We compiled data from Smart Growth America’s Foot Traffic Ahead rankings to determine the best walkable cities in the US. This non-profit group measures destination walkability in the 35 largest US metropolitan areas by analyzing walkability metrics to create an overall walkability score. 

Michael Rodriguez, Director of Research at Smart Growth America, explains how they determine which city is the best for walking. “When we talk about walkability in Foot Traffic Ahead, we’re asking two questions: How many businesses and destinations are within walking distance, and are there sidewalks, crosswalks, and other safety features that make it easy to walk from Point A to Point B?”

Rodriguez says these walkable areas are some of the most popular tourist destinations. “Travelers can likely save on transportation costs by choosing to visit our top-ranking metros and staying in walkable areas.” After all, Rodriguez explains, “Few recreational tourists spend money to go stay in an empty business park on a weekend.”

The report found that the most walkable cities in the U.S. tend to be on the coasts, except for Chicago. 

These are the best cities to walk in the US:

1. New York, New York (Walkability Score: 100)

Since less than half of New York City residents own a car, it’s no surprise that The Big Apple is the most walkable city in America. The city block grid design makes it easy to find your way without getting lost (or being glued to your smartphone), and you’ll find endless choices for breaks to refuel on every block. 

New York’s public transportation system is the best in the country, with buses, subways, trains, and ferries making the city even more accessible. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Little Italy, NoLita, and Bowery.

Best Walkable Hotel: Equinox Hotel New York

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2. Boston, Massachusetts (Walkability Score: 74.3)

Simply get lost along the charming streets of Boston, or add a little more purpose—and history—to your walk on the city’s famous Freedom Trail. Follow the line on the pavement for 2.5 miles and take a self-guided tour of Boston’s best neighborhoods and attractions. Or, download the Freedom Trail app to learn some of the city’s history while you walk. 

Boston has a wide public transit network as well, with subways, buses, ferries, and commuter trains covering the city and surrounding suburbs. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Beacon Hill, Chinatown, and North End.

Best Walkable Hotel: Boston Park Plaza.

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3. Washington, DC (Walkability Score: 72.6)

The best way to see Washington, D.C.’s monuments is on foot. Start at the National Mall and work your way from the Washington Monument down to the Lincoln Memorial. The city’s diverse neighborhoods are all extremely walkable, but if you prefer a more peaceful walk, head to Rock Creek Park, an urban oasis with plenty of walking trails to explore.

When you get tired of walking, Washington D.C.’s extensive public transportation network makes it easy to get around without a car. The city’s subway system extends into two neighboring states (Virginia and Maryland).

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: U-Street, Dupont Circle, and Mount Vernon Square.

Best Walkable Hotel: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC

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4. Seattle, Washington (Walkability Score: 69.4)

Seattle is a hiker’s paradise with three stunning national parks in its backyard. Get in some warm-up walks around the city, exploring the lively Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. When your energy starts to flag, you can find an amazing cup of locally brewed coffee practically everywhere you turn in the city.

Seattle’s rapid transit network has improved significantly over the last few years, and now offers a choice of light rail, streetcar, monorail, and commuter rail for getting around the city.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, International District, and Belltown.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Charter Hotel

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5. Portland, Oregon (Walkability Score: 68.5)

Portlanders have a walking mindset that’s reflected in the design of their city. The Smart Growth America study states, “Metro Portland and Seattle share a Northwestern environmental commitment that encourages walkable urbanism.” Portland is not only an extremely walkable city but it’s also one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country, with a wide network of designated bike lanes and bike paths. 

When it’s raining, buses, streetcars, and the light rail offer alternatives for navigating Portland. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: The Pearl, Old Town, and Downtown

Best Walkable Hotel: Harlow Hotel

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6. San Francisco, California (Walkability Score: 66.2)

Don’t let San Francisco’s hilly terrain deter you—it’s one of the most walkable cities in the US. Climb up high for incredible views of the bay, meander through the city’s many public parks, and definitely don’t miss a chance to walk across the famous Golden Gate Bridge.

When you’re ready for a ride, San Francisco’s web of buses, light rail trains, streetcars, and iconic cable cars covers all corners of the city.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Chinatown, Tenderloin, and Polk Gulch.

Best Walkable Hotel: Hotel Emblem San Francisco

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7. Chicago, Illinois (Walkability Score: 65.9)

While the Windy City is at its most walkable in the spring, summer, and fall, you can still get around by foot even on the coldest winter days, thanks to Chicago’s Pedway. The Pedway is the city’s system of underground tunnels and overhead bridges connecting more than 40 blocks in downtown Chicago.

Chicago’s train system nicknamed the “L” for its elevated tracks, began operating in 1892, making it the oldest metro system in the country. There are over 140 stations throughout the city and suburbs to help you explore without a car. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: East Ukrainian Village, Wicker Park, and Near North Side.

Best Walkable Hotel: Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile

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8. Los Angeles, California (Walkability Score: 59)

Los Angeles is a famously car-centric city, with traffic-clogged freeways and ample parking lots, but that wasn’t always the case. Many neighborhoods within the city were originally designed as walkable urban enclaves.

The city is trying to change its dependence on automobiles and return to its walkable roots. “Los Angeles is the most densely populated metro in the U.S. and there is an understanding that they have reached the limit of freeway expansion as a part of their transportation system,” explains Smart Growth America.

The city recently invested $180 billion to expand and improve its regional transit system.  

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Santa Monica.

Best Walkable Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown.

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9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Walkability Score: 57.2)

Nicknamed the “City of Bridges” for the more than 400 bridges connecting communities across the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers, Pittsburgh is great for a scenic stroll by the water. 

If you’re considering relocating, Pittsburgh earned high marks in the walkability study for housing affordability in its most pedestrian-friendly areas. 

Regarding public transportation, Pittsburgh has 27 light rail stations, 700 buses, and boasts the oldest continuously operating funicular railway in the U.S.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, Friendship, and Bloomfield.

Best Walkable Hotel: Drury Plaza Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown.

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10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Walkability Score: 55.1)

With all of the unique regional cuisine that Philadelphia has to offer (like cheesesteaks, hoagies, and water ice), you’ll be grateful for the city’s high walk score and the chance to walk off your indulgences. In addition to a vibrant downtown area, Philadelphia has more than 10,000 acres of public green space for when you need a nature fix.

Philadelphia is also home to the sixth-largest public transportation system in the U.S., the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), which includes trains, subways, trolleys, and buses. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, and Avenue of the Arts South.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Notary Hotel

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11. Minneapolis-St.Paul, Minnesota (Walkability Score: 54.4)

There are over 40 colleges and universities in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, and a dense cluster of walkable amenities have sprung up around these lively communities. Downtown St. Paul is undoubtedly the best neighborhood for walkers, with everything you could need located within just a few blocks. 

Although the walk between the centers of Minneapolis and St. Paul would be long, a light rail connects the two.

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, Summit Hill, and Summit-University. 

Best Walkable Hotel: Hyatt Place St. Paul/Downtown.

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12. Miami, Florida (Walkability Score: 54.2)

Avoid Miami traffic and explore this lively city on foot instead. Soak up the sun while you stroll along the 7-mile Miami Beach Boardwalk, or eat your way through the Calle Ocho neighborhood on a walking restaurant crawl while being serenaded by live music. 

Miami has a 25-mile elevated rail system, Metrorail, that is a great way to get between Miami International Airport and Downtown Miami without needing a car. Once you’re downtown, hop aboard the Metromover, a free public bus traveling through the city’s most popular areas. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, Wynwood-Edgewater, and Little Havana.

Best Walkable Hotel: 1 Hotel South Beach.

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13. Charlotte, North Carolina (Walkability Score: 51.7)

Although Charlotte is a fairly car-dependent city overall, it’s a great example of what the Smart Growth America study calls “walkable villages within a big city.” Head to Uptown Charlotte (the city’s center) to see this in action. This area is divided into four smaller neighborhoods or wards, which are very walkable. 

Although Charlotte’s public transportation network isn’t as robust as others on this list, it does have buses and two short light rail lines. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Uptown, Plaza Midwood, and South End.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Ivey’s Hotel.

