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New Contender for ‘Best Train Ride in the World’ |
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The Siberian Express, which runs across Russia to Moscow, has long been described as the best train ride in the world. That my be about to change. The Tibetan Railway from Qinghai to Lhasa has entered the fray with its astounding rail ride along the roof of the world. The route will eventually be extended to the Nepalese border, only an hour's drive from Kathmandu.
Some things to consider before embarking on this streamlined adventure:
Price: Tibetan Railway tickets are very inexpensive, ranging from US$49 to $180 depending on how much comfort you require and where you’re coming from. A soft sleeper from Beijing, a 48 hour journey, cost only $158 in early 2007.
Visas: A Chinese visa is of course necessary. Contrary to some information on the Internet, though, a Tibet Permit is also required for foreigners. They are relatively inexpensive and not difficult to obtain, and can be arranged through a travel agency.
Altitude Sickness: Tibet is often called the “roof of the world,” and the Tibetan Railway is the world’s highest altitude railway. Nearly 1,000 kilometers of track have been laid at over 4,000 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, and Tanggula Station, at 5,068 meters (over 15,000 feet) above sea level, is the highest railway station in the world at. Lhasa sits on a high desert plateau. Accordingly, altitude sickness is a very real danger. Fortunately the gradual acclimatization of going by rail rather than by air reduces this risk substantially. Be warned, however, extreme altitude sickness can be life-threatening, and the only treatment is to get to a lower altitude as soon as possible. Accordingly, a trip to Tibet may not be appropriate for the elderly, the infirm, and people with lung ailments.
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It’s All Included at Breezes Resort, Nassau, Bahamas |
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Catering to a youthful crowd of singles and couples, the all-inclusive Breezes Resort in Nassau is set on the beach and includes absolutely everything. You could spend your entire vacation here and never leave the property, and amazingly enough, never need to! For entertainment and recreation, there's the immaculate beach of course, as well as three pools, a fully equipped fitness center, game room, water sports, tennis, bicycling, volleyball, shopping, and several restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Rooms and suites are quite comfortable and fully equipped with satellite TV, CD player, coffee maker, hair dryer and safe. Perhaps one of the nicest things about Breezes is that the all-inclusive price means just that – there are absolutely no extra charges. Even transportation to and from the airport is included. But tipping is verboten! With 400 rooms and suites, and event space for 400, there’s room for company retreats, weddings, conventions, and even couples.
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Stockholm’s Nordic Light Hotel |
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The Nordic Light Hotel is one of the most well known hotels in Stockholm. Located in the heart of the city center, it is directly across from the Nordic Sea Hotel. The Nordic Sea Hotel features the famous "Ice Bar" where guest can enjoy a cool drink in a really cold bar made of ice. The lobby is an excellent place to relax and meet up with other travelers. This hotel offers 175 rooms. Contemporary-style décor includes hardwood floors; black couches, headboards, and desks; richly-toned curtains; white walls. All accommodations have high-speed Internet access; laptop-sized safes, mini-bars; large bathrooms; color TV's and electric water kettles. The bathrooms feature both a separate shower and a separate bath
The restaurant offers guests a meeting place with trendy lounge music, a modern fireplace and great cocktails. Breakfast and lunch menus are generous and varied, while à la carte dining is available in the evening.
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