Tag: Train

The New Maya Train Will Launch From Cancun To This Mega Popular Beach Town By The End Of February

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 4 mins ago

The Maya Train has forever changed the way tourists approach travel in the Mexican Caribbean since launching last December.

In a way, it’s greatly diversified transportation options in the region, where taxi monopolies operate and local buses cannot always be trusted to be on time.

Prior to the launch, we expected all lines to open simultaneously, but as you should know by now if you’ve visited Mexico since, that did not materialize.

Thanks to construction delays, the train is being inaugurated in steps, and service from Cancun to Palenque is the only one available.

Luckily, some progress is being made, and starting February 29, a second line will be added to the Maya Train, linking Cancun to this mega-popular beach town:

A Beautiful Laid-Back Town In The Caribbean

Playa Del Carmen is one of the trendiest destinations in the Mexican Caribbean.

Located only an hour south of Cancun, it is traditionally seen as a more laid-back alternative to the bustling resort city that captures nearly half of all foreign arrivals to the country.

While Cancun’s greatest strength is its all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts, Playa’s appeal lies in a youthful, full-of-character beachfront, with its hippy markets and a myriad of casual beach bars and well-frequented discotecas catering to a more diverse audience.

If you’re hoping to meet like-minded travelers or locals and chat over cheap drinks in an internationalized, safe environment, or simply relax on the white sands as you sip on some fresh coconut and admire the tropical view, this is the place to be.

Playa’s days as a quaint settlement on the shores of the Caribbean may be long gone since the first luxury resorts and American expats arrived some decades ago, but as it is much smaller than Cancun – 304,942 permanent residents against 888,797 – it can feel less chaotic.

With the exception of Quinta Avenida, the main pedestrian thoroughfare and busiest street in town, lined by restaurants, quirky art galleries, and souvenir shops, the town is relatively quiet, with verdant residential areas and endless miles of coast begging to be discovered.

Some of the top attractions in Playa are Parque Fundadores’ Mayan Portal, possibly the most beautiful gateway to a beach you’ll ever see, the club-packed Calle 10, your nightlife spot after sundown, and Mamitas Beach, where the white sands unfold along a turquoise ocean.

Why Is The Maya Train To Playa Del Carmen Delayed?

Seeing it is one of the trendiest spots in the Mexican Caribbean, it’s no surprise it’s been added to the Maya Train railway map, but like many Playa-bound travelers, we were negatively surprised late last year upon learning the route wasn’t opening as planned in time for the tourist season.

Since December, the only service available is westbound, traveling towards Merida, then down to San Francisco de Campeche, two of the most traditional colonial cities in Mexico, before terminating in Palenque, the furthest stop from Cancun.

Strangely enough, the most highly-anticipated route, the one traveling along the southeast coast of Yucatan, calling at the nearby leisure destinations of Puerto Morelos, Playa Del Carmen itself, Tulum, and many more gorgeous beach zones, did not launch this winter.

We know as well as you do that waiting for ADO inter-municipal buses that may, or may not depart on time, or booking overpriced private transfers from Cancun International Airport can cause a lot of stress, especially when you’ve flown all the way to sunny Mexico for a relaxing vacation.

The train is set to make multi-destination trips across the Mexican Caribbean easier and safer to plan, as trains typically run on time, and the Maya Train in particular has been touted as one of the safest transportation modes in the world.

Regrettably, the wait has been longer than predicted, and this has led to some confusion among regular tourists who do not follow every single Maya Train development daily, and landed in Cancun only to find out some rail links are still unavailable.

From February 29, the long-delayed line is finally opening, at least partially.

On The Downside…

From this date onward, the train will depart from Cancun, calling at Puerto Morelos, before coming to a halt in Playa Del Carmen. For those hoping to continue the journey toward Tulum, however, the news isn’t nearly as exciting.

The other service was originally set to be up and running by June 2 at the earliest, coinciding with Mexico’s general elections, but as reported by local news outlets, a judge has ordered ‘stop‘ to an extension from Playa Del Carmen to Tulum.

The new blow to Maya Train enthusiasts comes after a number of environmental groups revealed cenotes and underground waters were being polluted as a result of the driving of pillars along the planned railway, and it’s unlikely construction will resume anytime soon.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) himself conceded ‘section 5 south’, namely the stretch from Playa Del Carmen to Tulum, is ‘one of the most challenging‘ due to the nature of the terrain, and pushbacks on the part of environmentalists.

For now, trains from Cancun to Playa Del Carmen are going ahead, with an inaugural journey set for later this month and complete operationalization this spring.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

[ad_2]

Source link

February 19, 2024
5 Incredible Destinations You Can Visit From Cancun On The Maya Train Right Now

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 12 mins ago

The Maya Train is the greatest infrastructure project to have been launched in Mexico in years. Traveling on a loop around the Yucatan Peninsula and as far southwest as Palenque, it has greatly improved connectivity between some of the country’s top tourist sites since its launch last December.

These include Cancun, the bustling resort zone on the Caribbean coast, party capital and archaeological zone, all-in-one Tulum, and even charming lesser-known spots like Bacalar, best known for its multicolored lake, and Merida, a hugely historical city with preserved colonial architecture.

Unfortunately, not all of the Maya Train’s planned lines are up and running, and some tourists have been noticeably disappointed when landing in Cancun, hoping to catch a scenic train down to the nearest beach town, only to find out some stations are not open yet.

The project is only expected to be finished this upcoming March at the earliest – knowing Mexico, there will probably be additional delays – so if you’re flying to the Mexican Caribbean this winter and you’re keen on testing out this brand new railway, where exactly can you go?

Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, and much of the Riviera Maya are not available as Maya Train destinations right now, but you can still travel to these five incredible spots (in this exact order):

Chichen Itza

Officially the most visited tourist attraction in all of Mexico, Chichen Itza is now more accessible than ever, hosting its very own Maya Train station.