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14. Austin, Texas (Walkability Score: 50)

Austin is an oasis of walkability in Texas’ famously car-centric culture. Downtown Austin is by far the most walkable area in the city. Designed in a grid system, this compact city center is easy to navigate and features acclaimed restaurants, lively bars, and boutique shops on practically every block.

Although Austin’s public transportation is limited to its Capital Metro Bus System, the city is also reasonably bike-friendly if you want an alternative method for getting around than walking. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Downtown, West University, Bouldin Creek.

Best Walkable Hotel: Thompson Austin.

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15. Atlanta, Georgia (Walkability Score: 49.4)

Atlanta’s walkability really depends on what neighborhood you’re in. In Peachtree Center, in the heart of downtown, you’ll find many shopping and dining hubs within easy walking distance from one another. Once you get further from the city center, it’s more likely that you’ll need a car to get around.

The city is also prioritizing improving its bikeability, as evidenced by the Atlanta Beltline Trail, a 22-mile rail trail that encourages walking and biking. 

Atlanta’s public transportation system, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) serves over 100,000 people daily across its network of buses and trains. 

Most Walkable Neighborhoods: Peachtree Center, Sweet Auburn, Midtown.

Best Walkable Hotel: The Westin Peachtree Plaza.

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The Least Walkable City in the US

If you’re wondering what least walkable city in the U.S. is, Las Vegas ranked last out of the 35 cities on the list. The study notes, “The only high-density walkable urbanism in the metro is along The Strip.” However, The Arts District and downtown are both reviving, so hopefully, Las Vegas will see improved walkability outside of The Strip.

The post The 15 Most Walkable Cities in the US, Ranked appeared first on SmarterTravel.

While Switzerland is considered by many to be the world champion when it comes to scenic train trips, some of the best Amtrak routes can take you to the most scenic areas the United States—with some routes some stretching into Canada.

Most Scenic Amtrak Routes in North America

This compilation is focused on scheduled Amtrak routes that operate mainly in daylight—so you won’t miss sights. These routes complete their itineraries in a single day, or in long daylight segments on an extended overnight trip.

East Coast: The Adirondack

The general consensus for the best of the scenic Amtrak routes in the east is service on the Adirondack, between New York and Montreal. The 10-hour day trip operates daily in both directions, and gives you a double-header of great views: It travels along the east bank of Hudson River between New York and Albany, where you pass the Palisades, West Point, and wooded hills. It also travels along the West bank of Lake Champlain, a popular summer activity lake-valley area nestled between the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains.

The northbound trip is daylight through the scenic areas throughout the year. The southbound trip sees more daylight in summer; in winter you hit the Hudson valley after dark. In the fall foliage season, Amtrak usually adds a dome car to the train between Albany and Montreal, which operates every other day in each direction. And if you want off before getting to Canada, you can still see all the highlights by starting or ending your trip at Rouses Point, in New York.

Elsewhere in the east, several other Amtrak one-day trains operate through scenic areas:

Empire Service: Three daily trains and between New York and Buffalo give you the Hudson Valley plus some very attractive areas of Upstate alone the Mohawk valley as soon as you get out of the heavily industrialized areas near Albany. The Lake Shore Limited New York section does this trip too, as does the Maple Leaf. And nine shorter Empire trips plus the Ethan Allen Express between Rutland and New York all run the Hudson segment, too.

The Vermonter: Service runs daily between St Albans, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.; the scenic portion between St Albans and New Haven passes through nice mountain scenery in the Berkshires and Connecticut. Daylight hours are best going northbound. You can access the North end most easily through Essex Junction, just a few miles from Burlington. Forget the New Haven-Washington segments unless you like urban landscapes.

The Pennsylvanian: This Amtrak route operates daily between Pittsburgh and New York, but the scenic areas are over the former Pennsylvania main line between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. This trip includes the famous Horseshoe Curve; daylight viewing is best eastbound.

Lake Shore Limited, Capitol Limited, and Cardinal: Three overnight long-distance Amtrak trips to/from Chicago go through the Appalachian range during daylight hours. They carry coach seats along with sleepers for folks who want to do the full trips.

The Boston section of Lake Shore Limited between Albany and Boston includes the Berkshires in western Massachusetts along with the Mohawk valley; daylight is good in both directions. The Capitol Limited operates daily between Chicago and Washington, but the scenic area is between Pittsburgh and Washington. Daylight viewing is best eastbound, although that means a 5:20 am departure from Pittsburgh.

The Cardinal operates three days a week between Chicago and New York, but the important scenery is between Cincinnati and Washington on the former C&O main line. Daylight viewing is best eastbound. The schedule isn’t great in either direction, with 1:30 am arrival and 3:30 am departure at Cincinnati. You can get most of the good stuff beginning or ending in Charleston, or you can take the overnight to/from Chicago.

The California Zephyr

Rail enthusiasts generally rate the California Zephyr between Chicago and Emeryville (San Francisco) as the best of the Chicago-to-coast Amtrak routes. It passes daily through two different areas of top mountain scenery: Denver to Grand Junction through the Rockies, and Reno to Emeryville through the Sierras including the infamous Donner Pass. The entire three-day, two-night trip is timed for good daylight viewing through both scenic areas in both directions. The daytime run between Chicago and Omaha is forgettable, but many opt for the full journey. Again, you have a choice of comfortable coach or sleeper accommodations.

Three other long-haul train routes that span from east to west are popular with railfans:

The Empire Builder: A daily two-night, three-day trip from Chicago to Portland or Seattle, the Empire Builder skirts Glacier National Park as it passes through the northern Rockies. The Portland section adds the spectacular Columbia River Gorge. The trains are timed for daylight in the Glacier Park area, at least in summer, with eastbound schedules good all year, but the best segment is between two remote stops: Shelby and Whitefish Montana. Spokane might be a logical place to start or end the trip on the West end, but the arrival and departure times are 12:37 a.m. and 1:15 a.m. Spokane would also seem to be logical for the Portland section, but the best eastern end for the Columbia Gorge is Pasco, Washington, and the best daylight viewing is westbound. Many go for two overnights between Portland or Seattle and Minneapolis-St Paul.

The Southwest Chief: Daily service is between Chicago and Los Angeles, traces the route of the famed Super Chief and almost matches its former two-night, one-day schedule. The best scenery is between La Junta Colorado and Albuquerque, in both directions.

The Sunset Limited: Service is three times a week. It links New Orleans and Los Angeles through the bayou country between New Orleans and Houston with the best daylight viewing westbound, and West Texas and New Mexico desert and mountains between El Paso and Tucson with good daylight viewing in both directions.

West Coast: Coast Starlight

The daily Coast Starlight links Los Angeles and Seattle on a two-day, one-night itinerary, and it’s another consensus favorite. The top scenery is between Los Angeles and San Jose, a stretch formerly known as the Daylight route, where the track hugs the spectacular California Coast between Oxnard and San Luis Obispo, including some more isolated sections. Timing for daylight is good in both directions. The other daytime segment, between Klamath Falls, Oregon, and Portland crosses some nice mountain areas: It’s no match for the California Zephyr, but it makes a good bookend on the two-day trip.

Two other short West Coast Amtrak routes offer good scenic potential:

Pacific Surfliner: Multiple daily trips duplicate the Coast Starlight itinerary between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, and they add 11 daily runs on the coast-hugging Los Angeles-San Diego segment as well.

Amtrak Cascades: Service runs between Eugene, Oregon, through Portland and Seattle, to Vancouver, B.C., including some nice scenic spots. No train makes a through trip between Eugene and Vancouver, but five operate daily between Portland and Seattle; two extending to Eugene and two different trains run to Vancouver.

Long-Haul Land Cruises

If you’re interested in a long-haul “land cruise,” most railfans would recommend the two-night California Zephyr or the Empire Builder between Chicago and the West Coast, and the one-night Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Seattle. They would also recommend sleeper accommodations, which include all meals, access to showers, and other first-class benefits. Sleepers are a lot more expensive than sit-up coach seats: A couple occupying a roomette on the California Zephyr for early June, for example would pay $779, compared with $276 in Coach. But if you’re a real rail freak, the sleeper is part of the whole experience. Amtrak has in the recent past offered two-for-one sleeper tickets as flash sales—which are probably more likely in the off-season, or winter.

