The Travel Chick

Anyone who has traveled by train knows it can be a pleasant mode of travel. The last time I was in Europe I relied heavily on train travel to get around and enjoyed sitting back, relaxing and watching the French, Spanish and Italian scenery roll by.

With fuel prices skyrocketing this summer, perhaps more Americans should consider using this means of travel. Amtrak travels throughout the United States, and it can be a relief to skip the hassle and tension of driving busy highways and just sit back and read for a few hours before arriving at your destination, nice and relaxed. I prefer to use the train for shorter trips, although I did once use it for an overnight trip between Ann Arbor and New York City. Sleeping upright in my seat was uncomfortable, but I liked taking my meals in the dining car - it made me feel like I was in an old black and white film from the 1940s.

Another option is to utilize the commuter trains that service large cities. This is a good option for those who hate driving in crazy city traffic. Choose a suburb outside a large city, then drive to the station, park your car and take the commuter train into city. From the train station you can catch a cab to your hotel. Be sure to call ahead to make certain that you can park overnight at the station.