As we prepare to move offices in a couple of weeks I once more spotted the travel quote on our wall which remarks that
“For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.”
-Robert Louis Stevenson
Which is all well and good, but I think it might be nice to at least see some nice things along the way. Although he does have a point, sometimes it’s great to spend a holiday travelling and experiencing lots of different things. All too frequently these days we catch a flight, get the bus to the resort or city and more-or-less stay put for the duration of our stay.
Speaking of moving offices, I thought I’d take a look at some of the other epic journeys you can do in the world, some more famous than others.
Orient Express
by lazlo-photo
Made famous by the Agatha Christie novel, the Orient Express originally ran from Paris to Vienna. You can’t actually catch the train itself today as the service has been discontinued but you can still follow any of the routes that existed during its heyday. I think that London-Paris-Milan-Venice-Belgrade-Sofia-Istanbul would make for a pretty exciting trip.
Route 66
The classic American road trip, and another that is getting lost in history, but never fear, you can easily get maps online before you go. Many parts of the route, which goes from Chicago to Los Angeles through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona along the way, are now designated by Historic Route 66 signs, so you’ll be able to feel the heritage as you go.
Great Ocean Road
by edwin.11
At only 151 miles long it’s not exactly epic in itself, but the scenery most definitely is. Running from Torquay to Allansford, Melbourne is the closest city, and if you were really up for a challenge you could drive all the way to Adelaide. Sticking close to the coast all the way it’s 590 miles of driving joy, and you’ll pass through some famous wine regions as well so be sure to stop off for a tipple!
Inca Trail
by robennals
This is the only route you’ll have to travel by foot, and to limit erosion only 500 people can start the trail every day so be sure to book! There are several different routes you can take so check how challenging they are before you decide, and you’ll probably want to do some training beforehand. Those lucky enough to head off into the Andes take about 3-4 days to complete the 80-ish km, climbing up to 4215m above sea level at the highest point.
Great Silk Road
by Irene2005
For the more intrepid traveller, this is an ideal route to follow. The Great Silk Road used to be an important trade route from China and other parts of Asia to the Mediterranean and North Africa. Over 4000 miles of overland pathways were in use at the height of the popularity in 1BC, and many of the sections are coming back into fashion today. The easiest way to enjoy it is by rail, with the line that goes from Urumqi in China to Almaty and Astana in Kazakhstan.