Off-Amtrak Bonus: VIA Rail’s Canadian

And I couldn’t complete this report without mentioning North America’s premier rail land cruise: VIA Rail’s The Canadian between Toronto and Vancouver. The four-night marathon route includes spectacular mountain scenery in Alberta and British Columbia and interesting isolated country between Winnipeg and Toronto. This train operates twice weekly over the entire routes, with an additional section added on the same schedule between Edmonton and Vancouver from May to October. It sells out early, especially for summer travel. Summer fares are generally a lot higher than winter ones; check ViaRail for promotions, especially on its regular Discount Tuesdays.

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

The post The 15 Most Scenic Amtrak Routes in North America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire

Every September in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, fall-color predictions are the talk of all the local coffee shops. And where better to check out the foliage than from the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which whisks passengers to the top of the Northeast’s highest peak. This popular 150-year-old railway carries passengers via replica coaches (biodiesel engine or vintage steam engine) up a three-mile-long trestle to the 6,288-foot summit. Here you’ll see the surrounding national forest’s brilliant hues from some of the steepest railroad tracks in North America (there’s a 37 percent incline in one stretch). From the summit, you can take in panoramas of the mountains and valleys from New Hampshire to Vermont. On clear days, you can see as far as Maine and Canada.

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Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado

Originally constructed in 1881 to haul silver and gold from mining camps in the San Juan Mountains, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is popular for its awe-inspiring views. As you ride from the remote wilderness of Durango to the mining town of Silverton on this historic coal-fired steam train, you can enjoy autumn’s golden and crimson hues set among the majestic peaks of the San Juan Mountains and along the Animas River. There’s a special ride for fall photographers in late September and, beginning in mid-November, you can kick off the holiday season with a ride on the Polar Express.

Check Prices for Doubletree by Hilton Durango in Durango, CO

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Reading Blue Mountain & Northern, Pennsylvania

Ride a 1920s-era steam locomotive or diesel train to from the Reading area to Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, the heart of the Pocono Mountains. The Reading Blue Mountain & Northern railroad runs special fall foliage themed trips with plenty of time to enjoy the charming town of Jim Thorpe. Hop aboard another train, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, to savor the foliage in nearby Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Check Prices for Doubletree by Hilton in Reading, PA

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Tennessee Central Railway Museum, Tennessee

This volunteer organization runs a wide range of short train rides year-round, but the best one for leaf-peeping is the October Fall Foliage Excursion along the Nashville and Eastern Railway. The museum uses its own stable of 1950s vintage passenger cars and diesel locomotives; book a dome seat for the best views.

Check Prices for The W Nashville in Nashville, TN

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Napa Valley Wine Train, California

Fall in the Napa Valley is one of those unexpected sensory delights. During harvest season the air carries the aroma of fermenting grapes, and changing leaves on grapevines cover the undulating landscape. The Napa Valley Wine Train is a great way to experience it without having to drive. The 36-mile trip takes you from the historic town of Napa through the countryside to the village of St. Helena and back. Enjoy vineyard views, wine tastings, and an onboard multi-course lunch or dinner in a restored early-1900s Pullman car. You also have the option to add on winery tours.

Check Prices for Archer Hotel in Napa, CA

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Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Georgia

Climb aboard on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in downtown Blue Ridge’s historic 1905 depot, and ride the rails from the charming mountain village into the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, enjoying vibrant displays of sweeping color along the way. You’ll stop for a layover in the Georgia/Tennessee border towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, where antique and craft shops and down-home hospitality take you back in time. Back onboard, ask a crewmember to show you around the cars and explain the history behind each one.

Check Prices for the Hampton Inn Blue Ridge in Blue Ridge, GA

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Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Ohio

Winding through the 33,000-acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad takes you along scenic stretches of fall color. Starting just 15 miles outside of Cleveland, the route allows passengers to hop on or off at any of eight stations to explore small towns, canal museums, and a 19th-century working farm. The route runs along several miles of the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. For a small fee, you can put your bike on the train, ride a few stops, then bike back to your car. Alternatively, you can book a two-hour, nonstop trip aboard the Fall Flyer for a relaxing ride dedicated to leaf peeping.

Check Prices for Hilton Garden Inn Akron in Akron, OH

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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, North Carolina

Less than a 90-minute drive from Tennessee’s Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad‘s Nantahala Gorge trip follows a historic rail line through mountain tunnels on a beautiful fall foliage excursion. See rich auburns and buttery yellows reflected in the water as you cross over Fontana Lake, then trace the winding river through the mountains.

Check Prices for Stonebrook Lodge in Bryson City, NC

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Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona

Forget the stereotype that Arizona is all desert and rattlesnakes. You can see brilliant pockets of yellow aspens tucked within forests of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and spruce in and around Kaibab National Forest when you board the Grand Canyon Railway.

Check Prices for Best Western Plus Inn of Williams in Williams, AZ

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Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Connecticut

The sound of the steam locomotive’s whistle and the smell of its burnt-coal smoke have turned many a New England leaf peeper into a hopeless romantic or wistful nostalgic. On the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat excursion, a 1920s locomotive meanders through the Connecticut River Valley over rivers and through forests on a narrated ride before connecting with an open-deck riverboat. You’ll float past the Gillette Castle, the Goodspeed Opera House, and the Haddam Swing Bridge, all festooned in the season’s brilliant colors.

Check Prices for The Griswold Inn in Essex, CT

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Other Fall Train Rides

Many of Amtrak’s long-haul routes pass through regions of the country with beautiful fall foliage. Consider the Adirondack, which runs between New York City and Montreal; the Pennsylvanian, which travels from New York City to Pittsburgh; the Vermonter, which whisks passengers from Washington, D.C. to northern Vermont; and the California Zephyr, which passes through the Rockies on its route between Chicago and San Francisco.

Shorter tourist lines throughout the country operate other fall foliage train rides as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other seasonally themed excursions. American-Rails.com has a state-by-state searchable directory of scenic rail excursions, including a section on fall foliage.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ed Perkins contributed to this story.

The post The 10 Best Fall Train Rides in the U.S. appeared first on SmarterTravel.

For globetrotters, there’s nothing better than hitting the road as you watch the scenery change around you. If you’re missing that open, expansive feeling, it’s time to climb aboard the YouTube Express! The videos we’ve rounded up below show real-time train trips as they pass through some of the prettiest terrain in the world. We’re talking Norwegian countryside, Swiss mountains, and English fields. The best part about these videos is how soothing they are—the landscape rolls by slowly, letting your mind ease into the gentle click-clack rhythm of a train trip. Our suggestion: Leave these videos running in the background to give a place to rest your gaze while working from home. They’re also a hit with train-obsessed kids (and train-obsessed kids at heart). Click on the links below and get ready to leave the station.

Golden Pass Route (Switzerland)

A plucky guitar provides the soundtrack to this stunning train ride through Switzerland. The Golden Pass route takes travelers on a weaving journey through the Alps right when the trees are bursting into their fall colors. A gushing river, A-line houses, and an atmospheric fog all add to the rich ambiance. As mountains open up to reveal sweeping valley scenes, the train window passes by the stuff of pastoral dreams.

Bernina Pass (Switzerland and Italy)

This video of the Bernina Pass between Switzerland and Italy shows more sweeping Alpine countryside, but this time we’re treated to the conductor’s view at the front of the engine. Snow-topped mountains and shimmering crystal-blue lakes dip in and out of the train’s view. Occasional tunnels drive everything into darkness, only to burst into full Technicolor on the other side, with blue skies and blankets of evergreens.

Gloucestershire (United Kingdom)

Relax and gaze dreamily out the window of this Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway train. The patchwork landscape beyond looks just like the picture on the top of a shortbread tin, and uplifting cotton-ball clouds unspool above. Fields, little houses, and church spires all make an appearance, and the soundtrack is just those train wheels turning over and over with their swaying rhythm.

Oslo to Bergen (Norway)

For pure winter wonderland magic, the Bergen Railway line can’t be beat. It moves from lakeside greenery into snow-blanketed stillness and back again. The view here is front-of-train (aka “cab view”), and the soundtrack is simply the wheels clacking along, with the occasional murmur of fellow passengers and train announcements, adding to the realness. Best of all, the train ride is over seven hours long, so you can click it on and let it run all day.

