Ride Like A Local – Popular Local Transportation in Other Countries
In America we are mostly used to automobiles and subways as our main source of transportation. Throughout the world there are many different modes of transportation that locals and even travelers might rely on. Some of them you might have heard of while others probably are something that you’ve never even imagined.
Cyclos/Pedicabs in Vietnam
In some parts of Vietnam, cyclos, often known as pedicabs, are very common. They consist of a bike with a seat in the back that can accommodate at least two people. In larger cities, the bicycle part of the pedicab has been replaced by a motorbike. This allows for the driver to be able to have a larger seat in the back and carry more people.
Makoros in Botswana
Makoros are an iconic symbol in Botswana. Many traveler’s use them as a means to explore the waters of the area. Makoros are similar to canoes. They are made out of tree trunks and have the ability to carry two passengers. A boat-man stands at the front of the makoro and uses a pole to navigate through the waters.
Tuk-tuks in India
Tuk-tuks are a very popular means of transporting individuals in India. They are motorized and have three-wheels. Their cabins are enclosed and many of them can transport around 6 people.
Vespas in Italy
A Vespa is a type of scooter or moped which is manufactured in Italy. The first Vespa was designed in 1946. Sales were okay, but after the movie Roman Holiday (1952) staring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck who road a Vespa in one of the scenes, popularity increased and has only grown since then. Of course there are now several designs to choose from. You can get on average over 100 miles to the gallon and some have speeds of up to 57 miles per hour.
Chicken Buses in Guatemala
A chicken bus is quite the sight in Guatemala. These buses are painted in vibrant colors and very easy to spot. They are often crammed with as many people as can fit in the bus. The buses don’t just transport people, in some instances they carry livestock from one destination to another as well.
Junks/Djong Boats in Hong Kong
Djong boats, also known as junks, vary quite a bit. A junk is basically any motorized vessel used for pleasure in China. These boats often have large, beautiful masts and an intricate hull made out of wood.
Hovercrafts in England
Hovercrafts are very different than other forms of transportation in England. They can travel over just about any surface thanks to the use of blowers that produce a large quantity of air between the vehicle’s hull and the surface below. Hovercrafts are so unique because they look as if they are floating above the land or water directly below them. Of course London is also famous for their cabs.
Longtail Boat in Thailand
Longtail boats look similar to makoros, but are much larger and can accommodate more people. The main difference is that they use an automobile engine to power them instead of a boat-man and a pole. Throughout Thailand there can be some variation in how they look with some of them having a roof while others are completely open.
Feluccas in Egypt
Feluccas are one of the most relaxing ways to travel the waters in Egypt. They basically consist of a wooden hull with a lateen sail. Dependent on their size they can accommodate about ten passengers plus a couple of crew members. Feluccas are popular among tourist that want to see the Nile River.
Bullet Trains in China & Japan
Bullet trains have grown quite a bit in China over the last few decades. They can take travelers and locals to places that are difficult to get too. Many of these trains can reach speeds over 300 mph. In Japan, one of the bullet train routes passes in front of Mt. Fuji.
Bamboo Trains in Cambodia
Bamboo trains, known as norries by the locals, are a popular way to transport people, goods and livestock through rural parts of Cambodia. These “trains” are made out of bamboo. They consist of planks situated on top of wheels to resemble a pallet. A motor is attached to the back to power this train across about 200 miles of track.
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