Railroad Trips
All about Railroad trips, worldwide.

Whether you are from overseas or from New Zealand – one of the best ways to discover New Zealand is by Train travel.You can travel by train between all three major New Zealand Cities from Auckland to Wellington and from Wellington to Christchurch (with a little bit of help from the Interislander Ferry).

The Overlander Train between Auckland and Wellington and vice versa

The famous Overlander train is easily the best way to get from downtown Auckland to the city of Wellington, in one worry-free journey – with various interesting stops along the way – one being at the Tongariro National Park. This is the longest train travel in New Zealand and takes approx 12 hours to complete, across the whole interior of the North Island in one single day. The Overlander train journey will take you from coastlines to mountains, from lush and green farmland to thick and beautiful native New Zealand.

Tranzcoastal Train connects Picton and Christchurch

Before you get to Picton on the South Island you need to take the ferry across Cook Strait. Passengers due to take the Tranzcoastal train from Picton to Christchurch can check their baggage through to Christchurch in Wellington – this makes things super easy and you only need to carry hand luggage onto the ferry and the Tranzcoastal train. The Tranzcoastal train has comfortable carriages with four seats around a table. All carriages have big panoramic windows to allow you to view the scenery along the east coast of the South Island. The train also has a caf? bar carriage offering snacks and drinks and some meals along the way. There is a full length open viewing platform on the Tranzcoastal train – ideal to make the most of your Train travel New Zealand. The Tranzcoastal train operates all year round, once daily in each direction – the journey takes approximately 5 hours to complete. If you wish to stop over for a night or two in Kaikoura to experience the world famous whale watch tour or go swimming with the Dolphins you have to break the journey up in Kaikoura!

Tranzalpine Train connects Christchurch and the Westcoast of theSouth Island

The train journey from Christchurch via Arthurs Pass to Greymouth is perhaps the most scenic train journey in New Zealand. This train also runs once daily between Christchurch, Arthur’s Pass and Greymouth on the South Island’s west coast. It is a journey through the magical misty mountain scenery of the Southern Alps and best taken during the winter months to view that majestic snow capped mountain peaks.Special fares available all year round. The Tranzalpine travels once a day in both directions.

The Taieri Gorge Railway Track & Trail link from Dunedin to Queenstown

Another highly recommended train travel New Zealand is the Taieri Gorge Railway between Dunedin and Queenstown on the South Island. The Track & Trail link Taieri Gorge Railway is a well preserved railway running daily all year round taking visitors and locals through spectacular scenery over parts of the old Dunedin-Cromwell branch railway and ends at Pukerangi which is about 58km from Dunedin. A minibus connection then takes passengers to Queenstown. This train service is highly recommended.

So ditch the plane ticket in favour of train travel New Zealand – you would be crazy to waste such a superb opportunity!

Tarmac-bound at high speed, by Rosie Ramsden

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AJ Hackett opened the world’s highest sky jump, a plunge off the 233m outer rim of the Macau Tower, in 2006. You, too, can jump off the Macau Tower – if, that is, you fancy plunging towards tarmac at a hundred kilometers an hour.

A hybrid of bungee jump and skydiving, the sky jump is a controlled aerial journey involving no rebound or hanging upside down, which ends with a gentle landing at the base of the tower. The system is regulated by a cable brake and the fall takes 14 seconds. The inaugural jump was completed by Mr. Hackett, from New Zealand, on 17th December 2006. His career as a sky-jump installation tester began on that day and thankfully can continue, due to his having got his sums right.

Dare-devils are clad in specially tailored suits and connected to three cables, so ensuring absolute safety. At approximately 10 metres above the ground, the cable drum switches down-gear to allow for a soft landing. Unlike a bungee jump, Sky Jump is a controlled aerial journey, so you won’t bounce back and you won’t end up upside down. There is also no chance of the cable wrapping itself around your neck, as has happened to at least one bungee jumper.