Toyosu to Shimbashi (Tokyo)

If you’re a fan of the towering skylines and streamlined architecture of Asia, this trip riding from Toyosu to Shimbashi will catch your imagination. Blocky skyscrapers by the waterfront dash out of view as this Yurikamome train pulls into futuristic white train stations. Adding to the commuter realism are the passengers ducking on and off the train, providing some fun people-watching. Gentle dinging, binging, and whooshing train sounds give the audio backdrop.

Port of Bar to Bijelo Polje (Montenegro)

Travelers that want to get off the beaten path will appreciate this video that pinwheels through the countryside of Montenegro. Train tracks loop around the craggy landscape ringed by deeply edged mountain ranges. Multiple tunnels thread through the mountains themselves, and all the while, the sky grows darker as streetlamps wink on.

Royal Gorge Route (Colorado)

America the beautiful, indeed: This trip through the Royal Gorge Route shows off Colorado’s geography at its most majestic. Pulling alongside the churning Arkansas River, these tracks skirt the rocky Grand Canyon. The train slips through some narrow keyholes of land on its way. And up above, celestial clouds in a perfect blue sky add to the postcard look. Halfway through the video, the train turns to double back for the trip home.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 21 Sites Offering Virtual Tours and Live Streams for Travelers Stuck at Home
• 14 Amazing Travel Memoirs to Read When You’re Stuck at Home
• 14 Ways to Improve Your Future Trips While You’re Stuck at Home

The post 7 Soothing Train-Ride Videos to Ease Your Mind appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Luxury Train Trips

Below I’ve picked the six best luxury train trips, taking you to places as far-flung as Bangkok, Cape Town, and Moscow. These trains provide all accommodations in private compartments for two or more, plus inclusive dining and other onboard services.

Legendary: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Easily the top of the top, this modern incarnation of the world’s most famous train, the Orient Express, evokes images of the colorful Middle East, mysterious Eastern Europe, and, of course, classic mystery with Agatha Christie character Hercule Poirot. Recently reopened rail connections allow the train to complete its original itinerary between Paris and Istanbul, which it does  once a year; overnight stops include Budapest and Bucharest. The base price for Paris-Istanbul is about $20,300 (per person, double occupancy). Unlike other luxury trains, the Orient Express does not have onboard showers, so the five-night schedule involves three nights on the train and two in hotels along the way.

The train is owned and operated by Belmond; it consists of historic cars restored to modern requirements. Twin cabins, with upper and lower berths, include washbasins; lavatories are at either end of the car.

If you don’t want to go as far as Istanbul, Belmond offers dozens of routes around Europe and the U.K., on itineraries lasting from overnight to six days. Pricing generally starts around $3,500 per person for a two-day, one-night trip, although Belmond offers occasional promotional deals.

Distance Champ: The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express

Eight times per year, May through September, this luxury train trip takes you between Moscow and Vladivostok over 12 nights by way of Novosibirsk, Irkutsk, Lake Baikal, and Ulaanbaatar. The train stops for local sightseeing at several places along the way. The base price in 2020 starts at $16,995 per person, double occupancy.

The Golden Eagle train consists of modern equipment with three cabin classes, all including private toilets and showers. Silver cabins offer either small double beds or bunks; higher categories are larger with full beds.

The Golden Eagle folks run four different trains over a range of other itineraries, including several through the “Silk Road” areas of central Asia. They also run a separate Danube Express on a wide variety of European itineraries. As with Belmond, pricing generally starts at around $1,000 per person, per day. Some trips include use of steam locomotives over part of the journey.

Most Varied Attractions Along the Way: Pride of Africa

On the Pride of Africa train, Rovos Rail provides five luxury train trips a year on a 15-day itinerary from Cape Town to Dar Es Salaam or the reverse, passing through Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, and including stops at a game reserve and Victoria Falls. Prices for the trip start at $12,820 per person (double occupancy).

The Pride of Africa uses mainly older equipment updated to current standards. All compartments include double or twin beds, toilet, and shower. Some trips are pulled by steam locomotives.

Rovos Rail operates the Pride of Africa on a wide range of other itineraries in South Africa and adjacent countries, some including safari stops.

High Altitude: The Andean Explorer

The Andean Explorer, another Belmond operation, runs weekly two-night trips linking Cusco with Arequipa via Lake Titicaca, with a lake excursion included. Prices start at around $2,100 per person for the two-night, three-day trip. This is literally the highest of the deluxe trains, reaching altitudes up to 14,000 feet along the way, however, so you might want to skip this one (or bring medications) if you have problems with altitude.

The Andean Explorer train includes three levels of cabin, all with private shower, plus an observation lounge, and spa cars. Belmond also operates the deluxe day train Hiram Bingham between Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Exotic Asia: Eastern & Oriental Express

Belmond’s East Asian luxury train travels between Bangkok and Singapore twice monthly. The two- and three-night itineraries run through some of Thailand’s top scenic areas and take a detour to the famous River Kwai bridge. Prices start at $3,630 per person for the trip. You can also start or end the trip in Kuala Lumpur rather than Singapore.

The Eastern & Oriental Express train consists of modern cars built to luxury standards. It offers three levels of cabin, all of which include private shower and lavatory, plus dining and observation cars. Belmond also runs other regional excursions with the train.

Most Frugal: Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels and its four siblings cruise through northern and southern India. The Palace on Wheels, Maharaja’s Express and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels cover mainly seve-day loop itineraries to and from Delhi, with a few Delhi-Mumbai trips; most include a stop at Agra for the Taj Mahal. The Deccan Odyssey and Golden Chariot operate similar patterns centered on Bangalore and Mumbai.

Pricing is seasonal, starting at $500 per person, per night, on the Palace on Wheels. The several trains also run occasional promotions, such as seven nights for the price of five and 50 percent companion discounts.

Deluxe Indian trains use modern equipment, generally with decor inspired by Bollywood’s best extravaganzas. All cabins include a private toilet and shower.

What to Wear on Your Luxury Train Trip:

More from SmarterTravel:

• 6 Incredible Train Journeys That Won’t Break Your Budget
• America’s Best Train Journeys, Ranked
• World’s 10 Best Cable Cars

The post The World’s 6 Most Incredible Luxury Train Trips appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Getting around Australia takes a little planning. It’s a huge country, only slightly smaller than Canada and the U.S., with big distances between major cities. Fortunately, low-cost airlines offer competitively priced flights on the main domestic routes, and highways connect most of the country. Long-distance passenger trains (plus buses that connect at train stations for travel to outlying areas) are also available in some parts of Australia. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Australia transportation.

Australia by Air

Getting to Australia is a long haul—approximately 14 to 16 flying hours from the West Coast of North America, and another four to five hours if connecting from the East Coast. Flights from Europe typically connect in Asia and take nearly a full day.

The majority of North Americans will arrive at Sydney International Airport (also known as Kingsford Smith), Melbourne, or Brisbane. Major airlines connecting the two continents include Qantas, United Airlines, Air New Zealand (via Auckland), Virgin Australia, and Air Canada.

Flying within Australia is easy between major cities. The Sydney-Melbourne leg is the busiest with plenty of services, and fares for this 1.5-hour flight are quite competitive. Flights between Sydney and Brisbane also take 1.5 hours, while it’s five hours in the air from Sydney to Perth.

Qantas, its low-cost subsidiary airline Jetstar, and competitor Virgin Australia have most of the country covered. As all three carriers also operate international flights, it’s important to ensure you’re at the correct terminal for the correct flight.

Virgin Australia and Jetstar started as as low-cost, no-frills airlines where passengers paid extra for food and beverages (apart from tea/coffee/water). Nowadays Virgin Australia offers complimentary snacks and beverages (as well as meals on select routes), and allows passengers to check a single bag for free. Jetstar is more restrictive, with a strict carry-on baggage allowance (and hefty fees if your hand luggage is overweight) and no food included. Jetstar permits one complimentary checked bag. Fares on most Australian airlines are cheapest when booked online.

