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15 Countries Where Train Travel Can Derail Your Vacation Plans
If you’ve ever dreamt of a train ride that rivals a movie montage – smooth tracks, scenic views, and a sense of adventure – you might want to steer clear of these destinations. Sure, trains can be a charming way to explore the world, but not all rail systems are on board with that aesthetic.
Some places offer overcrowded carriages where personal space is just a myth, prehistoric infrastructure that squeaks louder than your stressed-out brain, and timetables that seem to have been plucked from a parallel universe where time barely functions.
Turns out, this isn’t the romantic train scene from your favorite film; instead, it’s more like a comedy of errors on wobbly tracks. Buckle up (oh wait, no seatbelts here)…just hang on tight as we derail your idyllic train travel dreams.
India
Where do we even begin with Indian Railways? Sure, it’s one of the largest rail networks in the world, but size doesn’t always mean efficiency. And trains here are often packed tighter than a jar of pickles, leaving you wondering if personal space is just an urban myth.
Expect frequent delays, outdated trains, and maintenance that always seems to happen on the track you need. And if you’re lucky, you might snag a ticket where you actually have a seat. If not, prepare to bond with strangers…or hang on for dear life at the door.
Zimbabwe
Ah, Zimbabwe. A country where hopping onto a train feels more like stepping into a time machine. Decades of economic turmoil have left the railways poorly maintained, with trains moving at a pace that gives snails a competitive edge.
Reliability? That’s a cute idea that doesn’t apply here. It’s so unpredictable; you could book a ticket but still have no idea if you’ll arrive today or next week. On the bright side, the views of the countryside are nice – if you don’t mind waiting a few hours to actually see them.
Mexico
Thinking of exploring Mexico by train? Better luck next time. Most of the rail infrastructure here is dedicated to freight, leaving you with passenger services that are slower than molasses.
The routes are infrequent and not exactly bustling with activity. And if you’re imagining a vibrant cultural rail tour filled with local charm, think again. You’re more likely to end up wondering if the next train will even show up. Save yourself the headache…just take a bus.
Pakistan
Welcome to a world where the trains are overcrowded, the rural regions are often left off the map, and safety concerns can make your heart race (and not in a good way).
Traveling on Pakistan’s railways often feels like rolling the dice; you never know how long your trip will take or if you’ll make it to your destination without a hiccup. But hey, if you’re a fan of unpredictability and adrenaline, this might just be your thing.
Egypt
Egyptian trains do an amazing job of reminding you that life is a gamble. The network itself is extensive, sure, but the maintenance seems like an afterthought. And overcrowding is pretty much guaranteed, with delays more on schedule than the trains themselves.
Safety? Well, sometimes you’ve got to pray to the gods of ancient Egypt that your ride will be smooth. It’s a unique way to travel, though…assuming you survive the chaos.
Indonesia
Trains in Indonesia are great for practicing your “patience” skills. Urban services are so crowded that you might as well start emotionally preparing for battle just to board.
Meanwhile, traveling between islands? Don’t get your hopes up; you’re more likely to end up on a ferry. And while the scenery is stunning, the trains are anything but. It’s an experience, alright – just maybe not the one you were hoping for.
Philippines
If you thought Manila traffic was bad, wait until you try the trains. The rail network in the Philippines is limited, slow, and packed to the brim. Delays are as common as jeepneys on the streets, and you might find yourself questionably close to your fellow passengers.
On the bright side, the chaos is always accompanied by warm Filipino friendliness (but even that won’t fix the overcrowded cars).
Kenya
Okay, we’ll give Kenya some credit – it’s been getting better and better over time. But for now, expect limited routes, spotty reliability, and train schedules that sometimes feel more like suggestions than commitments.
While efforts are being made to improve the system (looking at you, fancy new rail from Nairobi to Mombasa), the rest of the network still leaves travelers scratching their heads.
Mongolia
If you’re all about off-the-beaten-path adventures, Mongolia’s trains might sound romantic. Spoiler alert: they’re not. Train routes here are sparse – after all, the country is huge, and the population per square mile is laughably low.
This means you’ll wait ages for a train, only to arrive somewhere equally remote but with added discomfort. Bonus points if you like staring at endless grassy steppes.
Bolivia
“Rustic” might be one way to describe Bolivia’s trains. The network is small, the infrastructure is outdated, and long delays are just part of the experience.
Don’t expect luxury – aging trains dominate the rails, and bouncing up and down in your seat is par for the course. Still, it’s kind of worth it for the views…if you have the patience of a saint.
Sri Lanka
Yes, Sri Lanka’s trains are scenic – if you love nature, the lush green landscapes are straight out of a dream. But the old tracks and even older carriages make you wonder if your train is held together with duct tape and prayer.
And did I mention the crowds? You’ll likely spend half your time trying not to fall off or be squished by the masses.
Myanmar
I hope you’re in no rush, because Myanmar’s railways redefine the term “slow travel.” Outdated is an understatement when describing the infrastructure, and comfort is clearly optional.
Expect a bumpy ride at best, and don’t be surprised when your “express train” shows up…looking like it hasn’t expressed anything in decades.
Cuba
Take a step back into Soviet-era nostalgia with Cuba’s trains, where creaky carriages and aging tracks combine for a truly unique (read: frustrating) experience.
Don’t be surprised with frequent delays and even outright cancellations. On the plus side, if you’re a history geek fascinated by trains from another generation, this might just be your cup of tea.
Ghana
Ghana’s railway system isn’t exactly setting any records. The routes are limited, and the outdated train cars often make you wonder why you didn’t just take a bus instead.
While there’s potential for improvement, for now, it’s a system that might leave you questioning what you were thinking…and dreaming of smoother rides elsewhere.
Romania
On paper, Romania’s rail network sounds great – it’s extensive enough to crisscross the whole country. But in practice? The trains are slow, and the infrastructure feels like it’s been around since Dracula was in short pants.
If you have the time to spare, it might work. If not, bring snacks and a sense of humor.
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