This means it is no longer necessary for tourists to book expensive day tours or pay exorbitant transfer fees when visiting the archaeological complex.

That’s great news already, but if you’re not familiar with the historical site, you may be wondering what it is about Chichen Itza that makes it so special: to put it simply, it stands among the best-preserved and most impressive ancient cities known to mankind.

With a towering step pyramid, richly-decorated temples depicting unique carvings, and a number of sacred cenotes – sinkholes filled with the bluest of waters previously used as sacrificial chambers – it is one of 7 New Wonders of the World, and a surviving symbol of the erstwhile Mayan civilization.

Izamal

Competing for the title of most Instagrammable small town in Mexico, if not the entire world, Izamal is a charming cobbled settlement a stone’s throw away from the larger city of Merida, easily distinguished by its endless rows of bright-yellow-painted houses.

The Maya Train also calls here, and if you do choose to hop off for the day, some of the main sights that may interest you other than the picturesque streets include the lesser-known Mayan pyramid of Kinich Kak Moo and the massive Convent of San Antonio de Padua.

This yellow-washed gem – in line with the city’s overall theme – was one of the first built by the Spanish in the New World, at a time when most of Mexico was still a colony, and its central Atrium is second in size only to the Vatican’s.

Merida

Next on the Maya Train line, you’ll find Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan (named after the peninsula), and possibly one of the prettiest cities in the country, famous for its stunning Spanish-era architecture and multicultural heritage.

It is a city of two conflicting cultures, Mayan and Spanish, with many of the historical buildings you see standing today being, in fact, built out of disassembled, far older pre-Columbian structures, including the imposing cathedral and colonial palaces that dominate the skyline.

Additionally, Merida has been dubbed the safest major state capital in Mexico due to its low rates of pickpocketing and other forms of petty crime: based on the U.S. State Department’s own definition, safety levels are on a par with European countries like Iceland, Finland and Norway.

Maxcanu

The first stop on the Merida-Campeche line, Maxcanu is a quaint, laid-back pueblo that has largely thwarted the poisonous overdevelopment plaguing most of Yucatan: prices still reflect living standards in Mexico, restaurants are typically family-owned, and gentrification is not a common concern.

It’s hard to know whether it will stay this way for long with the arrival of the train, and thus more tourists, but if you’re looking for a chance to experience ‘deep Mexico’, away from the luxurious resorts and Americanized coast, this may be a good time to visit Maxcanu while it’s still a ‘secret’.

On top of its unspoiled Mexicanness, it has a number of Mayan ruins in its vicinity, such as Oxkintok, where a one-of-a-kind Mayan labyrinth has been unearthed, the ruined Chunchucmil, and the otherwordly Calcehtok caves.

Campeche

The last entry on this list and the last stop on the Merida-Campeche line, San Francisco de Campeche, is yet another gorgeous colonial treasure built atop a conquered Mayan city, though unlike Merida, very few traces of the previous settlement remain.

Campeche is special for having most of its Spanish-built city walls intact: it is one of two cities in North America, alongside Quebec City in Canada, to have retained them, and its historical value is truly impossible to measure.

While Spaniards lived within the walls, the native Mayans were pushed out to the outskirts, and this heart-wrenching, yet inherently fascinating History is everywhere to be seen today, be it in native-dominated barrios with a distinctly Mayan character, or 500-year-old, ornate colonial churches.

Find out more about the Maya Train and all the incredible places you will be able to visit once it fully launches here.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

[ad_2]

Source link

February 5, 2024
Mexico Will Launch A New Incredible Train Route Visiting Lesser-Known Gems In 2024

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 12 seconds ago

Last year, the Maya Train marked the triumphant return of the passenger railway in the Yucatan Peninsula after almost a century of defunding and lack of investment. It now connects all of the top tourist attractions around the Yucatán Peninsula, including Cancun, Tulum, and Chichén Itzá.

The success of the Maya Train is ongoing after initial hiccups getting started, with connectivity across the Mexican Caribbean having greatly improved and tourists now using the train to discover off-path parts of the country that were not as accessible before – but it doesn’t end there.

Soon enough, yet another train route visiting hidden gems in two additional states will be launched, including a historical colonial port on the Gulf of Mexico and a laid-back beach town currently trending among surfing enthusiasts:

Mexico’s Next Tourist Train Traveling From The Gulf To The Pacific Coast

As reported by The Cancun Sun, the so-called Isthmus Train is Mexico’s next major development project heading into 2024.

Though it was inaugurated last December, it did not make a splash as all eyes were on the Maya Train, which set out on its inaugural journey from Cancun around the same time.

Despite being ignored at first, the Isthmus Train is now being touted as Mexico’s next major breakthrough in tourism: the service is already up and running, connecting the city of Coatzacoalcos, in the state of Veracruz, to the quaint town of Salina Cruz, in neighboring Oaxaca.

Though the current railway map is not nearly as extensive as the much more popular Maya Train, calling at seven stations and linking the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Coast, authorities have promised ‘additional routes’ will be added this year.

By the time of its completion, it is expected that the train will cover over 700 miles. The most exciting thing is, if you’re traveling on the Maya Train from mid-2024, you will be able to connect to the Isthmus line in Palenque.

The Maya Train Will Connect To The Isthmus Line

@codigoveracruz Así se mira el Tren Interoceánico desde el aire partiendo desde Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz rumbo a Salina Cruz, Oaxaca #coatzacoalcos #tren #interoceanico #oaxaca ♬ Where Is the Love? – Est Realis TEAM

The UNESCO-protected archaeological zone is the last, southwesternmost station of the Maya Train, located at the far end of the line’s enlongated ‘tail’, and as announced by local media, it will host Isthmus trains as well.

This means it will soon be possible for passengers boarding the Maya Train in Cancun, or any major city on the line, to switch to the Coatzacoalcos-bound Isthmus Train when traveling all the way south to Palenque.

