Introduction
While taking an overnight train can be tedious, uncomfortable, and frustrating, it’s frequently the most practical and, on rare occasions, the only option for travelling between two locations. In addition to the already significant benefits of rail travel, there are other benefits to taking a sleeper train. Spending the night in a hotel is less expensive. You can sleep in one nation or state and awaken in another while taking in the scenery.
It’s understandable why sleeper trains are making a welcome comeback; they’re more ecologically and sustainably friendly than flying and are an enjoyable and frequently comfortable mode of transportation. But if it’s your first time on a sleeper train, it could seem intimidating. This article will give you many valuable suggestions and tips to help you make the most of your journey if you consider taking a sleeper train for an overnight excursion.
Reasons for Travelling by Train
Train travel has an exotic and romantic quality that is difficult to describe. No matter how old you are, you will always crave a window seat on a train to enjoy the picturesque countryside, the grassy meadows, and the verdant fields where you can wave at farmers working hard. Some of the most beautiful and spectacular vistas, including valleys and waterfalls, are traversed by some routes. You start to wonder how something as lovely and calming as Mother Nature is possible. Trains always come out on top when compared to other forms of transportation.
1. Travelling by train is less expensive.
Trains are consistently more affordable and comfortable when compared to aeroplanes. Trains are economical and comfortable. Unlike plane tickets that are constantly changing and unpredictable, the train offers a fixed fare for a specific distance. Depending on the situation, you can occasionally qualify for discounts or an upgrade if someone cancels their tickets. You have two options for purchasing your tickets: either online in advance or in person at a station. Therefore, using the train would save a lot of money that you might use for other things.
2. Train travel offers flexibility and convenience.
Reservations are required if you wish to take a long train trip. Due to seat availability, you must purchase your ticket a few days before the departure date. However, you can make a reservation for a short trip. Arrive at the train station and purchase a ticket for the train you wish to board. The good part is that since your trip would only last a few stops and you would get off after a few stops, you wouldn’t need to pay an exorbitant last-minute ticket fee. Some trains don’t require reservations, so you can arrive before your train departs, purchase your ticket, and board. You can choose between a day journey, an overnight train, or shorter and longer trips depending on your preference.
3. You don’t have to worry about your baggage weight.
You don’t need to be concerned about the weight of your luggage. You can carry as much luggage as possible; even a bicycle can be transported in a separate train. You will not have to leave your valuables behind, but it is a given that you must take care of your own bags. You can reserve a separate luggage bus to secure your luggage if you transport a heavy object, such as a bike or something larger. If you only have a few bags or luggage, you can keep them next to you in your berth. Your compartment has plenty of room for your belongings above or below your seat.
4. Enjoy a hassle-free trip that travelling on the train offers.
When travelling by rail, you don’t need to get there two to three hours early, stand in line for security checks, go through inspections, and generally lose interest in your trip. It’s incredibly convenient to go by train; just board if it’s already there, then locate your compartment and seat. You don’t need to spend hours waiting in the security line. You only need to walk to the train, board it with your bags, and leave. Just show up and unwind in your seat. Keep your bags on the floor or above the seat, and consider taking a quick nap.
5. Enjoy an eco-friendly trip by travelling by train.
Trains are energy-efficient, a remarkable quality neither aeroplanes nor road vehicles possess. The only eco-friendly mode of transportation is allegedly the railroad. Less harmful carbon is released into the atmosphere by trains. Railways’ high energy efficiency makes it less likely that the industry will be helpless in the face of rising fuel costs. This suggests that trains will be much more stable regardless of the economy than any other transportation. Without a doubt, people will eventually prioritize taking trains over other modes of transportation.
6. Enjoy the City’s Center
Many train routes are situated in the middle of communities and major cities. Sometimes getting where you’re going involves something other than taking a taxi or a bus. You can get to your location using metro trains, trams, or Uber in major cities. When you get off the train at the station, you can stroll directly to your hotel rather than hire an expensive cab outside the airport. Some train stations are situated smack dab in the centre of urban areas. The finest aspect is that your train travels through valleys where roads cross.
