Off And Away On a Long Train Ride!
There is perhaps no mode of transport that is as romantic as traveling by train. Train trips are one of the oldest and most well-known ways of getting from A to B, and can be a spectacular way to see a country. You can take a train for a one-off trip, like going across the swathe of the US, or you can use train trips throughout your whole holiday, hopping on and off when you wish to see a particular site or city.
Now, going on a train journey does not signify just hopping onto any or every train. Some sort of planning is required beforehand. Also, trains do not run so frequently in all places in the world. African countries have trains that run only weekly, but they are more frequent in the Western countries. Again, in countries like Africa, there is a sole starting point to get in and alight from. So, depending on which country you wish to travel in, conduct some research beforehand. Take a look at local guides which prove to be quite comprehensive where dates, places of departure and timings of trains are concerned. Or browse the Internet for train timetables.
I have been on very few train trips where I have been ticketless before getting on board. No railway companies like passengers to get on without usually purchasing a ticket beforehand. In India, you may just get away without paying if you enjoy riding on the roof, but in many countries fines are high for without a valid ticket. The same rule applies for second-class passengers trying to ride in first-class carriages without a proper ticket.
Unlike underdeveloped countries, train journeys are highly affordable in developing countries. It is only in the US and certain parts of Europe that traveling by first class is costly. In other areas, a normal wage earner can easily afford to travel by first class. The comforts are greater and the journey more pleasant! The authorities have come forward with certain changes to make traveling cheaper and more pleasurable. If train tickets are bought in advance or the duration of the journey is short, the ticket’s price ticket may come down. Other factors that play a role in cheaper tickets are age of the person, the day on which he/she is traveling and the time of the journey. These tickets can be purchased at a discount, at the station itself or on the Net. As a matter of fact, tickets that allow one to roam at will anywhere you want, are well worth the price they are sold at! But it is advisable to seek a travel agent’s help when wishing to purchase discounted tickets so that you do not get taken for a “ride”!
On long train trips, find out in advance if food and drink are available. On board catering should be available on the timetable, and sometimes there is a dining car on board the train. If none are available, don’t overlook the possibilities of station restaurants, though if you are travelling in a developing country, exercise caution with both the food and drink at all times. There is nothing quite as bad as being ill on a moving train over a long journey.
People tend to make their train journeys unpleasant by lugging too much of luggage with them. They believe that porters being there to help with the luggage, it is quite alright. What they forget is that the journey itself can become unpleasant if one has to sit, surrounded with loads of luggage. It is universally believed that one should travel light. What is absolutely necessary is to be carried, bearing the climatic conditions and the duration of the journey in mind.
There are not many railway-less countries, and the possibilities for train trips are limitless. Don’t just stick to the well-known routes. Branch out and see what you can discover.
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