Unusual modes of transportation around the world
In day-to-day life, transportation is an
inevitability. Whether it’s the train you take to work, a big yellow school
bus, your four-door sedan or even your own two feet, you’re constantly reliant
on different forms of transportation. For travelers, transportation can be even
more important, as you wouldn’t get very far without the convenience of
airplanes, boats, buses and all the other modes that allow us to traverse the
globe. If you’re looking for a different way to travel, check out some of these
quirky modes of transportation. Or, if you prefer to keep it simple, try out
Skyscanner’s car rental service for an efficient way to travel.
1. Jeepney, Philippines
An adaptation of the jeeps used
by the American military presence during World War Two, jeepneys are considered
to be the country’s most popular mode of transportation. That is partially due
to the large number of jeepneys that are on the roads, making it a cheap and
convenient way to get around. These modified jeeps are often colorful and have
two benches lining the inside. Jeepneys may take visitors some getting used to,
as each one follows a specific route, making it tricky to spot your stop if
you’re unfamiliar with the area.
2. Dog sled, Alaska
Though probably not ideal for
daily transportation, this unique mode of travel isn’t just limited to racing.
In fact, you can tour some of Alaska’s sights and wildlife on a dog sled. Or,
if you’re particularly interested in learning about this fun and furry way to
travel, there are tour options that will allow you to explore the kennels and
learn about methods of training—even spend some time with their adorable
puppies! Dog sledding isn’t always the smoothest form of travel, however
visitors to Alaska may want to take advantage of this one-of-a-kind experience.
3. Tuk-tuk, Thailand
If you’re planning on visiting
Thailand, consider this option if you’re looking for something more unique than
a taxi. Picture a cross between a three-wheeled motorcycle and an open-air taxi
and you start to get the idea. Tuk-tuks originated in Thailand, although they
are now used in several other countries including Cambodia and India. The
open-air carriage allows better views of the city and the unique structure of
the vehicle promises a ride like no other. Be aware that drivers will sometimes
inflate prices, so be prepared to haggle before you start your ride.
4. Bamboo train, Cambodia
Also know as a norry or a nori,
the bamboo train draws many to Battambang, where the train is sourced. The
structure is fairly simple, with slats of bamboo laid across the frame, forming
a platform of sorts. One thing that makes this very different from other
trains? If another train is heard on the track or two bamboo trains cross
paths, one must be disassembled, allowing the other to pass. Though its slow
speed doesn’t make this ideal for those in a hurry, it is a reasonably priced
way to spend a day exploring the beautiful Cambodian countryside.
5. Monte Toboggan, Madeira
Visitors to Madeira don’t need
to wait for snow to go for a sleigh ride. The Monte Toboggan, which began as a
way to travel quickly between Monte and Funchal in the mid-nineteenth century,
now serves as one of the most exhilarating modes of transportation you could
hope to find. The wicker contraption has two seats and is typically steered by
two men, ensuring a safe journey through the streets. This is a particularly
great mode of transportation for the adventurous, as the sled can go up to 48
km/hr.
6. Chunnel Train
While high-speed trains at this
point may not be much of a novelty, this particular journey promises to be a
memorable one. That’s because this train crosses under the English channel,
allowing those aboard passage between England and France. The Channel Tunnel,
or Chunnel, is 23.5 miles long, with high-speed trains that allow you a fun and
exciting way to travel between two of Europe’s most glamorous countries.
The speed of the train makes this a functional means of travel, while the
unique location adds flair, making this a necessary experience for anyone planning
a Euro-trip.