A handful of smaller regional airlines also serve country towns and remote Outback areas. Regional Express Airlines, known as REX, flies to towns in New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria, with limited service in Western Australia; Skytrans flies to remote regions in northern Queensland from a base in Cairns; and Par Avion operates in Tasmania. Aircraft on these regional airlines are often quite small, and fares can be expensive, as there may be little or no competition on the route.

Renting a Car in Australia

Car travel is popular in Australia, and most Aussies take to the road over Easter and during the six-week holiday season from mid-December to the end of January. North Americans will find it easier and cheaper to travel outside of peak season, particularly between February and April (before Easter) and in October or November when prices are cheaper and the weather is pleasant.

All the major international rental car brands are based in Australia. An international driver’s license is not required if your own driver’s license is written in English. Prices can be quite high, with lower rates for seven-day hire. Low-cost companies charge less, but they may use older cars and/or restrict the areas of travel. Local company Bayswater Car Rental, which has depots in Sydney and Perth, is popular for its low rates and affordable insurance.

All rental car drivers will incur a charge, called an excess, if they damage the vehicle. This excess can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, and insurance can be purchased to bring down this cost.

Australians drive on the left side of the road and should only use the right-hand lanes on freeways when overtaking. Speed limits vary from 70 to 110 kilometers per hour (between 43 and 68 mph) on freeways and from 40 to 60 kilometers per hour (25 to 37 mph) on city and suburban streets. School zone speed limits (usually 40 kph) are rigorously enforced. Police regularly carry out random breath testing (RBT) for drivers to detect alcohol levels. If you’re caught with more than a 0.05 alcohol reading, you’re under arrest.

Most metropolitan motorways in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne charge a toll, paid electronically via an e-tag device attached to a car’s windscreen. Overseas travelers must pay toll costs or be fined. Visitors can pay online or purchase a 30-day toll pass through a service called Linkt. To get a pass, drivers go online, pay a small set-up fee, and register their credit card and the license plate of their rental vehicle. The freeway toll machines detect the vehicle, then charge the toll back to the associated credit card.

Prepare for long distances if you’re driving in Australia. From Sydney it’s a 10- to 12-hour drive to Brisbane and slightly less to Melbourne, although no one should attempt to drive such long distances on unfamiliar roads all in one trip. (We recommend making at least one overnight stop along the way.)

Take particular care when driving in the Outback or other remote regions. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended (and some rental car companies won’t let you take other types of vehicles into the region). Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re traveling during the hot summer months. Keep in mind that gas stations are few and far between, so you’ll want to fill up when you can.

Australia Campervans, Motorhomes, and Caravans

Campervans, motorhomes, and caravans can be rented from a variety of outlets (note that it may prove costly to choose a caravan, as you’ll also need to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle to tow it). Campervans are perfect for a couple without much luggage who don’t mind roughing it. The cheapest versions will simply turn the back area into a sleeping area; other vans have a pop-up enclosed roof where the double bed is fitted.

Motorhomes are more luxurious and usually have a bed above the driver’s cabin, another bed that assembles on the kitchen table, and often a small bathroom with toilet. There are many camping and caravan sites (called caravan or holiday parks) dotted along the coast of Australia and in regional towns, providing bathroom facilities, power, barbecue areas, a convenience store, and often Wi-Fi.

Jucy and Britz are two of the most popular local operators.

Australia by Train

Two of Australia’s most iconic train journeys are the Indian-Pacific (IP) and the Ghan, privately run tourist rail services operated by Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions. They are far from cheap but well worth taking for the sheer experience of traveling the length and breadth of the country in comfort with fascinating stops along the way.

The aptly named Indian Pacific links the two oceans from Perth to Sydney over four days and three nights. The Ghan links Adelaide in the south with Darwin in the north in a journey spanning three days and two nights. You can opt for a longer journey with the Ghan Expedition, which runs over four days and three nights.

Journey Beyond also recently introduced its Great Southern service, which runs between Adelaide and Brisbane over up to four days.

Queensland Rail offers great scenic train journeys on coastal and Outback routes at affordable rates. One of our favorites is the Spirit of Queensland, a 25-hour, 1,044-mile route between Brisbane and Cairns. There are traditional tourist trains as well, providing jaunts on barely used railway lines in remote areas that include tours and stays in country hotels.

In NSW it’s possible to take trains in four directions from Sydney—north, northwest, west, and south—to cities including Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, the Blue Mountains, and the Outback towns of Moree and Broken Hill. Economy and first-class cabins with sleepers are available on long journeys such as the 11-hour and 14-hour trips to Melbourne and Brisbane, respectively.

In Victoria trains travel from Melbourne to the gold fields towns of Bendigo and Ballarat, the Murray River town of Swan Hill, and the Great Ocean Road town of Warrnambool, with buses feeding off the main rail arteries.

In Western Australia, Transwa links destinations such as Perth, Kalgoorlie Boulder, and Kalbarri.

Australia by Bus

Traveling long distances is also possible by coach (bus), with some trips cheaper than train travel. Greyhound Australia has the country covered, while smaller companies such as Premier and Murrays operate in certain regions. Greyhound has travel passes for hop-on/hop-off options. Vehicles usually have restrooms, USB charger points, and Wi-Fi. The only way to get around Tasmania without a car is by coach. Tassielink connects most of the state, with services supplemented by regional operators.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 25 Ways to Save on Australia Travel
• 10 Ways to Survive a Long-Haul Flight
• The Best Places to Stay in Australia, from Wilderness Lodges to Beach Resorts

Original reporting by Caroline Gladstone. Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Getting Around Australia appeared first on SmarterTravel.

East Coasters know that the oft-traveled Boston to New York to Washington, D.C. route can be a pricey one whether you take a car, plane, train or bus. Travelers who opt to drive between the cities in an effort to save money may now be rethinking that option considering fluctuating gas prices and the maddening traffic jams that are common along the way. In addition, heated competition among JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines has made flying a much more affordable option. Here we outline four ways to travel to the cities, including the cost, travel time, and pros and cons of each.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Air

Who: Delta Airlines (via La Guardia, JFK, Newark, BWI, Ronald Reagan, and Dulles), American Airlines (via JFK, LaGuardia, and Reagan), and JetBlue (via LaGuardia, Newark, BWI, and Reagan) offer nonstop service between the three cities. United operates the Boston to Newark route and to Dulles and Reagan in D.C. Note that JetBlue does not offer flights from the New York City area to D.C.

Cities Served: Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.

Cost: Prices and fares vary dramatically based on availability and on the date and time of your flight. However, round-trip fares to and from all three cities tend to stay at or below $150. You should also take into consideration transportation to/from the city center and each airport when comparing prices for Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. via air to other modes of transportation, which typically operate closer to urban centers and points of interest.

Travel Time: Depending on your route, a nonstop flight can last anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, not including travel time to and from the airport or check-in.

Pros:

• Many departures. All of these airlines have departures all day long, but you may pay more for prime time. Less expensive fares can sometimes be found early in the morning or late in the evening.
• You’ll earn frequent flyer miles.
• No traffic (except getting to and from the airport).

Cons:

• American, Delta, and JetBlue operate from New York’s LaGuardia Airport, which is the least convenient of the city’s three airports if you are planning to go to Manhattan via public transportation. However, it’s the closest airport, and the least expensive to travel to and from if you plan to take a taxi or car service.
• Finding the best fare can be time-consuming with so many possible airport combinations, particularly if you’re flying between New York and D.C. as each city is served by three major airports.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Train

Who: Amtrak offers both Acela Express and regional service between the three cities, plus Philadelphia.

Cities Served: There are daily weekday Acela Express round-trips between Washington, D.C. and New York, as well as several daily weekday round-trips between Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. Weekend service runs approximately once every hour between New York and Washington, D.C. about as regularly to/from Boston.

Cost: In comparison to airfare, train service between Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C. is oftentimes just as expensive, if not more. Amtrak operates both a regional service and “express” service, or the Acela, and charges more for the faster service.

The lowest one-way fares from Boston to New York City on the regional service typically start around $56, while the Acela starts around and $97. The lowest one-way fares from New York City to Boston on the regional service typically start around $54, as compared to about $137 for the Acela service. Prices fluctuate during busier travel times and time of day. The lowest one-way fares from Boston to Washington, D.C. on the regional service typically start around $81 for regional and $144 for Acela. Prices fluctuate during busier travel times and time of day. Unlike with airlines, prices tend to only go up the closer you get to the travel date as select train times sell out. Follow Amtrak on social media as it typically offers fare sales around holidays and during other times of year. Check out its deals page here.

