This summer, Aeromexico is expanding its U.S. network with new flights from key East Coast cities, enhancing connectivity via its joint partnership with Delta Air Lines.
09.01.2025 - 17:17 / lonelyplanet.com
Jan 9, 2025 • 9 min read
Barreling across borders and zooming between cities, high-speed rail has come a long way since the first bullet train jumped across Japan in 1964. Exciting new high-speed routes – generally considered those that can reach a minimum of 200–250km/h (124–155mph) depending on the track type – are under construction in California, Cairo and beyond. Meanwhile, Mexico and Chile have recently inaugurated 160km/h (99mph) higher-speed rail services, bringing better connections to South America.
Thankfully, swapping much-loved slow, scenic train trips for one of the world’s best high-speed rail journeys doesn’t need to mean sacrificing panoramas or experiences. Instead, it’s an excellent way to maximize your vacation time, indulge in modern onboard amenities, or get a whirlwind window into a country’s landscapes – all while traveling in one of the most environmentally friendly ways.
Route: Tokyo to Osaka
Best bit: Savoring an ekiben (bento boxes for trains) against a momentary panorama of snow-crowned Mt Fuji
Distance: 515km (320 miles)
Duration: 2 hours 16 minutes
No high-speed train journey is more lauded than Japan’s Tokaido Shinkansen. Inaugurated over 60 years ago for the 1964 Summer Olympics, the world’s first bullet train – linking futuristic Tokyo with foodie-favorite Osaka via Kyoto – remains the superstar of Japanese journeys.
Now rocketing up to 285km/h (177mph) on the newest Nozomi trains (a supplement to those included in the Japan Rail Pass), this ride is about acceleration rather than appreciating scenery. Still, peeking at Mt Fuji if it’s a clear day – book a right-hand side seat when heading west – is indelible.
For the complete Shinkansen experience, buy an ekiben at the sprawling, subterranean Tokyo Station before boarding to enjoy rice, seafood, tempura and more onboard, as trolley services were recently discontinued.
Route: Istanbul to Ankara
Best bit: Relishing the scenery around the Gulf of İzmit and Lake Sapanca
Distance: 561km (349 miles)
Duration: 3 hours 44 minutes
Few high-speed rail journeys deliver an all-round experience, but Türkiye's Yüksek Hızlı Tren (YHT), linking Istanbul with the capital Ankara, ticks all the boxes. Sea, mountain, vines and lake scenes? You bet. Hitting maximum speeds of 250km/h (155mph)? Yep. Onboard entertainment and complimentary snacks? Book business.
You could even claim some continent-crossing bragging rights if you take one of the direct morning departures from Bakırköy, on Istanbul’s European side, via the Marmaray Tunnel deep below the Bosphorus Strait. Still, connecting at Söğütlüçeşme Station – located on the city’s Asian side – is usually more straightforward.
Just a few hours later, having glimpsed the Osmangazi Bridge across İzmit's
This summer, Aeromexico is expanding its U.S. network with new flights from key East Coast cities, enhancing connectivity via its joint partnership with Delta Air Lines.
"I've been on a treadmill before on my work phone, doing barrier options," said Nick Fowler, 33, a British man who moved to the United Arab Emirates two years ago. "It can get a bit ridiculous sometimes."
Earlier this year, Cirium released its annual On-Time Performance Review for airlines. In 2024, airlines faced many challenges, including cybersecurity disruptions and weather anomalies, yet many airlines demonstrated adaptability and continued their commitment to punctuality. Cirium’s analysis examined the airline industry’s top performers and the strategies behind their success.
Jan 24, 2025 • 11 min read
The U.S. is the fourth largest country by land mass, with over 3.5 million square miles to explore. It’s home to 63 national parks and some of the most well-loved cities in the world. We’ve got Alaska for those looking for extreme wilderness and Hawaii for those looking for an island beach vacation.
Jan 22, 2025 • 5 min read
Jan 21, 2025 • 12 min read
Love ’em or hate ’em, the busiest airports in the world are where many of our holidays begin and end.
2024 was a huge year for the travel industry, as Gen Z showed their love for all-inclusive resorts, tourists chose to extend their trips, and wellness grew as a hot vacation agenda item.
I took my first cruise in 2022 on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. At the time, it was the world's largest cruise ship, but the title has since been replaced by the same cruise line's Icon of the Seas.
According to the United Nations, global tourism is expected to have surpassed prepandemic levels in 2024. In fact, last year saw the 10 busiest air travel days of all time. And considering that the International Air Transport Association is forecasting a nearly 5 percent increase in departures in 2025, air travel is only going to become more crowded and congested.
Jan 13, 2025 • 12 min read