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Sustainability Breakdown: The True Carbon Footprint of Trains Versus Planes on Popular Routes

Train travel offers scenic views and a more pleasant overall experience than flying. For starters, there’s no need to stand in line for half an hour prior to boarding, in order to be intimidatingly scanned and frisked and then dispossessed of your toothpaste simply because the tube won’t fit inside the eye of a needle. Notably, at least as it pertains to the health of our planet, travel by rail is significantly better for the environment than travel by air. Most popular flight routes around the world have corresponding train routes, and while you may need to allow more time to travel by train, this time tends to turn into part of the travel experience — leaving a better impact on both the planet and yourself.

Calculating the emissions of train travel versus flying

The specific emissions vary depending on factors such as distance, aircraft type, load factors, and train technology. Nevertheless, the comparison of the key routes discussed here consistently reveals that train travel emits significantly less CO2 per passenger than flying. No matter where you’re traveling to, you can use the emissions calculator at Flight Free USA to calculate the carbon footprint of getting there by air, and then use the emissions calculator at EcoTree to see how much carbon you’re keeping out of the air when traveling by train. During the trip planning process, use Rome2Rio to route the best train trip to your destination if you’re unsure of where to begin your research.

New York to Los Angeles

Photo: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

The distance between New York and Los Angeles spans the length of the continental United States at approximately 2,475 miles (3,979 kilometers). Connecting the country’s two largest cities, it’s a popular route for domestic air travel. However, flying on this route comes with a substantial carbon footprint. According to estimates from Flight Free USA and elsewhere, a one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles emits around 1,532 pounds (695 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger. This high carbon emission is mainly due to the significant fuel consumption and associated emissions of airplanes.

On the other hand, traveling by train offers a more environmentally friendly alternative. While direct train services between these two cities are limited, options such as Amtrak’s long-distance routes or combinations of shorter train journeys can be utilized. The trip takes about three days, requires changing trains from the Lake Shore Limited to the Southwest Chief in Chicago, and costs less than $600 each way in coach class. You’ll emit about 119 kg of carbon, a reduction of nearly 80 percent versus traveling the same route by air.

Beautiful things you’ll see en route:

New York’s Hudson River Valley shortly after departing from the city.The craggy peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains through Colorado and New Mexico, in particular the striking Raton Pass that serves as a border between the states.The mighty Mississippi River and the expansive landscapes of the American Midwest, including much of Iowa.London to Paris

Photo: olrat/Shutterstock

The London to Paris route is a well-traveled corridor connecting two major European capitals. For this journey, taking a short-haul flight of about 220 miles is a popular choice. On average, a one-way flight from London to Paris emits approximately 122 pounds (55 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger.

In contrast, traveling by train on the Eurostar line offers a greener option. Train travel throughout the UK and beyond is quick and easy, and the high-speed rail service links London with Paris through the Channel Tunnel, allowing travelers to enjoy a scenic journey while significantly reducing their carbon footprint. Eurostar estimates that a one-way train trip emits around 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger, making it a much more sustainable choice compared to flying. This trip takes about two hours, so you’re not even losing much (if any) time by choosing to stay on the ground.

Beautiful things you’ll see en route:

Kent Countryside: The train passes through the charming countryside of Kent, known as the “Garden of England.” Enjoy rolling green hills, picturesque villages, and idyllic farmland as you make your way towards the coast.White Cliffs of Dover: As the train approaches the coast, you may catch glimpses of the famous White Cliffs of Dover. These stunning chalk cliffs rise dramatically from the sea, creating a breathtaking sight.English Channel: Once aboard the Eurostar train, you’ll travel through the Channel Tunnel, which connects the United Kingdom and France. While underground, you can imagine the unique engineering feat taking place beneath the English Channel.Tokyo to Osaka

Photo: jiratto/Shutterstock

Japan is renowned for its bustling cities and advanced transportation network. Flying between the major cities of Tokyo and Osaka is the fastest option, but it also carries a higher environmental cost than taking Japan’s famed bullet trains. A one-way flight emits approximately 284 pounds (129 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger, primarily due to the relatively short distance of the route and the fuel-intensive nature of air travel during takeoff and landing.

In contrast, Japan’s renowned Shinkansen, or bullet train, provides an efficient and eco-friendly alternative. The high-speed rail system connects Tokyo to Osaka in around two and a half hours, boasting impressive punctuality and comfort. The Shinkansen is electrically powered, resulting in significantly lower emissions compared to airplanes. EcoTree estimates that you’ll emit a paltry 1 kg of carbon on this journey – less than what’s emitted when cooking a typical meal on a gas stove.

Beautiful things you’ll see en route:

Mount Fuji: On a clear day, you might be fortunate enough to see Mount Fuji as you pass through the Shizuoka Prefecture. This majestic, snow-capped mountain is an iconic symbol of Japan’s natural beauty and is truly a sight to behold.Japanese Countryside: As the train makes its way through the countryside, you’ll witness the serene landscapes that characterize rural Japan. Rolling hills, lush green fields, and picturesque towns create a tranquil backdrop for your journey.Hikone Castle (Optional side trip): Although not directly on the train route, those interested in history and architecture can make a detour and visit Hikone Castle. Located near Lake Biwa, Hikone Castle is a well-preserved feudal-era castle known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views.Osaka Castle: As you approach Osaka, you can catch sight of Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. This historic castle, surrounded by a moat and situated within a beautiful park, offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.Barcelona to Paris

Photo: Maksim Safaniuk /Shutterstock

Flying between Barcelona and Paris covers a distance of approximately 526 miles (846 kilometers). On average, a one-way flight between these cities emits approximately 171 pounds (78 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger. In contrast, train travel between Barcelona and Paris offers a more environmentally friendly option. The high-speed train service, such as the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), connects these two vibrant cities efficiently. EcoTree estimates that this route via train emits about 27 kg of carbon, a reduction of more than 80 percent versus flying.

Beautiful things you’ll see en route:

Mediterranean Coastline: As the train departs from Barcelona, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The azure waters and sandy beaches create a picturesque backdrop as the train travels along the coastline.Pyrenees Mountains: As the train heads north, it passes through the Pyrenees Mountains, a stunning natural border between Spain and France. Enjoy breathtaking views of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine landscapes as you traverse this mountainous region.Toulouse (Optional stop): While not directly on the train route, travelers have the option to make a stop in Toulouse, a vibrant city known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore the charming streets, visit historic landmarks like the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, and indulge in the local cuisine.Berlin to Paris

Photo: Markus Mainka /Shutterstock

Flying between Berlin and Paris covers a distance of approximately 655 miles (1,054 kilometers). On average, a one-way flight emits approximately 223 pounds (101 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger. The emissions from air travel are attributed to fuel consumption, takeoff, and landing procedures.

Train travel from Berlin is easy and connects travelers to points across Europe, Choosing train travel between Berlin and Paris offers a far more sustainable alternative. The high-speed rail networks of both countries provide efficient connections, such as the Thalys train. You’ll emit about 27 kg of carbon on this route, another example of train travel saving above 80 percent of the emissions of a similar flight.

