Luxury Travel

Lavish Train Journeys That Rival First-Class Flights

Published

August 27, 2024

Travelers often face a dilemma: how to enjoy the journey while still reaching their destination in style. Luxury trains are changing the game, offering lavish experiences that rival first-class flights.

This article will take you on a tour of the world’s most incredible train journeys, from the Australian Outback to the Swiss Alps. Get ready to trade in your plane ticket for a luxurious ride on rails.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

A couple in their 40s enjoying a romantic dinner on a vintage train.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a luxury train. It’s like a movie set from the 1920s. This train has historic cabins, suites, and grand suites. They look just like they did back then.

A one-night journey from Paris to Rome starts at $4,594 per person. That’s pricey, but it’s worth it for the experience. The train has a new chef, Jean Imbert, who’s a master of French food.

He started working on the train in 2022. The train also has a special carriage called L’Observatoire. An artist named JR designed it.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express goes on a five-night journey from Istanbul to Paris. It’s scheduled to depart on August 30, 2024. This train is like a fancy hotel on wheels. It’s a fun way to see Europe.

Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru

The Belmond Andean Explorer is a luxury train that travels through Peru. It is South America’s only luxury sleeper train service. The train has a twin bed cabin that starts at approximately $7,500 for a three-night journey.

This train operates along some of the highest train routes in the world. It offers one- or two-night journeys. Key destinations include Lake Titicaca and the UNESCO World Heritage site, Arequipa.

The journey begins in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. You can enjoy the scenic views of the Andes while traveling in style.

The Ghan, Australia

The Ghan is a luxury train in Australia. It runs from Adelaide to Darwin. The train is 2979 km long. It takes three days and two nights to finish the trip.

The train has 37 cars and two locomotives. It features Gold Twin cabins for $1,840 per person. Platinum fares cost around $3,100 per person. You can see farmland, desert landscapes, and the Flinders Mountain range from the train.

The Ghan does not run from December to February. But the rest of the year, you can enjoy its luxury. It’s a great way to see Australia’s countryside.

Maharajas’ Express, India

Maharajas’ Express is India’s answer to luxury train travel. This train is claimed to be the world’s most luxurious. It focuses on heritage and cultural experiences across India.

Guests can enjoy seven-day trips from Delhi to Mumbai. The low season fare for an 8-day journey starts at approximately $5,820 per person. The train features luxurious accommodations and amenities styled in the Raj era.

Each guest gets high levels of personalization and service. The train has 23 coaches, with four categories of cabins. All cabins have large windows, LCD TVs, and comfortable beds. Guests can enjoy Indian dishes and drinks in the two dining cars.

There’s also a lounge bar for relaxing and socializing.

The Canadian, Canada

The Canadian train is a popular choice for travelers. It runs from Toronto to Vancouver. This four-day journey covers 2,762 miles. You can enjoy upscale accommodations and gourmet dining on board.

VIA Rail’s Prestige Journey offers prestige class options.

Customizable itineraries are available through Canadian Train Vacations. These include private guided sightseeing. You can explore Canada’s scenic landscapes in style. The Canadian train is a great way to see the country’s natural beauty.

Rovos Rail, Southern Africa

Rovos Rail is a luxury train in Southern Africa. It offers trips to Cape Town and Victoria Falls. The train has 36 suites for 72 passengers.

Each suite has a bedroom and bathroom. The train has a dining car and lounge car. The dining car serves South African food and wine.

Rovos Rail trips are 48 hours to 15 nights long. Short trips cost $1,630 per person. Long trips cost $13,600 per person. The train has been running for 35 years.

The Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express is a famous train journey in Switzerland. It is one of the greatest train journeys in the world. The trip lasts around 8 hours.

This train travels through three Swiss cantons. You will see 91 tunnels and 291 bridges along the way. The train has big windows so you can see the beautiful mountains and valleys.

You can eat delicious meals on the train. The food is served in big, comfy cars with big windows. A one-way ticket costs over 200 CHF. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Try to go during the off-season to avoid crowds and save money.

Supplementary Insights on Luxurious Train Journeys

Luxurious train journeys offer perks that first-class flights can’t match. Think gourmet meals, off-train excursions, and breathtaking views – all while traveling in style and comfort.

Comparison with First-Class Flights

Luxury trains and first-class flights are like apples and oranges. Both offer top comfort, but in different ways. On a train, you get to see the country roll by. You can walk around and stretch your legs.

On a first-class flight, you get to your destination fast. You have a high staffing ratio, so you get more attention. But, it’s not as laid back as a train ride. You can’t get up and walk around as much.

Stephen Bailey, a marketing director, took the Rovos Rail in Southern Africa. He said it was a real treat. The train had nice rooms and good food. He liked the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada too.

It had big windows to see the mountains.

Additional Perks and Experiences

Some trains offer exclusive perks. These perks make your journey even more enjoyable. For example, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada offers Gold Leaf Service. This service includes gourmet meals and wildlife sightings.

You can see animals like bears and moose from the train’s observation car.

The Maharajas’ Express in India provides week-long journeys. These journeys include visits to iconic sites like the Taj Mahal. You can also enjoy local Indian food on the train. The train’s chefs prepare delicious meals using fresh ingredients.

The train also has a bar where you can relax and enjoy a drink.

Some trains offer luxurious amenities. For example, the Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan features 14 suites for 30 guests. Each suite has a private bathroom and a comfortable bed. The train also has a dining car where you can enjoy local Japanese cuisine.

Conclusion

Luxury trains are special. They offer more than just a ride. They offer a fancy experience that’s like flying first class. You get to see beautiful views and enjoy good food. It’s a unique way to travel.

References

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