Do you love to travel but don’t want to spend much time at the airport? We have compiled this list of alternative ways to travel the world to show you that flying is not the only way to get around!
The excitement to travel is followed by questions and issues that daunt most travelers. Those beginners in traveling have multiple queries regarding various aspects of traveling. Where to start? How to plan? What to consider? The array of confusion seems not to subside for some.
The most common and one of the most costly parts of the entire travel package, the mode of transportation is an integral part of traveling. Choosing the right model helps save a substantial amount of money.
This money can be spent better on the trip, and one need not get stuck with the stringent plans set by the tour and travel operators. You can customize the trip with a better understanding and knowledge of the transportation mode.
Before starting a journey, getting travel insurance as our number one safety tip is always wise. Travel Insurance provides varied protection to travelers to have a stress-free journey. Stolen luggage, ticket cancellation loss, and death cover, emergency medical expense are covered under the insurance. One can choose a plan according to their needs and requirement.
Here are some alternative ways to travel the world and to your dream destinations!
Top 5 Alternative Ways to Travel the World Besides Flying!
Go on a cruise or cross seas via ferries or short cruises
For those who love to be surrounded by vast expanses of water, traveling by Cruise Ship is a great option. The luxury of going on a cruise makes the journey very comfortable and convenient. There is no need to run to places to look for food or accommodation. Unpack ones and give in to world-class luxury treatment on board.
Cruise offers all possible amenities, from the swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam bath, cafe, library, bar, disco club, indoor and outdoor gaming area, and hospital to the basic food service, laundry, cleaning, and ironing services.
READ: Top 10 Luxurious Travel Ideas and Destinations for Your Next Fancy Adventure
There is a range of international cuisines laid on these ships. The impressive passenger-crew ratio further ensures that no stone is left unturned to make travelers’ journeys unforgettable.
There are some countries where reaching by ship is the most economical option. With the high cost of living and considering how expensive they are, traveling by plane or road can burn a huge hole in the pocket.
How to travel the world via the sea?
For example, countries like Norway, Russia, Cuba, and Antarctica are best reached by ship. The vast coastlines have splendid ports and breathtaking views that warmly welcome its tourists.
Also, northern Europe and the Baltic area have good cruise line connections, making traveling between each country accessible by sea.
For instance, a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki takes only 2 hours and is available throughout the day. So, what are you waiting for? Book a no-fly cruise and taste and experience luxury!
Go on a scenic train ride crossing countries and continents!
One of the most preferred modes of transportation, even from the early days, is the train. It allows one to get mesmerized by the breathtaking views one gets to witness while traveling by train. Traveling through the beauty of vast expands of fields, bridges, the mountains is an experience of a lifetime.
Many countries in the world have a huge network of railway systems. Trains travel in and out of these countries and carry hundreds of tourists. There are many regional and international trains run for the comfort of travelers.
How to travel the world using the train?
India can be considered the best example of a country to travel by train. Trains are the lifeline of this country. India has the 4th largest railway network in the world. Some trains go whistling to neighboring countries as well. There are trains to Pakistan (The Samjhauta Express), to Bangladesh (the Maitri Express), to Nepal (the Jogbani – Biratnagar Link), and similarly to Bhutan, Myanmar, Vietnam, China, and Thailand.
Not to mention, Europe and North America have advanced, modern, and well-connected train tracks across the continent. For instance, Interrail and Eurorail are some of the most efficient ways to travel around Europe, with excellent connections between small towns and cities in the continent, and they also make it easy for travelers as they have a good rail map on their websites you can use to organize your itinerary. It comes a bit pricey, but you get a few percentages off the price if you’re under 26, a student, or a senior citizen!
Some trains travel through a third country and act as a link between two destination countries. The Intercity or regional trains running across the nation and the local trains running within the city give travelers a cost-efficient and convenient mode of travel.
Travel around using the good ‘ol bus!
There are so many reasons to travel by bus. There is no need to arrive in advance for early check-in. They are cheap and do not require any planning or bookings.