Beautiful things you’ll see en route:

German Countryside: As the train ventures westward through Germany, you’ll be treated to views of the country’s picturesque countryside. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush green landscapes create a serene and idyllic backdrop for your journey.Rhine River Valley: As the train crosses into western Germany, you may catch glimpses of the scenic Rhine River Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its romantic castles, vineyards, and picturesque villages nestled along the banks of the river.Black Forest (Optional side trip): While not directly on the train route, travelers have the option to make a side trip from the city of Offenburg to explore the stunning Black Forest region. Experience the dense forests, charming towns like Freiburg, and the beautiful scenery that inspired fairy tales.Strasbourg, France: As you approach the French border, the train passes through the city of Strasbourg. This charming Alsatian city offers a unique blend of French and German influences, boasting a stunning Gothic cathedral, picturesque canals, and timber-framed houses.Rome to Venice

Photo: POINTLIGHT_IT /Shutterstock

The distance between Rome and Venice is approximately 330 miles (530 kilometers). Flying this short distance results in a disproportionately high carbon footprint, again due to takeoff and landing procedures. A one-way flight emits around 106 pounds (48 kilograms) of CO2 per passenger. Opting for train travel between Rome and Venice offers a more environmentally conscious choice. Italy’s efficient high-speed rail network allows travelers to reach their destination comfortably while significantly reducing their carbon footprint. Trains, such as the Frecciarossa, operated by Trenitalia, are electrically powered, resulting in considerably lower emissions compared to airplanes. Emissions hover around 14 kg for this route and are lower if the train is entirely electric-powered.

Beautiful things you’ll see en route:

Veneto Region: As the train ventures through the Veneto region, you’ll pass by beautiful countryside views. Rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns dot the landscape, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey.Florence (Optional stop): Although not directly on the train route, travelers have the option to make a stop in Florence (Firenze) by taking a short detour. Florence is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and artistic treasures, including the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.Tuscan Countryside: The train journey through Tuscany offers glimpses of the region’s famous countryside. Olive groves, vineyards, and cypress-lined hills characterize the scenic landscapes, showcasing the beauty that has inspired countless works of art. More like thisTrain TravelThese Sleeper Trains Will Take You on a Grand Tour of Europe

The Palmito Hotel in Biarritz, France, Is a Boutique Hostel for Every Age

We hope you love the Palmito hotel! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

The last thing I expected to see when I arrived at the Palmito hotel in Biarritz, France, was the greeting “Aloha!”

I was meeting a friend in the seaside resort last month to kick off a weeklong trip through the Basque region that straddles France and Spain in the western Pyrenees. She arrived first and, unable to check into the hotel until I arrived, decided to wait for me at the Palmito food market and tiki bar across the street from the hotel.

Photo: Alex Bresler

Palmito’s property occupies two sides of Rue du Port-Vieux, a pedestrian street that connects downtown Biarritz to the Old Port. From the street, you can see the waters of the Bay of Biscay rippling seaward from the Old Port Beach. Plage du Port-Vieux is smaller and quieter than Biarritz’s main beach, Grande Plage, which is a short 15-minute walk from the hotel, but you’ll nonetheless see swimmers and loungers spread out on the half-moon cove at all hours of the day.

Really, everything in Biarritz is walkable from the hotel — even the airport, as my friend discovered, which is technically located in the neighboring town of Anglet. It was still light outside when she landed around 9:30 PM, and the journey to the city center only took about 35 minutes on foot.

Photo: Alex Bresler

I arrived an hour later and hailed a taxi, cutting the travel time from the airport down to about 15 minutes. When I arrived at the Palmito food market, I found my friend snacking on a quesadilla alongside a healthy crowd of late-night diners. The food market is made up of a handful of mini-kitchens specializing in everything from Basque cuisine to Taiwanese street food, with both sit-down service and takeout windows that run until 11 PM. The bar stays open until 2 AM.

Despite the mixed fare, the Palmito food market leans heavily into the tiki-bar aesthetic, with a faux thatched roof and a palm-frond arrangement crowning the awning. The look carries over to the hotel, starting with the surfboard display in the front hall. In fairness, Biarritz has had a surf culture of its own since the 1950s when wave-catchers discovered the consistent swells at beaches such as Grande Plage and Côte des Basques. Today, it’s a popular spot for European surf competitions such as the Quiksilver Pro France and Roxy Pro France.

Photo: Alex Bresler

As far as the hotel’s clientele is concerned, surfers would fit right in. Somewhere between a boutique hotel and a stylish hostel, Palmito has 18 accommodations that range from private and shared rooms to a rooftop suite. The shared rooms are separated by gender with six capsule beds in the male dorm and four capsule beds in the female dorm. There’s also a room designed specifically for families that comes with a queen bed and an additional set of bunk beds. The largest room, the Palmito Suite, resembles a two-bedroom serviced apartment with two queen beds, a sofa bed that can comfortably accommodate two people, and two bathrooms.

Photo: Hotels.com

My friend and I — both 30-something remote workers — booked a private room within a few days of our arrival for 70 euros ($75) per night. Our room was small but trendy and nicely appointed, with a private patio that made the space feel considerably larger when it came time to work, as did the communal lounge on the second floor and the food market across the street (although the WiFi was much stronger in the hotel).

Long past our backpacking days, we were slightly apprehensive about the crowd that Palmito would attract as a hybrid hotel and hostel. But we quickly learned that Palmito is no youth hostel. If anything, I’d describe it as a youthful hostel, having encountered a variety of guests who appeared to be young in spirit if not actually in age, from a family with a toddler, to an older couple, to a group of 20-something British bachelorettes who’d booked the Palmito Suite.

Photo: Hotels.com

If it’s hard to categorize Palmito, it’s probably because the hotel has evolved over four generations of ownership. The latest iteration delivers a carefully curated aesthetic and ecological awareness, providing guests with environmentally friendly bath products and locally sourced produce at breakfast, an all-you-can-eat buffet for 15 euros ($16.50).

One thing that’s remained constant throughout the years is the hotel’s “values of conviviality, sharing, and family” as outlined on the website — whether you’re vacationing with relatives, traveling around the Basque region with a good friend, or bunking with fellow solo travelers who could end up becoming lifelong buddies.

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6 Airbnbs in Frankfurt, Germany, One of Europe’s Leading Aviation Hubs

Frankfurt is not the first destination most travelers think to visit when they’re headed to Europe. But many will end up there regardless, if only in transit, as the city is home to one of the largest and most trafficked airports on the continent. That’s not the city’s only claim to fame — Frankfurt is also the financial capital of the European Union, housing both the headquarters for the European Central bank and one of the world’s largest stock exchanges. Whether you’re passing through en route to somewhere else or are planning a trip to Frankfurt alone, there’s plenty to do that has more to do with culture than commerce, from touring its museums and galleries, to visiting its parks, to eating your way through the city that gave the world frankfurters. These are the Frankfurt Airbnbs to book during your stay.

We hope you love these Frankfurt Airbnbs! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Urban Studio with a BalconyPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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This newly renovated studio is perfect for business or solo travelers, complete with a bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, balcony. For travelers on the go, one of the biggest perks of the apartment is that the experience is completely digital, relying on contact-free technology and a support team to ensure that every stay is seamless from check-in to check-out. Located in the heart of Frankfurt near the Frankfurt West train station, the building also comes with helpful amenities such as complimentary laundry facilities and a shared rooftop terrace for relaxation.

One bedroom, one guest
Price per night: $92

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Apartment Overlooking Frankfurt’s “Central Park”https://airbnb.pvxt.net/Nk6QEqPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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Location is a big selling point for this one-bedroom apartment by Eschenheimer Turm, a landmark city gate on the northern side of Frankfurt and one of the tallest late gothic towers in Germany. The apartment overlooks the city’s “Central Park” in the upmarket Westend neighborhood, near the Old Opera House and other attractions. The apartment itself is a mix of classic comfort and fun decor touches, including specialty lighting in the bedroom and a modern kitchen. You’ll love the terrace outside the living room, and a parking spot is available if needed.

