Penang and Kuala Lumpur are two of Malaysia’s most popular destinations, with huge numbers of locals and tourists travelling between them each year. Frequent flights and buses connect the two cities, and there’s an excellent road network, but the most stylish way to travel is onboard the ETS trains, which cover the 381 kilometres of…
The past couple of decades haven’t been kind to Sihanoukville. This once quiet and attractive coastal city has been disfigured and transformed by years of overdevelopment and a distinct lack of regulation or planning. Most people taking the train from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville only stay in town long enough to catch an onward ferry…
After a relaxing few days or weeks on the Cambodian islands of Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem, reality hits and it’s time to return to civilisation. The nearest town to the islands, Sihanoukville, is a complete contrast to an island paradise; most visitors aim to escape its casinos, tower blocks, and overdevelopment as soon…
Small but significant steps are being taken in Cambodia to expand and improve the country’s railway infrastructure, with a focus on reliability, updated carriages, and a more comprehensive timetable. One of the routes most used by tourists is the trip from the capital city, Phnom Penh, to Battambang. Route map and details Heading west out…
In a country with a limited (but growing) rail network, Battambang and Phnom Penh are two of the lucky places still connected by a daily train service. Until recently, this journey originated/terminated in Poipet at the Thai border but, for political and logistical reasons, it now only goes as far as Battambang. For tourists visiting…
The recent upgrades to Malaysia’s West Coast Line have greatly simplified and improved connections to and from Johor Bahru, with the city now fully integrated into the ETS (Electric Train Service) network. In addition to direct trains to KL, Ipoh and Padang Besar, JB is now linked directly to Butterworth via a newly established daily…
Sapa is the place visitors come to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature. The endless panoramic views across rice fields are a contrast to the chaotic excitement of Hanoi, 300km to the east. Sooner or later though, you’ll need to leave Sapa and most people travel back to Hanoi by train, refreshed and ready…
For many years, only slow diesel trains ran on the single track line between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, limiting capacity, reliability and speed. In recent years, major upgrades have transformed the route: it’s now double-tracked, electrified, and able to carry far more passengers. Route map and details A key component of the region’s transport…
Sapa and Hanoi feel a world away from each other. While Sapa showcases Vietnam’s hill country and has long been a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike, Hanoi is a chaotic but charismatic capital city, full of energy and experiences. Most visitors to the country explore both places and they’re handily linked by two…
Arguably Thailand’s premier holiday destination, Phuket is one of the most visited regions in the country. After soaking up the sun and goodtime vibes, travellers heading back to Bangkok often take the conventional route via the skies. While there’s no question flying is the fastest route, it’s nowhere near as much of an experience as…