A Bustling Port On The Gulf Of Mexico

Coatzacoalcos is a strategic port on the Gulf of Mexico, best known for its booming ship industry and indigenous Olmec culture. The cityscape itself is characterized by a unique combination of colonial, modernist, and Mesoamerican revivalist architecture.

Two of the most emblematic symbols of Coatzacoalcos include Pirámide Malecón, an imposing modern pyramidal structure taking direct inspiration from the ruined cities that litter the Yucatán peninsula, and the whitewashed Cathedral of Saint Joseph.

The city also hosts a well-frequented shopping mall (Plaza Forum) with attractive prices and the Olmec Archaeology Museum, where artifacts from this lesser-known pre-Columbian civilization, which co-existed alongside the world-famous Mayans and Aztecs, can be admired.

A Quaint Pacific Town

On the other hand, Salina Cruz is a much smaller coastal hub best known for its unspoiled golden sand beaches, surfing culture, and year-round warm weather: winters are basically a non-existent concept here, where the lowest-ever temperatures average a pleasant 69.8°F.

Playa Cangrejo, a short half-hour drive from downtown Salina, is the perfect place for unwinding and basking in the sun without being disturbed by surging crowds, what with its quieter, family-friendly environment and varied selection of seafood spots.

@paadondee ¿Sabías que en #salinacruz existe una #poza ? Aquí te muestro cómo es y dónde la puedes encontrar! – – – #istmodetehuantepec #lugaresenoaxaca #juchitan #tehuantepec #costasdeoaxaca #salinacruzoaxaca ♬ Chill Vibes – Tollan Kim

Playa Azul is not to be missed either, as it is one of a handful in the region where the sands are virgin-white, and the seas are of an inviting azure color. An even shorter 20-minute drive from town, it is a popular half-day trip for tourists venturing down the Oaxaca coast.

Other non-beach, noteworthy points of interest are the Cortés Lighthouse, a state-protected monument built as early as the 16th century during the first Spanish incursions into Mexican territory, and the Piedra Cuchi viewpoint.

What We Know So Far About The Isthmus Train

Other confirmed stops on the Isthmus line, departing from Coatzacoalcos, include the towns of Minatitlán, Acayucan, Matías Romero, Unión Hidalgo, Ixtetepec, and Tehuantepec.

So far, we do not know whether the train tracks will be extended to the state capitals of Veracruz and Oaxaca, home to towering Spanish cathedrals and beautiful colonial centers.

As for tickets, prices for the Isthmus Train departing from Palenque have not been announced either, but the route already in operation, linking Coatzacoalcos to Salina Cruz, is quite affordable, starting from $27 for ‘tourist-class’ passengers, and roughly $35 for executive.

If you’re starting your journey in Cancun, you should expect to pay for one-way tickets to Palenque, where you’ll connect to the Isthmus Train, costing between $123 and $197, depending on the chosen fare.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

[ad_2]

Source link

January 31, 2024
These 2 Beautiful European Countries Are Offering Unlimited Train Travel For Only $55
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 41 seconds ago

Perhaps the most unlikely travel trend to have resurged in 2023, train travel is back in full force, with numerous countries across the globe either reinstating previously defunded routes, or even launching brand new ones – scenic rides across the Mayan Riviera, anyone?

Much of the action has been centered, however, in Europe: boasting a well-connected train network linking multiple countries, and with its goal to reduce carbon emissions in the medium-term drastically, the Old Continent has turned to the railway to boost tourism.

Now, both Germany and Hungary, two of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, are offering unlimited all-you-can-travel train passes for around $55, and if we were you, we wouldn’t want to miss out, especially when there is no way of telling how long the generous offers will last.

One can always use some further encouragement, so perhaps it’s worth mentioning there is an additional third country you can travel in for free, and it is just as fascinating as the other two.

Lucky for you, this mysterious, hugely-underrated destination is only a stone’s throw away from the German border.

First of all, let’s have a look at the German and Hungarian offers.

How Does The German Pass Work?

Germany launched their €49 ticket, equaling roughly $55, last March.

The measure, believed to be temporary at the time, proved so successful the Government has continued applying it, and it looks set to become permanent, with Transport Minister Volker Wissing referring to it as the ‘biggest public transport reform in German History’.

The Deutschlandticket, as it is formally called, or simply ‘Germany Ticket’, allows holders to travel as many times as they want, on any regional public transportation routes, across almost the entire country for a set monthly price.

With that being said, its validity applies mostly to local and medium-distance transportation, such as metropolitan regions or intra-state travel, and it functions as a digital subscription that can be canceled ahead of the next month’s billing.

Essentially, subscribers can board any short and medium-distance buses and trains they would like during their subscription period, based on the region of Germany they are currently traveling.

For instance, those using the pass in metropolitan Berlin can now travel from the German capital to the neighboring State of Brandenburg freely, without paying additional fees, as Brandenburg would be considered short to medium-distance travel.

On the other hand, pass holders cannot board trains from Berlin to Frankfurt or Berlin to Cologne without booking an independent train ticket, as it would entail boarding a long-distance train.

This is true for all long-distance routes, including any trains operated by DB Fernverkehr AG, RE included, and FlixTrain (IC, EC, and ICE).

Ticket validity varies per region, and it all depends on where the pass is purchased and, most importantly, which region it is linked to and where it is activated.

Still, it is a great way to save money traveling in Germany as the overall cost of multi-city train journeys within a single state, such as Bavaria, home to Munich, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Würzburg, Bamberg and other popular historical hotspots will normally cost a lot more than $55 without a pass.

Additionally, pass holders can hop on certain eligible trains from/to stations in neighboring countries when operated by a German operator and when the pass is associated with the state or region of entry.

These include Tønder in Denmark, Wissembourg in France, Basel in Switzerland, and Świnoujście in Poland.

Tickets can be purchased directly from Germany’s national Deutsche Banh or from local transport providers in different cities.

What About Hungary?

As for Hungary, two travel passes are available, one nationwide and one for counties.

