagano 1998 Olympics

3. Bernina Railway, Switzerland to Italy

The trip starts in #StMoritz, #Switzerland on a perfectly sunny day and ends in #Tirano, #Italy via the high-mountain #Bernina Pass. Sit back with an #Italian-style #caffè and watch as the train cuts through picturesque villages and rumbles alongside dizzying cliffs and sparkling blue waters. Along the way, you’ll break a few records — albeit : It is the highest railway alpine crossing in Europe and the highest adhesion railway on the continent. Not bad for a full experience. Think: #SkiItaly and #SkiSwitzerland #JessKalinowsky JESS@FriendsTravel.com

4. Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Colorado, United States

If you’ve ever dreamed of making it to the top of Colorado’s Pikes Peak, which sits 14,115 feet above sea level, here’s your chance. Hop aboard North America’s highest train and join this fast-motion tour. The trip starts at the station in #Manitou #Springs and climbs the well-known peak in a matter of minutes, allowing the viewer to sit back and enjoy the dizzying ride.

5. Belgrade–Bar Railway, Montenegro

You’ll start your journey in the town of #Bar, near the #Adriatic Sea, before passing through the line’s longest tunnel (20,246 feet) and over the highest railway bridge in Europe. After zipping through the country’s impressive mountainous region, end the trip in the town of #Bijelo Polje — 102 tunnels and 96 bridges later.

6. North Wales Coast Line, England to Wales

Travel along the beautiful #Wales coast aboard a #British Rail Class 175, a type of diesel passenger train used in the #United Kingdom. The excursion kicks off in the city of #Chester, England and quickly travels over the border into Wales, passing through lush countryside before hitting the coast and continuing west.

7. Nordland Line, Norway

The adventure starts on the #Trondheim Fjord in Trondheim and only seems to get snowier as you head farther north. Eventually, you virtually pass into the #Arctic Circle before ending in the municipality of #Fauske. If cold and snow don’t sound appealing, you can experience the trip in one of the other three seasons! But winter is memorably mesmerizing!

8. Ferrocarril Central Andino, Peru

Often considered to be one of the world’s most scenic railroads, the #Ferrocarril Central Andino links the #Pacific port of Callao and the capital city of #Lima with #Huancayo and Cerro de Pasco. This four-part journey begins in #Chosica and ends near the #Galera railway station in the #Andes. In part one, you’ll traverse the massive #Puente Carrión bridge; part two climbs from #Matucana to #San Mateo, one of the most scenic parts of the line; part three takes travelers over the #Puente Infiernillo bridge, which passes through a tight canyon with high rock walls on either side; and finally, part four lets you travel virtually through one of the world’s highest railroad tunnels.

9. 7 Express Line, New York, United States

If you find yourself strangely missing the familiar sounds of your commute, this cab-view video of the New York City subway will scratch the itch. The 7 Express Line (#Flushing Express) travels from #Queens to #Manhattan, providing outside and underground views along the way. And if you’re into trains, keep in mind that this footage was shot on one of the line’s R62A trains, which have since been returned to the 6 train. #NewYorkCIty is truly an amazing destination!

10. Sarajevo–Ploče Railway, Bosnia and Herzegovina

You can explore the #Balkan country of #Bosnia and #Herzegovina by train, thanks to this cab-view. Starting in #Čapljina, you’ll dip into #Croatia quickly before crossing the border back into Bosnia and Herzegovina and ending your trip in the country’s capital, #Sarajevo. Home of the #XIV #Olympic Winter #Games, 1984. A good portion of the journey follows the #Neretva River and passes through tight, mountainous terrain and over the #Bradina Pass. Think #Sarajevo for skiing!

11. South Western Railway, England

You’ll start your  journey on the #London #Underground at #London #Waterloo station and then head west, eventually dropping south toward #Southampton and ending at Southampton Central station. Along the way, you’ll see the London skyline before moving into the vibrant, green countryside.

12. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado, United States

This historic line takes travelers from one mountain town to another, traveling over a high-alpine mountain pass to get there. This three-part tour offers guests a  ride on the three-foot-wide narrow-gauge heritage railroad as it traverses over 45 miles between #Durango and #Silverton. During part one, enjoy the breathtaking journey along a narrow ledge cut into a sheer cliff face far above the #Animas River; in part two, the train chugs high up into the Colorado mountains; and in part three, it heads down the mountain pass into the Wild West town of Silverton.

13. Wengernalp Railway, Switzerland

Enjoy a perfectly clear driver’s-eye view of the stunning route from #Lauterbrunnen to #Kleine Scheidegg. You’ll cross pretty #Swiss villages and tree-covered slopes as you climb up into the mountains, eventually passing views of snow-covered mountains and deep valleys. THINK : #SkiSwitzerland! #JessKalinowsky JESS@FriendsTravel.com

#Jungfrau Railway train station at #Wengernalp, #Swiss Alps, #Canton #Bern, #Switzerland

JESS@FriendsTravel.com

I lived in #Germany for six years, with my Uncle Sam, and became intimately familiar with #European Rail Travel. I have been fortunate to have ridden the Orient Express several times. THINK: #EuropeSkiTrips #SkiItaly #SkiSwitzerland #SkiSarajevo #JessKalinowsky JESS@FriendsTravel.com

#CanadaViaRailVacations #FriendsTravelWestHollywoodCa90069 #JessKalinowsky JESS@FriendsTravel.com

#CanadaViaRailVacations #FriendsTravelWestHollywoodCa90069

EMAIL #JessKalinowsky JESS@FriendsTravel.com

From the Pacific shores of downtown Vancouver to the Atlantic lighthouses of Halifax, VIA Rail provides coast to coast, long and short haul rail service to Canada’s busiest centers and most beautiful regions. Short-haul services connecting Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City offers leisure and business travelers alike, fast and efficient service between some of Canada’s largest cities. On board services in economy and business class complete a set of offerings to match any budget and desired comfort level. Long-haul trains connecting Halifax & Montreal and Toronto & Vancouver reflect the system’s longer routes with economy seating or sleeper compartments complete with freshly prepared meals, domed lounge cars and on board entertainment.  #ViaRailCanada JESS@FriendsTravel.com 24|7|365

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Passenger train along #Moose Lake in #Jasper National Park, #Alberta, Canada.     EMAIL #JessKalinowsky JESS@FriendsTravel.com 24|7|365