One bedroom, three guests
Price per night: $215

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The Flag West MPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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The Flag West M is a modern hotel in the heart of Frankfurt that caters to business travelers. There are 228 rooms total, all of which come with amenities like high-speed WiFi, a fridge and Nespresso machine, a jukebox, a safe, and a digital concierge that help guests get settled regardless of their length of stay, as well as communal amenities such as a rooftop terrace, gym, and co-working space. Pets are welcome for an additional fee.

One bedroom, two guests
Price per night: $128

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Cozy and Stylish One-Bedroomhttps://airbnb.pvxt.net/Py6rqjPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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Frankfurt isn’t known for being as fashionable Berlin or as quaint as Munich, but this one-bedroom apartment is both. It’s pleasantly spacious for a one-bedroom apartment — something that can be hard to find in Europe — and has some modern touches that make it feel upscale, particularly when it comes to the sleek bathroom. Remote workers will also find plenty of nooks and crannies to set up their laptops comfortably when they’re not taking advantage of the central location.

One bedroom, four guests
Price per night: $202

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Bright, Roomy, and Centrally Locatedhttps://airbnb.pvxt.net/rQ2z1DPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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Located between two of the most popular parts of town, this one-bedroom apartment has the benefit of connecting you to all the most important parts of the city while being surrounded by green spaces and including a small balcony overlooking the garden, making Frankfurt feel a little less industrial. Techies will appreciate the devices that come with the apartment, from the Philips Hue lighting system to the Sonos speakers and Apple TV. The apartment is located a five-minute walk from the commercial area of Berger Straße where several grocery stores and supermarkets can be found, as well as many restaurants and cafes. Günthersburg Park is right across the street from the apartment for an afternoon stroll.

One bedroom, two guests
Price per night: $126

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One-Bedroom with Skyline ViewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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Not only does this one-bedroom apartment in Frankfurt have an enclosed patio area with an outdoor couch that serves as a front-row seat to the cityscape, but there’s also a work setup out there — complete with a desktop and additional monitor — that has to be one of the most idyllic places in Frankfurt to take care of business. The interior is relatively simple but well-appointed, including a kitchen area with just enough space to make a nice meal. Another perk is the underground parking lot if you’ll be coming with a car.

One bedroom, two guests
Price per night: $104

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Traveling by Train: 6 Reasons Why I’ll Always Opt for Trains Over Planes

“Vodka or choy?” he called across the carriage, a hand-painted floral teapot in one hand and an unmarked bottle of liquor in the other. Rising from my lie-flat bed, I gratefully accepted a cup of fragrant green tea, sharing a smile and a handful of sunflower seeds in return. “Cards?” he boomed with a childlike grin, and quickly our berth was rife with activity, the robotic voice of translation apps carrying the conversation long into the dark desert night.

Had I been traveling by air, the first question would have been similar, though perhaps I would have been offered free coffee rather than vodka. But I’m not sure that would have even registered as a memory.

Unlike a quiet plane with noise-canceling headphones on most ears, aboard the sluggish sleeper train linking the Silk Road cities of Tashkent and Khiva, the carriages were alive with everything that makes travel so exhilarating: unforgettable people, unplanned moments, and those stories that turn travel journals into travel treasures.

The views afforded by train travel can’t be beat. Photo: Igor Bukhlin/Shutterstock

In Uzbekistan, it was shepherds and off-duty staff who showered me with samsas (flaky, meat-filled dough pickets) and stories of Soviet times. Onboard China’s night crossing, my memories are of a woman who offered spontaneous language lessons and gifted our group with instant noodles. And while traveling by train through Australia’s dusty interior, I remember the fellow bored backpacker who shared his single contraband can of warm beer.

These odysseys and kind people – Otabek, YoYo, Ollie, and many more – are why I now always opt for traveling by train when possible. I’ve learned that rarely is rail just about getting there; it’s a microcosm of travel itself. Sure, the journey can sometimes be slower or more costly, and at times it may demand a detour or difference in plans, but these challenges have brought me far closer to a country and its people, both literally and metaphorically, than flying ever could.

You can find camaraderie in the carriages

Photo: Daniel James Clarke

Aboard a train, especially those that sometimes seem endless, you’ll find a camaraderie it’s difficult to find elsewhere. Forgot your snacks? Someone’s got you. Out of toilet paper roll? Seat 27A has plenty. Bored with nothingness? That card-playing group in the vestibule will deal you in. On board Sri Lanka’s iconic blue train, which unhurriedly traverses the tea plantations and lush hill towns of the country’s interior, I even briefly became a babysitter while a local mother dashed off to find the roti seller mid-journey.

But it’s easy in the modern world to forget both the pleasures of riding the rails and how thoughtful strangers can be. Overcrowded or delayed commuter services are certainly not the best advert for selling the allure of traveling by train, leading many to have scheduling or personal space concerns about taking trains when traveling abroad.

 

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The Pacific Surfliner, which partially tracks South California’s scenic coast, is a perfect example. For me, it was a highlight of my West Coast trip, partially due to a friendly couple from Austin recounting childhood tales from Texas – yet my LA friends were baffled as to why I’d pick a slow Amtrak ride over driving with them.

However, part of the allure of traveling is understanding and expecting everything to be decidedly different and new, which often also extends to the railroads. Even the train’s ancient predecessor – a Greek boat-pulling system called a diolkos – involved a crew working concurrently to pull the chariots across a land shortcut. It’s a testament to how teamwork has powered train travel for millennia.

Traveling by train? Hello, Wi-Fi and better meals

The author’s on-the-rail work set-up. Photo: Daniel James Clarke

Conversations with citizens and fellow travelers aside, traveling by train brings plenty of other connection-based benefits – the most notable of which is Wi-Fi.

Unlike the shaky, sporadic, or often non-existent service on planes, when you stay on land, you can connect to the onboard service or tether from your cell phone’s hotspot (just remember to pack that power bank). Wi-Fi will come in handy when you want to watch movies, listen to music, or download a translation app to chat in real time with your seatmates. There are as many reasons to be online as to disconnect while traveling.

But Wi-Fi is far from the only advantage of staying grounded, though. The ability to roam freely at all times (with no little lights dictating when you are and aren’t allowed to visit the restroom), that much-needed extra legroom, and the possibility to step off and breathe fresh air whenever a station tumbles into view are many of the little pleasures of traveling by train. And connecting two amazing cities without any airport lines or waits is usually equally welcome.

Arguably, though, there’s one part of the train where the ability to move freely, to connect with other travelers, and to stretch your legs all meet up to create the best place on board: the dining car.

 

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A meal in these mingling spaces can be as eclectic as surprisingly varied dishes, providing the perfect intermission to any prolonged journey. Whether it was charcuterie while crossing Spain’s agricultural forests, or tangy chicken noodles against the backdrop of Southern China’s rice paddies, I’ve found that meals while traveling by train offer the chance for the perfect travel pairing: beers and banter with strangers.

Even if you’re more of a “first-class bar in the Airbus 380” type of plane traveler (lucky you), these restaurants on wheels often surpass all expectations. Dining cars allow travelers to sip pisco sours in the observatory car of Peru’s luxury Andean Explorer or indulge in a four-course wine-pairing meal aboard the Rovos Rail. After that, it’s hard to go back to microwaved, pre-packaged airplane food – and that’s not even considering the cinematic scenery that serves as your backdrop.