Traveling across the Eastern European gem, tourists can purchase a ‘National Travel Card‘, granting them access to not only every train but every bus line in the country, as long as the following companies operate it:
- MÁV-START
- MÁV-HÉV
- GYSEV
- Volánbusz (buses only)
For the duration of the pass, which lasts 30 days, you are free to city-hop at leisure, from the stately Austrian-Hungarian thermal pool hotspot that is Budapest to the serene Lake Balaton, known as the ‘Hungarian Sea’, to the ancient cultural hotspot of Pécs, near the Croatian border.

Much like the Germany Ticket, Hungary’s national pass costs only 18,900 Hungarian forint, or approximately $55, and foreign visitors are eligible to buy them at more than 1,100 ticket booths around Hungary.

All you have to do is simply walk into any train station, find the nearest MÁV-START, GYSEV, or Volánbusz office, or simply a vending machine, and select the option that best suits you.

It is worth noting this pass cannot be used in municipal services, meaning you cannot use it for taking the tram or metro in the wider metropolitan zone of Budapest, or any regional public transportation in any specific Hungarian city.

In a way, it is the opposite of the German pass.

Fortunately, Hungary then introduced a ‘County Travel Card’, allowing holders unlimited bus and rail travel in one of its 19 counties. It costs roughly $27, and it’s the perfect option for tourists looking to stay in a single location for a while longer.

This option is sure to make digital nomads happy, as Budapest is quickly becoming one of the world’s top nomad destinations, and they often reside in the city for between one to three months at a time.

If you are a student, you should know you are eligible for a 90 percent discount buying these tickets, so make sure you bring a valid international student ID mentioning your status.

What About The Third Mysterious Country?

There is still one country missing, after all.

$55 all-you-can-travel train passes sound great, but how about unlimited free travel for both residents and tourists alike?

Luxembourg is currently the only European nation to extend this privilege to non-tax-paying visitors, as they can hop on any train or bus of their liking around the principality without pre-booking and explore one of the prettiest, most fairytalish destinations extensively sans exorbitant ticket fees.

You read that right, no ifs or but’s or caveats:

This is all-encompassing free public transportation, regardless of route, train line, or distance, applying to all nationalities, provided it is a national route that does not cross Luxembourg’s borders with France, Germany, or Belgium.

Some of the top sights to see in ‘Lux’, as Europeans commonly call it, include Luxembourg City, the compact national capital, famous for its landmark medieval fortress and cobbled historic center, Vianden, where one of the largest and most impressive medieval castles sits, and the charming central town of Ettelbruck.

As Luxembourg is a tiny country, you can cover much of the territory in three to five days, making it a perfect intermediate destination on your cross-country European trip.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
[ad_2]

Source link
December 19, 2023
4 Of The Most Beautiful Train Journeys You Can Take In Latin America This Winter

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 33 seconds ago

After decades of defunding and even the closure of some railway lines, trains are making an unexpected comeback in 2023, including in Latin America, a subcontinent where reviving this mode of transportation was considered a lost cause.

Other than being incredibly romantic, as it is evocative of times past, often traversing beautiful scenery normally inaccessible to private vehicles, the rail is much safer, as road congestions and accidents are obviously not impactful events.

While train journeys are not yet as popular in Latin America, or even to a wider extent, the entire American continent as they are in Europe, they are becoming more popular among visitors clamoring for more unique experiences.

If you’re one of them, and you too are enamored with trains, here are four of the most exciting rail journeys you can embark on traveling across Latin America this winter:

Brazil’s Colonial Railway

One of the lesser-known entries on the list, Brazil’s Trem da Vale links the historical towns of Ouro Preto and Mariana, some of the oldest European settlements not only in the country but all of South America.

Though the steam locomotive has been present in the territory as early as the 19th century, it fell into disuse as cars were introduced and Brazil modernized itself, only re-launching in 2006 in an effort to revive the heritage railway.

Back then, it proved crucial for the transportation of passengers and goods between the two settlements, only 8 miles apart, but now it mostly operates as a tourist train, deliberately taking the long route through the deep valleys bounded by the towering jagged peaks of Minas Gerais.

The locomotive travels for a total duration of one hour, slowly rattling along the tracks for some of the best views of Brazil’s unspoiled nature, making this route a favorite among photographers and honeymooners hoping to get a taste of what traveling felt like back in the day.

A seat in the conventional carriage costs only R$70, or US$13.91 for the roundtrip, while a return trip on the panoramic carriage costs only US$5 more.

The train runs year-round from Wednesdays to Sundays, between 8:30 AM and 5 PM, and tickets can be purchased directly at the station up to 10 minutes before departure.

Ouro Preto itself is one of the most beautiful towns of the Americas and one of Brazil’s most famous postcards. A whitewashed town full of cobbled streets, historical Baroque churches, and Portuguese colonial mansions, it was at the center of Brazil’s slave trade and gold mining.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is much more quaint and safer than major cities like Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo, and as it is surrounded by verdant mountains, it offers easy access to hiking trails, protected reserves, and majestic waterfalls.

Its even smaller sister, Mariana, is just as picturesque, having been established in the late 17th century.

It’s retained all of the attributes of a Portuguese Baroque colonial settlement, with narrow alleyways lined by two-story buildings and their colorful shutters and ornate church facades.

Luckily for Americans, they can again fly to this bucolic part of Brazil, as Azul Airlines now offers nonstop service to Belo Horizonte, the state capital, just under two hours away from Ouro Preto.

Colombia’s Capital Region Heritage Train

Currently the only passenger train in Colombia, the Tren Turistico de la Sabana helps tourists commute from the bustling metropolis that is Bogota to the small, colonial-era town of Zipaquira, sitting 26 miles North in the heart of the Cundimarca district.

At the peak of the Spanish Empire, the railway was used to transport salt and minerals mined from Zipaquira to the Colombian capital.

