Hate how hopping on a plane removes you from the world? Want to travel but can't afford the time away from emails, phone and the regular business day happenings? Well, rejoice in knowing there's a way to slow down but not fully stop while traveling. Because, really, who can stand being so disconnected and all cramped on a plane when you have so many things to do?

On the very random opportunity to ride Amtrak's Carolinian from Charlotte to D.C. this past weekend, I hopped on the train at the buttcrack of dawn and am simply elated at what I discovered: everything a person needs and wants to keep going while getting out of dodge.

Remember the fog the other morning? Here's what it looked like from the train outside of Kannapolis, which was the highlight of my trip:

The ride is scenic, accompanied by free wifi, power outlets for all, no distractions — unless you want them — and has ubiquitous cell coverage for the entirety of the trip. It begs the question: Why wouldn't you want to take a train?

Flying is the most carbon-intensive form of travel, and since the American Lung Association says Charlotte is the 10th smoggiest city in the nation, taking the train out instead of a plane makes a lot of sense for our community, too. Have a peek at some of the beautiful stops just outside of Charlotte. Unfortunately, I can't promise any orgasms but I can promise you'll get jazzed about riding on the railways.

Slideshow Charlotte outbound train

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Charlotte outbound train

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