Enjoy the scenery while someone else does the work

When it comes to scenery, trains can’t be beat. Photo: Daniel James Clarke

It’s not just epic overnighters and border-hopping adventures that make traveling by train so addictive. It’s also the chance to forgo any work, leaving the satellite navigation and stick shift behind. Someone else does the driving; you simply soak up the scenery.

Some of the most memorable train trips I’ve taken haven’t really gone anywhere, allowing the panoramas to take priority. That’s the case with the expansive windows of Portugal’s Douro line, which frame the steep vineyards of the world’s oldest wine appellation as it trundles along, pausing for wine tastings and river walks before returning to the station. Ditto for Italy’s Cinque Terre train line, linking five of Italy’s most spectacular coastal cliffside towns with ease. Both allow would-be designated drivers to avoid dashing their romanticized Spanish or Italian road trip dreams.

After your first introduction to riding the rails, you’ll likely be hooked and ready for more grand scenic adventures. Whether it’s the mountain-hugging Machu Picchu Rail, the Rocky Mountaineer’s glass-roofed train cars through the Rocky Mountaineer, or the Glacier Express as it crosses the Swiss Alps, I promise there’s nothing more timeless than watching from your seat as a country’s landscape slowly shift from one beautiful scene to the next.

Train travel reduce your carbon footprint

Photo: ViiviienM/Shutterstock

Looking out at the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes from the comfort of your seat leaves time to study and contemplate the beauty of the natural world. And for most people, that leads to an increased consciousness of the need to help preserve those delicate and extraordinary environments.

For me, the most notable sustainability shift came at the end of my unhurried night train in Uzbekistan, when I found myself standing where the Aral Sea – once the world’s fourth-largest freshwater lake – should have been. Yet, rather than having wet feet, I was surrounded by endless sand and shipwrecks no longer anywhere near water.

At that moment, I pledged to fly far less often. I’m currently on a 13-country, flight-free trip inspired by that haunting Aral Sea experience. And I’m not alone. The realization that we need to rethink travel has become an everyday conversation for many. Traveling by train releases between 6 and 42 times less CO2 than flying per person per kilometer traveled. That makes it the mass transport option with the lowest CO2 emissions, so shifting to trains instead of planes is one of the easiest and most impactful travel changes you can make.

Traveling by train can be faster than flying

A high-speed train in China. Photo: Daniel James Clarke

But even if saving the world isn’t top of your agenda, traveling by train delivers plenty more savings.

With more high-speed train routes launching around the world, particularly across Europe but also in countries like India, train travel can sometimes be quicker than flying, especially when you account for transfers, check-in lines, airport security, and delays at chaotic airports. In recognition of this, France has even gone so far as to recently ban short-haul domestic flights, raising the question of whether more nations will follow suit.

Traveling by train is a better bang for your buck

Photo: Flystock/Shutterstock

In some countries, traveling by train saves not just time, but also money, with the added perk of waking up where you need to be. In many countries, you can book a ticket for a lie-flat bed for a price closer to a cup of coffee than an eye-watering red-eye flight, or even a moderately priced hotel room. My sleeper train across the Silk Road set me back about $14. Overnight sleeper trains mean you can avoid expensive hotel fees, check-in luggage charges, and the cost of getting to and from an airport. Train stations are usually much closer to city centers than airports, making getting to your train usually much easier than getting to the airport.

That said, of course, it’s not always smiles and smooth sailing.

Tips for traveling by train: mitigate the negatives and temper your expectations

The author in front of a budget car on the otherwise luxurious Ghan in Australia. Photo: Daniel James Clarke

I’ll be the first to put my hands up and admit there’s a temptation to romanticize train travel and see it through rose-tinted glasses, even as someone who spent many years suffering overflowing rush-hour train commutes around London.

But as with all things travel, the remarkable must be balanced with the bad, or at least the uncomfortable. Rail isn’t immune to delays and cancellations, and the lack of speed, indirect routes, and occasionally higher prices are just some of the factors stopping train travel from becoming mainstream for many travelers.

I’d also love to say that traveling at ground level is the great equalizer, but different classes and cars do sometimes mean that tourists and visitors are separated from locals, especially if you’ve got a private cabin to cocoon yourself in.

Higher classes and more acceleration don’t always translate into better experiences. On Sri Lanka’s Blue Train, the air-conditioned tourist cars lacked both local conversation and oversized windows, the very things that could make that journey so remarkable. In Japan, the ubiquitous high-speed Shinkansen means travelers might opt to skip some of the side journeys I found most special, like riding on the open-sided cars on the coastal Gomen Nahari Line.

Opting only for high-speed trains means you’ll miss some slower sights along more winding, less-direct lines. Photo: Jumpei Hosoi/Shutterstock

I’ve also been on train rides that were long and painful, such as in Australia, on the famous Ghan. But with the Ghan’s legendary service very much limited to the luxury cabins, by the 20th hour of my trip in a budget backpacker seat, I was swearing I’d never board a train again.

Research, planning, and packing your patience and conversation skills alongside a good book will mitigate most of these negatives, while a slight shift in perspective can also work wonders. Now I see random new destinations as a reward for any indirect routes and horrifically early-morning arrivals as opportunities for sunrise photoshoots. And I’ve learned that the slower the ride, the more epic the stories are sure to be.

If you’re still undecided about taking to the rails for your next big (or small) vacation, I urge you to give it a try. Your inner adventurer will thank you nearly as much as the planet. And if you ever find yourself in Uzbekistan, I say ignore the suggestions of taking the new high-speed rail – instead, go slow and write your own Silk Road story on that sluggish night train instead.

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This Luxurious Hotel Is an Opulent Escape in the Vietnamese Countryside

Located the picturesque highlands of Sapa, Vietnam, Hotel de la Coupole is a luxurious retreat that offers guests a taste of the bucolic Vietnamese countryside. Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the hotel seamlessly blends French colonial elegance with the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous hill tribes.

We hope you love the Hotel de la Coupole! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

@epic.stays Check out this beautiful pool at Hotel de la Coupole, Sapa #Vietnam @jetset_anna #traveltiktok #vietnamhotel #budgettravel #spaday #vietnamtravel ♬ People (Sped Up) – Libianca & sped up + slowed

As you step into the lobby of Hotel de la Coupole, you are immediately surrounded by glamour and sophistication. The vintage decor, with its opulent chandeliers, intricate mosaic floors, and plush furnishings, sets the tone for the lavish experience that awaits you. The hotel’s interior design pays homage to the region’s history, showcasing a unique fusion of European and Vietnamese aesthetics.

Each room and suite in the hotel features a blend of traditional Vietnamese textiles, antique furniture, and modern amenities. The luxurious bedding, spacious bathrooms, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, create a serene sanctuary for guests to unwind after a day of exploration.

One of the standout features here is the food. The hotel has two on-site restaurants, Chic and Cacao, offering a delectable array of both local and international cuisine. The talented chefs use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create a culinary journey that showcases the diverse flavors of the region — from authentic Vietnamese dishes to classic French fare.

The pool, however, is probably what you’ll remember most from your stay. s you descend the elegant staircase leading to the heated indoor pool, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sound of water cascading from a mosaic fountain. The pool itself, surrounded by luxurious loungers and bathed in natural light from the skylight above, invites you to take a leisurely dip in its crystal-clear waters.