Needless to say, the exploration has been discontinued, but if you’re keen on a true cultural immersion, you can still take the heritage train.

The bus may be a lot quicker, completing the journey in under two hours, but it certainly will not be as scenic as the train, departing from the architectural gem that is the Sabana Station in Bogota and traveling across a lush green Colombian hinterland before calling at Zipaquira 2h45 later.

From the window, you will slowly cross vast open fields and small Colombian pueblos untouched by the over-development and rising crime rates that have plagued Bogota in recent years, all the while being serenaded by a marching band playing traditional live music – and if you’re feeling hungry, you can always grab a snack from one of the food trolleys when they pass.

Passengers aged 13-59 will be charged only COP$70,000 for a roundtrip ticket departing from and returning to Bogota. This equals roughly $17.20, though fares could increase.

For updated information, as well as timetables, tourists are advised to check the official webpage.

Arriving in Zipaquira, you will find a small town with a central plaza from which smaller, stone-laden streets snake out of. Though it is charming already as it is, Zipaquira is in fact best known for its landmark Salt Cathedral, an underground temple built within a salt mine.

The salt deposits were formed 250 million years ago, and the sediments still line the walls and footpaths as you descend deeper into the shrine. It’s a fascinating attraction tourists exploring Colombia have to visit at least once, with tickets costing only COP$98,000, or around US$24 at the current exchange rate.

Ecuador’s Tren Crucero

Ecuador is one of the trendiest tourist destinations this year, having attracted attention among solo explorers and backpackers, and even digital nomads staying longer due to its natural wealth and slow-paced lifestyle.

A little-known fact among them, however, is that Ecuador also has a passenger train, linking the capital (Quito) to Guayaquil, the country’s second-largest city, and the gateway to the Ecuadorian Pacific – but it is definitely not for those who are in a hurry.

The Tren Crucero takes the most scenic route across the Andean peaks of Ecuador, all the way Southwest to the Guayaquil Coast, completing the trip in no less than four days.

Of course, when in possession of a valid ‘full boarding’ ticket, you can hop on and off.

That is because the train does not have sleeper cabins, and passengers must instead make intermediate stops in small towns along the way, where they will get to see a more rural side to Ecuador, as well as off-path towns visitors basing themselves in the busy Quito normally cannot reach as easily.

This includes Balbanera, home to one of the oldest churches in Ecuador, erected as early as 1534, and Alausi, where you will descend into the Andean valleys ahead of hitting the coast, dotted with more bright-colored colonial towns.

The train itself has a capacity of 54 passengers, with departures taking place on select dates every season, and it is divided in 4 categories, evocative of different architectural periods: the Baroque, the Neoclassical, the Hispanic/Andean, and the panoramic Classical Style coach.

Overnight stays in each of the stops can be purchased in advance along with the train ticket, with a Luxury Class single journey, paired with a single room in centrally-located hotels, starting from US$2,082.

The ‘Orient Express’ of Ecuador, the luxurious train is not exactly affordable by South American standards, but it is a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience worth shelling out the extra dough for.

Mexico’s Maya Train

The only train route on this list that is yet to be complete – it is instead launching soon on December 15 – Mexico’s Maya Train will link all of the major tourist attractions around the Yucatan Peninsula, and as many as five Mexican states.

The busiest route will be, however, the Cancun-Tulum line, connecting Quintana Roo’s top two resort spots. This line is expected to be complete in February 2024.

Departing from the Cancun Terminal, the train will jottle along tracks bounded by the bright-blue Caribbean Sea, until calling at Tulum.

One of the most historically-charged towns in Mexico, it was founded by the Mayans prior to the arrival of the European settlers, and it still houses some of the best-preserved pre-colonial structures found anywhere in the country.

These can be seen around the Tulum archaeological zone, with the landmark Castillo, a fortress perched on a clifftop facing the turquoise waters being a prime example of Late Mayan architecture.

Prices for the Maya Train have not yet been revealed, nor have timetables, but it is set to be one of the most affordable, and safest transportation modes in the wider LatAm, offering tourists based in Cancun, the number one beach getaway for Americans, easy links to cultural attractions further afield.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

December 10, 2023
These Are The 5 Amazing Mayan Ruins You Can Visit From Cancun By Train This Winter

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 7 mins ago

In case you weren’t aware of this already, a new scenic train will be launching from Cancun in time for winter, linking the bustling Caribbean city to other tourist hotspots in the wider Yucatan Peninsula that were previously inaccessible by public transport.

Other than enjoying easier connections to smaller resort towns, such as Playa Del Carmen and Puerto Morelos, and even off-path gems like Chetumal and Bacalar, visitors will be able to visit some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in Mexico with minimal hassle.

Starting December 1, basing yourself in Cancun, you will have access to these 5 ancient archaeological sites:

Chichen Itza

The number one tourist attraction in all of Mexico, Chichen Itza will have its very own Maya Train station, helping visitors staying in Cancun or any other coastal spot in the Mayan Riviera get there without paying hefty prices for private guided tours.

Best known for its landmark El Castillo, a step pyramid that’s a symbol of Mexico, Chichen Itza was once one of the most affluent cities of the pre-Columbian period, with architectural feats that reflect Itza’s multiculturalism, as it was home to numerous ethnic groups within the Mayan branch.

Exploring the archaeological site, you will find well-preserved temples, such as the Templo de los Guerreros, the Great Ball Court, where the Mayans practiced their famous ballgame, and the Tzompantli, the eerily-titled Skull Platform.

Chichen Viejo

On the same Maya Train stop, a short six-minute walk from the main archeological complex of Chichen Itza, lies a group of lesser-known ruins that, up until this year, had not been open for visitation: the equally fascinating Chichen Viejo.

Though they form part of the same Mayan settlement, both Itza and Viejo are treated as different attractions as the latter effectively served as a residential area for the elites at the time, offering an insight into the lives of affluent Mayans and their customs.

