There are people whose sole career is to write about exciting and unique experiences travelers just ‘have’ to try. They’re usually right, but many times travel is more than just about specific destinations, it’s about experiences that can be done all around the world. Here are four of my favorite travel styles everyone has to try at least once.
1. A Great Drive – This is something which I have only recently begun to appreciate, but is truly one of those travel activities everyone has to try. I’m not talking about mindless, interstate driving across country, hour after hour of mind numbingly dull highways. No, I’m talking about exciting, beautiful, classic driving routes. Here in the US, Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway, in California is one such drive. Starting in Dana Point and ending in Leggett, California, this isn’t a generic trip. The drive along the California coast line is an event unto itself deserving of plenty of time to stop and explore.
2. Solo Travel – Although I’ve written about the fact that I wouldn’t choose solo travel for every trip, it does has its place and can be a lot of fun. Travel is about education and learning about people around the world. It’s also about introspection and learning more about ourselves. Nothing allows for either type of education quite like solo travel. Some of the most interesting people I have met traveling has been as a result of being alone. Had I been traveling as a couple of group, I wouldn’t have sought conversations with these new friends. Solo travel is also incredibly liberating and satisfying. It’s great to be able to do whatever you want, whenever you want without worrying about a travel partner. It’s also a terrific self-esteem boost to prove to yourself that you can handle yourself no matter where you go.
3. Epic Train Trip – One of the great romantic travel notions is en epic train trip. While modern train travel may have lost some of its Edwardian grandeur, there are still train routes which themselves are the attraction. One such journey is the TranzAlpine in New Zealand. Located on the South Island, this classic train journey starts in Christchurch and traverses the stunning Southern Alps to its final destination in Greymouth on the West Coast. This four hour trip features amazing views of the mountain ranges and serves as the best introduction to the stunning beauty of the region. Be sure to go in winter when snow graces the mountaintops.
4. Luxury travel – Most people don’t have the resources to fly business class or stay in the Presidential Suite of a great luxury hotel all the time, but luxury travel is an experience well worth the splurge at least once. Even the most hardened traveler can’t help but smile when they first see their supersized business class seat on a long-haul flight. Rather than scowl at The Others who inhabit these prized spots on your way to Coach, find a way to enjoy the comfort and service of luxury flying. Believe me, there’s nothing quite like it. Also make sure to really pamper yourself at one of the great hotels of the world. It’s easy to say that hotels are just a place to sleep, but we all know that’s not true. Hotels are a vital part of any trip, and the opportunity to enjoy a truly great one is a travel experience not to be missed.
What are some of your favorite styles of travel?
