First-ever south-to-north train begins in Australia

The first passenger train to cross Australia from south to north began its three-day journey Sunday. The train was named "Ghan" in honor of the 19th-century Afghans who built the first stretches of the line from the southern city of Adelaide to Alice Springs in the central Outback, reported the Associated Press. A $998 million extension completed last year covers the 882 miles from Alice Springs to the northern port city of Darwin. While an east-west link between Sydney and Perth has existed for years, this is the first time north and south have connected, said the AP. Once the train starts regular services, tickets for adults will start at $344.