Around the North Plaza, tourists can now see up close the exposed remains of five cremated human bodies linked to the noble Cupul family, civic buildings dating back to 878 AD, and many more mind-blowing structures they previously were not allowed to access.

Izamal

The next stop on the Maya Train after Chichen Itza, Izamal is a small Yucatanese town that’s attained Instagram fame for its vibrant yellow townscape. Beneath its charming cobbled streets and colonial aesthetic, however, lies an often-forgotten past that is just as rich.

Before it was seized by the Spaniards, Izamal was an important Mayan city where the third (or fourth, depending on sources) largest pyramid in Mesoamerica was built. Today, this very same pyramid is the most striking Mayan monument in Izamal.

Sadly, a majority of the pre-Columbian buildings are now ruins, scattered around Old Town Izamal, but it’s precisely this contrast between far more ancient, indigenous heritage and the territory that was lost or ‘conquered’ by the Spanish.

Nuevo Xcan

The closest one to Cancun, only a single stop away on the Cancun-Izamal line, Nuevo Xcan is a different type of Mayan heritage site, as it is neither a necropolis nor a vast uninhabited city slowly being reclaimed by nature: it is a natural site.

A protected reserve, Nuevo Xcan encompasses a series of flooded underground chambers, or cenotes, that the Mayans perceived as sacred. Back then, sacrificial offerings were held in the turquoise-colored waters, as well as major ceremonies.

After all, the ancient civilization reportedly believed that cenotes were the gateway to the Underworld. As scary as that may sound, the caves now only host tourists hoping to go for a dip at the end of an arduous trail, as well as History enthusiasts keen on deciphering the Mayan mindset.

Tulum

Though it is most commonly associated with luxurious resorts and wild jungle raves, Tulum can also make for an incredible cultural destination, especially for those interested in the Mayan World, as it comprises a walled city established as early as the 6th century AD.

The archaeological complex in Tulum is distinguished for its near-perfect state of preservation, as it is one of the last cities to have been built by the Mayans ahead of the arrival of European settlers, and it was abandoned much later.

A postcard view, the Castillo sits atop a cliff overlooking the bright-blue Caribbean Sea is an iconic scene of the Mexican Caribbean, and even prior to the launch of the Maya Train, it attracted millions of tourists every month.

Learn more about the Maya Train, including how much tickets will cost here.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

November 3, 2023
These Are The Top 6 Train Rides Across America For Stunning Winter Views

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 1 second ago

Now that America has entered the fall season, it’s time to start thinking about cold-weather travel. While there is no shortage of places across the country to visit for a fall getaway, choosing where to visit in the winter takes a bit more planning.

One way to experience some of the beauty of the country is to take a winter train trip, offering everything from rides with Santa to cool coastal views.

Train travel in America has a classic, iconic feel, and while it might be slower (and oftentimes more pricey) than flying to your destination, there is something to be said for riding the rails and taking in the views.

Train rides in the winter offer some stunning scenery, getting you from point A to B in a cozy and warm seat with huge picture windows to watch the landscape roll by.

Not to mention it takes away the need for having to drive, especially to remote places on winter roads, which is not fun for anyone.

These Are The Top 6 Train Rides Across America For Stunning Winter Views:

Aurora Winter Train, Alaska

When it comes to trains with classic winter views, Alaska has it all covered. While there are many to choose from, the Aurora Winter Train has to be the best choice for visitors in the colder months. This 12-hour trip runs between Fairbanks and Anchorage, passing through snowy forests, frozen-icy rivers, and stops in Denali National Park and Talkeetna.

This is a special train offered by the Alaska Railroad and only runs on the weekends, so make sure to plan accordingly if you are hoping to catch it. Food and drinks are available and the comfy seats face the big picture windows.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado

Colorado is home to many of America’s most scenic railways, most of which are beautiful in winter.

A whole separate article on the most stunning railways in Colorado could be considered, but as this is a comprehensive list we had to narrow it down to one choice from this state.

And narrow we did, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the state’s most beautiful rides, and its Cascade Winter train is a favorite with travelers looking for views. With a ride of nearly thirty miles each way, visitors can enjoy the Rocky Mountains and the Animas River, through Durango and Cascade Canyon.

Watch the snow-capped San Juan National Forest roll by and enjoy a full concession car and even outdoor standing room as well.

@katelinr0se The coolest train ride ever! 🚂❄️ #durango #silverton #durangosilvertontrain #train #trainride #snowy #winter #colorado #coloradocheck #coloradoadventures #steamenginetrain #sanjuanmountains #nationalforest #polarexpress #adventure #explore #fyp ♬ original sound – Train777

Winter Escape Grand Canyon

This trip is more of a combination journey, offering a vacation in itself kind of itinerary.

Most start this journey in Chicago’s iconic Union Station, where they board Amtrak’s Southwest Chief and head on a scenic overnight trip toward Flagstaff, Arizona. Pass through Colorado and Kansas and stop in Albuquerque, enjoying the changing scenery the whole way.

After arriving you spend the night in one of the Grand Canyon’s classic lodges, and then the next day you enjoy a breathtaking winter view of the Grand Canyon’s south rim about the Grand Canyon railway.

While both of these trips can be booked on their own, the combination is a classic rail trip for an American winter vacation with a stunning view.

California Zephyr

This Amtrak journey is hailed as being one of the most beautiful routes in America, and the wintertime is no exception.

Running between Chicago and San Francisco, highlights include Omaha, Denver, and Salt Lake City, all places that are quite picturesque in the snowy season.

Passing through both the Rockies as well as the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the high tracks and snowy peaks will keep you interested as you snake your way across the country on this journey.

@flanders_images @amtrak California Zephyr heading down the hill at Yuba Gap, CA #fyp #trains #railroad #amtrak #californiazephyr #🚂 #drone #dji #railroad #railyard #snow #christmas ♬ Wonder – Shawn Mendes

Empire Service, New York

This East Coast route is one that connects Niagara Falls to New York City and passes some pretty landscapes along the way.