Travel Time: For Acela Express service, plan on about three hours between Washington, D.C. and New York, about seven hours between Washington, D.C. and Boston, and about three and a half hours between New York and Boston. For regional trains, add 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your route. Click here for the Acela Express and Northeast Regional timetables.

Pros:

• On Acela Express, “Quiet Cars” make for a comfortable and peaceful ride, and conference tables and power outlets allow passengers who wish to work to do so easily. An onboard bistro offers several food and beverage options.
• The train stations in each city are easily accessible from other points in the city.
• For travelers concerned with the environmental impact of their travel, trains are the most eco-friendly option.
• There is free Wi-Fi on the train routes.
• Larger and more comfortable seats than an airplane.

Cons:

• Regional trains are much less luxurious than the Acela Express, and they stop more frequently.
• With the abundance of flight options, taking the train may prove both more expensive and more time-consuming than flying.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Bus

Who: Greyhound, “Chinatown” bus services, and several newer bus services. The “Chinatown” buses are called this because they are most often operated by Chinese tour companies and have a pick-up or drop-off point in the city’s Chinatown area. There is also BoltBus, which runs between New York and Boston, and New York and Washington, D.C. (and also stops in Philadelphia). Megabus, which also operates between major U.S. cities; Peter Pan, which operates between major U.S. cities; and Lucky Star, which operates between New York City and Boston.

Cities Served: Boston, New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.

Cost: Bus fares vary, starting at a measly $1 each way up to about $45. The majority of the “Chinatown” buses cost $15 each way for travel between Boston and New York and about $20 each way for travel between New York and Washington, D.C.

Travel Time: About four hours between Boston and New York in light traffic and about five hours between New York and Washington, D.C. However, all three cities have notoriously heavy traffic patterns, and you’re lucky if your trip is this short.

Pros:

• The price of the bus is less than you would pay in gas and tolls, and you won’t have to deal with parking once you get to your destination city.
• The “Chinatown” buses require no advance purchase, though many are sold out during rush-hour travel times.
• There are several companies to choose from in each destination city.
• With so many options, you’re unlikely to get shut out, even on busy travel days.

Cons:

• Travelers are at the mercy of traffic and there may be limited onboard entertainment (although some lines now have added electrical outlets and Wi-Fi to newer buses).
• The “Chinatown” buses can be less reliable than other options, as breakdowns do occur.

To search fares on multiple bus companies at once, try Busbud.com.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Driving

Who: You, traveling in your car. (Under certain circumstances you may want to consider renting a car instead, like if your own vehicle gets poor gas mileage, for example, or if you are leasing your car and don’t want to put too many miles on it.)

Cities Served: Boston, New York, Washington, D.C. and any destination in between.

Cost: Depends on your route and the gas mileage of your vehicle. Assuming you get 25 miles per gallon and gas costs $2.50 per gallon (according to the national average), you’ll pay about $53 to drive one way from D.C. to Boston. Don’t forget to add in tolls, parking expenses, and rental fees (if applicable). You’ll also want to keep in mind the less tangible wear and tear on your vehicle.

Travel Time: About four hours in light traffic between Washington, D.C. and New York or between New York and Boston.

Pros:

• You can make your own travel schedule, departing whenever it’s convenient for you and stopping as necessary for food and bathroom breaks.
• The more people traveling in your group, the more cost-effective an option this is.
• If you need a car in your destination city, driving yourself is almost always cheaper than renting a vehicle once you get there.

Cons:

• You’ll be at the mercy of traffic along your route, particularly if your trip coincides with rush hour in any of these cities.
• Parking downtown in any of these three cities can be inconvenient and expensive.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Top 11 Places to Visit in New York City
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Boston
• 23 Must-See Washington, D.C. Attractions

Editor’s note: This article has been updated since the date of its publication with the input of NYC & Company. Originally written by Genevieve S. Brown; updated by Sarah Schlichter and Ashley Rossi.

The post Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route appeared first on SmarterTravel.

If you’ve landed on this page you’ve either seen the Big Five already in South Africa, or you’re after a trip to Africa that’s more “off the beaten path.” But Africa is a vast continent, and finding the right trip here can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve narrowed down 11 tours to less-traveled African destinations that are worthy of your bucket-list.

The Best Africa Tours to Lesser-Known Destinations

Tourism to Africa is rapidly increasing, with over 2,800 hotel rooms added since late 2019 and another 6,600 new rooms coming in the next few years. Plus, new air routes from Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Kenya Airways, and Turkish Airlines are opening up the continent to more overseas travelers. These 11 tours and destinations are now more accessible for travelers and will be sure to gain popularity over the next few years.

Get a Taste of Food, Culture, and Coffee in Nairobi

Sure, a trip to Kenya and the Masai Mara are already known to most well-versed travelers, but many skip out on the country’s lively capital, Nairobi. It’s one of the most modern cities in Africa, and its stories can be told through food and culture. One of the most underrated things to do here is to take an urban city tour. Airbnb offers a walking tour called Nai Nami, or Our Streets – Our Stories. Travelers have the chance to explore the city via a walking tour led by underprivileged youths. Other off-the-beaten-path tours in Nairobi include food tours, like this authentic Kenyan food tour (from Viator, SmarterTravel’s sister site) or a coffee farm and tasting tour (also on Viator).

Explore Lesser-Known Senegal and the Gambia

Most travelers don’t think to visit Western Africa, but the countries of Senegal and the Gambia are building up their infrastructure to be more tourist-friendly. Traveling with a group tour operator to these countries is a reliable way to experience their deep-rooted history, coastal landscapes, and local village life. We recommend G Adventures’ 10-day Classic Senegal & the Gambia tour, as it covers a lot of the region’s highlights with a good balance of guided tours and free time.

Safari in Tanzania with the Family

The gorgeous landscapes of Tanzania offer just as much, if not more, as the surroundings in South Africa. Plan your next epic family vacation to Tanzania with REI Adventures’ Tanzania Family Adventure & Safari. The nine-day trip takes you through multiple wildlife reserves, cycling on a forest canopy walkway, hiking with Maasai in a local village, and more.

Find Out Why Everyone Is Going to Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of the fastest-growing destinations in Africa, and for good reason. The country offers unparalleled landscapes, delicious food, and unique history. Intrepid Travel’s 13-day Incredible Ethiopia tour covers all this and more. Spend a day in the capital city before heading out to the lakeshore towns of Bahir Dar and Gondar, continuing on to the Simien Mountains, and ending in the town of Lalibela, home to some of the region’s most significant religious sites.

Go Gorilla Trekking in the Congo

Travel to the heart of Africa on this all-inclusive safari and gorilla trekking trip with Deeper Africa. You’ll spend most of your time in Odzala-Kokoua National Park across three different safari camps. Activities include a kayak safari, a boat cruise, forest walks, gorilla trekking, and night walks with the chance to see western lowland gorillas, the guereza colobus mustached monkey, forest buffaloes, and forest elephants.

See Three National Parks on a Luxury Safari in Rwanda

African Travel’s Discover Rwanda tour explores three national parks over the course of 11 days: Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, and Volcanoes National Park with stays at luxurious accommodations like a One&Only resort. No stone is left unturned with this itinerary, which includes game drives, canopy walks, chimpanzee trekking, hiking, gorilla trekking, and more. Rwanda is home to dozens of animals such as lions, black rhinos, shoebills, buffalo, leopards, elephants, giraffes, spotted hyenas, zebras, elands, chimpanzees, and gorillas.

Relax with a Beach Escape to Zanzibar

Looking to chill out on one of the most pristine coastlines in the world? Head to the Tanzanian archipelago of Zanzibar for a few days of pure relaxation. Contiki’s six-day Zanzibar Beach Escape includes five nights on the main island, Ungujain, in a beachfront hotel with plenty of free time to explore. Snorkel, dive, and enjoy watersports for a few days, and then explore the capital, Stone Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also attend full moon parties, eat at the Rock Restaurant, and take a day trip to Prison Island.