7. Enjoy the charm of a train ride.
Travelling by train has a unique appeal; it is a classic, friendly, romantic, and appealing mode of transportation. When travelling overnight, this feeling is even intensified. You can make more friends on a train than on any social media platform. You encounter so many fascinating people along the road, and the stories you hear will stay with you always. Many passengers like reading books, listening to music, conversing with other passengers, playing cards, participating in musical activities, or just relaxing and taking in the scenery as they journey. No matter the century or age, a train’s journey never loses its allure and beauty.
8. Eat real, delicious cuisine on the train.
The one thing that people adore most about trains is the delicious food and snacks. Nearly every railroad station has several merchants selling snacks and fresh fruit. Even on some expensive train trips, food and beverages are served along the route. You can bring whatever you want to eat and beverages you like, which is impossible while travelling by flight. You can have a hot snack at any station if you’re in the mood. Packaged snacks are always ready, and they prepare great dinners.
9. Relax in comfortable train cabins while travelling.
If you’ve ever taken a flight, you know how much you must make yourself comfortable in your seat. You can reserve a sleeper train and spend most of your journey dozing off or reading your preferred book while resting on your bunk. The ideal way to travel is by train since you may unwind, warm up, chat with lovely people, eat excellent food, read books, or listen to jazz music. The finest word to describe a train is “comfort.”
10. Travelling by train is fun.
Rail travel is just enjoyable. While relaxing on the train, you can sense the world’s passing. This gives off a good vibe that only a traveller might understand. Even though aeroplanes are fantastic, you cannot experience nostalgia while flying. Lush meadows, cascading waterfalls, sizable bodies of water, and stunning scenery exist. While riding the train, you can participate in various activities, especially travelling with others. Every person must experience rail travel at least once in their lifetime.
Tips for Travelling with an Overnight Train
Train travel is a common option; you may take incredible train journeys when exploring the globe. Consider travelling by train across Europe, where you can board the train at night in one nation and arrive in another the following morning. It certainly has a romantic ring to it. You can do several things and bring them on board to assist you in enjoying the train travel and catching some sleep, ensuring you have the most enjoyable vacation possible. Here are some suggestions for surviving long-distance and overnight train journeys.
1. Learn about the various sleeping classes and their associated costs.
Most people who take overnight trains purchase tickets in coach class, which has broad, reclining seats with lots of space. Bring a blanket and neck pillow to have a comfortable night’s sleep. Couchettes are six- or four-berth compartments with bunks and sleepers that are common in other nations. They include pre-made beds, washbasins, private showers and toilets on some routes. Most countries’ rail companies will provide clear visuals of what to anticipate on their websites. As always, it’s preferable to book early to discover decent pricing. Although places for female travellers are typically assigned together, you can always call the operator directly to make sure.
2. Book your overnight train tickets in advance.
It’s advisable to make reservations on sleeper trains between a week and a month in advance to guarantee the best accommodations, as most sleeper trains demand an advance booking. To board the overnight train, you must show your reservations with your tickets or rail pass. However, if you decide to stay in a coach seat, all you need to do is provide your regular ticket or reserve a place on a pass. Furthermore, you should be aware that many train companies offer what appears to be a fantastic overnight route but entail a train change in the middle of the night or a protracted layover. While on some overnight trips involving many trains, sleeping cars might not be accessible. Check your itinerary and sleeper car availability before confirming your booking.
3. Be open to sharing sleeping quarters.
Unless you pay for every bed in the car or if you reserve a private sleeping car or single roomette, be ready to share your sleeping car with strangers. While some trains provide sleeping compartments for women alone, you should refrain from counting on them. You will almost always have a mixed-gender sleeping car. While meeting other visitors and residents is a terrific opportunity, sharing a bed with a stranger might be unsettling. However, there are instances when upgrading is worth the extra money.
4. Create a pre-departure checklist for yourself.
Preparation for the trip is arguably one of the most stressful parts of travelling. Plan and arrange some things while you’re still home to ensure your train trip goes smoothly. These include some travel essentials; even while the onboard landscape will likely keep you occupied, you’ll want to pack a few necessities to pass the time. The best options are novels, audiobooks, a tablet, cards or a board game, noise-cancelling headphones, a good music playlist, a notepad, binoculars, and a camera to take pictures of the passing scenery. Even seasoned travellers can become exhausted on lengthy train journeys. For those nocturnal bathroom visits, options include a fleece blanket, pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and slippers. The following items are the necessary things to prepare for your trip:
- Prepare your personal identification, such as your passport or photo ID.