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Experts Predict the Future of Train Travel and It’s Looking as Bright as Ever

Traveling by train often evokes a certain sense of nostalgia, even if train travel wasn’t exactly a staple of your childhood. Like hailing an ice cream truck or watching Leave it to Beaver reruns, there’s something about riding the rails that simply feels old school. Maybe it’s because trains predated cars, and were once the most ubiquitous and convenient way to travel. Or maybe it’s because in many parts of the world — particularly the US — trains haven’t been updated since Leave it to Beaver was airing new episodes. While the old-timey feeling can certainly be fond, we don’t want our trains to feel outdated. Luckily, thanks to plenty of rising trends and new innovations in train travel, trains are becoming less antiquated and more appealing — even cool. We talked to several experts to learn where the train industry is at right now, and where we can expect it to go.

The future is faster

It’s no surprise that when it comes to train travel — and any form of transportation — the future means faster. High-speed trains are already prevalent throughout the world, but are poised to explode in ubiquity in the coming years.

“In Europe, they are already well ahead in terms of accessibility and efficiency,” says Dave Conway, founder of EcoMotionCentral, a sustainable transportation organization, “but the US is catching up quickly. The future of EU train travel will likely be different than US train travel, however, since the EU has invested more in high-speed rail infrastructure and has more experience with this type of travel.”

But it’s not just Europe that’s throwing its hat in the high-speed ring.

“Japan has long led the pack in high-speed rail, and I reckon it will continue to do so (I have fond memories of zipping across Japan aboard the Shinkansen, or the famed ‘Bullet Train’),” says Anne Sutherland, destination expert for Japan, South Korea, and Australia. “But it’s not just about Japan anymore. Think expanding high-speed rail networks worldwide, even in emerging economies. Take the US, for instance. It’s starting to catch the high-speed rail bug with projects like the Vegas hyperspeed rails.”

Indeed, though it’s still behind much of the world, the US has made strides toward developing a high-speed rail system. In addition to the planned Vegas-LA hyperspeed rails, another railway is set to connect Vegas and Southern California. Brightline West, an extension of Florida’s privately-owned Brightline intercity express rail, is slated to open for operation by 2027.

“Brightline West will be America’s first true high-speed rail system,” according to a representative for Brightline, “with planned speeds up to 200 mph, to connect Las Vegas and Southern California.”

The passenger experience

No matter the industry, with new technologies and innovations often comes an effort to improve the user experience. In train travel, this means improving WiFi, passenger comfort, accessibility, and general convenience.

“Projecting the passenger experience a decade down the line, I see a harmony of efficiency, comfort, and connectivity,” Sutherland says. “Envision relaxing in roomy seats, using high-speed WiFi, and watching the world zip by through panoramic windows, all at breathtaking speeds.”

With more and more people working remotely, WiFi has become increasingly important during transit. Understanding this, Brightline is taking their WiFi to the next level. According to Brightline, the railway is “the first passenger rail service in the world to offer Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency broadband service.”

Apart from on-board technological upgrades, railways are also making it easier for passengers to book, and to conveniently access their trains. Eurail, for example, is investing in mobile tech.

“Eurail continues to keep technology at the forefront of their Pass developments,” says Jody Bauer, Research Analyst for Eurail, a rail pass allowing train travel through 33 European countries, “with nearly all of Eurail’s passes now accessible via mobile app.”

Similarly, Brightline launched Brightline+ in 2021. The fully integrated, door-to-door booking service enables customers to pre-book seamless transportation from their point of origin to their final destination across multiple modes of private and public transportation. Making it as convenient as possible for passengers not only makes everything easier, it’s also an important step toward modernizing train travel and making it more appealing in the eyes of younger travelers.

Trains are going green

Unfortunately, transportation has been one of the largest sectors negatively impacting the environment. Whether it’s air travel, cruise ships, or trains, none of it is traditionally very green. As both consumers and businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, it’s only natural that trains would start going green.

Indeed, “don’t get carried away by speed alone,” Sutherland says of the future of train travel. “There’s a growing focus on sustainability with innovations such as electric and hydrogen-powered trains.”

Bauer agrees, believing “the future of high-speed train travel abroad will cater to the increased interest from consumers looking for more environmentally-friendly options. US travelers also have an increased interest in commuting by rail on their next European adventure and saying goodbye to short-haul flights.”

The preference for trains over planes has become a popular way to enjoy a more scenic journey, as well as make a more positive impact on the environment.”

Brightline is also putting sustainability at the heart of their ethos going forward, making eco-friendly features a central part of their new high-speed rail network.

“Brightline West will introduce a fully electric, emission-free system,” Brightline says, “making it one of the greenest forms of transportation in the US, removing 3 million cars and 400,000 tons of CO2 each year.”

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Experts Predict the Future of Train Travel and It’s Looking as Bright as Ever

Traveling by train often evokes a certain sense of nostalgia, even if train travel wasn’t exactly a staple of your childhood. Like hailing an ice cream truck or watching Leave it to Beaver reruns, there’s something about riding the rails that simply feels old school. Maybe it’s because trains predated cars, and were once the most ubiquitous and convenient way to travel. Or maybe it’s because in many parts of the world — particularly the US — trains haven’t been updated since Leave it to Beaver was airing new episodes. While the old-timey feeling can certainly be fond, we don’t want our trains to feel outdated. Luckily, thanks to plenty of rising trends and new innovations in train travel, trains are becoming less antiquated and more appealing — even cool. We talked to several experts to learn where the train industry is at right now, and where we can expect it to go.

The future is faster

It’s no surprise that when it comes to train travel — and any form of transportation — the future means faster. High-speed trains are already prevalent throughout the world, but are poised to explode in ubiquity in the coming years.

“In Europe, they are already well ahead in terms of accessibility and efficiency,” says Dave Conway, founder of EcoMotionCentral, a sustainable transportation organization, “but the US is catching up quickly. The future of EU train travel will likely be different than US train travel, however, since the EU has invested more in high-speed rail infrastructure and has more experience with this type of travel.”

But it’s not just Europe that’s throwing its hat in the high-speed ring.

“Japan has long led the pack in high-speed rail, and I reckon it will continue to do so (I have fond memories of zipping across Japan aboard the Shinkansen, or the famed ‘Bullet Train’),” says Anne Sutherland, destination expert for Japan, South Korea, and Australia. “But it’s not just about Japan anymore. Think expanding high-speed rail networks worldwide, even in emerging economies. Take the US, for instance. It’s starting to catch the high-speed rail bug with projects like the Vegas hyperspeed rails.”

Indeed, though it’s still behind much of the world, the US has made strides toward developing a high-speed rail system. In addition to the planned Vegas-LA hyperspeed rails, another railway is set to connect Vegas and Southern California. Brightline West, an extension of Florida’s privately-owned Brightline intercity express rail, is slated to open for operation by 2027.

“Brightline West will be America’s first true high-speed rail system,” according to a representative for Brightline, “with planned speeds up to 200 mph, to connect Las Vegas and Southern California.”

The passenger experience

No matter the industry, with new technologies and innovations often comes an effort to improve the user experience. In train travel, this means improving WiFi, passenger comfort, accessibility, and general convenience.

“Projecting the passenger experience a decade down the line, I see a harmony of efficiency, comfort, and connectivity,” Sutherland says. “Envision relaxing in roomy seats, using high-speed WiFi, and watching the world zip by through panoramic windows, all at breathtaking speeds.”

With more and more people working remotely, WiFi has become increasingly important during transit. Understanding this, Brightline is taking their WiFi to the next level. According to Brightline, the railway is “the first passenger rail service in the world to offer Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency broadband service.”

Apart from on-board technological upgrades, railways are also making it easier for passengers to book, and to conveniently access their trains. Eurail, for example, is investing in mobile tech.

