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Ditch planes and switch to trains - but where should you go?

Written on : 11 March 2020
By : Jake Varga
Ditch planes and switch to trains - but where should you go?

There is something ironic about packing a designer suitcase to head to an ultra-luxurious villa somewhere across the world when the way to get there is an uncomfortable (often budget airline) plane. However, this irony can be easily smoothed out. Reducing one’s air milage is a common conversation to have in 2020, as travellers become more aware of the environmental impact of flying. There is the obvious thought process that swapping your emission-heavy flight to an alternative like trains is a positive, eco-conscious approach to travelling. Although, there is so much more value than that. Exploring the diversity of different countries by rail poses as an opportunity. Let’s face it, the only memories you will often make from catching a flight is delays, turbulence and terrible aeroplane food. It’s time to open our eyes to what interrailing truly has to offer in order to enjoy a trip of a lifetime.

Top 5 reasons to swap to train travel

Top 5 reasons to swap to train travel

1. Ultimate Freedom

We look to book a holiday to a land far away in order to escape the mundaneness of our daily routine. But, there is nothing worse than following orders through airport security and being locked into your seat on your flight like you otherwise would be at your desk at work. The joy of travelling by train is being able to hop on and off as and when you like. Especially if you choose to buy an interrail pass - unlimited train tickets equal unlimited freedom.
 

2. Indescribable Views

Arguably, the most incredible way to experience the beauty of a country’s natural landscape is to travel by train and observe the transition of different terrains as you go. One moment you will be enjoying the luscious green forests and then you will emerge from a tunnel to discover pearly white beaches. Spectacles like this are incomparable to the likes of planes (as they are too high) and cars (because they are too slow). These indescribable views are reason enough to travel by rail and are almost enough to make you feel content if you returned straight home.
 

3. Sustainability

While we are sure that you are just as passionate about travelling the world as we are, the way we do so cannot continue the way it is. Aeroplanes, unfortunately, are one of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions. So switching your mode of transportation now and again (or even permanently) can make a huge difference to the environment.
 

4. A reason for foodies

If plastic cups and microwaved lasagnas sound familiar to you, then you might have had the misfortune of dining (if you can call it that) midflight. Honestly, plane food is not all that bad - some can be surprisingly delicious. But why run the risk? On the other hand, if you find yourself travelling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express or the Golden Eagle then you will be able to enjoy the finest cuisine out there. You won’t be restricted when you decide to eat or drink, unlike when flying, meaning you can really begin to enjoy your getaway.
 

5. Smooth Operators

While trains are frequent, the sheer volume of flights leaving any major airport is always bound to cause a number of delays and cancellations. This can cause great problems when you are expected to check in to your villa only a few hours after your scheduled landing. Thankfully train schedules run a little smoother meaning that there is a much lower likelihood that any delays should eat into your holiday time.

Our most recommended routes

Our most recommended routes

The Riviera Railway

Dropping you from one idyllic holiday town to another in 90 minutes, the Riviera Raleway. If spending a day at the beach is not giving you as much exposure to the beauty of the French Riviera as you would like, why not ride a train along the coast and discover the incredible town of Ventimiglia just across the Italian Border. This train is in optimal proximity If you decide to rent a luxury villa in Cannes. Jump aboard, enjoy the panoramic views and even stop off in Nice along the way if you so wish.
 

Lusitania Trainhotel

If you are intending on cramming a variety of destinations into your trip, a night train from Lisbon may be the perfect way to experience interrailling while freeing up more time in the day. This train runs from the quaint sky-blue coloured Santa Apolonia station in Lisbon, all the way to Madrid, Spain. Where this route lacks in gorgeous blue azure from the Riviera, it makes up with the mountainous terrain which looks spectacular at sunset.
 

Glacier Express

If deep blues and burnt oranges are not the colours you are looking for from your carriage window, consider the crystal whites outside the train between Switzerland’s most scenic skiing destinations. The Glacier Express doesn’t only offer snow-capped mountains, you can also enjoy the day-long journey and look out to find mountain lakes and charming Swiss villages. Looking for some variety after a few days straight of skiing? Leave your Chalet behind for a while and begin a newer adventure.


>>> Summer 2020: Our final stop to discover the Atlantic coast