Discover Africa by Train on the Rovos Rail

While there aren’t too many ways to explore Africa by rail—yet—Vacations By Rail’s Rovos Rail journey is truly an off-the-beaten-path way to experience multiple countries on the continent. Spend six nights aboard a luxury train, as well as a night in a game lodge in Etosha National Park in Namibia and a night at Soussusvlei Lodge. Along the way you’ll see dramatic landscapes like Big Hole, Fish River Canyon, the Kalahari Desert, the Namib Desert, Walvis Bay, and Etosha National Park. Other stops include the Diamond Mine Museum, Windhoek (Namibia’s capital), and Upington in South Africa.

Take a Safari-Cruise in Southern Africa

CroisiEurope’s Southern Africa Safari-Cruise tour is truly a bucket-list experience in a relatively less crowded region of Africa. The highlights of this tour include the comfortable boat, the African Dream, built by the river cruise company, as well as game drives in Chobe National Park (home to a quarter of the continent’s elephant population). Plus, unadvertised experiences, like seeing the Milky Way every night while sleeping on the largest manmade lake in the world, can’t be beat.

Experience Madagascar a la Jane Goodall

The 14-day Highlights of Madagascar tour by G Adventures is endorsed by primatologist Jane Goodall, which means the trip not only has a low impact on the environment but also contributes to the protection of wildlife and supports local communities. You’re guaranteed to see amazing animals and landscapes on this itinerary, including lemurs, baobab trees, natural swimming pools, beaches, and rice paddies.

This tour also includes a stay at a local community guesthouse as well as visits to an artisan workshop and a traditional healer.

Spend a Week Sleeping on the Nile River

Most travelers visit Egypt for the epic Pyramids and don’t spend much time exploring the rest of the country’s offerings. (Did you know, for instance, that the Aswan High Dam’s reservoir capacity is five times the size of the Hoover Dam?) The 12-day Splendors of Egypt & the Nile tour by Uniworld gives you ample time both in the rising capital city of Cairo and on the famed river. Sailings are set to start in the fall of 2020 and include a full week aboard a brand-new ship, the S.S. Sphinx. Included excursions span from lesser-visited temple visits to bird-watching boat rides, and, yes, visits to the Ancient Memphis sites.

What to Pack

More from SmarterTravel:

• How to Pack for an African Safari
• 10 Best Places to Go in Africa (and What to Do There)
• 7 Once-in-a-Lifetime Safaris That Aren’t in Africa

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

The post 11 Underrated Africa Tours for Your Bucket List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Trending Travel Destinations for 2020

Here are the hottest and most up-and-coming destinations to watch this year for new and exciting travel trends.

Japan

Even if you’re not heading to the Olympics in Tokyo this summer, Japan is catering to visitors throughout 2020 and beyond via exciting developments that come with hosting. New long-distance Shinkansen Supreme bullet trains will debut just in time for the Games to link Osaka with Tokyo, meaning it will be easier (and more eco-friendly; the lighter trains will consume far less energy than prior bullet trains) than ever to explore more of Japan after landing in airfare-friendly Tokyo. And these trains are only a taste of what’s to come for Japan travel in the 2020s: The nation is in the process of developing the world’s fastest land train, the Maglev bullet train, which is capable of reaching speeds more than 374 miles per hour—it’s expected to debut in 2027.

Montana, United States

On top of the majestic scenery its long been known for, Montana is a newly trendy nature getaway celebrated for its expanding luxury hotel scene, culinary offerings, and shop-local boutiques, according to an American Express study detailing where cardholders are traveling in 2020. But Montana is also about to get more accessible than ever before thanks to emerging flight routes sure to stir up competition. Launching two brand-new seasonal routes to Big Sky country, American Airlines will fly from New York’s LaGuardia Airport to Bozeman and Kalispell, Montana, beginning mid-year and continuing through Labor Day. Take advantage of the new direct route before the secret gets out, and so that they’ll continue next year.

Patagonia, Argentina

Make a bucket-list journey to Argentine Patagonia even more once-in-a-lifetime by planning your trip around the December solar eclipse that’s set to hit the northern part of the region. And since this is the second such total solar eclipse in the area in recent years, tour operators are well-acquainted with the phenomena and will go all-in on getting you there with an expert guide. For example, Wild Frontiers is planning its second eclipse-centered tour with a Patagonia Solar Eclipse itinerary: The new offering includes Buenos Aires plus Nahuel Huapi National Park adventures like kayaking, ranching, hiking, and river rafting.

Montevideo, Uruguay

One of the cities featured in Booking.com’s travel trends for 2020, Urugay’s capital Montevideo is a stable and LGBT-friendly destination to visit in South America—a continent that’s seen dips in tourism of late thanks to political instability in travel destinations like Brazil, Chile, and Argentina. Travelers identified the city as a trending travel destination for anyone seeking an immersive, one-stop escape; according to the study, “over half (54 percent) of global travelers say they want to go on one long trip to a place that has all of their favorite activities and sights close together.” Montevideo’s offerings include beaches, nightlife, markets, theaters, culinary prowess, and festive Gay Pride Day celebrations in September.

Nairobi and Melindi, Kenya

Environmental responsibility doesn’t need to be at odds with your long-haul flight if you choose to support a destination that’s offsetting carbon at one of the fastest rates in the world. At the UN’s Climate Action Summit in 2019, Kenya pledged to plant nearly two billion trees by 2020. And travelers are taking notice: The town of Melindi, Kenya, a coastal resort area near the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve, is one of Airbnb users’ top-20 trending travel destinations for 2020.

To boot, getting there is easier than ever thanks to newly low airfares to Nairobi. Airfarewatchdog analyst Ricky Radka cited is as one of the cheapest places to fly, with fares dipping as low as $550 round-trip. Count airlines KLM, Air France, Swiss, and Lufthansa among the major carriers that serve the country. And Radka says that Qatar Airways’ weekly sales “regularly include Nairobi from one of its 10 U.S. destinations.”

Romania

Europe’s intensely overtouristed spots (Venice, Barcelona, Santorini) have new Eastern European hotspots to thank for stealing away some of the spotlight: Romania is making a name for itself as one of the top five most trending Airbnb booking destinations for 2020. The nation that’s home to Transylvania, Dracula’s castle, and well-preserved medieval towns nestled among rolling hills has seen a 298 percent annual increase in Airbnb bookings.

Shanghai, China

While it may sound like a long way to go, China’s biggest city has recently emerged as one of the most affordable Asian hubs to fly to, with airfares often dipping into the mid-$500s range for round-trip flights. And because the U.S. dollar goes far in China, you might consider upping your hotel game and splurging on a property like the ones trending in American Express’s 2020 travel trends report: The brand-new Shanghai Edition hotel and the new W Shanghai The Bund are worthwhile if you want an up-close-and-personal view of Shanghai’s glittering riverfront skyline. And consider hopping a bullet train to nearby cultural gems like canal-addled Suzhou, the Venice of China, to go beyond Shanghai.

Cairo, Egypt

Now 10 years removed from the Arab Spring, Egypt isn’t just a stable place to travel in the Middle East, it’s a trending destination thanks to a rising tide of new cultural offerings. Cairo is finally opening its long-awaited, shiny-new Grand Egyptian Museum in 2020. The 117-acre institution is being built in view of the ancient Pyramids of Giza and will hold more than 43,000 artifacts—chariots, mummies, masks—including many items that have been returned to Egypt from collections abroad showcasing items from King Tut’s tomb. The luxe Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence is also featured in American Express’ study of trending places its cardholders are booking.

London, England

The Brexit saga has been playing out for years now, and 2020 is looking to be the year that the U.K. finally cuts ties with the E.U., for good. Americans are unlikely to be directly affected by the change since our customs and border relationship with the United Kingdom will remain largely the same—but there could be benefits to reap in terms of another possible economic downturn for the mighty pound, as there was in 2016 immediately following the Brexit vote. England’s new leadership ran its late-2019 election on the promise that London would become an economic “Singapore on Thames,” meaning a more-competitive world leader in business with low tax rates, minimal regulation, and new infrastructure. But experts say the opposite is more likely to happen, which means world travelers could find London to be more affordable than it was pre-Brexit.

