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In the current computer-crazed world, most kids end up with a cell phone and/or an iPad before they have even hit their teens. While this can be great for the peace of mind of their parents, it can stop children from really seeing the world around them.
After all, kids love using technology and regularly have to be dragged away from their phones and tablets kicking and screaming, even if it’s just to eat a family meal together. This can pose a problem on holidays, in particular. If you’d like to see your child really taking in the sights on your next family vacation, perhaps consider booking in for a railway journey where you can all sit back together and spend time simply enjoying the view.
There is a vast array of breathtaking trips that can be taken on trains around the world, but yet don’t necessarily involve days and days spent stuck in a carriage. Whether you want to start off slowly with just a short, one-hour ride, or would like to select a journey that lasts a whole day at least, you’re sure to find something for your family to try across the globe.
Read on for four top railway journeys that will help your family to see some of the most picturesque places around the world in a more leisurely, and technology-free, way.
1. Talyllyn Railway in Wales
If your children grew up listening to the many tales of Thomas the Tank Engine, then they’ll love a trip on the Talyllyn Railway in Wales. The 14.5-mile round-trip train ride was what inspired the author of the books, Reverend Wilbert Awdry, to write the now-famous series that has encouraged children all around the world to read.
The Talyllyn Railway runs through the mid-Wales countryside from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol, at a leisurely pace of nine miles per hour or less. The Talyllyn locomotives and carriages date all the way back to 1865 and are now run by a group of dedicated volunteers.
2. Kuranda Scenic Railway in Australia
One of the “must-do” train trips in Australia for families has to be the Kuranda Scenic Railway in Queensland. The Railway is more than 100 years old and the historic train winds its ways from Cairns up to the quaint village of Kuranda, a small suburb situated around 15.5 miles northwest of the city. During this unique two-hour train trip (a perfect length of time for young kids with short attention spans), families can take in breathtaking views of ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and ravines as the journey takes passengers through hand-made tunnels and across towering bridges that have stood the test of time.
Along the way, passengers can also listen to an interesting historical commentary, plus get out at the Barron Falls stop to stretch the legs. Once in Kuranda, adults and children alike are sure to enjoy spending time checking out the pretty Kuranda village and riding the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
3. Grand Canyon Railway in the USA
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, as well as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For parents wishing to see this site with their kids in a leisurely and atmospheric way, the Grand Canyon Railway journey is perfect. The train trip has been taking customers into the heart of the Canyon since 1901, on a ride that travels from Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
The journey takes approximately two hours and 15 minutes each way and provides stunning views of the natural wonder through the observation/dome car windows. The Railway’s patrons can also enjoy the beauty of the lovingly-restored train cars along the way (a hit with any train-obsessed young children for sure), plus dine in the cafe car when needing refreshments.
Children that loved “The Polar Express” book and film will also be keen to ride the rails during winter. Every year over the chilly months the Railway runs a Polar Express journey to the “North Pole” where Santa Claus and his reindeer wait with keepsake presents for each child. Along the way kids also get to sip on hot chocolate and munch cookies while listening to the classic story.
4. Belmond Hiram Bingham in Peru
For a luxurious train ride that still caters to children, consider choosing the Belmond (formerly Orient-Express) Hiram Bingham in Peru. The train company runs full-day, round-trip excursions in Peru on board luxury train the Hiram Bingham. The journeys depart on a daily basis and the train trip links the colonial city of Cuzco to the iconic Incan citadel Machu Picchu.
Since children aren’t usually able to complete the alternative three-day hike to get to the famous site, the train trip is a welcome choice for enjoyable family travel. Along the way, passengers can take in breathtaking views of the Urubamba River valley, plus each trip leaves at a time that gives families the opportunity to enjoy the fascinating Machu Picchu destination in the late afternoon sun upon arrival.
The Hiram Bingham is a 1920s Pullman-style train that’s named after the explorer from America that discovered Machu Picchu in 1911. The service features two dining cars, an open-deck observation car, live music, elegant upholstery and tableware, and appetizers, brunch and a four-course dinner. Children’s meals are also available for the journey, so be sure to tell him how many children’s meals you need when booking tickets.
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