- Ensure that you have your printed paper ticket or your ticket on your device.
- Protect yourself against unplanned trip disasters by purchasing travel insurance.
- Take your medication, especially if you anticipate using it while travelling. You must, however, pack it in your carry-on and be able to take care of the medication yourself.
- Personal care products include soap, toothpaste, shampoo, hand sanitiser, deodorant, and other items.
5. Bring Your Own Alcoholic Beverages and Snacks
On the train, you can bring your own food and drinks. This is particularly crucial if you have unique dietary requirements or limits. These are available to eat and drink in your seat, sleeping car, and sightseer lounges. Even though alcohol is offered onboard, you can bring your private stock if you abide by the train’s rules. You can only enjoy your own alcohol from the privacy of your sleeping car accommodations. It is strongly advised that you bring water with you.
6. Unless you wish to check in bags, only bring what you can carry.
You’ll probably be lugging your luggage up and down steep stairs and through confined spaces when taking the train. Only bring what you can move yourself. You won’t regret not packing a pair of shoes for each day of your vacation if you must quickly switch trains, even in the middle of the night. Each traveller may only bring two pieces of carry-on luggage.
7. Be sure to dress comfortably.
Wearing incredibly comfy gear and warm socks is essential for having the best experience, especially on a long flight. Even if you are not seated behind the doors that connect the vehicles, the train cars can frequently become cold. When you get on board, you’ll notice that many folks like to unwind and stroll around in their jammies. Remember that you are going by train for the experience, not to impress your fellow passengers, so you should be reassured about your appearance.
8. Be prepared for train delays
On lengthier, cross-country routes, you should prepare for unforeseen delays. Regular maintenance and repairs are necessary for railroads. Temporary delays may result from ongoing track or other railroad infrastructure repairs. Train operations may be impacted by inclement weather, such as persistent rain, snow, or intense heat. For safety concerns, tracks may become inaccessible or need reduced speeds. If there are delays, remain optimistic and patient. Travel mishaps are inevitable, but having a flexible attitude can make the journey more enjoyable.
9. Get to Know Your Fellow Train Passengers
Meeting new people from all around the world is one of the best things about taking the train. Even some of them are brand-new riders like you! The Lounge or Dining Car are the ideal settings for making new connections.
10. Relax and take pleasure in the journey.
A train holiday is an unforgettable experience. Once aboard, sit back, unwind, and savour the trip.
Things to Pack for an Overnight Train Travel
The fewer things you carry while travelling will give you more freedom while on board a train. And who wants to bother about fitting their belongings onto train luggage racks? It is advisable to carry a backpack; this way, you can handle your pack and perhaps become less of a target for pickpockets.
1. A small bag for essential items
You can always travel with a “small bag” that you can always carry in addition to your main luggage and carry-on. The bag may be big enough to accommodate your belongings, like your passport, phone, wallet, and other external hard drives. A little bag is beneficial when you need to walk to the dining car or the restroom on the train without hauling your baggage. Some passengers might carry their belongings in a sling bag, a fanny pack, or a money belt.
2. Locks for luggage
You will likely enter and exit your carriage or seat frequently while taking a lengthy train ride. Since carrying all your luggage all the time is just impractical, it is advised to spend your money on high-quality luggage locks to protect your belongings.
3. Insulated Water Bottle
These days, having a high-quality refillable water bottle is a must. It is more advantageous if it is insulated and will keep your drinking water cold during the trip. Pick a well-insulated water bottle with an outside covering to prevent moisture from evaporating while it’s hot outside. You should make sure that your train has potable water faucets in advance. You’ll need to bring extra water for the trip if there isn’t a refill station.
4. Snacks and something to share with the other passengers
Even if your train has a dining cart and you can enjoy a cooked dinner, it is still advised to pack many wholesome snacks for the trip. You should bring some silicone bags and sealing clips to keep things organized and fresh. Once more, these products are quite beneficial for reducing single-use plastics and food waste. Bringing some food you can easily share is one of the quickest ways to meet people on a long train ride.
