A couple months ago we went to visit a friend of our in another part of China. We decided to fly there. That was about an hours trip. On the way home we decided to take the train which was 18 hrs. Now, for the record, it has been established before that I love to fly. But if you are ever planning to visit China, I think you should travel cross country by train. There is something strangely enchanting about having the landscapes pass you by as the train gently sways to and fro. There is something soothing about the way the scenery changes to the rhythmic sounds of the wheel on the tracks. It hark-ens back to years gone by, when journeys were measured in weeks and months instead of hours and when people had the time to relax. I think that is what I like about it most; the fact that you are forced to relax, especially on the way back home. So often, we fly back home in an hour or two, and the trip is over. When you go by train you can ease into it.
But to be honest, it is not as relaxing if you are not prepared. There are a few things that you need to bring with you if you are going to enjoy it.
1. Food and Drinks - Don't rely on the food cart or the dinner car. Most of the food is not aimed to please the Western palate.
2. Reading Material - Some nice light reading material is always good, and is a nice way to pass the time.
3. Ear plugs - If you are not in a private car this is very important. There is no telling who will be near by. On one trip, a screaming child kept Amanda awake all night.
4. A good attitude - this one is also really important. Just give yourself the opportunity to enjoy it.
Life in this world is very fast paced. We always want things right now. The quicker the better! But when you go by train, life by necessity slows down. Whatever the time stated on your ticket is, that is how long you will be on that train. There is no hurrying it. In that steel box on wheels, cell coverage is iffy and battery life is limited, so you must unplug. If only for a little while. If you can, 走火车 go by train. - Frank
- What can be more palpably absurd than the prospect held out of locomotives travelling twice as fast as stagecoaches?
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