Here’s everything you need to know before traveling on Amtrak.

Riding the rails — it’s a beloved experience that many prefer to plane or car travel. There are no security lines and no traffic, plus the benefit of wider seats and more legroom. But among those who don’t travel Amtrak regularly, it’s common to hear complaints about ticket fares, the lack of luxury offerings more commonly seen with air travel, as well as the boarding and exiting frenzies famous in places like New York’s Penn Station and Washington, D.C.’s Union Station.

We can dispel some of these myths. With a little advance planning and some well-trod intel, you can enjoy the best that train travel can offer in a way that works for your budget and peace of mind. Read on for our Amtrak tips, then get ready to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Plan Ahead

Many people think of train travel as a last-minute getaway option (and they should, last-minute fare deals are out there — more on that below), but planning ahead will always work to your advantage. “The more in advance you make your travel decision, the better off you are,” says Marc Magliari, a spokesman for Amtrak. “Your best chance to get the lowest price is to book as far in advance as possible.”

Booking your trip at least three to four weeks before you depart can give you drastically lower fares, often 50 percent less than what you’ll see within two weeks of your departure and return dates. Magliari also notes that sleeping compartments for overnight trains often sell out farther in advance — so bear that in mind for long trips.

Know About Discounts

Magliari recommends that travelers head to the deals section on Amtrak’s website before purchasing a ticket. There, you may find offers for 25 percent off a trip on Acela, the high-speed business class train on the Northeast corridor, or reduced fares for getaways to New Orleans or Miami.

You don’t have to wait for special offers, either. Amtrak has standing discounts for children, who get half-price fares from age two to age 12 (infants under two ride for free), senior travelers, active military personnel as well as veterans, and more. Select these options when booking, and you’ll regularly get a percentage off of a standard fare.

Check Out a Station Lounge

Though station lounges aren’t quite up to par with some of the luxury offerings that airlines are investing in, Amtrak does have several types of private lounges for Acela Express First Class passengers, sleeping car passengers, Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Plus, and Select Executive members.

With free beverages and snacks, internet access, and TVs, as well as attendants who can help you with your trip, they’re a great way to spend time before departure. Magliari also notes that this is an area Amtrak is investing in — there are new options for buying day passes to lounges, too.

Make Use of Red Cap

Carrying bags? You’ll want to opt for Red Cap service, a free baggage handling service available at 12 major stations nationwide. Most travelers don’t realize Red Cap is available to all travelers. Look for the people in uniformed red shirts, show them your ticket, and they’ll escort you and your bags to your train, allowing you to board early. You can pick where you want to sit, and they’ll stash your bags for you; upon arrival at your destination, a conductor can set up a Red Cap for you when you de-board. Note: though this is a free service, tipping is recommended — especially during heavily trafficked times, like the holidays.

Consider the Quiet Car

Several lines on Amtrak reserve one Quiet Car per train — an entire car where all passengers adhere to a blissful library-like atmosphere, eschewing cell phone use, keeping conversation to a minimum, and politely donning headphones for their devices. If you don’t want to talk to your seatmate or hear someone else’s music the whole ride, this is the car for you.

Join the Rewards Program

If you’re interested in taking the train more than a handful of times a year, Amtrak Guest Rewards quickly becomes worth it. You earn two points for every dollar you spend on Amtrak or with partners like Hertz, Hilton Hotels, and more. You can redeem points for Amtrak reward travel (beginning at just 800 points), hotels, car rentals, and gift cards. Once you hit certain levels, like Select and Select Plus, you get more perks (upgrade coupons, lounge access), and your reward point earnings increase even more. Bonus: unused points won’t expire until there hasn’t been any qualifying activity for 24 months, giving you plenty of time to redeem them.

Here’s a look at seven of the most stunning deserts in the world that redefine what “empty” really means.

Ask any person who has walked in a desert, and they’ll tell you that it is one of the most humbling human experiences. The endless stretches of sky overhead and the grainy sand beneath are a reminder of the triviality of existence, leaving visitors with a mix of feelings. From dazzling dunes and salt flats to surreal rock formations and starlit skies, deserts are nature’s most poetic paradoxes. Over the years, they have also become the hotspots for adventure sports like “Thar Bashing” and taking bumpy camel rides. Here’s a look at seven of the most stunning deserts in the world that redefine what “empty” really means.

1. Sahara Desert, Africa

The world’s largest hot desert stretches across 11 countries and is often described as an ocean of sand. Its golden dunes, some rising over 500 feet, glow like molten gold at sunrise. Beyond its cinematic beauty, the Sahara is home to nomadic tribes, ancient petroglyphs, and surreal oases that seem to appear like mirages. Interestingly, the desert expands by nearly half a mile every month due to climate change — a reminder that its vastness is still growing.

How to reach: Fly to Marrakech, Cairo, or Tunis, and book desert tours that offer dune bashing and overnight camping under the stars.

