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In the current computer-crazed world, most kids end up with a cellphone or a tablet before they have even hit their teens. While this can be great for the peace of mind of their parents, it can stop children from really seeing the world around them. After all, kids love using technology and have to be dragged away from their phones and tablets kicking and screaming, even if it’s just to eat a family meal together.
This can pose a problem on holidays, in particular. If you’d like to see your child really taking in the sights on your next family vacation, perhaps consider booking in for a railway journey where you can all sit back together and spend time simply enjoying the view.
There is a vast array of breathtaking trips that can be taken on trains around the world, but yet don’t necessarily involve days and days spent stuck in a carriage. Whether you want to start off slowly with just a short, one-hour ride, or would like to select a journey that lasts a whole day at least, you’re sure to find something for your family to try across the globe. Read on for five top railway journeys that will help your family to see some of the most picturesque places around the world in a more leisurely, and technology-free, way.
1. Belmond Hiram Bingham in Peru
For a luxurious train ride, consider choosing the Belmond (formerly Orient-Express) Hiram Bingham in Peru. The train company runs full-day, round-trip excursions in Peru on board the Hiram Bingham luxury train. Journeys depart on a daily basis and the train trip links the colonial city of Cuzco to the iconic Incan citadel, Machu Picchu. Along the way, passengers can also take in breathtaking views of the Urubamba River valley. Each trip leaves at a time that gives customers the opportunity to enjoy the fascinating Machu Picchu destination in the late afternoon sun upon arrival.
The Hiram Bingham is a 1920s Pullman-style train that’s named after the explorer from America that discovered Machu Picchu in 1911. The service features two dining cars, an open-deck observation car, a bar car, live music, elegant upholstery and tableware, appetizers, brunch, and a four-course dinner.
2. Grand Canyon Railway in the USA
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, as well as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For tourists wishing to see this site in a leisurely and atmospheric way, the Grand Canyon Railway journey is perfect. The train trip has been taking customers into the heart of the Canyon since 1901, on a ride that travels from Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The journey takes a little over two hours each way and provides stunning views of the natural wonder through the observation/dome car windows. The Railway’s patrons can also enjoy the beauty of the lovingly-restored train cars along the way, plus dine in the cafe car.
3. Kuranda Scenic Railway in Australia
One of the “must-do” train trips in Australia has to be the Kuranda Scenic Railway in Queensland. The Railway is more than 100 years old and the historic train winds its ways from Cairns up to the quaint village of Kuranda, a small suburb situated around 15.5 miles northwest of the city.
During this unique two-hour train trip, travelers can take in breathtaking views of ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and ravines as the journey takes passengers through hand-made tunnels and across towering bridges that have stood the test of time. Once in Kuranda, adults and children alike are sure to enjoy spending time checking out the pretty Kuranda village.
4. TranzAlpine in New Zealand
If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, try to include a ride on the TranzAlpine train, one of the country’s most famous offerings. The railway journey departs from Christchurch and heads to the region of Greymouth, which is located close to the world-famous Franz Josef Glacier.
During the 4.5-hour long trip, travelers cross New Zealand’s South Island and get to take in the picturesque vistas of the Canterbury Plains farmland, as well as the chilly-looking Waimakariri River. The journey also has the train traveling over alpine viaducts and providing views of renowned Arthur’s Pass.
5. Talyllyn Railway in Wales
If your children grew up listening to the many tales of Thomas the Tank Engine, then they’ll love a trip on the Talyllyn Railway in Wales. The 14.5-mile round-trip train ride was what inspired the author of the books, Reverend Wilbert Awdry, to write the now-famous series that has encouraged children all around the world to read. The Talyllyn Railway runs through the mid-Wales countryside from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol, at a leisurely pace of nine miles per hour or less. The Talyllyn locomotives and carriages date all the way back to 1865 and are now run by a group of dedicated volunteers.
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