Nepal

If visiting a bucket-list destination that actually wants more visitors sounds like a welcome change, consider Nepal—which is encouraging travelers to help the country hit its target goal of two million visitors this year. The campaign, called Visit Nepal Year 2020, focuses on sustainable adventure travel as well as local experiences like major festivals and special events (think Nepali New Year and spectator sports like ice climbing), and revolves around two upgraded airports debuting soon—Kathmandu and Bhairahawa. Nepalese air carriers are following suit, with new routes from China and neighboring India in the works from Shree Airlines and Buddha Air.

For more ideas about where to go this year, see the Top Travel Destinations for 2020.

What to Pack

More from SmarterTravel:

• 12 Best Places to Go in 2020
• Affordable Dream Vacations to Take in 2020
• 10 Cheap Tropical Vacations to Take in 2020

SmarterTravel’s Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her adventures on Instagram @shanmcmahon.

The post 10 Trending Travel Destinations to Watch in 2020 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Best Senior Discounts in Travel:

Some suppliers offer percent or dollars-off discounts to senior travelers, typically starting at age 60 or 65. Here’s my take on the best brands for senior discounts, plus some great overall senior-focused brands, for every type of travel—from airlines to tours, cruises, rail, and more.

Airline: British Airways via AARP

Once common, senior discounts on airline tickets have virtually disappeared from the marketplace. Southwest, the last holdout among U.S. lines, discontinued its special senior fares in 2019.

One of the last remaining airline senior discounts is the AARP discount on British Airways, which is available to just about any senior as $65 off any economy or premium economy ticket, and as $200 off any business class ticket. Discounts apply to any ticket purchase, including flash sales. Seniors need to buy directly from British Airways through its AARP portal to get the discount.

While $65 may not be a game changer, you don’t sacrifice anything to get it. And $200 off a business class ticket is especially good when you start with a flash-sale fare. However, the main caveat is that British Airways’ business class on most planes isn’t typically anything special. Your best bet might instead be to use the discount for a true business class ticket on a code-shared flight: British Airways flights operates by American Airlines or Iberia have a more competitive business class right now.

(Note: Throughout 2020 British Airways is rolling out new business class suites on some international routes.)

Hotel: No Clear Winner

Most major international hotel chains offer modest senior discounts, typically of five to 10 percent, to seniors at various ages (usually 50 through 65). In some cases, discounts are available through AARP; in others, no membership is required. And the AARP deals are seldom any better than those offered to members of AAA and many other organizations. Senior discounts at hotels are most prevalent in the U.S. and Canada. Typically, local chain and independent hotels in Asia and Europe do not offer senior discounts.

Over the years, my conclusion about AARP or other senior discounts has been that they’re good for at least a small price cut when you can’t find a better deal through some other source available to travelers of any age. Among the ones to check first are: Opaque rates through Hotwire or Priceline (which reveal the specific property after purchase), flash-sale rates, and air/hotel packages for your destination.

Rental Car: Avis and Budget via AARP

Just about anyone can qualify for a typical rental car discount. But the AARP deal with Avis and Budget is different because, in addition to a 30-percent discounted rate, the base rate includes better liability coverage than almost all other rates.

Seniors with car preferences should also consider National. With its Emerald Aisle program, National pioneered the approach of allowing each renter to choose a preferred car from those available. For those seniors who are fussy about which model they drive, National’s system works especially well.

Rail: Amtrak, VIA Rail Canada, and Eurail Pass

The best rail brand depends on your destination. Amtrak currently offers 10 percent discount on coach class travel for travelers age 65 and over—or age 60 and over on cross-border travel with VIA Rail. That’s on most trains, but not the high-speed Acela, the Auto Train, Saver Fares, or on business class or sleeper-accommodation trains. Although Amtrak has been doing senior discounts for many years, it has in the recent past listed senior discounts as “ending soon,” with neither a specific cutoff date nor any suggestion of what might come. Amtrak also offers time-limited special senior discounts. Current offerings include a 50 percent discount on Downeaster trains and a 15 percent discount for seniors age 62 or over on Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner, and San Joaquins lines.

Canada’s VIA Rail goes a bit further than Amtrak. It offers discounts around 10 percent on all trains, including sleeper accommodations as well as coach. But the very best deals are the weekly discount promotions, where cuts are far deeper on selected routes. Note: At this writing, the VIA Rail website says: “Discount Sleeper Deals will return in early January 2020.”

In Europe, you have a bunch of choices: No one line is “best” for everyone; but here’s how you can choose the one that’s best for your trip:

The Eurail Pass now offers senior passes for travelers age 60-plus at 10 percent off. The discount is available for both first- and coach-class travel throughout Eurail’s 31 countries. But there’s a big catch: high co-payments for travel on almost all of the top international high-speed trains—the ones most tourist visitors want to use. Several single-country passes also offer senior versions, typically at about 10 percent less than any-age passes. Eurail passes work best if you concentrate long-haul travel on a few days during your stay in Europe.

If, instead, you plan a lot of short trips, you might prefer a senior card that offers discounts to seniors age 60 or over on all applicable train tickets for a full year: The most popular are the U.K Senior Railcard for 33 percent off most fares, the French Advantage Senior Card for 30 percent off most fares, and the Italian Silver Card for 15-25 percent off most fares (free for travelers age 70 and over).

Outside of Europe, it’s hard to find other senior discounts. The most popular railpass outside of Europe is Japan Rail Pass, which doesn’t offer any senior deals.

Tour and Cruise Provider: Collette via AARP

The AARP deal with Collette Travel features discounts of $50 to $100 per person on most tours and river cruises, and discounts up to $450 person on some sale deals. Colleette provides good value overall for its many destinations, so the discount makes it even better.

Public Transit: Philadelphia and Pittsburgh

Seniors age 65 and over travel free in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh—a deal that’s really hard to beat. Most large public transit systems throughout the U.S. offer senior fares, typically about half off. Senior discounts typically apply to multi-ride and all-day pass tickets as well as single ride. Some systems require that you show a Medicare card or increasingly, a special senior ID. Some allow you to purchase online; others require that you show up at a local office. (Very few cities outside the U.S. offer similar senior deals.)

Best Travel Brands for Seniors Overall:

Not all the best senior deals are discounts: Some outfits tailor their products and services to the needs of senior travelers without actually discounting any prices.

 Road Scholar and Grand Circle, for Packaged Tours

Formerly known as Elderhostel, Road Scholar excels at offering seniors an unbeatable combination of outstanding travel experiences with continuing education, and at a good value. It focuses on travelers age 55 and over, offering thousands of tour options designed for senior travelers in more than 90 countries. Tours of varying physical requirements are offered, from mild to rugged. Road Scholar does best with tours in the U.S. Its overseas tours and cruises, although excellent, typically do not offer quite as good values as its domestic offerings. Even so, Road Scholar is hard to beat for any senior who wants to broaden his or her horizons through travel.

If you’re looking for a more conventional tour, consider Grand Circle Travel, a tour company that focuses on travelers age 50 or over. Tours are paced for seniors; they’re offered worldwide, from the U.S. to Antarctica to Wales. Grand Circle also features no-cost or low-cost single supplements to serve the ever-increasing demand from seniors who travel solo.

Viking for River and Ocean Cruises

I agree with SmarterTravel sister site Cruise Critic’s judgement that the best cruise line for seniors is Viking Cruises. Viking targets “well-traveled adults 50 years of age and older.” River cruises are generally more interesting experience to seniors than the mass-market Caribbean, Mexican, or Mediterranean cruises.

Set on an ocean cruise? Cruise Critic also favors several ocean cruise lines, the best of which include such luxury-level outfits as Oceana, Regent Seven Seas, and Silverseas. They’re clearly great for seniors—but expensive. Cruise Critic does not include any of the three giant mass-market lines—Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean—in its “best for seniors” compilation, but it does include two notch-above cruise lines, Celebrity and Holland-America.

Check out SmarterTravel’s roundup of the best in booking sites for 2020. Want more expert tips and vacation inspiration? Subscribe to SmarterTravel on YouTube!

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Best AARP Benefits for Seniors
• 7 Safety Tips for Senior Travelers
• The 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

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