I had a great experience at Macau’s Great Tower and would like to share it with you. When my Dad asked me what I wanted to do on his day off in Macau, I said I wanted to see the sights, one of which is the Macao Tower. I didn’t know about the jump, so you can imagine my surprise when I looked up to see someone plunging earthwards from the top. “Wow? Dad! That’s amazing. I want to have a go” I said, tugging at his shirt, as I realized what was happening. “I thought you would,” he said as he fished for his wallet. A little later, as an attendant helped me into a harness and tightened the straps, I watched the orange jumpsuits walk around the outside deck as if they were training for a moon-walk. A Chinese man got suited up before me and I watched him enter the crew pit, then be guided outside to where the jump gate is located. A crew member grabbed the “Big Man” (a long, thick set of cables wrapped together in material) and hooked it to a loop on the man’s back. After the checklist he guided the man to the gate.

He told the jumper that at 50 feet he would stop his fall to take a photo and asked that the jumper look back up at him. The man nodded in agreement, looking as though he didn’t trust himself to speak for fear of emitting an un-macho squeak. The attendant opened the door and led the man to the edge. He didn’t hesitate and was gone in seconds. I doubted whether I would be so brave. I felt adrenaline entering my heart as I took a deep breath, trying to control the mounting fear of knowing it was my turn. I stepped outside. Out on the deck, the crew member said “Don’t worry, Losie, it’s safe”, pronouncing my name in the usual Asian way. Its used to find it sooooo annoying that Asian’s can’t pronounce my name “Rosie”, but I changed my attitude when our Filipina nanny pointed out that I couldn’t pronounce her name properly either. He yelled back the checklist and asked me, “Are you ready?” But he wasn’t really after an answer and so didn’t give me time to open my mouth and say:

“NO, Definitely not, I’ve changed my mind, don’t bother about a refund, I want to go down the slow way. I mean, I can’t feel any wings sprouting out of my shoulders, so I can’t possibly fly, right, so this is lunacy. I might be a young British female, but DO I LOOK LIKE A B***** BIRD ?

He opened the gate and told me to put my hands on the top bar of the railing as the gate swung open in front of me. I did, but realized I really had changed my mind and was not going to jump – no way, José. “Look over there, Losie, look at Hong Kong” the crew member said, pointing at where my sister had been born. “You’ll be fine. Trust me” he assured me. “No. This does not feel right. I do not want to do this,” I said, standing at the edge with the gate wide open.

The crew member attempted to reassure me, closing the gate and talking some calm back into me. I didn’t hear him – the only thought filling my mind, heightened by the blood throbbing almost audibly in my temples, was that jumping off the tower was suicidal. Life suddenly seemed even more precious than previously, I was far too young and thought myself much too beautiful to die. Besides, I’d never had any children, never been rock-climbing in Krabi, never seen a sunset from Annapurna base camp, only seen Boyzone in concert nineteen times.

This felt very different from jumping out of an airplane in Australia. That had seemed only slightly daft, as the airoplane was perfectly serviceable and I had no particularly pressing appointments on the ground. The crew member continued to try to reassure me “Come on Losie, you don’t want to come this far and turn back”, he said.

Before I could give voice to my objections I heard the sound of cheering and realized that everyone on the top floor had gathered behind us and was cheering me on. “Please don’t do that,” I said, waving feebly at them while smiling wanly. More afraid of the embarrassment of turning back than of the dangers of proceeding, I turned round, faced the open expanse and leaned forward. The cable stopped after 50 feet for the attendant to take my photo. “Look at me,” he yelled from above as I hung suspended below. “I can’t,” I yelled back, “My head doesn’t turn that far. It’s impossible, my neck’s not long enough. Who can do that, anyway? I mean, how many giraffes do you get jumping off this thing?” The cable was released and I started a pleasurable descent, slowing down about 30 feet from the bottom and landing softly on my feet, right on target. Dad’s eyes were the first things I saw as I hit the landing pad. He was laughing a somewhat nervous laugh, presumably relieved it was all over. I suddenly realized how much he loves me, that he was willing to put up with watching me do something that must have scared him witless.

 Our driver Andrew greeted me at the exit. “You crazy lady. Your Dad say you no like be high, why you jump?” he asked. “Because I wanted to beat the fear” I said. Today, the spectators on the top floor had given me the courage to jump by shaming me into banishing the fear. Andrew asked Dad why he didn’t jump too. “I have no desire to do things like that,” he replied. “I’m old enough not to need to bother with proving things.” What is brave? To jump or not to jump. Which is braver? She who jumps or he who jumps not? AJ Hackett once chided reporters. “You must jump before reporting,” he said. So, now, after having completed the same feat, I feel I have earned the right to ask, “If you are young, do you have what it takes? If not, is the only reason that you wouldn’t do it that you feel you don’t need to bother?”

