The world is full of wonders that constantly compel us to put on an Indiana Jones hat and head out to explore all the hidden gems. And when we arrive at our favorite destinations, we often encounter much more exciting stuff than we ever imagined.
Some of those things are modes of transportation, many of which are quite peculiar. Here are some of the most exciting types of city transportation you can use around the world.
1. The Schwebebahn in Germany
The Schwebebahn is the oldest electric monorail with hanging cars on the planet. With the cars hanging right beneath the electric railway, it offers quite a unique experience.
Please have in mind that you can’t find it everywhere in Germany, though. It’s available only in Wuppertal. The next time you find yourself in the city, be sure to buy a ticket for the Schebebahn.
But be warned: the ride can be a bit scary if you’re afraid of heights. But it’s still a spectacular experience that you shouldn’t miss. And don’t be afraid about “hanging” on the railway – the system is entirely secure.
2. Hovercraft in the UK
The only hovercraft still in operation, the hovercraft in the UK, offers a delightful ride from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight.
Given that this vehicle features a giant air cushion on the bottom, the ride between Southsea and Ryde is incredibly smooth, like floating on air.
One of the most exciting facts about hovercrafts is that they can reach 56 mph speeds, making you feel as if you were really floating just above the water.
3. Maglev Trains in China, Japan, and South Korea
Now, this is truly a scientific breakthrough. The maglev train literally levitates – hence the name (maglev = magnetic levitation). With the help of magnets, it’s able to push off the track and move up ahead without any friction.
With an incredible speed of up to 267 mph, this train can cover up to 19 miles in only 7 minutes. A ride in it is a true marvel because it’s smooth, quiet, and very thrilling.
4. Cyclos in Vietnam
The cyclo is a very popular tricycle in Vietnam, especially in Hanoi. It features a double seat in the front, which is like a chair on two wheels, while the driver sits back like on any other bicycle.
Tourists find cyclos in Vietnam quite exciting and useful for sightseeing, especially since Hanoi traffic can get quite chaotic. That’s also why the locals use cyclos daily to get around the city faster.
5. Coco Taxis in Cuba
Coco taxis in Cuba (mainly in Havana, Trinidad, and Varadero) are three-wheeled vehicles that look like small cars from a cartoon. They’re rickshaw-type vehicles with a fascinating design that reminds of coconut shells – hence the name.
However, many people will tell you that they look like eggs on tricycles. Whatever you make of it, you’ll undoubtedly have a fun ride if you give it a try.
6. Norry in Cambodia
A norry is a bamboo train seen only in Cambodia these days. It features an engine, a bamboo platform where the passengers can sit, and a single lever for manually operating the train, that is, speeding up and slowing down.
What makes a norry ride even more peculiar is that the driver needs to disassemble the train if it encounters another one, because there’s only one track. Luckily, it doesn’t take more than a few minutes to dismantle it and put it back together.
7. Tuk-Tuks in Thailand
Tuk-tuks in Thailand are very similar to coco taxis, as they’re also three-wheeled and super-small. However, they don’t have any unusual design and simply look like tiny cars. That’s why they are also known as baby taxis.
Although you can get a regular taxi in Thailand, tuk-tuks are still widely used by locals and tourists. Their size makes it easy to get through the congested traffic quickly.
8. Bicycles in the Netherlands
Now, this isn’t an unusual mode of city transportation, but it deserves to be on the list of the most interesting transportation approaches. If you’ve ever been to the Netherlands, then you definitely get what we’re talking about.
A bicycle is a primary vehicle for getting around town in the country. The Dutch ride bicycles more than they drive cars, so you can see men and women in suits going to work or fully-dressed for a night out – all riding bikes.
So, it doesn’t even come as a surprise that the Dutch have the biggest bike parking garage in the world.
If you ever visit the Netherlands, make sure you rent a bike to explore cities like a local.
Are You Still Sticking with a Universal Mode of Transportation?
All of these city transportation methods are worth trying, especially if you love exploring everything your travel destinations have to offer. However, a good old taxi service is sometimes the best choice to quickly get around town.
Drover Rideshare might be just what you need. It’s an on-demand taxi service that’s eco by green culture and offers different rideshare options, including commute pairing. We even offer rideshare delivery, so we’re here whenever you crave Nashville delicacies.
We also love giving back to the community, so we split rideshare fares to give 2% of each to a variety of Tennessee-based charity organizations. By riding with Drover, you’ll help lots of people in need.
So, head to Google Play or App Store, download our Drover Rideshare App, and enjoy a smooth ride wherever you go!
But if you do visit any of these lovely travel destinations above, be sure to explore their unique transportation modes. We guarantee that you’ll have unforgettable experiences!
