Traveling by train, while the standard in Europe, had faded in popularity in recent United States history. However, rising fuel prices coupled with recession have driven up airline rates, making the train a much cheaper and more popular way to travel. There are many reasons to travel by train.
It’s Economical
In many cases, train travel is cheaper than air travel. For those traveling on a budget, taking the train can be a huge money saver. For example, a round-trip flight from Grand Rapids, Michigan to Chicago, Illinois can cost from $300 to $1,000 or more. Making the same trip by train costs $55 to $65.
Air travel prices can vary greatly depending how far in advance you book. Making last-minute travel plans by airplane can cost three times as much, or more. In contrast, train tickets do not change as much from week to week or even day to day, and the rates for trains are set and do not rise as the date of travel approaches. Additionally, train tickets do not have booking fees.
It’s Green
Trains take far less fuel to power, making them a very eco-friendly way to travel. According to Climate Action Network Europe, trains use up to 70% less energy and emit up to 85% less air pollution than airplanes. Traveling by train helps to reduce people’s impact on the planet by reducing CO2 emissions.
Buses and trains have a fuel efficiency that is five times greater (or more) than cars as well, making public transportation like the train a green option for travel in metropolitan areas as well. Most major cities that have subways or other rail systems offer visitor passes that allow for discounted travel over short-term stays. For those who plan to be in the city for a longer period of time, or who visit frequently, look for commuter passes that are good for periods of several months to a year.
It’s Scenic
Taking the train offers entirely different scenery than traveling by air and even by car. Trains wind through countryside and suburbs along different routes than roads. When traveling on major highways, the scenery is often obscured by multitudes of other vehicles. On the train, there is little other traffic aside from the intermittent, and usually occasional, train passing in the opposite direction. This leaves unobscured views of the surrounding area.
It’s Relaxing
On the expressway, travel can be stressful. Other drivers can be rude and unpredictable, making many drivers anxious. Likewise, the rushed nature and heightened security associated with air travel make it highly stressful.
The train is a very laid-back mode of transportation. While the time it takes to travel by train is far longer than to go by plane, it is a good opportunity to put on headphones and unwind, to read (which should be avoided by those who have a problem with motion sickness), to converse with fellow travelers, or to just kick back and enjoy the view.
It’s no wonder train travel is making a comeback in the United States. With its many appeals, and with both gas prices and the economy showing little sign of improving any time soon, traveling by train will likely continue to gain in popularity!
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