A Fresh Journey on the Iconic Train: Now Available at $8,500 for One Way

This week in travel, various captivating stories from around the globe have emerged, spanning from exciting railway journeys to intriguing aviation developments, and offering inspiring destination insights.

Exploring Railway Marvels

• In a groundbreaking move, the renowned Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is charting a new course to Italy’s Ligurian coast come June 2024. Departing from Paris, this historic luxury train will embark on a two-day voyage to Portofino, albeit at a lofty price of $8,500 for a one-way ticket.
• Across Europe, the revival of a direct train route between Italy and Slovenia is underway after a hiatus of over a century. Anticipated as a high-speed service, the journey from Milan to Ljubljana is poised to offer seamless travel connections.
• In South Africa, the spotlight is on an unconventional train experience with Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge. Nestled within Kruger National Park, this unique hotel, fashioned from refurbished train carriages, promises guests an immersive wildlife encounter amidst the picturesque Sabie River.
• Meanwhile, Ukraine’s railways persist as a vital lifeline amidst the country’s enduring conflict, facilitating crucial long-distance travel amid challenging circumstances.

Aviation Insights

• Celebrity aviation captures attention with Taylor Swift’s private jet saga making headlines. Amid flight-tracking controversies and aircraft sales, Swift’s upcoming journey to witness the Super Bowl in Tokyo underscores the challenges of private air travel logistics.
• European carrier Finnair implements a novel pre-boarding practice, weighing passengers along with their belongings to enhance weight estimates for flight optimization, particularly in Nordic winter conditions.
• A heartwarming incident aboard a flight from Atlanta to Seattle showcases human ingenuity as passengers and crew rally to safeguard flamingo eggs, underscoring the unexpected yet uplifting moments that can occur during air travel.
• Conversely, an alarming incident in Thailand involving a Canadian passenger deploying an evacuation slide prompts reflection on the importance of responsible behavior and aviation safety protocols.

Destination Delights

• Amidst bustling coastal destinations worldwide, Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit emerges as a serene haven for luxury travelers seeking secluded paradises, offering an array of upscale hospitality options.
• Off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar’s culturally rich archipelago beckons adventurers with its diverse landscapes and UNESCO-protected heritage sites, inviting exploration beyond its famed Stone Town.
• For beach-bound travelers, a selection of travel-friendly beach totes, curated by CNN Underscored, offers practical and stylish solutions for seamless seaside getaways.

Lunar New Year Celebrations

• As the Lunar New Year festivities unfold across the globe, vibrant celebrations from China to Argentina encapsulate the spirit of renewal and community, marked by colorful lantern displays, traditional performances, and joyful gatherings.
• From the luminous lanterns adorning China’s historic city walls to the enchanting dragon dances captivating audiences worldwide, the Lunar New Year serves as a vibrant testament to cultural heritage and collective celebration.

In essence, this week’s travel highlights showcase the enduring allure of railways, the dynamic landscape of aviation, the allure of diverse destinations, and the spirited festivities marking the onset of the Lunar New Year, inviting travelers to embark on memorable journeys and embrace cultural richness worldwide.