The Longest Train Journey in the World – From Portugal to Vietnam
Inspired by my experience traveling part of the Silk Road by train, I’ve developed a keen desire to explore more train journeys. Just imagine the excitement I felt when I first learned about the world’s longest train journey.
Trains are truly underrated as a fulfilling mode of travel. Unlike planes, you can enjoy ever-changing landscapes like towering mountains, vast meadows, charming rivers, and quaint towns as they pass by. Allow me to introduce you to a 17,000km journey from Portugal to Vietnam, spanning 13 days.
Undoubtedly, this is the longest overland journey anyone can embark on. It’s not something everyone can do due to the extensive planning involved and the long hours spent on trains. But if you’re intrigued, read on to learn more about the world’s longest train journey.
Porto, Portugal → Coimbra
The journey begins along the coast of Portugal, starting from Porto. Board a train at Campanhã Station in Porto heading to Coimbra-B. The journey takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
Coimbra (Portugal) → Hendaye (France)
From Coimbra-B station, it’s a considerably long 11 to 12-hour journey to Hendaye, France. Along this route, you’ll visit vibrant cities in northwest Spain. Take note of Salamanca’s sandstone cathedral, impressive architecture in Valladolid, and medieval monuments in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
Hendaye → Paris (France)
After enjoying the Spanish cities, transfer to the French high-speed TGV train at Hendaye. You’ll arrive in Paris in about 5 hours. Take your time exploring the City of Love. Consider spending 2 nights in Paris before continuing your journey.
Paris (France) → Cologne (Germany)
Upon arrival in Paris, disembark at Montparnasse Station. Transfer to the Paris Métro, which takes about 1 hour to reach Gare du Nord. From there, catch a high-speed train to Cologne, Germany, with a journey time of approximately 3.5 hours via Brussels, Belgium.
Cologne (Germany) → Warsaw (Poland)
After admiring Belgium’s grand Renaissance architecture, you’ll arrive in Cologne, Germany. Since there’s a few hours’ wait for the train to Warsaw, take this time to explore Cologne. The next train journey takes about 10 hours, passing through Dortmund, Hanover, Berlin in Germany, and Łęczyca and Poznań in Poland before reaching Warsaw.
Warsaw (Poland) → Moscow (Russia)
Congratulations, you’re halfway there! The next train passes through Belarus en route to Moscow, so make sure you have a transit visa for Belarus. This leg of the journey takes around 20 hours.
To reach Beijing, China from Moscow, you’ll need to take the Trans-Siberian Railway. However, this train departs only twice a week, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If you end up staying in Moscow beyond those days, I recommend exploring the city.
Moscow (Russia) → Beijing, China
The journey to Beijing spans 6 nights and 7 days. It may seem daunting, but there are sleeper compartments and breathtaking views to enjoy along the way, so rest assured.
You’ll pass through Russia’s stunning Lake Baikal, immerse yourself in Siberia’s wilderness, then head to Mongolia before traversing the dunes of the Gobi Desert into China. The Moscow-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing route via the Trans-Siberian Railway is undoubtedly one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world.
Beijing, China → Hanoi, Vietnam
After the long journey, you finally reach Beijing! You can opt to stay here for a few nights or make your way from Beijing Central Station to Beijing West Station. Here, board the sleeper train bound for Hanoi, Vietnam, departing twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.
The journey to Gia Lam Station in Hanoi takes over 39 hours, passing through Zhengzhou, Guilin, and Nanning in China. You’ll cross the border, change trains, then it’s about 4 hours to Hanoi. Congratulations, you’ve arrived in Vietnam!
Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
You’ll arrive in Hanoi in the early morning. You can choose to end your journey here, but the official final destination of the world’s longest train journey is Ho Chi Minh City. From Hanoi, it takes about 32 to 35 hours to reach Ho Chi Minh City.
In this final leg of the journey, you’ll witness Vietnam’s lush countryside with rice fields, palm trees, water buffaloes, alongside towns, villages, and old-world French architecture.
Upon reaching Ho Chi Minh City, you would have covered 17,000km and crossed 7 countries. This grand journey may not be easy, but it’s undoubtedly fulfilling and will be talked about for years to come.
Here are some important points to note before embarking on this journey:
– Consider purchasing a Eurail Pass for your European travels. – Reserve train tickets in advance as all train journeys in Europe require prior booking. – If you hold a passport, you’ll need visas for both Europe and Asia. Be sure to research this thoroughly. – Budget around US$2,000 per person for train tickets. – Pack light! Carrying heavy luggage on train journeys can be cumbersome.
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Embarking on a Longest train journey Unveiled: Discovering the Path to Inner Peace
What is a Longest train journey ?