“Eurail continues to keep technology at the forefront of their Pass developments,” says Jody Bauer, Research Analyst for Eurail, a rail pass allowing train travel through 33 European countries, “with nearly all of Eurail’s passes now accessible via mobile app.”

Similarly, Brightline launched Brightline+ in 2021. The fully integrated, door-to-door booking service enables customers to pre-book seamless transportation from their point of origin to their final destination across multiple modes of private and public transportation. Making it as convenient as possible for passengers not only makes everything easier, it’s also an important step toward modernizing train travel and making it more appealing in the eyes of younger travelers.

Trains are going green

Unfortunately, transportation has been one of the largest sectors negatively impacting the environment. Whether it’s air travel, cruise ships, or trains, none of it is traditionally very green. As both consumers and businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, it’s only natural that trains would start going green.

Indeed, “don’t get carried away by speed alone,” Sutherland says of the future of train travel. “There’s a growing focus on sustainability with innovations such as electric and hydrogen-powered trains.”

Bauer agrees, believing “the future of high-speed train travel abroad will cater to the increased interest from consumers looking for more environmentally-friendly options. US travelers also have an increased interest in commuting by rail on their next European adventure and saying goodbye to short-haul flights.”

The preference for trains over planes has become a popular way to enjoy a more scenic journey, as well as make a more positive impact on the environment.”

Brightline is also putting sustainability at the heart of their ethos going forward, making eco-friendly features a central part of their new high-speed rail network.

“Brightline West will introduce a fully electric, emission-free system,” Brightline says, “making it one of the greenest forms of transportation in the US, removing 3 million cars and 400,000 tons of CO2 each year.”

More like thisTrain TravelThe Fastest Commercial Train in the World Runs at 267.8 Mph and You Can Take It Every 15 Minutes

This Bahamas Resort Helps You Unwind With Flamingo Yoga

If you’re looking for a quirky activity that departs from the typical resort experience during your next trip to the Bahamas, check out flamingo yoga at Baha Mar. We’ve heard about alpaca yoga, dog yoga, rage yoga, and even nude yoga, and yes, now we’ve got flamingo yoga. Flamingo yoga combines the serenity of yoga with the charm of the resort’s resident flamingos. And yes, it’s just as beautiful (and silly) as it sounds.

We hope you love the Baha Mar! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

@epic.stays Baha Mar Resort in the #Bahamas offers yoga classes alongside flamingos @lindsaysilb #bahamastravel #uniquehotel #bahamashotel #traveltiktok #flamingoyoga ♬ Renaissance (Main Title Theme) [from "The White Lotus: Season 2"] – Cristobal Tapia De Veer

Flamingo yoga takes place at the beautiful Flamingo Cay, a lush sanctuary within the sprawling grounds of the Baha Mar Resort. The serene setting, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and swaying palm trees, provides the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating yoga session. As you roll out your mat and prepare to immerse yourself in this unique experience, the pink flamingos gracefully make their way onto the scene, adding a touch of whimsy and wonder.

The yoga class itself is designed to accommodate practitioners of all levels, making it an ideal activity for both beginners and seasoned yogis. The experienced instructor guides you through a series of poses, helping you find balance and tranquility as you breathe the fresh ocean air. As you stretch and flow, the graceful flamingos meander around the class, occasionally striking poses of their own.

In addition to the physical benefits of practicing yoga, flamingo yoga is also meant to provide a sense of mental and emotional well-being. The presence of the flamingos adds an element of playfulness and joy, helping melt away stress and make you more relaxed. The combination of gentle movement, mindful breathing, and the soothing presence of these beautiful birds, creates a truly therapeutic experience.

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8 Hikes in Whistler, BC, for the Best Mountain Views in Canada

Whistler, BC, may be known for world-class skiing — but it’s just as well-known among hiking (and mountain biking) communities for offering some of the best summer and fall trails in all of Canada.

Whistler is roughly two hours north of Vancouver. In the winter, most of the action takes place around the sprawling Whistler Village, but come summer, there are hundreds of miles of fire roads, mountain trails, and backcountry routes that open a world of access to fantastic Whistler hikes. Hikes in Whistler switchback across towering mountains to views of sprawling glacier fields, lead to bright blue alpine likes, and pass through lush, old-growth forests that look like an Ewok village. Add in the fact that the Whistler Village has dozens and dozens of places to sleep, eat, drink — plus more than a few amazing summer and fall festivals — and you can understand why so many people flock to the mountain trails.

Fortunately, because there are so many trails to choose from, so much space, and hundreds of mountain bike-specific trails that keep hikers and bikers (mostly) separated, it never really feels crowded. Sure, you may have a 15-minute wait for dinner in the village, but there’s no “waiting in line at Disney World” type of feeling when you’re hiking. Once you’re beyond the trailhead, you’ll definitely see other people, but it’s not like being in Yosemite National Park.

These are the 8 best hikes in Whistler, from a beginner stroll to a graffiti-covered train car to a massive one-day hike to one of the Sea-to-Sky Highway’s most famous peaks.

Whistler hikes trailhead map

The trailheads for all eight hikes are detailed on the map above. Remember, though, that many hikes have multiple routes and starting points, so these aren’t the only places you can begin most of these hikes. Be sure to research details like the road conditions to reach the trailhead, whether the trails are melted, permits and parking passes, and any wildlife of trail warnings before starting your hike.

Train Wreck Hike

Photo: BC Ale Trail

Distance: 1.4 milesElevation gain: 150 feetTrail type: Out and back

If you love quirky sites and local secrets, head to the relatively easy Train Wreck Hike. The train wreck is a collection of a few railway boxcars scattered along the Cheakamus River. It’s like a mix of a public art gallery, a bike playground, and a horror movie, combined into one super-cool hiking destination. It’s a cool spot for photos and a favored spot among graffiti artists. There’s a bridge near the train that connects it to the Sea-to-Sky Trail, so you can make it into a longer hike if 1.4 miles seems a little too short.

Ancient Cedars Trail

Photo: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Distance: 2.7 milesElevation gain: 980 feetTrail type: Out and Back

You shouldn’t be surprised about the sights along the Ancient Cedars Trail: they’re cedar trees, and they’re ancient. The trail starts after about a 25-minute drive down a very bumpy forest service road, so make sure you have a high-rise vehicle with good tires.

The hike itself is considered fairly moderate; while it does have steep sections, the hike isn’t very long, distance-wise. It’s about one mile to the grove, which has a small lollypop loop. Some of the trees here are 800-900 years old and have never been logged, making it one of the best examples of an old-growth cedar forest along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. In the fall, this is a popular place for foraging, given the variety of mushrooms that grow in the area. Expect it to be buggy in the summer; sunscreen is recommended. Also note that the road to the trailhead isn’t plowed in the winter.

Parkhurst Ghost Town Loop

 

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Distance: 4.7 milesElevation gain: 790 feetTrail type: Loop

The shore of Green Lake was once home to the town of Parkhurst, a former logging town. While the forest is quickly reclaiming the site, it wasn’t too long ago the town was active; it was abandoned in 1956. It’s one of the best Whistler hikes if you like abandoned places and history, or if you like not having many people around. It isn’t uncommon to have the trail mostly to yourself (so be sure to be bear aware).

While the Parkhurst hike itself isn’t very challenging, it’s not well-marked, so make sure you have a map to help you find the trailhead and the route itself. It can be very overgrown and buggy in summer. At the former townsite, there are several old pieces of construction equipment, an old car, a still-standing cabin, old train tracks, and a pretty waterfall. There are several different routes to reach the town, so be sure you’re following the correct directions while trying to find your way.

