Editor’s Note: The following stories reflect the personal travel experiences and opinions of the contributors. Some contributors are affiliated with travel-related businesses. Readers should verify current travel advisories, local conditions, and safety recommendations independently before planning any travel.

Mark Twain once wrote, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” But it’s not always the destination that shifts our thinking—it’s often the journey itself. Whether on a mountain trail or a city-bound train, the mode of travel can open windows into unfamiliar lives, cultures, and perspectives. Studies have shown that immersive travel experiences can boost empathy, creativity, and even long-term happiness. But what exactly makes a journey stick with us years later? Is it the scenery, the silence, or a conversation with a stranger? In this roundup, travelers reflect on the moments that made their trips unforgettable.

Hanoi to Sapa Train Reveals Local Stories

The trip that is etched most deeply in my memory was the train journey from Hanoi to Sapa. From city to mountains, it was not so much about the view. It was about the people I encountered during the journey. To remote villages I traveled, and there, I met individuals whose existence was seamlessly integrated with nature. Their stories and patience left deep impressions on me for decades to come.

This journey enabled me to realize that traveling is not only about the places, but also about experiences, individuals, and incidents along the way. The journey to Sapa was a chance to relax, enjoy the views, and learn from locals I came into contact with along the way, and thus it’s something I can never forget.

James Thai, CEO & Founder, James Travel

Jiri to Lukla Trek Offers Authentic Nepal

The journey from Jiri to Lukla on foot is an incredible experience compared to the popular flight to Lukla, known as one of the most thrilling. This path is often overlooked now, but it offers an authentic glimpse into the lives and landscapes of the lower Khumbu region. Trekking from Jiri allows travelers to move through charming villages where they can interact with local communities, experience vibrant bazaars, and witness traditional farming practices. The gradual ascent also helps trekkers acclimatize, reducing the risk of altitude sickness later in the trek.

When setting out on this route, a practical approach is to plan your daily walking schedule with flexibility. The trail winds through diverse terrains, and weather can change quickly, affecting hiking times. Staying in locally-run teahouses not only helps support the community but also provides a more authentic cultural experience. Engaging with locals at these stops enriches the journey, offering stories and insights into life in this region.

Balaram Thapa, Co-Founder/ Head of Marketing & Sales, Nepal Hiking Team

Puget Sound Ferry Unveils Hidden Local Treasures

The slow ferry between Orcas and San Juan Islands in Washington’s Puget Sound changed how I think about travel. I hopped aboard on a whim, skipping the flight, and found myself surrounded by locals with grocery bags and bicycles instead of tourists.

An orca pod breached right next to our vessel. The elderly man beside me, who had been making this crossing weekly for forty years, just smiled and said he still found new wonders every time.

This 45-minute island hop feels like a perfect blend of accessibility and wildness. You’re on a public transit route, yet surrounded by one of North America’s most pristine marine ecosystems.

The ticket costs less than $15, but you get what I call a “millionaire’s view.” Snow-capped mountains, green islands, and maybe even whales—it’s the sort of thing people shell out thousands for elsewhere.

Meanwhile, locals just read newspapers or chat about community events, treating the scenery like it’s nothing out of the ordinary. There’s something quietly magical about that.

If you’re after authentic experiences, these utilitarian ferry routes offer a glimpse of local life that glossy tourist boats can’t match. I always check for public ferries when I travel now.

From Istanbul’s commuter boats crossing continents to Hong Kong’s Star Ferry gliding between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, these working vessels keep showing me the real heart of a place. Plus, the views are often spectacular, and the price? Almost always a bargain compared to the flashy sightseeing cruises.

Joe Hawtin, Owner, Marin County Visitor

Trans-Siberian Railway Crosses Eight Time Zones

One of the most memorable journeys I’ve taken was a train ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Spanning an incredible distance from Moscow to Vladivostok, this epic train journey crosses eight time zones, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes you could imagine. The mix of vast Siberian forests, quiet village stations, and bustling big cities added a rich tapestry of Russian life visible right from my window seat. The unpredictability of long train rides added an element of adventure, especially when sharing stories and local treats with fellow travelers from around the world.

What truly set this experience apart was the sense of timelessness it evoked. Watching the landscape change, from dense forests to expansive steppes, alongside the rhythm of the train created a mesmerizing blend of motion and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. It was a deeply reflective journey, offering plenty of time to unwind and reflect amidst the moving sceneries. This trip didn’t just change my view on train travel; it altered how I connect with places and people. Engaging with diverse passengers and locals along the way painted a vivid picture of cultural exchange and human connection that’s difficult to replicate in any other setting.

Alex Cornici, Marketing & PR Coordinator, Insuranks

Beijing to Shanghai Bullet Train Showcases China

One of the most iconic transport journeys I’ve experienced in China was traveling on the high-speed rail from Beijing to Shanghai. What made it unforgettable was the sheer efficiency and futuristic feel of the journey—cruising at over 300 km/h while gliding smoothly through a cross-section of China’s diverse geography. In under five hours, I watched the landscape transition from the capital’s historic sprawl to the lush countryside, then into Shanghai’s modern skyline. The trains themselves were spotless, quiet, and surprisingly comfortable, making it easy to relax or get work done. What stood out most was how this experience highlighted China’s incredible investment in infrastructure and connectivity, offering a glimpse into the country’s rapid modernization without losing touch with the scenic beauty of its heartland.

Qianqian He, Founder, BOXKING GAMING

Cairo to Aswan Train Journeys Through Time

One of the most iconic transport journeys I’ve experienced was the overnight train ride from Cairo to Aswan in Egypt. It took my wife and me through the Nile Valley. The trip offered us an experience outside of the crazy cities, passing small villages, ancient ruins, and desert. What made it unforgettable wasn’t just the scenery, but the feeling of stepping back in time. Nothing is like Egypt. The train itself, the classic sleeper cabins, and the conversations we had with the locals made it more than just a train ride; it was the ultimate 12-hour cultural experience!

Jeff Michael, Ecommerce Business Owner, Moriarty’s Gem Art

Glacier Express Winds Through Swiss Alps

One of the most iconic transport journeys I’ve experienced is the Glacier Express in Switzerland, a panoramic train ride from Zermatt to St. Moritz. What makes this journey unforgettable is its breathtaking alpine scenery—think snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and charming villages unfolding outside massive windows. Spanning 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, the route showcases Switzerland’s engineering brilliance while immersing you in nature’s splendor. The leisurely pace transforms it into more than just a trip; it’s a sensory adventure, blending luxury with the raw beauty of the Alps. Whether it’s the dramatic viaducts or the serene vistas, the Glacier Express leaves an indelible mark, highlighting why it’s celebrated worldwide as a must-experience journey.

Amir Husen, Content Writer & Associate, ICS Legal

Share Your Insights

We’d love to hear from you! Have you taken a memorable journey by train, ferry, or foot? Share your story in the comments and join the conversation.

• What’s the most unforgettable transport journey you’ve ever taken?
• Did you meet anyone or experience something that changed how you travel?
• Which destination from the roundup would you love to explore next?

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