In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, finding inner peace can sometimes feel like a distant dream. We are constantly bombarded with stress, distractions, and responsibilities that pull us in all directions, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves. But what if I told you that there is a path to inner peace, a Longest train journey that can help you find serenity amidst the chaos? In this article, we will explore what a Longest train journey entails and how it can uncover the path to inner peace.
A Longest train journey is a personal voyage of self-discovery and growth, where we consciously seek to cultivate inner peace and serenity. It is a deliberate choice to embark on a path that allows us to find solace within ourselves, regardless of external circumstances. This journey involves exploring various practices and techniques that can help us connect with our inner selves, find balance, and achieve a state of tranquility. It is about slowing down, being present, and finding harmony in our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
The importance of inner peace
Inner peace is not just a lofty ideal or a luxury Longest train journey; it is a fundamental need for our overall well-being and happiness. When we lack inner peace, we become more susceptible to stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions that can take a toll on our mental and physical health Longest train journey. Inner peace, on the other hand, is like an anchor that keeps us grounded and resilient in the face of challenges. It allows us to navigate through life’s ups and downs with grace and equanimity.
Moreover, inner peace is not just beneficial for ourselves; it also has a positive ripple effect on those around us. When we are at peace within ourselves, we radiate a calm and positive energy that can inspire and uplift others. Our relationships become more harmonious, and our interactions become more compassionate and understanding. Inner peace is, therefore, not a selfish pursuit but a gift that we can offer to ourselves and the world.
The benefits of embarking on a Longest train journey
Embarking on a Longest train journey can bring forth a multitude of benefits that extend beyond just inner peace. As we delve deeper into our journey, we begin to develop a heightened self-awareness, gaining a clearer understanding of our thoughts, emotions, and patterns of behavior. This self-awareness allows us to make conscious choices and break free from negative habits and conditioning that no longer serve us.
Additionally, a Longest train journey helps us cultivate resilience and emotional intelligence. It equips us with the tools and techniques to navigate through life’s challenges with grace and ease. We become more adaptable and less reactive to external circumstances, allowing us to maintain our inner equilibrium even in the midst of chaos.
Moreover, a Longest train journey fosters personal growth and self-acceptance. As we connect with our inner selves, we begin to uncover our true passions, values, and purpose in life. We gain the clarity and confidence to pursue our dreams and live authentically. This journey also enables us to embrace our imperfections and love ourselves unconditionally, fostering a deep sense of self-worth and fulfillment.
Exploring different paths to inner peace Longest train journey
There are many paths that can lead us to inner peace, and it is important to find the ones that resonate with us personally. One such path is through mindfulness and meditation practices. Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, observing our thoughts and emotions without judgment. It helps us cultivate a sense of inner calm and clarity, allowing us to let go of worries about the past or future.
Meditation, on the other hand, is a practice that involves training the mind to focus and redirect our thoughts. It can be as simple as sitting in silence and focusing on our breath or engaging in guided meditation exercises. Regular meditation practice has been proven to reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote emotional well-being.
Another path to inner peace is through connecting with nature. Spending time in nature can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. It allows us to disconnect from the noise and distractions of daily life and reconnect with the beauty and stillness of the natural world. Whether it’s a hike in the mountains, a walk on the beach, or simply sitting in a park, immersing ourselves in nature can restore our sense of balance and tranquility.
Mindfulness and meditation techniques for inner peace Longest train journey
Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools that can help us cultivate inner peace. Here are a few techniques to incorporate into your daily routine:
Body scan meditation: Find a quiet and comfortable space. Close your eyes and bring your attention to different parts of your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head. Notice any sensations or tension, and consciously release any tension you feel.
Breathing meditation: Sit in a comfortable position and focus your attention on your breath. Observe the natural rhythm of your breath without trying to control it. If your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breath.
Walking meditation: Take a slow and mindful walk, paying attention to each step and the sensations in your body. Notice the sounds, smells, and sights around you, fully immersing yourself in the present moment.
Remember, the key to mindfulness and meditation is consistency. Set aside a few minutes each day to practice, and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.
Connecting with nature for a Longest train journey
Nature has a way of soothing our souls and reconnecting us with our true essence. Here are some ways to connect with nature and enhance your Longest train journey:
Go for a hike: Find a nearby trail or park and embark on a hike. Notice the beauty of the natural surroundings, breathe in the fresh air, and let the rhythm of your footsteps guide you into a state of peacefulness Ladakh.
Practice forest bathing: Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in the healing atmosphere of a forest. Simply spend time in a forested area, engaging all your senses and allowing the sights, sounds, and smells of nature to rejuvenate your spirit.
Gardening: If you have access to a garden or even a small balcony, gardening can be a wonderful way to connect with nature. Planting and nurturing plants can be a meditative practice, allowing you to cultivate patience, mindfulness, and a sense of connection to the earth.
