What does taking the train mean to you? Perhaps it's just a way of getting to your destination(目的地). In fact, the train itself can be part of the fun.
On March 28th, China's first panda-themed tourist train left Chengdu in Sichuan for Zunyi in Guizhou. It soon became the talk of China with its special design and comfortable service.
It's inside and outside are decorated with giant panda pictures. Attendants(乘务员) carry panda toys and passengers can try panda-shaped food and Sichuan snacks. Some people call it a mobile star hotel because it has a bar, karaoke room, dance hall, and mahjong(麻将) room.
This luxury(高档的) service is one aspect that has attracted travelers. But train travel interests people for other reasons.
In the fast-paced times we live in, train travel is a good way to slow down. It gives you time and space to read, sleep, chat with friends, or simply do nothing but watch the changing scenery outside.
One surprising thing is that you might meet new people. Sheng Yawei, 26, once took the longest railway in the world—the Trans-Siberian Railway in the world. Sheng met a Russian student and they became friends. "I also met a cute boy who gave me melon seeds(瓜子). Though we didn't understand each other's language, it made me feel nice."