You’ll wind your way through the Finger Lakes, part of Western New York’s prettiest region in both the winter as well as the summer.

Follow the Hudson Valley and cling to the side of the frozen Hudson River as you pass sights such as West Point, the abandoned Bannerman Castle, and possibly some icebreaker ships.

End at the stunning Moynihan train hall in Manhattan, or Niagara Falls, which has been making a comeback in recent years (and looks very cool frozen over).

Coast Starlight

A stunning journey in all weather, this major west coast route connects Los Angeles and Seattle, passing through iconic locations such as San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Sacramento, and Portland.

This route has you passing along Mount Shasta, forests and valleys, and the jaw-dropping Pacific Coast shoreline, not to mention the Cascade Mountain range.

This 35-hour trip winds you through Washington State, Oregon, and Northern California, all places that are simply beautiful in the winter months.

@toskami I felt like I was traveling through a Christmas card. #amtrak #coaststarlight #oregon #willamettevalley #snow #winter #train ♬ Comfort Chain – Instupendo

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

October 20, 2023
This New Sleeper Train Will Connect 4 European Capital Cities

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 2 seconds ago

Train travel in Europe is becoming an incredibly popular trend. Not only is it more environmentally friendly, it is also a great way to see fantastic views that you might otherwise miss.

In May of this year The European Sleeper launched a new night train. This train travels from Brussels to Amsterdam and then to Berlin.

The route has been incredibly successful, and now The European Sleeper is planning to extend its route and connect 4 European capital cities.

These are the cities you can visit:

Which Cities Can You Visit?

From March 25 2024 the night train route will not only visit Brussels, Amsterdam, and Berlin. It will also be extended to Dresden and Prague.

This means that the service will connect 4 European capital cities giving travelers more options. The new service will make 18 stops in total.

It will depart from Brussels at 19.22 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and arrive in the Czech Republic at 10.56 the following day.

It will depart from Prague at 18.04 on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. It will then arrive in Brussels at 09.27 the following day.

European Sleeper are preparing to launch several other new night train routes if this new route is successful. They have plans to expand their network both in the short and the long term.

The Good Night Train

The European Sleeper train is also known as The Good Night Train. It offers 3 different sleeping options depending on your budget.

The most comfortable and expensive option is the sleeper carriage. There are a maximum of 3 beds in each compartment and compartments can be booked as single, double, or triple options.

Each compartment includes a washbasin, seats and table, a comfortable mattress, wake-up calls, breakfast, and a welcome drink.

The Couchette carriages are the mid-level option. These carriages are multifunctional, containing seats during the day that fold down to 6 comfortable couchettes at night.

These compartments can be booked as a 6-person, 4-person, or private compartment. Breakfast and mineral water are included.

The most affordable option for budget travelers is the seating carriages. These have 6 seats in each compartment and can be booked individually or as a private compartment for parties of 6.

Why Travel In Europe By Train?

If you want to travel from country to country in Europe, it can be tempting just to book an airline ticket. But there are a huge number of benefits to traveling by train instead.

Traveling in Europe by train is easy, comfortable, scenic, and efficient. Train seats tend to be much wider and more comfortable than plane seats which is particularly important if you’re traveling overnight.

There are also very few luggage restrictions if you travel by train which means you won’t be stung with excess luggage charges if you’re carrying oversized bags.

You can take advantage of amazing views and more space to stretch your legs. And even during the dusk of a sleeper train, you’ll be amazed by how many of the countries you pass through that you’ll actually get to see.

One of the best benefits of intercity train travel in Europe is that train stations tend to be in the heart of the city center, while airports tend to be out of the city and in the suburbs. This will make it easy to get to your accommodation quickly without any hassle, queues in baggage reclaim, or expensive transfers.

It’s also worth noting that if you’re traveling on a budget, then the night you spend on a sleeper train is a night of hotel accommodation that you don’t need to pay for. Meaning that traveling by train really is a win-win!

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

October 12, 2023
3 Exciting Destinations Travelers Will Be Able To Visit From Cancun On The New Maya Train

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 42 seconds ago

Cancun is already the number one destination for Americans going abroad this year, but it is set to become even more popular in winter when the long-anticipated Maya Train launches.

A scenic train going on a loop around the Yucatan Peninsula, linking all of the top attractions in the Caribbean provinces of the country? Yes please!

The train will revolutionize travel in the region and help Cancun visitors reach lesser-known locations that were previously harder to get to.

In case you’re wondering where exactly you can go with the train, we bring you 3 exciting Maya Train destinations that will soon be easier to reach from the city.

Bacalar

One of Mexico’s trendiest destinations right now, having amassed millions of views on TikTok, Bacalar is a quaint town in the Southern half of the Quintana Roo state, away from the hustle and bustle of the resort zones and their riotous party scene.

It is your best bet at experiencing the Mexican Caribbean at its most authentic, as it is locally known as a stronghold for Mayan culture, having been inhabited since pre-Columbian times, and in 2006, it was awarded the title of ‘Magical Town‘ – way before the coveted designation was handed out at random.

To this day, huge international luxury brands and upscale resorts are yet to firm their roots in the area, being repeatedly fenced off by family-owned businesses and independently-run boutique hotels.

When staying locally, tourists have a myriad of wellness retreats bounded by the verdant jungle to pick from on the shores of the landmark Lake Bacalar, or Lake of Seven Colors, which unlike the Mayan Coast, does not suffer from rising levels of sargassum.

Sitting 133 miles from Cancun, Bacalar will be an easy day trip from the city once the Tren Maya launches, as it is only four stops away on the Chetumal line, and the two-and-a-half-hour drive, often disrupted by heavy traffic, could become a much shorter train ride.

Izamal

129 miles northwest and only 3 stops away from Cancun Terminal, on the planned Cancun-Merida line, Izamal is a colonial-era gem notorious for its yellow-tinged townscape.

