Travelling by train.

You can buy first-class, second-class and third-class sleepers in a separate compartment. If you are early before the train starts you can leave your suit-cases in the compartment and walk up and down the platform. Some people forget when and from which platform and track their train will be off. They can always ask for the track, platform and train numbers at the railroad station information bureau and also get information about next trains and their schedules. There are express, slow and long-distance trains. If you want to go somewhere and get there as quickly as possible you'd better know that express trains only stop at the largest stations while slow trains stop at all stations. You can get to far countries only by a long-distance train.

Once you are in your compartment you have to ask the guide to bring in the bedding. There are usually two lower and two upper berths in a third-class sleeper compartment. Some people like to occupy upper berths because it is more convenient and exciting to travel. During your way on the train you can read newspapers, books, look out of the window, drink the tea, communicate with your neighbors or sleep. I prefer to look out of the window, because you can see the country you are passing through, and not only the clouds as when you are flying. You can have something to eat at the stations when the train makes stops. Though we all seem to agree that the future belongs to air transport, the railroads today still carry a lot of passengers and goods.

1. подорожування поїздом має свої переваги, 2. купувати квитки заздалегідь, 3. перед початком відпустки, 4. сотні людей, що поспішають щоб встигнути на поїзд, 5. окреме купе, 6. задовго до відправлення поїзда, 7. одержати інформацію про наступні поїзди та їх розклад руху, 8. експрес - поїзди зупиняються тільки на найбільших станціях, 9. попросити провідника принести постільну білизну, 10. спілкуватися з сусідами або спати

Airfares are high. Driving long-distance is stressful. Taking the bus sounds like a nightmare. What's a traveler to do?

The answer is train travel. Particularly in countries with high gas prices, train travel is an affordable, relaxing alternative to driving or flying. Of course, train travel is slower than flying and can take longer than traveling by car, but you never have to worry about getting lost or figuring out how to put gas into your rental vehicle. You can relax and watch the world go by, enjoying the scenery instead of fretting over maps.

If train travel is a distant memory or, perhaps, a completely new experience, here are some tips to help you make the most of your railroad adventure.

Find out about baggage restrictions before you book your trip, particularly if you're planning to bring large pieces of luggage or sports equipment. Checked baggage service may not be available on all trains.

Do some online research or consult a reliable travel guidebook to find out how the train system works in your destination country. Learn about classes of travel, senior discounts, seat reservations (and the fees you'll need to pay to reserve a seat), ticket validation, train travel safety, food availability and accessible travel before you buy your ticket. If possible, memorize or write down some train vocabulary words, such as " ticket, " " platform, " " arrival, " " departure, " " delay, " " strike, " and " restroom."

Plan for delays. If you need to change trains, leave plenty of time to do so. Your first train may arrive late, or your second train may arrive at a different platform from the one posted on the " departures" sign. Give yourself enough time to get from train to train.

Travel light. You normally have to handle your luggage yourself. Most luggage storage areas are overhead or under your seat.

Secure your bag with a lock. You may have to store it on a rack in the hallway.

Don't forget your tickets and ID. Carry them and your other valuables with you, and wear a money belt if you are traveling overnight or in countries known for petty crime. Never pack valuables in your checked luggage.

Bring things to do – books, cards, personal CD player or iPod with headphones – if your journey will last several hours.

Pack some food and beverages if you're traveling during mealtimes or if you have a health condition that requires you to eat at regular intervals.

Bring a blanket and pillow if you think you'll need them.

Bring hand sanitizer or towelettes. Train restrooms, while cleaned regularly in most countries, are used by many people.

Most importantly, relax and enjoy the trip. Watch the scenery. Chat with your conductor. Check out the view from the club car. Wave back if pedestrians wave at your train. Take advantage of this opportunity to really see the country rather than glancing at interstates and rest areas. Your train journey may become one of the most cherished memories of your entire trip.

1. Train travel is slower than flying and can take longer than traveling by car.

2. Checked baggage service is available on all trains.

3. Consult a reliable travel guidebook to find out how the train system works in your destination country.

4. Give yourself enough time to get from train to train.

5. Never pack valuables in your checked luggage.

6. Train restrooms are not used by many people.

7. Take advantage of this opportunity to really see the country