Exploring Different Paths to Inner Peace
There are myriad paths to inner peace, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is essential to explore different practices and techniques to find what resonates with us personally. Some people find solace in mindfulness and meditation, while others may find peace through engaging in creative activities such as painting or writing.
Mindfulness and Meditation Techniques for Inner Peace
Mindfulness and meditation are powerful practices that can lead us towards inner peace. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, cultivating a state of non-reactive awareness. By practicing mindfulness, we can train our minds to focus on the present and let go of worries about the past or future. This practice allows us to develop a sense of inner calm and tranquility.
Meditation, on the other hand, involves intentionally focusing our attention and eliminating the stream of thoughts that often clutter our minds. Through meditation, we can cultivate a sense of inner stillness and peace. Regular meditation practice has been shown to reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance overall well-being.
Connecting with Nature for a Longest train journey
Nature has a profound impact on our well-being and can be a powerful catalyst for inner peace. Spending time in nature allows us to disconnect from the demands of modern life and reconnect with our true selves. Whether it’s taking a walk in the forest, sitting by the ocean, or simply gazing at the stars, nature has a way of soothing our souls and reminding us of the beauty and interconnectedness of all things.
Cultivating Gratitude and Positivity on Your Journey
Gratitude and positivity are essential qualities to cultivate on our Longest train journey. By practicing gratitude, we shift our focus from what is lacking in our lives to what we already have. This shift in perspective can bring about a sense of contentment and appreciation for the present moment. Positivity, on the other hand, involves consciously choosing to see the good in every situation and maintaining an optimistic outlook on life. These practices can help us cultivate inner peace and foster a mindset of abundance and joy.
Finding Balance and Harmony in Your Life
Finding balance and harmony is crucial for inner peace. It involves aligning our actions, values, and priorities with our innermost desires and aspirations. This may require making conscious choices to simplify our lives, set healthy boundaries, and prioritize self-care. By finding a balance between work, relationships, and personal well-being, we create a fertile ground for inner peace to flourish.
Cultivating gratitude and positivity on your journey
Gratitude and positivity are essential ingredients for a Longest train journey. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we shift our focus from what is lacking in our lives to what we already have. This shift in perspective allows us to appreciate the present moment and find joy in the simple things.
One way to cultivate gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you are grateful for. They can be as simple as a warm cup of tea in the morning or a kind word from a friend. By consistently practicing gratitude, we train our minds to notice the positive aspects of our lives, which in turn enhances our overall sense of well-being.
In addition to gratitude, nurturing a positive mindset is crucial for inner peace. Positive affirmations, visualization exercises, and surrounding ourselves with uplifting and supportive individuals can help cultivate positivity. Practice self-compassion and treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a dear friend.
Finding balance and harmony in your life
In our fast-paced and demanding world, finding balance and harmony is essential for our well-being. Here are a few tips to help you find balance on your Longest train journey:
Set boundaries: Learn to say no to activities and commitments that drain your energy and do not align with your priorities. Prioritize self-care and allocate time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Practice self-care: Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, taking a bubble bath, or practicing yoga. Remember that self-care looks different for everyone, so find what works best for you.
Create a daily routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide a sense of structure and stability. Include activities that promote self-care, mindfulness, and relaxation in your routine. This will help you create a sense of balance and ensure that you prioritize your well-being.
Embracing self-care practices for inner peace
Self-care is a vital aspect of our Longest train journey. It is about nourishing ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here are some self-care practices to incorporate into your daily life:
Nourish your body: Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and engage in regular physical activity. Move your body in ways that bring you joy, whether it’s through dancing, hiking, or practicing yoga. Prioritize sleep and create a bedtime routine that promotes restful sleep.
Nurture your mind: Engage in activities that stimulate your mind and promote mental well-being. This can include reading books, engaging in creative hobbies, or learning something new. Take breaks from technology and spend time in quiet reflection or journaling.
Cultivate emotional well-being: Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions in healthy ways. This can include talking to a trusted friend or therapist, practicing self-compassion, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation Longest train journey.
Conclusion: Embrace the path to inner peace and embark on your Longest train journey
Embarking on a Longest train journey is a profound and transformative experience. It is a commitment to nurturing your inner self, finding balance, and cultivating inner peace. Remember that this journey is unique to you, and there is no right or wrong way to embark on it. Explore different paths, experiment with various practices, and find what resonates with you.
By embracing the path to inner peace, you open yourself up to a world of growth, self-discovery, and serenity. So take the first step today and embark on your Longest train journey. Embrace the beauty of the present moment, cultivate gratitude and positivity, and nurture yourself with self-care. The path to inner peace awaits you.
