Planes, Trains & Automobiles

We recently received a map of train routes in the USA (Freight Interchange Map of the United States) from our friend Joy, who lives in Tucson, Arizona.  I believe Joy may have sent the map to entice us to travel to Tucson to visit her, although I am not sure why she was suggesting routing our journey along a rail bed.  I am also uncertain why she metions that Tucson is known for its hobo population.

As demonstrated by Steve Martin and John Candy in the film “Planes,Trains & Automobiles” (1987), there are several modes of transportation, each with its pros and cons. 

Planes are swift, but can be crowded and uncomfortable unless you’re in first class.  As well, there are security delays, possible flight connections, luggage and carry-on restrictions, and food and beverage limitations.

Trains may offer more comfort, particularly with high quality leather seats featuring butterfly headrests and lumbar support, sliding bottoms and folding footrests, lift-able armrests and drop-down tray tables, and coat hooks and electrical outlets.  Trains also offer scrumptious meal options, along with much entertainment and wireless internet.  On the other hand, trains are noisy and slow, and often involve connections that are not well timed.

Automobiles provide quick and cheap transportation on short journeys, but can become tiresome and uncomfortable for lengthy travels (e.g., Atlantic to Pacific coast).  In addition, driving to distant destinations will require evening accommodations, which will add to the trip budget unless you sleep in the car or on the highway siding in a tent.

In my mind, I think I’d rather a short-haul trip from Halifax to Ulgedook Cottage, and invite Joy to come visit us there.

Joy and Heather, September 2014