2. Atacama Desert, Chile

Known as the driest place on Earth, the Atacama surprises visitors with flamingo-filled salt lakes, pink sunsets, and crystal-clear night skies that attract astronomers from around the globe. Some parts of this desert haven’t seen rain in decades — NASA even tests its Mars rovers here because of its otherworldly terrain.

How to reach: Fly to Calama, then drive to San Pedro de Atacama — the gateway to this mesmerising desert.

3. Namib Desert, Namibia

The Namib, believed to be over 55 million years old, is one of the oldest deserts on Earth. Its iconic red dunes at Sossusvlei shift colours from gold to crimson through the day, making it a photographer’s dream. The orange hue of the sand actually deepens with age — the older the dune, the richer its colour — giving the desert a timeless beauty

How to reach: The nearest airport is Windhoek; from there, guided safaris take you into the heart of the Namib.

4. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum’s dramatic sandstone cliffs and wind-carved canyons have served as Mars in several Hollywood films. The desert is a masterpiece of nature’s sculpting — and it was once home to T.E. Lawrence, of Lawrence of Arabia fame. Today, it remains one of the most breathtaking backdrops for adventure seekers and stargazers alike.

How to reach: From Amman, take a 4-hour drive south or book a desert camp experience near Petra.

5. Gobi Desert, Mongolia & China

The Gobi may not have endless dunes, but its vast plains, mountain ranges, and fossil-rich cliffs are no less stunning. Once part of the ancient Silk Route, this desert tells tales of traders, dinosaurs, and shifting civilisations. It was here that fossilised dinosaur eggs were first discovered — a scientific treasure hidden within the sands.

How to reach: Fly to Ulaanbaatar and drive south through guided tours that include nomadic stays.

6. White Desert, Egypt

The White Desert is unlike anything you’ve seen — its chalky rock formations, shaped by centuries of wind erosion, rise like ghostly sculptures across a pale landscape. Under moonlight, these formations glow silver-white, creating an almost lunar ambience that’s both eerie and enchanting

How to reach: Take a 5-hour drive from Cairo to Farafra Oasis, then continue with a local guide.

7. Thar Desert, India & Pakistan

Vibrant and full of life, the Thar proves that deserts can dance with color. Camel fairs, folk music, and golden dunes define this Great Indian Desert, making it one of the most culturally rich arid regions in the world. It’s also the most densely populated desert — home to villages that thrive amid the sand

How to reach: The nearest city is Jaisalmer, well-connected by road, rail, and air from major Indian cities.

Sun, sand, and secrets of Asia

Asia is home to some of the world’s most stunning islands, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities. From pristine beaches and turquoise waters to lush jungles and vibrant local traditions, these islands cater to all kinds of travelers. Some islands are known for adventure activities like surfing, diving, and hiking, while others provide a peaceful retreat for relaxation and wellness. Whether you are seeking luxury resorts, hidden lagoons, or unique cultural experiences, Asia’s islands present a wide spectrum of options that make every trip memorable.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia, is a top destination for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and natural beauty. Known for its iconic rice terraces, ancient temples, and vibrant art scene, the island also offers stunning beaches, surfing spots, and luxury resorts. Visitors can experience local ceremonies, explore traditional villages, and enjoy world-class wellness retreats.

Maldives

The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is famous for its overwater villas, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich marine life. It is ideal for travelers looking for privacy, romance, and immersive underwater experiences like snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui combines tropical scenery with modern comforts. Visitors can relax on palm-lined beaches, explore waterfalls, or visit the Big Buddha temple. The island is also popular for wellness retreats, vibrant nightlife, and local markets such as Fisherman’s Village.

Siargao, Philippines

Siargao, known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, also offers tranquil lagoons, hidden rock pools, and diverse dive sites. The island appeals to adventure seekers and those looking to connect with nature in a quieter, less crowded environment.

Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa, located in southern Japan, is known for its subtropical climate, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. The island is also famous for its long-lived residents, traditional festivals, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring historical sites.

Koh Lipe, Thailand

Koh Lipe, sometimes called the “Maldives of Thailand,” features white-sand beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Part of a national marine park, the island is ideal for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying a quiet tropical escape.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, offers a mix of pristine beaches, dense forests, and lively local culture. Key attractions include Sao Beach, Phu Quoc National Park, and the bustling night market in Duong Dong. The island combines natural beauty with opportunities for relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a world obsessed with speed and convenience, these 6 countries remind us that sometimes the best destinations are worth the extra effort.

Ever heard the phrase “catching a flight” to your next destination? Well, for a select group of countries, that expression falls flat—literally!

In a world where airports seem as common as coffee shops, a handful of nations have decided, “Nah, we’re good without runways, thanks!” These aviation-free zones aren’t hiding from the modern world; they’ve just found alternative ways to welcome visitors who don’t mind putting in a little extra effort to reach them.

In a world obsessed with speed and convenience, these 6 countries remind us that sometimes the best destinations are worth the extra effort.

