In a time not too long ago, people were pretty sedentary their entire lives. Rarely did they venture out of their local area, let alone their country. Modes of transportation were rudimentary at best, with wooden sailing ships being the preferred method of international transportation. Fortunately for us, travel is now the most convenient, fast and affordable it has ever been. This provides us with an excellent opportunity to go almost anywhere and do just about anything you could imagine. Take advantage of our modern infrastructures and the vehicles that use them and go to the far reaches of the world. You’ll never regret it.
Fortunately for us, North Carolina is in a great position for travel to a number of interesting destinations within this state. Just three hours’ driving time to the east, we have the Outer Banks. These thin barrier islands are just as much revered for their beauty as they are for their historical value. With the weather beginning to warm up, a quick weekend trip there is sure to relieve some end-of-semester stress. If you are more into hiking, camping and the great outdoors, the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway are also within close proximity to Raleigh.
Even within our immediate area, there are several things to do. For example, Umbstead State Park is only about 10 miles from campus and provides miles of walking trails and pristine views. If you are looking for something a bit more adventurous, there are opportunities for you as well.
As an airplane pilot, I have an affinity to prefer flying over any other method of travel. It allows you get to your final destination much faster, while simultaneously avoiding the traffic of ground-based vehicles and providing a picture-perfect view. Last month, however, my girlfriend and I had the opportunity to ride on an Amtrak train to Washington, DC. Although not as swift as taking an airplane, it is still a largely stress-free experience. With little to no security and free parking, checking in proves to be breeze, especially compared to airport travel.
Unlike traveling on the roads, having to press your brake or swerve to avoid others becomes obsolete. Conveniently for students at this University, the Amtrak station is located just downtown, which cuts off several minutes of traveling time versus a trip out to the airport. With service throughout the United States and parts of Canada, you have nothing to lose by giving the train a shot.
Raleigh-Durham International Airport, located halfway between Raleigh and Chapel Hill, offers non-stop flights to all corners of the United States and even some international destinations. With more than 30 domestic destinations from RDU , you’re sure to travel by air to anywhere in our great country with ease. If you are feeling friskier and whip out your passport, you can board a flight directly to Cancun, the Bahamas or even London. Our area’s prominence has put us on the map, and as such, allows us to benefit from the flights brought to Raleigh.
Transportation in the modern age is absolutely fascinating. At no other time have we been able to travel as far with as much speed as we are able to do today. The Triangle offers a number of activities within close proximity, and with several modes of transportation available, getting there has never been easier. Use this to your advantage. No matter what you do with your life, dare to go far.
