This article explores the growing trend of Australians opting for train travel over flights, despite the significantly longer duration. It delves into the reasons behind this shift, pointing towards dissatisfaction with airline pricing and a yearning for a more sustainable and enjoyable travel experience.
A train journey from Sydney to Melbourne, a distance covering roughly the same ground as Tokyo to Hiroshima, takes a grueling 11 hours. Factor in the often unpredictable commutes to and from city centers, and the total travel time balloons to 12 to 13 hours. In stark contrast, a flight on the same route takes a mere 4.5 hours, considering airport transfers and potential delays. Yet, a surprising number of Australian travelers are choosing the longer train option.
Transport NSW, which operates the twice-daily XPT service between these two major cities, has had to increase carriage capacity to meet the surging demand for tickets. This trend highlights a growing dissatisfaction with the dominance of the Qantas-Virgin airline duopoly, which often inflates prices based on fluctuating demand.For a modest $83, travelers can board the XPT train without the hassle of security checks, carrying one 10-kilogram piece of hand luggage and one 20-kilogram piece of checked luggage. Even though electrical outlets and USB ports are absent, and the tinted windows block mobile phone signals, the train journey offers a unique charm. Passengers can luxuriate in their reclining seats (28 degrees for standard class, 40 degrees in first class), enjoy meals in the restaurant car, or simply lose themselves in a book while gazing out the window. There's a certain romance to train travel that transcends the convenience of flying. Witnessing the ever-changing landscapes as mountains transition into plains, forests into meadows, and rivers merge with the sea provides a sensory experience absent from air travel. The gentle click-clack of carriages and occasional platform announcements in foreign languages can lull passengers into a peaceful slumber.Despite Australia's relatively poor rail infrastructure, the allure of long-distance train travel is undeniable. Australia could potentially become a nation of train travelers, embracing the inherent benefits of this mode of transport. While the current system lacks the sophistication and efficiency of its counterparts in countries like Japan, South Korea, China, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, and France, the desire for a more sustainable and comfortable travel experience is growing. The popularity of long-distance train travel in Australia, despite the inconvenience and time constraints, suggests a yearning for a rail system that caters to this growing demand. Perhaps one day, Australia will have a rail network that truly lives up to the enthusiasm and potential of its people.
TRAIN TRAVEL AUSTRALIA AIR TRAVEL SUSTAINABILITY COMFORT
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