5. Train essentials for maintaining order and cleanliness while on board.
Keep the items you’ll need at the top of your bag or in your daypack while preparing for an overnight train trip. Using packing cubes is a great idea for a lengthy train ride. This is especially true when travelling overnight and needing rapid access to your amenities or changing clothes. It’s never nice to dig around for something in a cramped area like a train sleeper or turn your backpack upside down. On an overnight train, a portable clothesline that doesn’t require pegs can be valuable.
If you’re on the bottom bed, you can use it to form an improvised privacy screen by stringing it up between bunks to dry a damp face towel. Trash cans are only sometimes present within the compartments of trains. Some people have little bins that quickly fill up. Bring your garbage bags, such as a paper bag or a repurposed plastic bag, to keep your seat area or compartment neat.
6. Essentials for keeping clean and staying safe
Always bring hand sanitiser when taking the train and keep it accessible so you won’t have to dig through your belongings to find it. Wet wipes made from biodegradable materials are excellent for wiping down railway tables, removing sticky substances from hands, and replacing toilet paper when unavailable. Rehydrating face mist is one of the simplest methods to freshen up without going to the restroom on the train.
7. Essential things for getting a good night’s sleep while on the train.
If your train trip is overnight, you’ll be provided fresh sheets to create your bed. Bring your own sheets if you’re particularly picky about the quality of your bed linens, though. Silk sleeping bag liners are ideal for this use because they are lightweight and small. You may also use the train pillow as a pillowcase if it looks questionable. You can utilize a fleece version for winter travel. Trains can be noisy at night, even if you have a private berth, due to the clunking and crunching of the machinery. If you’re a light sleeper, reusable silicone earplugs are a must, and they’re still a brilliant idea if you’re not.
8. Light clothes and comfortable slippers
You’ll need slip-on shoes for extended train rides, so you may wear them in public areas and to the restroom. These compact slippers are perfect for travelling and are machine washable. Pack them in a bag when you’re ready because you don’t want their contaminated soles to touch the rest of your luggage. Train air conditioning units can be notoriously excessive, depending on your location. Night trains are susceptible to rapidly becoming cold when the central air is left on. Bring a lightweight cardigan or an oversized scarf to cover your shoulders.
9. Essentials Gadgets to Keep You Connected
Refrain from automatically assuming that there will be easy access to electricity in your railway seat or sleeper. You’ll need to bring a power bank if you intend to use your phone the entire train ride. Additionally, not all trains have WiFi, particularly older engines. A portable WIFI hotspot is a worthwhile investment if you need to keep connected while travelling. The scenery is one of the most admirable aspects of train riding. However, many people neglect to glance outdoors because they are preoccupied with planning the trip or seeking activities to pass the time. Keep your camera close at hand to ensure you don’t miss any photo possibilities.
10. Entertainment is essential while on board the train
Pack some entertainment necessities to keep yourself occupied while waiting overnight for your destination, especially if you enjoy spending time alone. It’s also a good idea to flip through magazines to pass the time on a lengthy journey. Although some buses have WiFi, the reliability is only sometimes there, so don’t count on being able to get online. Instead, load up your laptop with movies and TV shows before a trip. You can also bring a journal with you to record your journey and make notes on places you’ve stopped and unusual passengers who board buses and trains.
The World’s Best Overnight Train
Is there a more exciting experience than boarding a romantic overnight train? The ideal way to experience a more vibrant holiday and immerse in the local culture is via train. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, trains have a timeless allure that captures our attention. There are lots of overnight trains that are full of that magic all around the world.
1. Scottish Highlands, Royal Scotsman
The Royal Scotsman may rank among the world’s most opulent and costliest train journeys. You can choose from various rides throughout the Scottish Highlands, Scottish Lowlands, and England. The Royal Scotsman is a palace on wheels with various package tour choices, much like the Deccan Odyssey. The Royal Scotsman’s train cars combine country house comforts with Edwardian beauty. With only 40 passengers, the train circles the Scottish Highlands’ interior, passing famous sites like the Kyle of Lochalsh and the Cairngorms National Park. There is also a unique spa carriage where trained personnel are taught to coordinate their movements with the natural lilts and tilts of the train.
