Autumn’s allure is a spectacle that transforms landscapes into a kaleidoscope of colors. While many travelers opt for the road or trails, there's something uniquely mesmerizing about experiencing these changes from the gentle sway of a train carriage. As your guide on this journey of discovery, I'll take you through some of the world’s most enchanting train rides, revealing the splendor of autumn with each turn and whistle of the railway. From European elegance to the rugged beauty of North America, these train excursions promise to etch unforgettable moments into the canvas of your travel memories.
A few months ago, I found myself stepping onto a private jet bound for Nice. It wasn’t a planned indulgence, nor was I suddenly flush with cash. What I experienced was something called an “empty leg” flight—a repositioning journey when a private jet flies without passengers, often available at a fraction of the usual charter price.
The first time I came home from an overseas trip with a mobile bill that could have paid for another flight, I told myself, “Never again.” I was young, dazzled by cobblestone streets and café culture, and far too quick to refresh Instagram every time I found myself in a queue. One blissful week in Paris cost me $468 in roaming fees—which, in hindsight, was a very expensive lesson in the fine print of mobile plans.
