There’s a very interesting interview in the 7/20/08 Newsweek with the CEO of Amtrak, Alex Kummant, talking about the expansion of rail service in the U.S. as a result of high oil prices. I have long been a proponent of expanding the rail infrastructure in this country and increasing rail service in high-traffic corridors in order to decrease carbon emissions from automobiles, but obviously the oil crisis is another great reason to rethink train travel–so long as train travel is more affordable than driving a car, which at the moment is debatable. The question, though, remains, is it practical and affordable for the U.S. to invest in rail infrastructure after a century of mostly ignoring that particular mode of travel? Other countries have invested in rail infrastructures, to their benefit. The U.S. has been rather shortsighted in this regard, and now we’re paying for it. At this point, it would be a huge investment of money to build that infrastructure. But, as Kummant states, there would also be benefits for the economy, such as more jobs in that sector and real estate booms along train corridors. I think we’ll be hearing a lot more on this topic in the months to come.

Here’s another good article by Rob Lovitt (“Online services match travelers with experts”) discussing how various online sites are playing matchmaker between travelers and experts on the regions travelers wish to visit. While planning your own trip can be the most satisfying and fun, there are times when you want to turn to an expert, such as when you are planning a complicated trip, want to save money, or don’t have time to do all the research yourself. Next time you’re planning such a trip, give sites like Tripology and Zicasso a try.

Bad news for Beijing, good news for travelers: It appears tight security measures and the high cost of jet fuel, among other things, are combining to dash the hopes of the 2008 Olympic host city in terms of tourism. As a result, hotels are slashing prices to the tune of 10-30% for two- to four-star hotels. So if you were on the fence about a trip to Beijing during the Olympics (or before or after), you might find the great bargains to be had will push you over into the “go” camp.

If you’re in Santa Monica, CA this Friday, you might consider attending the Hostelling International USA’s Women Traveling Solo workshop (11am, Hostelling International Travel Store, 1434 Second Street, Santa Monica). The workshop will cover health, safety, packing, lodging, and transportation issues. Cost is $5 for HIUSA members and $10 for non-members. RSVP (310) 393-3413. Do check out their website. Santa Monica has been on my list of places to visit, but I’ve never considered trying the hostel experience before. I think I might have second thoughts about that now. This is a very nice-looking facility with great amenities and the price can’t be beat.