2. Japan’s Kyushu, Seven Stars
This lavish Japanese locomotive is regarded by train enthusiasts as one of the largest and most comfortable of all. It’s not only about the onboard experience with Seven Stars; every square inch of the Kyushu train is created by Japanese artists, from the beds to the bathroom sinks to the woodwork to the porcelain dinner plates. These four-day, three-night excursions make a circle of the island of Kyushu, stopping at the best shrines, onsens, porcelain workshops, and other attractions along the way, giving you the impression that you are discovering a genuine side of Japan that is undiscovered by tourists.
3. A Palace On Wheels: Deccan Odyssey
One of the world’s most opulent train journeys is the Deccan Odyssey. It travels to some of India’s most famous landmarks and is fashioned after a palace on wheels. The train reflects the most remarkable aspects of Rajasthani tradition and has passengers dressed around like Maharaja royalty. Enjoy one of the most sumptuous train cabins, superb service, and a rich Indian heritage.
The Palace on Wheels, the most well-known train in India, provides a variety of excursions that last anywhere from a few days to a week. As you travel from New Delhi to the Land of Kings, you pass through Rajasthan’s famous Pink City of Jaipur, where visitors are welcomed by imposing UNESCO monuments like the Amer Fort and palaces from the 16th century. You can also go to Agra, which is the location of the Taj Mahal and a great place to pause on your tour of some of the nation’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy local cuisine while travelling in comfortable, vibrant carriages decorated with Indian textiles. The Palace on Wheels is beautiful in and of itself, independent of the scenic and historical splendour of the places it travels. This train has all the amenities to transform your overnight train trip into a luxury hotel experience. Each passenger has a choice of two types of lodging, each replete with amenities, including an en suite bathroom, a large bed, upholstery, large windows, a wardrobe, a safe, a luggage hold, and more.
4. Europe’s Venice Simplon Orient Express
This continental train is a second international train that travels between two European sites. This private luxury train is well-known for its extensive array of high-end facilities. This five-star train is nostalgically beautiful and has a rich history. Every aspect of the train is luxurious and pampering. One of the most excellent ways to travel within Europe for a regal-style holiday is on this luxury train, which only runs from March to November.
The most recognizable locomotive in the world maintains its position as a leader in luxury. The superb service keeps this train firmly entrenched in a class of its own. At the same time, the sumptuous interiors are a vision of 1920s Art Deco design. No glass ever gets empty, bags disappear from the platform and arrive inexplicably in your cabin. The beds appear to make themselves whenever you leave your cabin. By day, you may enjoy the views of the Swiss and French countryside, and at night, the formal dress code is anything but stuffy. In fact, dressing up and making your way to the Champagne bar is one of the most incredible things you can do on a train.
5. Australia’s The Ghan
The Ghan, completed in 1929, travels from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north through the centre of the Australian continent. Its name refers to the Afghan camel trainers and riders who first helped map a path into the country’s interior, even though it only began operating on its current route in 2004. The three-day all-inclusive tour takes the train through the Red Centre of Australia, passing by various landscapes. Explore the vast ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, take in Simpsons Gap’s breathtaking splendour, and stop in Coober Pedy to see the opal mines.
Numerous Australian overnight trains, like the Ghan, are multi-day journeys. The journey brings passengers near the ocean before turning inland to the breathtaking outback of Australia. The train provides comfort and indulgence from within as it transports you into the wilderness of the land. You can decide whether to take in the scenery on your own in the privacy of your saloon or with friends. The train trip covers several locations as part of a rail holiday package, from a classic dinner to exotic activities. This overnight train package includes every aspect of your trip, allowing you to have a holistically balanced holiday.
6. South America’s Belmond Hiram Bingham
The Belmond Hiram Bingham railway line is as luxurious as the man’s promises, and it is named after the American explorer who is said to have “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911. The Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu are reached via a round-trip trek from Poroy just west of Cuzco. The Belmond Hiram Bingham turns on the charm of the start of the 20th century, from sparkling polished wood and brass surfaces to opulent meals and lodgings, which allow plenty of space to spread out: the ideal environment for seeing the mountains and rivers racing past the window.
From the convenience of a luxurious train car, explore the Peruvian Andes in a 3-day and 2 nights trip. Passengers between Cusco and Arequipa can stay in sleeping accommodations on board the Belmond Andean Explorer. Choose from their various accommodations, from bunk bed cabins, twin bed cabins, and suite cabins, which can all be reserved depending on your budget. The train also contains a lounge car, a fine dining car, an observation car so passengers can take in the breathtaking scenery as it passes by, and an onboard spa.