The Blackcomb Ascent Trails

Photo: Jing Zhong/Shutterstock

Distance: 4.2 milesElevation gain: 3,770 feetTrail type: Point to point (if you take the gondola down)

The Ascent Trails start at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and deliver you to the top of the Blackcomb Gondola after some serious sweat equity. It’s for hikers who want to feel the burn in their legs almost immediately, and don’t mind if it continues for the next three hours. The trail is broken into three sections (Little Burn, Big Burn, and Heart Burn), so there are options to do parts of the trail without committing to the whole hike.

However, the reward if you finish beautiful views of all of Whistler Resort at the top (plus a beer and a snack, if you take advantage of the Rendezvous Lodge at the top). The trail on the way up is also quite lovely, especially if you like lush forests with moss-covered trees. This is a good hike if you’re keen to see black bears. If you are lucky enough to see one, just consider it a special sighting, and make a little noise if you feel the bear is getting too close. Black bears are general pretty docile and will almost always run away when they see you.

If you have a sightseeing lift ticket or ski pass for the following winter, you can ride the gondola back down the mountain. You also buy a $15 download pass at the bottom — but not at the top. So if you want to ride the gondola down, plan in advance.

Due to wildlife, no dogs are allowed on hikes at Whistler Blackcomb (except service dogs).

Lost Lake Loop

Photo: Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson/Shutterstock

Distance: 4 milesElevation gain: 670 feetTrail type: Loop

Just a short walk from the Whistler Village is Lost Lake, with a relatively flat nature walk that hugs the lake’s shoreline. If you go clockwise, you’ll end near the main grassy beach area, where you’ll find people lounging in the sun and swimming in the lake (or relaxing on a few floating docks). Dogs are welcome, and there are restrooms near Lost Lake Park beach and the PassivHaus trailhead. There’s also a popular mountain biking trail system around the lake with relatively easy trails, making this one of the best Whistler hikes if some in your group want to hike while others give mountain biking a try.

You can make this loop as long or short as you’d like, either by starting closer to the beach or doing an out-and-back instead of a full loop.

The Brandywine Trail

Photo: ppa/Shutterstock

Distance: 3.6 milesElevation gain: 500 feetTrail type: Out and back

The Brandywine Trail is a great bang-for-your-buck option in Whistler, with a relatively easy route that passes a gorgeous waterfall before leading to a stunning viewpoint looking out on the mountains. It starts through a peaceful forested area and reaches the falls viewpoint in less than half a mile. This is a good turn-around spot for little kids or anyone with limited mobility. But if you keep going, you’ll meander past several lakes before arriving at a viewpoint (and bungee bridge) over the Cheakamus River.

This is one of the  more popular Whistler hikes, so parking can get a bit tricky midday on the weekends. Dogs are allowed on leashes, parking is free, and there are restrooms at the trailhead.

Iceberg Lake (via 19-Mile Creek)

 

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Distance: 12.1 milesElevation gain: 3,300 feetTrail type: Out and back

One of the best Whistler hikes for smack in the middle of summer is the challenging hike to Iceberg Lake (and yes, it usually has some floating icebergs). It’s a tough hike, with a consistently steady elevation gain. The route starts through a forested area, crossing several bridges over 19 Mile Creek and passing several waterfalls. From there, it opens to a section of hiking through meadows, usually populated by beautiful wildflowers. Then, it’s a steep few miles of hiking up a rocky ridgeline before reaching Iceberg Lake.

Fortunately, the lake is just as pretty as the name would imply, bearing that bright blue color of alpine lakes usually associated with Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. It’s usually still partially frozen in the summer, and between the difficulty of the hike and the rock piles around the shoreline, you can always find a spot to chill out and have lunch without feeling crowded.

Iceberg Lake is one of a few areas in Whistler with a known grizzly population, so pay attention to trail closures and warnings, and make sure you’re bear aware. You should make noise while hiking (especially around tight sections of trail), be able to identify a black bear vs. a grizzly bear, and know how to react if either gets too close. Bears don’t want to hurt you, and it’s unfair and harmful to treat them like an enemy — they live there, too. So just know how to be a safe visitor to bear country, and you’ll have a great time.

Black Tusk Trail

Photo: Bronwyn Davies/Shutterstock

Distance: 16.1 milesElevation gain: 5,780 feetTrail type: Out and back

Reaching the base of Black Tusk is one of the hardest Whistler hikes, and while it can be done in a single day, most people find it better suited to an overnight trip. You’ll need a day use pass if you want to park at the trailhead, which you should buy two days in advance online. You can start from a few different places, but the most popular is probably the Rubble Creek Trailhead, though Cheakamus Lake is also a good starting point if you’re doing it as an overnight.

The hike is in Garibaldi Provincial park and starts near Whistler, but takes travelers deep into the backcountry. Expect backcountry and potentially snowy conditions year-round, as well as some scrambles and risky sections of exposure. Don’t begin the hike unless you’re confident you can finish — it’s one of the more challenging Whistler hikes you’ll find. However, if you are an experienced hiker with the skills to do it, you’ll find it worth the effort. There’s not much you won’t find along the route when it comes to views, from lush forest to wildflower fields to dramatic cliff lines and ridgeline singletrack that affords views of the many glaciers of the Sea-to-Sky region.

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The Festivals in Hanoi, Vietnam, You Should Plan Your Travels Around

Vietnam’s capital city is known for its bustling Old Quarter, charming French Quarter, Bourdain-approved street food, and many landmarks that sum up the city’s rich history, from its centuries-old architecture to its more modern museums and mausoleums. Hanoi is always vibrant, but it’s never more exciting than when there’s a major festival taking place. Visiting Hanoi during a significant annual festival provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and traditions, as well as travel to the outskirts of the city to see important Buddhist and historical sites at their liveliest. It’s worth noting that while Vietnam is officially an atheist state, more than half of the population identifies as Buddhist, which has a big impact on the Hanoi festival scene. These are the festivals you won’t want to miss.

Tết Nguyên Đán

Photo: phuong10902/Shutterstocl

Tết is the most important traditional festival in Vietnam. A time for family reunions and honoring ancestors, Tết is celebrated at the beginning of the lunar new year, which usually falls between late January and early February. Celebrations typically last three days to a week, with preparations beginning weeks in advance to clean and decorate homes. Yellow mai blossoms feature heavily as a symbol of prosperity, along with banners, lanterns, and other decorations. In Hanoi, people flock to Hoan Kiem Lake to see the bright blooms of the yellow mai tree. Preparing and sharing auspicious foods such as banh chung (square glutinous rice cake), mut (preserved fruits), and xoi (sticky rice) is another important aspect of the Tết festival, which also features temple and pagoda visits, lion dances, fireworks, folk games, and more.

Buddha’s Birthday

Photo: Vietnam Stock Images/Shutterstocl

Buddha’s Birthday (Phật Đản) is celebrated in May or June on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. In Vietnam, Buddhists celebrate by visiting temples and pagodas to offer flowers, incense, and prayers. Some release birds and fish as a symbolic act of liberation and compassion. Many participate in a bathing ceremony that entails pouring water over Buddha statues to bring purity and prosperity, as well as engage in acts of charity by donating food, clothes, and money to those in need. In Hanoi, the Ngọc Sơn Temple and Quán Sứ Pagoda are popular gathering places to celebrate Buddha’s Birthday. The city streets also lend themselves to a parade that sees participants dress up in colorful costumes and carry statues of Buddha, dragons, etc.