They halt at so many places and allow travelers to stretch and breathe in some fresh air. Buses are the lifelines of almost all the world’s cities and the most trusted mode of transportation.
The range of bus services extends to regional and international. Every country has buses that run within the city and intercity. However, not all countries have international bus services. Many agencies offer bus services. One can book online and get to know the various options available.
How to get about using buses and night buses as alternative ways to travel?
For example, one can go on an intercity bus tour in Europe. The bus service is specific for such tours. They travel across various cities of Europe with sufficient halting to allow time to explore the city before heading to the next city. The entire trip is preplanned and fixed. The details of such a service can be availed from the official website.
This is a considerably cheaper and more economical way to travel through Europe without changing transportation modes or dealing with clearance and baggage-carrying issues. They are safe and give an opportunity for travelers to meet people from different backgrounds and learn more from them. It helps create a Nice friendly friend or social circle to travel with. It is great for those who travel solo to foreign countries.
For instance, I traveled to the Balkans for two weeks, primarily using the bus between countries. I also used buses to travel around the Philippines and Finland and crossed borders between Asian countries – the choices are endless if you want to travel inland! I’ve used the bus to see Canada, and that was one hell of a trip, I must say so myself.
That said, it is important to know that traveling using the bus system is not the easiest. It takes time to get used to it, and coming prepared is a good idea.
Bring your car and go on an epic road trip
Only a traveler can explain the feeling of exploring a city or a country by road. With proper planning, one can hit the road and experience a different way of touring. One meets different people, witnesses scenic beauties, travels through local towns and villages, and makes an amazing collection of memories.
There are many tracks where traveling on the road is a must. There is no need to cramp against fellow travelers on trains and buses. Just hire a car and start venturing into the foreign land absorbing everything it offers. There are some majestic trips around the world, which can also be weeks long. With the ease of traveling at your own pace, one can halt as long as one wishes at one place or village.
Is road-tripping one of the alternative ways to travel the world?
In recent years, more and more people have realized that there’s no other luxury in this world but to see its beauty-chasing experience instead of chasing accumulated time. I agree with this!
This is why many wanderers sell their material belongings and start living in a van or a car and travel the world at the same time. I truly admire the revolutionary way people think nowadays and how many are turning to be minimalistic – this is how the hashtag #vanlife came to life. Of course, there are pioneers in this field, like this Argentinian family who has traveled the world with their kids.
There are various trails that avid travelers must ride on once in their lifetime. For instance, the Cabot Trail in Canada is unarguably the most beautiful. Road tripping is not only done by car but also by bike.
Leh Ladakh in India is a popular biker’s route and is most traveled by bikers from around the world. Every biker dreams of riding on the highest motorable roads and crossing some of the highest motorable passes in the world, and getting immersed in the lap of the Himalayas is captivated by their might and beauty.
If you decide to travel by airplane
For the modern-day traveler, Parkos Airport parking takes the complexities out of traveling. This service allows airport users to not only compare prices for different parking facilities but also make online reservations and payments. With this car parking platform, many travelers have reclaimed their peace of mind, knowing their car is safe.
Heart-pumping cross-country cycling (or motorbike)
This can be considered the healthiest way to traverse through a country. The enchanting experience of riding through the green grassland, the hustle-bustle of a foreign village, and the busy squares of the prominent cities.
For example, many countries, such as the USA, Europe, and Latin America, organize group cycling trips to travel within and between countries. One can join such groups and have fun and a safe trip.
While the explorer in you is completely unaware of the whereabouts of the place they chose to visit, ensure that you learn about the transport options used by people from that region. Therefore, it’s important to plan your trip with little research.
Much alternate travel options open doors to make your trip a memorable journey into a foreign land. The best way to get familiar with the destination where you are traveling is to take local transport and learn more about the place and its people. It sounds like an adventure in itself.
Awesome ideas. I have traveled a lot of places in India and trains are my most preferred way of traveling as it has different and fun experiences always. I love to communicate with people, knowing about their culture and so much. I generally book my ticket with Touhostra. They give great service and consultation regarding where I want to travel. I must say, they are great in this field.
Thank you Alice for your recommendation!