While South America’s natural beauty is renowned for being unspoiled and vibrant with local culture, this overnight train inspires the culture on its own. With hand-woven textiles, a greyish-toned Andean tone, alpaca wool cloth, and other materials, the train’s decor showcases the splendour of Peru. This train serves as a moving museum of local customs and crafts. The train offers traditional Peruvian cuisine for eating with a wide variety of beautiful South American wines because Peru takes pride in embracing its cuisine as an identity for its culture.
7. Africa’s Rovos Rail
This opulent train has been traversing Africa for more than three decades. Rovos Rail passengers are given exclusive access to a unique lounge when they depart from Pretoria, where Champagne and canapés await them. A stringent “no cellphone” restriction is upheld for your personal safety. Enjoy the experiences this line offers, which include warm abodes, formal evenings, and full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs in the most spacious compartments. All Rovos Rail journeys include off-train cultural, historical, and safari excursions
for passengers to fully enjoy all that Southern Africa offers.
Suppose you want to travel around South Africa in style and luxury. In that case, you may take advantage of the excellent service and cosy accommodations the train offers. The three-night trip to Cape Town is a classic, but if you’re feeling particularly daring and have a few extra nights to spare, choose the more recent fifteen-day “Trail of Two Oceans” route, which starts in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, ends in Lobito, Angola, and crosses Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia again.
8. Russia’s Golden Eagle
No other luxurious train compares to the Golden Eagle. An experience aboard the Golden Eagle is for everyone who wants to completely revel in Russian grandeur, covering eight time zones and taking two weeks. This magnificent train offers fine meals, en-suite bathrooms, and a permanent pianist. Despite the two-week length of the Golden Eagle’s journey, you won’t experience cabin fever because the train stops at a different location each day. The journey aboard the Golden Eagle will be remarkable, with stops in the capital of Mongolia and at Lake Baikal, the largest lake in the world.
9. Eastern & Oriental Express connects Bangkok and Singapore.
Travel from Singapore to Bangkok on the Eastern & Oriental Express for three beautiful days. The opulent train is furnished with antique-style pieces, including floral upholstered chairs and polished wood wall panelling. On board, passengers can socialize in the bar car, a throwback to the golden age of jazz, where stewards serve Champagne like it’s going out of style. Go to the observation vehicle to take in the surroundings for a quieter moment. Additionally, excellent furnishings and slippers are provided in the rooms and suites so you may unwind. A trip aboard the E&O is undoubtedly reminiscent of a more abundant time in travel. You might need to remember the year if you order a Singapore Sling at the bar and drink it outside while watching the Malaysian forest pass by.
10. Canada, The Canadian
From The Canadian, an exceptional sleeper service offered by VIA Rail, the nation’s rail carrier, takes every mile of the enormous Canadian scenery. Remember that this train is mainly about sightseeing from the cars instead of stepping out and doing something. However, suppose you’re travelling in the luxurious Prestige Class, with a private cabin, bathroom, and built-in TV screen monitor with video choices. In that case, you’ll be more than happy to observe the ride from the luxury of your picture window.
The Canadian is the only train to take if you want a journey with the most breathtaking views. Stopovers are made in Sudbury, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper, and Kamloops throughout the four-day, four-night trip from Toronto to Vancouver. Visitors can look at the shifting scenery the entire time, including views of cities, forests, rivers, mountain peaks, and everything in between. Cabins for up to four passengers are available on board for overnight trips. These cabins have private bathrooms and can be transformed into lounge areas during the day. Even though visitors are not required to leave their accommodations, they may go to the dining car for a sumptuous lunch and a toast to a well-earned trip.
Conclusion
It’s simple to understand why there is a greater demand than ever for overnight trains. Not only can overnight trains be more economical, but they are also available worldwide for all passengers. The ideal way to experience a more vibrant holiday and immerse in the local culture is by train. The trains have a timeless allure in addition to their beauty. One significant life lesson can be learned from taking the train: Letting the world pass you by is okay. It can show you the world, moving slowly and peacefully outside your window. Additionally, it emphasizes the journey rather than just the destination.