Whilst in Thailand, why not visit one of the country’s currently best three beach destinations:

Koh Lao Liang: http://www.andamanadventures.com/kohlaoliang.shtml

Ao Nang: http://www.andamanadventures.com/ao_nang.shtml

Railay/Tonsai: http://www.andamanadventures.com/railay-tonsai.shtml

Europe travel is a dream for some budget travelers. Even though the costs of Europe travel have increased these few years, European travel can still be affordable, for budget travelers, independent travelers, college students and families.

One of the most popular budget travel tip for your Europe travel is to get a rail pass that matches your budget and travel requirements. When choosing between rail passes, always consider your travel destinations even before you leave to go for your Europe travel.

Some rail passes are only valid for one country, while some other rail passes can be used for all European countries (for a specific period of time). If your budget travel only covers one country, then get the single country pass.

If you plan to spend a considerable amount of time in Europe, you will probably want to visit many different locations. So check out the rail pass that is valid for a longer period of time. It will be much cheaper for your Europe travel if you get those extended-length rail passes if you plan to stay in Europe for quite a while.

It is a good idea to get the European rail passes before leaving home. Most travel agents can help you buy European rail passes, as well as providing advice on which type of rail pass best suits your needs. AAA provides valuable information on European rail passes. You can get the passes from them and may even score some discounts. You’d never know!

European rail passes are also available on the Internet from a number of sources. You may opt to purchase a European rail pass directly from these sources. Double check to make sure that you get your rail passes before you leave for your budget travel to Europe. It may take longer than expected to reach you, so be sure to get this done promptly.

Another important point is that many trains in Europe require a reservation. Holding a rail pass does not mean that you have a reservation. You must make a reservation on the train you want as soon as possible after arriving in Europe, or ask about making one before you leave home.

It is also important to remember that many overnight trains will require an additional reservation, and extra money for sleeping compartments. This is very important especially if you are boarding a long distance train. Always ask about the sleeping facilities that are available when making your reservation.

Europe travel by train is hugely popular within Europe. It is comfortable, fast, safe and most importantly, at a reasonable cost. Traveling to Europe doesn’t have to be stressful on your wallet. You can still travel without blowing your set budget.

America has always been in love with passenger rail. Now more than ever train travel on is a viable alternative way to travel. The nation’s premier National Passenger Rail Service will get you safely to your destination. Trains have always been an exciting way to see the country. Especially in these turbulent times of high gas prices it just makes plain sense to use this mode of transportation. The train company’s sole purpose is to provide their passengers with a very safe and quite enjoyable travel experience by rail.

If you are planning to travel for an extended period of time you can bring along your laptop or your favorite best seller to pass away the time. You can simply just relax and enjoy the moment if your prefer, the decision is yours to make.

There are many additional advantages to train travel. Experienced travelers by rail will tell you that they enjoy the convenience and the hassle-free way to travel. As far as daily commuting is concerned, with rail service you will in most cases arrive at a downtown location. This virtually eliminates the hassle of having to waste more time transferring to get there like you would have to with other forms of transportation.

Moreover, riding on the train means that you can roam around the train, meet new people, and have a meal, see America as you have never seen her before, or even enjoy a nice cocktail if you choose. The bottom line is that you have many favorable options when you decide to travel by rail.

Children will also enjoy the train travel experience and will have many memorable moments to share upon their return home. And you as a parent will be able to relax knowing that your children are right there with you enjoying the trip by rail. You can keep them busy by bringing coloring books, computer games, or mp players and toys etc.

Did you know also that you can take ride on the Auto-train and bring your car with you onboard as well? There is excellent daily service from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida. When you arrive at the Florida location you will have your very own personal vehicle that eliminates the need to rent an automobile. You will be impressed with the pampering service on board the train that you will receive by the train attendants. It is one of train company’s most successful routes. Take a trip and you will quickly learn why?

