A dedicated traveler, Chloé Höglund, recently embarked on an extraordinary train journey across the United States, covering over 6,000 miles in close to 200 hours. Höglund, known for preferring train travel to witness the landscapes, set out on this solo adventure to explore the diversity of America from the comfort of a train cabin. Her journey began in New York City, leading her through major cities like Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles, and New Orleans, before finally returning to her starting point.
The meticulous planning for this epic train voyage took months, with Höglund poring over maps and timetables to craft the perfect itinerary that would allow her to traverse the corners of the country. Despite having explored the U.S. before, the Pacific Northwest, particularly Washington, captivated her with its breathtaking scenery of mountains, bridges, rivers, and snowy landscapes. Höglund found solace in simply gazing out of her window as the train chugged through this mesmerizing terrain.
While Höglund typically shares her travel experiences with her husband on their YouTube channel and Instagram, this particular trip saw her adventuring alone due to her partner’s work commitments. Embracing solo travel, she connected with a community of fellow independent female travelers and found empowerment in navigating the journey on her own terms. Along the way, she faced and overcame social anxieties, finding strength in engaging with different people and cultures during her railway escapade.
For Höglund, the essence of train travel lies in the art of slowing down and appreciating the journey itself, rather than focusing solely on reaching the destination. Encouraging others to embrace moments of stillness and ‘boredom,’ she advocates for disconnecting from the fast-paced digital world and immersing oneself in the passing landscapes. Sharing her advice for future train travelers, she suggests researching and discovering hidden gems like secluded viewing areas on trains to enhance the experience.
Reflecting on her American odyssey, Höglund expresses gratitude for the warm hospitality and kindness she encountered throughout her travels. As a solo female explorer from New Zealand, she felt embraced and welcomed by the diverse communities she encountered along the railway tracks. The journey not only broadened her horizons but also instilled a sense of confidence and independence as she navigated through the unfamiliar terrains of the United States.
As Höglund continues to document her travel adventures, her transformative journey across the U.S. stands out as a testament to the joys and challenges of solo exploration. With an open heart and a curious spirit, she ventured into the unknown, forging connections and creating memories that will resonate with her for a lifetime. While her next destination remains uncertain, one thing is clear – the allure of the rails and the promise of new horizons continue to beckon this intrepid traveler towards her next great adventure.