For anyone ever wanting to seek the high road to adventure, your wish has just been granted. Several months back, China announced the opening of the exclusive Qinghai-Tibet Railway. This railway is one of a kind, like no other in the world. Besides being an engineering feat, it gives the avid traveler a means to reach Tibet via an eye-catching, high altitude, luxurious transit system.
The railroad is first in a number of classes including the highest altitude railroad. A portion of it began as early as 1984, with the last segment of the railway finished just months ago.
While your zipping along the frozen plateau at estimated speeds in excess of 100 km/hour-faster on solid ground, you can sit back and take in the gorgeous landscape. The Chinese government has spent over 180 million on conserving the environment along the railway. In fact, it has created 33 special passageways for endangered species. With any luck, you may even get a chance to see the rare Tibetan antelope.
But, it is not only what you'll see while you're moving along the "roof of the world", but it is the way you can do it that is unique. With your choice of a regular hard seat or hard or soft sleepers-one can't help be rested after their journey. The cabins are spacious, comfortable and have porters accessible throughout the train.
The trains also come equipped with state of the art double oxygen systems-one pumping air through the cabins, while each guest has her own at her disposal in case the altitude changes should have an affect. The windows have double glass-which filter out the sun rays should you be near a window.
When it comes to dining, the train also offers tempty feasts. Besides a variety of snacks and beverages, the train service provides delicious delicacies to wet the palate of many a traveler. You can't help but relax, have a good meal, and enjoy the view while traveling to the roof of the world.
Without a doubt, it is currently the best way to get to Tibet from its neighboring regions. It's fast, convenient, and affordable. What better way to travel through the clouds, than to board one of the luxurious new trains bound for the Heavenly Land-Tibet.
Because this region was accessible only by boat until the 1930s, it has a feel of charming isolation and a relaxed pace. That’s not to say that the Outer Banks lack intrigue or development. Area exhibits and ancestors of the first settlers will tell you all about the rich and colorful events of the islands’ past, and the emphasis placed on conservation certainly shows a knack for forward-thinking.
For starters, this was the site of the first English colony, and Blackbeard famously anchored just offshore. A few bloody battles have been waged nearby, and as you may know, Orville and Wilbur Wright chose this as the setting for the first powered airplane flight. A look around will convince you that this is a place like none other, and taking the time to dig a little deeper will better acquaint you with this fascinating and beautiful span of shoreline.
Obviously, the expansive coast makes water-themed activities a huge draw for tourists. Summertime invites swimming, boating, windsurfing, crabbing, and anything else you might feel inclined to do while wearing a swimsuit. Deep sea fishing could produce your best catch ever, and keep your eyes open for the wild horses that roam the far north and south beaches.
If you’d like to fill your mind with fun facts while you’re here, visit one of the many museums, take an informative sight-seeing tour, or enjoy a cultural festival. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest of the many trademark structures that line the coast of the Outer Banks, and it welcomes visitors to take in an ocean view from 208 feet above the ground. The Roanoke Island Festival Park contains an art gallery, several natural marshes, and a 16th century sailing vessel. History buffs won’t want to miss the Civil War Trail, and the Wright Brothers Memorial is a local source of pride. All in all, this area offers a surprising array of interesting diversions, and you’ll surely leave more knowledgeable than when you arrived.
Nature lovers, especially those with an appreciation for untouched beauty, will be impressed by the large portions of land that are protected from modern influences. The Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is made up of 150,000 acres of wetland habitats, and visitors will have a chance to see black bears, red wolves and, of course, alligators, as they hike and kayak. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge claims to attract 360 species of birds, so don’t forget binoculars if you’re fond of feathery friends.
The independent and adventurous personality of the Outer Banks makes it easy to understand why vacation rentals are the way to go when it comes to lodging. Many areas do not even have hotels, so embrace the spirit of your surroundings and look into renting a cozy and secluded ocean side cottage or a Victorian-style house big enough to allow for the whole family to spread out.
The Outer Banks are inviting you to do things differently, so take a walk off the beaten path and entertain the possibility of discovering a whole new world. If this sounds like the kind of vacation you are looking for, then visit HomeAway.com for a number of great Outer Banks Vacation Rentals.
Both Rob Danko & Caitlin Moore are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Rob Danko has sinced written about articles on various topics from Destinations. Robert Danko is an avid enthusiast of Asian culture. He has been living in China for several years and operates in his spare time.. Rob Danko's top article generates over 590 views. to your Favourites.
Caitlin Moore has sinced written about articles on various topics from Food And Drink, Travel and Leisure and Vacation Rentals. HomeAway.com has a wide array of fabulous vacation rental listings located all over the world.. Caitlin Moore's top article generates over 301000 views. to your Favourites.