Whether you are a seasoned business traveler on the Acela Express riding between Boston and Washington or traveling to the west coast on the Capitol Corridor service enroute on your very first cross travel trip you will definitely enjoy the service and beautiful scenery. While you are traveling cross country you can even enjoy the dining car and experience freshly prepared meals while you are onboard.

If you are planning a vacation you can opt to book one of the train vacation plans. It doesn’t really matter whether you are planning to take a long trip or just an impulsive ride. Rail travel is the most enjoyable way to see America. You can travel to the hundreds of cities that they serve like Boston, New Orleans, Chicago or California.

Reservations are required for all First Class, Business, and sleeper services.

You owe it to yourself and your family to give rail travel a try the very next time you have a need to travel. All-Aboard!

Train travel in India has progressed through the years in many ways. Earlier on, there were a select few trains that took you across the country with one or two bogey types i.e. chair car or sleeper. You had little choice since train travel in India was very basic once upon a time.

However, today train travel has in some cases gone beyond the satisfaction of air travel. The cause of this was luxury trains in India that changed the entire scenario of how people viewed train travel in India. Train travel was once considered the mode of transport for the common man. Today, the rich are signing up to travel in luxury trains like Palace on Wheels that give you a wholesome train experience amidst the luxurious interiors of customized and hand crafted bogeys that include lavish and ornate upholstery and accessories. Add to this, services of a personalized butler, a dining car, bar, salon and other extras. It’s no wonder that luxury trains have gained so much popularity in the world of train travel not only with Indians but also foreigners who come from across the world to experience a ride in one of the luxury trains. In fact, the Palace on Wheels is usually fully booked at least two seasons in advance and it is pretty difficult to get a booking.

So, how does one go about finding out more details of luxury trains in India? The online train ticket booking facility by IRCTC, offers the  traveller the convenience getting all the information online, in one go without the hassle of standing in long queues. IRCTC stands for Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited and is the Government of India’s train tickets’ booking service. You can find information on all types of trains on their website including festival special trains, luxury trains, passenger trains and more. IRCTC is a great reference source for details.

The next time you’re thinking about taking a train journey, do it in style. Take a ride on one of India’s luxury trains where you will be treated like royalty, with every demand and request being met. You will get an experience of a lifetime.

Are you thinking about exploring the countryside by train? You may want to keep in mind that there are plenty of places that you can travel by train to see the sites, but you will also want to think about some of the other types of transportations that are available to you. You’ll find that seeing the country side by train will show the area’s natural beauty. You will also find that when you are chugging along inside a passenger car you can see hours of scenery within the comfortable and warmth of a train car.

You will be able to relax by sitting in a padded seat and you will also want to take a pillow and blanket to make your ride even more comfortable. You will also be able to get food from the food cart and all of the other goods that will make your ride even more comfortable. You will find that there are major cities in America that are close together that you will want to take a train, however, this might be something that you have already done, but there are plenty of cities and countryside that you can see while taking a train in Europe.

When it comes to Europe, you will even find that the train system is highly used to get you from one place to another. You will find that there are major train systems like the Euro rail and the Britrail for those who are traveling in the United Kingdom. In addition, you will find that the Eurorail is located throughout the entire continent.

You will be able to go to Paris and see all of the attractions and then you can spend time on the training waiting to see some more of the best sites of Europe. If you are thinking about traveling all over Europe, you will want to think about taking the train. It is a beautiful way of getting around all the different countries. You will pass some of the unique cities located in Europe, but you will also be able to get off the train and go to the beach and then get back on the train and have drinks in another city. The train system in Europe is where you are going to be able to make a lot of memories.

When you are done with your trip, you can always hop on a train and get to a city with an airport for your departure back to the States. However, you cannot leave Europe without going to Amsterdam. You will want to eat some of the famous foods from the area like fries with mayo or Dutch croquettes. You will also see things like the famous Heineken brewery, but also famous historical places like where Anne Frank lives. You will find that there are many things that you can see and do in Amsterdam and it is the one place of Europe that everyone needs to see, but you will find that everything that you could ever want to see, you can get there by taking a train.

You will find that traveling by a train you will be able to maximize your experiences and see more sites. You will be able to travel well when you take the train regardless of rather you are in America or Europe. You will find that there are plenty of cultures and other things that you will be able to see and experience, but do not forgot that beautiful countryside that you will see.