Gióng Festival

Vietnam’s Gióng Festival commemorates Saint Gióng, a warrior so greatly respected that the festivities are held twice: once in the Sóc Sơn district about 30 minutes north of Hanoi during the first lunar month and later in Hanoi during the fourth lunar month, which falls between April and May. Centered on the Phù Đổng Temple, Hanoi’s festivities are the livelier of the two, with dragon and lion dances, performances of traditional folk songs and dances, martial arts demonstrations, competitions such as tug-of-war and rice cooking, and other revelry. Two highlights of the festival are the procession where people carry a statue of Saint Gióng on a palanquin while performing traditional song and dance and the reenactments of the battles during which the national hero earned renown defending Vietnam from foreign enemies.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Photo: Vietnam Stock Images/Shutterstock

The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (September or October) in many Asian cultures, including Vietnam. During the festival, people in Hanoi decorate their homes with colorful lanterns and prepare traditional foods such as mooncakes. Children parade through the streets carrying lanterns and singing traditional songs, as well as participate in folk games. Two highlights of the festival are the dragon dance, which involves performers dressed in dragon costumes dancing to the beat of drums and cymbals, and the lion dance, which is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Lion dancers visit homes and businesses throughout the city to perform the dance and collect offerings.

Vietnamese Independence Day

Photo: Tony albelton/Shutterstocl

Vietnamese Independence Day, also known as National Day, celebrates the day Vietnam declared its independence from French colonial rule on September 2, 1945. In Hanoi, the main celebration takes place at Ba Dinh Square, where former president Ho Chi Minh read the nation’s Declaration of Independence. The event begins with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by a parade featuring military troops, schoolchildren, and cultural groups. People gather to watch the parade, waving flags and singing patriotic songs. There are also cultural and art performances throughout the city, and many museums and historical sites offer free admission to encourage people to learn more about the country’s history and culture. Firework displays are also common during Vietnamese Independence Day, adding to the festive spirit.

Reunification Day

Reunification Day is celebrated annually on April 30 to honor the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975 and the end of the Vietnam War. Commemorations take place across the country. You’ll know it’s happening in Hanoi when you see more-than-usual Vietnamese flags, Reunification Day banners, and flowers plastered across the city. You might also see parades, exhibitions, street performances, and other patriotic displays. Ho Chi Minh City hosts one of the biggest Reunification Day parades in Hanoi, but Hanoi also stages one in Ba Dinh Square, near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Typical features of the parade include military marches and song and dance performances, followed by fireworks over Hoan Kiem Lake. If you’re in town at the end of April, it’s a nice time to visit historical sites that are particularly relevant to Vietnam’s liberation, such as the Ho Chi Minh Museum and Hoa Lo Prison.

Lim Festival

Photo: Luong Led/Shutterstock

Vietnam’s Lim Festival celebrates the arrival of spring and showcases the unique culture of the Red River Delta. In Hanoi, people gather to watch the colorful dragon boat parade, during which boats decorated with flowers and lanterns take to the water and sail down the Red River while performers sing and dance on board. There are also other cultural activities, including art exhibitions, food fairs, traditional games, and a fireworks display. Yet it’s the rural Tiên Du district of the Bắc Ninh province, roughly 45 minutes outside of the city, that celebrates best, with a unique ritual called quan họ in which traditionally dressed men and women serenade each other from dragon boats. The Lim Festival is held on the 12th and 13th day of the first lunar month in late January or early February.

Perfume Pagoda Festival

Photo: Tony Duy/Shutterstock

The Perfume (Hương) Pagoda Festival takes place annually around 40 miles from Hanoi in the Hương Sơn commune of the Mỹ Đức district. The festival usually takes place from the sixth day of the first lunar month to the end of the third lunar month, around February or April. The festival centers on a pilgrimage to the Perfume Pagoda, Vietnam’s most significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, which is a complex of temples and shrines built into the limestone cliffs of the Hương Tich mountains. The journey involves crossing the Yen Stream, hiking through the karst landscape, and crossing rice paddies, as well as facing a series of steps to reach the top of the Thien Tru Pagoda. Another key site for pilgrims is the Huong Tich cave, which is said to be the most sacred spot in the pagoda complex.

Le Mat Festival

The Le Mat Festival is an annual cultural event that celebrates the traditions and heritage of the Le Mat Village, located in the suburbs of Hanoi. The festival usually takes place on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, which typically falls in April. It involves a range of cultural activities, including a water procession from the village well, carp catching and offers, and a snake dance performance. The carps and snakes are highly symbolic and hold significant cultural value in the Le Mat village. During the festival, locals dress up in traditional costumes and participate in the various activities. If there’s one thing worth seeing, it’s the snake dance, which involves performers dancing with live snakes, a tradition that’s been passed down for generations.

Hung King Temple Festival

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The Hung King Temple Festival, also known as Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương, honors the Hùng Kings who are said to have founded Vietnam in 2879 BC. The festival is celebrated annually during the third lunar month, which typically falls in April, with the main event taking place on the 10th day, which is considered the official anniversary of the Hùng Kings’ death. The festival is held at the Hùng Temple in Phú Thọ province, located approximately 50 miles northwest of Hanoi. People visit the temple complex to offer incense and flowers and perform traditional rituals, including procession of palanquins that carry offerings to the Hùng Kings. The procession is accompanied by drummers, dancers, and performers dressed in colorful traditional costumes.

Wandering Souls Festival

The Wandering Souls Festival, also known as the Vu Lan Festival, is a traditional Vietnamese festival that honors the souls of ancestors. It’s celebrated in Hanoi and throughout the country on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, usually in August or September. During the festival, people visit temples and pagodas to pray for their ancestors and offer them food, flowers, and incense. It’s believed that during this time, the gates of hell are opened, allowing wandering souls to return to Earth to visit their living relatives. Traditional performances such as quan họ folk songs and lion dances are also conducted during the festival. In addition, people light floating lanterns on the river to guide the wandering souls back to the afterlife, which is a particularly special sight for visitors to witness as part of a traditional Hanoi festival.

Where to stay during Hanoi’s festivals

Hanoi’s festivals tend to take place across the city, but like most of the action in Hanoi, some of the biggest displays concentrate in busy, central areas where the most comfortable hotels also tend to be. No list of accommodations in Hanoi would be complete without the landmark Metropole hotel, which is considered one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Otherwise, hotels near Ba Dinh Square and Hoan Kiem Lake like the two below are guaranteed to give you a good glimpse into Hanoi’s festival life — or you could always book a Hanoi Airbnb.

We hope you love these Hanoi hotels! So you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate at the time of publication.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Photo: Hotels.com

The Hotel Metropole Hanoi opened near the Old Quarter in 1901 and became the first Sofitel Legend hotel in 2009. Notable figures such as Charlie Chaplin and global ambassadors have all stayed in the prestigious hotel — the hotel itself is an ambassador for luxury in Hanoi.

Where: 5 P. Ngô Quyền, Street, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Price per night: From $265

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Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

Photo: Hotels.com

Located in the Hoan Kiem district, a 10-minute walk from the lake, the Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay (and then some). From the spa, pool, and rooftop terrace to the airport shuttle service that ensures you arrive there safely.

Where: 33 Đường Thành, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Price per night: From $120

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InterContinental Hanoi Westlake, an IHG Hotel

Photo: Hotels.com

This InterContinental hotel picked a prime location on Westlake, Hanoi’s largest lake and a popular destination for viewing temples and pagodas, experiencing restaurants and cafes, and finding accommodation, whether you’re a tourist or an expat. Stay here to be close to Ba Dinh.

Where: 05 P. Từ Hoa, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Price per night: From $125

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