This part of the awards is for modes of transport other than flights. I do not include routine “commute” types of travel in my local area.
Certainly the year was fantastic for providing new experiences and lots of variety.
I used PKP Intercity (Polish trains) for the first time and I was very impressed. In just a few weeks I managed four separate trips – Berlin to Poznań, Poznań to Wrocław, Gdańsk to Toruń and then Toruń to Poznań. All of them were comfortable, on time and well priced.
I used DB trains in Germany – ICE, regional and local. Köln to Berlin by ICE was my longest trip. It took the best part of 6 hours.
Within Scotland I used intercity coaches frequently. Mostly my trips were to Glasgow to watch football using Citylink services. I did make one longer journey to Aberdeen using Flixbus and Megabus. Both worked well for me.
I used the city’s airport bus service in Poznań.
I used the underground rail systems in Köln, Berlin and Glasgow.
I used the tram systems in Köln, Toruń and Poznań.
The most unusual transport experience was using the Schwebebahn in Wuppertal. It is amazing. Try it out if you are in that part of Germany.
Whenever possible I use public transport between city and airport, but a late night arrival or early morning departure meant I used Bolt for taxis a few times in Poland.
To be honest, I had no doubt in my choice this year. The award winner is Wuppertal’s Schwebebahn… not quite unique but certainly very special.
ⓒ iain taylor, 2025
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