Train fares can run the gamut; if you’re interested in hopping a train for just a stop or two and you’re fluid in the art of car hopping, there’s even the chance you can get on for gratis. Turnstile jumpers in the 1970’s & 80’s in New York City made the subways an even more trapped feeling place by many entrances being guarded by the completely unsanitary but impassible without being paid, full body turnstiles that make you feel like you’re walking through the gates of the underworld (which, I guess you are) and into an inescapable world of fire and brimstone (talk to me in August)

But in the world of the living, most train fares are reasonably priced alternatives to other forms of ground and air transportation and while it may take you a little longer in theory, there are a number of advantages to train travel that aren’t always apparent in either thought or practice. But for folks who are amiable, easily occupied for long periods of time, in no particular hurry and ready for an adventure there’s nothing more satisfying than train travel.

One of the first problems with train travel is the relative amount of things you can carry. You can only carry about as much as you can carry and sometimes not even that much. Many trains have restricted spots for luggage which you can not do a carry over with (two bags means two bags) Also you’ve got the whole problem that trains don’t take you all the way to your destination. They may do the trick for regular commuters but if you’re visiting somewhere or someone, the train won’t drop you off at your doorstep. However, one of the good things about train stations vs. airports is that they are typically a lot closer to the center of things (town, city) than an airport which requires a great deal of travel from to get to anywhere habitable (who wants to live near an airport?) So whether you’re visiting a relative in the country or some friends in a city, there are cabs that can be called or you can arrange for some kind of pick up.

Train fares are all over the map. As I said train fares are typically cheaper than all other modes of transportation; so whether you’re touring the UK or visiting someone domestically, there are cheap train fares and deals to be had.