Asia: Mongolia to Tibet by train – Overland from Ulaanbaatar to Lhasa
Departing Ulaanbaatar’s central station in early morning, the train crosses Mongolia’s Gobi region into China late in the day. A 30-hour sightseeing layover in Beijing preceeds the journey’s final leg. Thinning air marks the last day’s dawn and the sight of Tibetan prayer flags signals the approach to Lahasa. [stuff.co.nz]
Canada: Riding the Sweet, But So Slow, Skeena Train
If it weren’t for VIA Rail’s Skeena train being declared an essential service in 1990, the route would have disappeared decades ago. The truncated passenger train that travels from Prince George to B.C.’s northwest coast three times a week is dwarfed by the freight trains that dominate these tracks. [thetyee.ca]
Middle East: 11 delightful day trips on the Israel Railways train
Israel Railways lines are expanding and improving every day. Now, more than ever, you can visit different corners of the country solely by train. [israel21c.org]
Asia: Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by train: see southern Malaysia’s rural charm at a gentle pace
Direct rail services between the Lion City and Kuala Lumpur ended in 2011, but it is still possible to cover almost all of the famous route by train. The first leg of the journey takes passengers past shimmering green plantations and through small towns with rows of ageing Chinese shophouses. [scmp.com]
Travelling by train in Europe – with kids
Sometimes travel can be more about the journey than the destination, as Caroline Hennessy and her family discovered when they took a 13-hour overnight journey from San Sebastián to Lisbon to check out the Trenhotel experience. [irishexaminer.com]
Asia: 5 unforgettable train trips through Japan
Tourism to the Land of the Rising Sun has skyrocketed in recent years. To keep clear of the crowds while still seeing the can’t-miss sights, set up a Japan Rail Pass. Then, soak in hot springs, slurp ramen, and see the sights on these thematic rail journeys. [nationalgeographic.com]