Originally a Mayan settlement, it was repopulated by European colonizers in the 16th century.

They pushed out the locals and built a new city out of the rubbles of the previous one, though Izamal’s indigenous character was not fully lost, as ruins of Mayan pyramids and temples – the City of Hills – have been preserved for posteriority.

With its Mayan stone-carved churches, arcaded convent, and picturesque streets, Izamal is one of the prettiest cities in the Yucatan Peninsula, and certainly all of Mexico, having been granted ‘Magical Town’ status as early as 2002.

The famous open atrium of the Franciscan Monastery of San Antonio de Padua, built atop an ancient Mayan acropolis in 1591, is second in size only to the Vatican City’s.

Merida

One stop after Izamal, Merida is the capital of the state of Yucatan – not to be mistaken for the wider peninsula – and a most fascinating historical city, laying claim to being one of the first European settlements in all of the Americas.

Merida’s appeal lies in its rich heritage, which includes a 16th-century cathedral erected with stones from surrounding Mayan ruins, and the oldest to be established in mainland America, Italian and French-style architecture, and unique cuisine, combining both native and post-Columbian elements.

We wouldn’t suggest you visit Merida on a day trip, as it will take roughly three hours to get there from Cancun on the train, but maybe you could spend the night and explore it at a lower pace, as there’s no certainly no shortage of incredible sights around its Old Town to take in.

Additionally, Merida boasts one of the highest safety levels and quality of life indices anywhere in Latin America. It is often referred to as the best city for living in Mexico, so you’ll have no issues getting around town or staying overnight.

Learn more about the Maya Train and other incredible towns you will be able to visit from Cancun with the Maya Train here.

Read More:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

October 8, 2023
These 6 U.S. Scenic Train Rides Offer The Best Fall Views This Year

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 4 mins ago

With the close of summer, it means that fall is starting to make its way into the minds of most of us.

To many people across the U.S., fall means cozy nights watching football, apple cider, warm sweaters, and, of course, the fall foliage craze that begins to take over the country.

Foliage fever is real, and it’s everywhere you look.

Nowadays the news has a leaf watch, and social media is taken over with the iconic fall snaps. While national parks, road trips, and fall getaways are great ways to check out the autumn views, why not consider viewing America’s beautiful foliage by rail this fall?

With some stunning views, the options for scenic train rides across the country are seemingly endless. Remember to check out the peak foliage times across the country for optimal leaf-peeping before you make any plans, especially as the prime color-changing times seem to come earlier each year.

Another reason to consider a fall train trip? Train travel is having a moment, and whether it’s for the views, the vibes, or the environment, it seems Americans prefer traveling by train right now in many countries.

Here Are 6 U.S. Scenic Train Rides That Offer Some Of The Best Fall Views This Year:

Catskill Mountain Railroad, New York

About two and a half hours north of New York City, you can find the Catskill Mountain region. This underrated area of upstate New York is a great place to see some of the country’s best foliage, and what better way than to do it by a historic steam engine?

The Catskill Mountain Railroad offers a wealth of activities for all ages as it winds through some of the oldest farmlands in the country.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

@travelwithsudipa Catskills Fall Foliage train ride#catskillsmountains #catskillsny #upstatenewyork #fallfoliagetrip #falltrips #fallbucketlist2022 @travelwithsudipa @travelwithsudipa ♬ original sound – Madeline Lu

Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad, Ohio

Ohio is no stranger to great fall foliage, and the winding Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad is a great way to experience the beauty of this region. You can take in the views in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and along the Cuyahoga River.

This area is home to some impressive deep forests, open farmlands, and endless hills rolling in the distance, all of which will explode into purple, red, and fiery orange shades this time of year.

@wildwolfvan Riding the Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad in Ohio #ohio #akron #akronohio #cuyahogavalleynationalpark #nationalpark ♬ Pure Imagination – Dotan Negrin + Prismatic Mantis

Colebrookdale Railroad, Pennsylvania

This favorite tourist railroad is also known as the Secret Valley Line, and the two-hour round-trip ride takes you through this historic and beautiful region that is often overlooked.

This Civil War-era heritage railroad offers special events with a focus on the unique history of the region. Not to mention, the foliage here along the Colebrookdale Railroad line is pretty stunning as well.

@railbrothers Had a great time at the Colebrookdale Railroad with @biddiescustomary! Would definitely recommend the dinner train. #dinnertrain #lunchtrain #dinnertrainride #scenicrailway #railroad #easternpa #boyertown #autumnvibes ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

Mount Hood Railroad, Oregon

If you are lucky enough to find yourself in the Pacific Northwest this fall, then a train ride on the century-old Mount Hood Railroad should be in your plans.

These scenic rides will take you through the Hood River Valley in Northern Oregon, and the foliage here will be something to marvel at. Of course, if you are looking for a bit more of a workout, the rail bikes are another option for you to explore the region.

@michelevenlee Fall colors are later this year so we missed them 😢 but y’all have time to see them in the next week or so! 🍁 #hoodriveroregon #pnwlife #rainydays #portland #scenictrain #fallfoliage ♬ California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & The Papas

Essex Steam Train, Connecticut

If you are looking for a combination rail and river expedition, then the Essex Steam Train might be just what you need. Located in the Connectivity River Valley, an often overlooked beautiful part of the country, this trip will offer some serious views.

Dating back to 1868, this ride is narrated and offers some great birdwatching in the wetlands along the river as well. The train and riverboat trip runs around two and a half hours, and if you opt only for the train, it will take about one hour for the trip.

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, New Mexico

Often referred to as the C&TSRR, this iconic railway is one for the views. Only 3 feet wide, this narrow gauge heritage railway runs along nearly 65 miles of track between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado.

With sweeping views along the Western Rocky Mountains, this has often been called the best train ride in the country. A National Historic Landmark, this is the highest, longest, and most authentic steam railroad in the U.S.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

August 29, 2023