The concept of traveling by train, particularly on an extensive cross-continental journey, holds a distinct allure that has captivated the imaginations of many. Recently, a proposed train route has garnered attention for its potential to become the longest continuous train journey in the world, spanning an impressive 18,755 kilometers (about 11,654 miles) and traversing 13 countries. This monumental undertaking would take approximately three weeks to complete, traversing diverse cultures and landscapes across multiple continents.
Commencing in the southern region of Portugal, the journey would begin in Lagos and proceed to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, before entering Hendaye in the Basque country. From Hendaye, travelers would take a train to Paris and then embark on a lengthy 40-hour ride to Moscow. However, current geopolitical tensions could pose challenges to this leg of the journey. After Moscow, the itinerary includes an extensive 60-hour train ride to Beijing, progressing through significant stops including Kunming and then crossing into Laos via a newly constructed railway. From Laos, the route extends to Vientiane, then Bangkok, Thailand, and onward through northern Malaysia from Padang Besar, finally reaching Singapore.
Beyond its scale, this proposed journey holds significance for its environmental implications. According to information from the American website Mashable, taking this train journey from Lisbon to Singapore would emit just 0.08 tonnes of CO2, significantly less than the 1.67 tonnes produced by flying the same route. This dramatic reduction in carbon emissions underscores the journey’s potential as a sustainable travel option, which could appeal to environmentally conscious travelers globally.
The financial aspect of this journey, as reported by the railway blog “Man in Seat 61,” would amount to approximately $1,350 or €1,255, although additional expenses for hotel stays and meals would need consideration. While this extensive train journey remains a theoretical concept requiring extensive planning, multiple visas, and substantial time commitment, its impact on global tourism could be profound. By offering a unique and eco-friendly way to explore diverse cultures and landscapes across multiple countries, this journey could serve as a catalyst for increasing global tourism and promoting rail travel as a sustainable alternative to air travel.