1. Andorra

Andorra lies in the Pyrenees between Spain and France and is the largest country by both population and land area without an airport. At just 468 square kilometers, this principality packs in stunning mountain vistas, excellent ski resorts, and duty-free shopping, but not a single runway.

The mountainous terrain makes airport construction both challenging and impractical, though the country does maintain three private heliports, including one for hospital services.

Visitors hoping to experience Andorra’s charms typically fly to nearby airports in neighboring countries. The closest option is the conveniently named Andorra-La Seu d’Urgell Airport (LEU), just 12 kilometers away in Spain. From these hubs, travelers complete their journey by road—the scenic route becomes part of the adventure.

2. Liechtenstein

Sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein covers just 160 square kilometers of Alpine landscape. Despite its wealth and modern infrastructure, it manages quite nicely without airports, though it does have a heliport in the southern town of Balzers for those who prefer their arrivals with a bit more flair.

Most visitors to Liechtenstein fly into Switzerland’s Zürich Airport (ZRH), then take a train to border towns like Buchs or Sargans before catching a postal bus into the Country. Closer options with limited flight schedules include St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport in Switzerland (ACH) and Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) in Germany, but they offer fewer connections. The country is so small that once you’ve arrived, you could walk across its entire width in a few hours.

3. Monaco

Despite Monaco’s famous Formula 1 racing culture, the tiny country has 0 airports! Perhaps showing up on a plane would be too boring for a place that loves fast cars so much.

Monaco, the playground of the rich and famous, spans just 2.02 square kilometers of prime coastal real estate. With space at such a premium that buildings climb upward rather than outward, there’s simply no room to squeeze in runways between the casinos and luxury apartments.

Instead, the principality offers a heliport in the Fontvieille district, letting visitors arrive in style with a seven-minute helicopter hop from Nice Airport (NCE).

Most visitors arrive via Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) in France, located just 30 kilometers away along the stunning French Riviera coastline. From there, options include a helicopter service, private car transfers, or the scenic coastal train.

4. San Marino

Surrounded by Italy, the ancient republic of San Marino claims to be the world’s oldest sovereign state, dating back to 301 CE. Perched atop Mount Titano, this 61-square-kilometer nation operates without an airport, though it does maintain a heliport in Borgo Maggiore for special arrivals.

The country also has a small airfield called Torraccia with a 680-meter grass runway, but no commercial flights operate here—it’s mainly used by aviation enthusiasts and for emergency services. For regular travelers, Italy’s Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI) in nearby Rimini (just 16 kilometers away) serves as the gateway to San Marino, with the larger Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) offering more international connections about 130 kilometers away.

The absence of an airport somehow feels appropriate for a nation that has maintained its independence for over 1,700 years—San Marino has always done things its way, including how visitors arrive at its medieval gates.

5. Vatican City

The world’s smallest sovereign state, Vatican City, encompasses a mere 0.44 square kilometers within Rome, making it physically impossible to accommodate an airport. When your entire country can fit inside most international airports with room to spare, aviation facilities become somewhat redundant.

The Holy See does maintain a heliport in its western corner, used exclusively by visiting heads of state and Vatican officials. This small landing pad has seen its share of papal arrivals and departures, though Pope Francis famously prefers more humble transportation when possible.

Visitors to Vatican City—and there are millions annually—fly into Rome’s airports, either Ciampino-G.B. Pastine International Airport (CIA) or Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), before taking ground transportation to St. Peter’s Square.

Given that you can walk across the entire country in about 20 minutes, the lack of internal flights hardly poses an inconvenience.

6. Kiribati

Republic of Kiribati (pronounced “Kiribas”) presents a unique case in our airport-free collection. Unlike the other nations on this list, Kiribati does technically have some air access—Bonriki International Airport (TRW) serves the capital island of South Tarawa.

However, the majority of this archipelago nation, consisting of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered across 3.5 million square kilometers of ocean, remains unreachable by air.

Most of Kiribati’s outer islands have no airstrips whatsoever, making boats the only practical means of transportation. When your country crosses the International Date Line and spans all four hemispheres, traditional notions of connectivity take on a new meaning. Local ferries, cargo ships, and private boats serve as the main transportation network.

The Art of Arrival Without Airstrips

These 6 nations represent a fascinating counterpoint to our aviation-dominated travel culture. While lacking airports might seem like a limitation, each country has adapted in ways that preserve its unique character while remaining connected to the wider world.

For travelers accustomed to the monotonous efficiency of modern airports, visiting these countries offers a refreshing change of pace. Perhaps there’s something to be said for these alternative approaches to international arrival. No baggage carousels, no duty-free mazes, no announcements about unattended luggage—just the gradual transition from one culture to another that was once the hallmark of meaningful travel!

So, the next time you’re planning a trip and find yourself groaning about layovers, perhaps consider one of these runway-free realms instead. After all, who needs to “fly directly” when you can arrive with Instagram stories that don’t involve flight delays and middle seats?