In a 21stcentury highlighted by hyperconnectivity and instant gratification, sometimes the joy of indulging in romantic modes of travel from yesteryear loses its appeal. Fortunately, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure and this holds true for travel too. Whereas the masses corral into crowded airports and cramped planes, the traveler seeking a more organic experience, knows the splendor of riding the rails. Trains frequently get overshadowed by private jet charters, but they still offer phenomenal opportunities to see the world like never before. Here are 5 majestic trips riding the rails that will have you packing your steamer trunk.
1. Maharajas' Express, India
The Maharajas’ Express cruises across northwest and central India, while offering five itineraries. The 23 coach train hosts over 80 passengers in very well-appointed accommodations. The state-the-of-art facilities and amenities include large windows, LCD televisions, wi-fi access, individual temperature controls in all cabins, not to mention full, en-suite bathrooms. The Presidential Suite requires an entire car, making it the biggest available suite of any train in the world. Two lounge/bar cars serve refreshing drinks with luxurious seating, while two more cars are dedicated for the restaurant and kitchen, which serves a choice of multi-course Indian and continental cuisine.
2. Venice Simplon Orient Express, Europe
One of the world’s most expensive trains, the Venice Simplon Orient Express (VSOE) made famous by Agatha Christie, offers two legendary routes; Paris-Istanbul and Istanbul-Venice. The VSOE boasts restored, vintage 1920s cars, perhaps making it the most authentic luxury train in the world. The VSOE features cabin suites and double cabins in the 17 lavishly appointed first-class carriages, catering to nearly 200 passengers. The train wines and dines travelers in its dedicated restaurant and bar cars, offering set-menus, à la carte options and drinks. The VSOE also makes stops in Krakow, Dresden and Prague.
3. Rovos Rail Pride of Africa, South Africa
The Rovos Rail Pride showcases two iconic trips: the Cape to Cairo voyage and weekly trips between Pretoria and Cape Town. The train carries a maximum of 72 guests in sleeper coaches that provide accommodations in Royal Suites, Deluxe Suites and Pullman Suites. All suites feature air-conditioning, twin or double beds, and en-suite bathrooms complete with toiletries and hot showers. Highlights on the train include a lounge car, a kitchen car, smoking lounge, two 42-seat dining cars, and an observation car. The reputation of the Rovos Rail Pride precedes itself thanks to excellent equipment, stupendous dining and on-board service. The culmination benefits guests with a feeling of luxury and old-world elegance, unrivaled by the golden age of train travel in the 1920s. Travelers will be hard pressed to find a more luxurious or exciting, train travel experience.
4. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Express runs between Moscow and Vladivostok on 15 day/14 night voyages, and offers special tours of the Caspian, Russia’s Arctic and the Silk Road. Travelers revel in decadence, choosing from Imperial Suite, Gold Class and Silver Class accommodations, making the train the only way to see Siberia. All suites are appointed with a King Size bed, dressing table, air-conditioning, wardrobe, audio/video entertainment, and en-suite bathrooms with a large shower. Passengers have two dining cars and a bar/lounge car for the ultimate in rest and relaxation. Onboard cabin attendants and a quality control manager guarantee superb food and beverage service, catering to each and every passenger’s need on The Golden Eagle.
5. Royal Canadian Pacific, Canada
The Royal Canadian Pacific boasts pure opulence paired with exclusivity. The train’s three executive business cars and two sleeper cars, offer 18 on-board staterooms, accommodating only 30, very lucky guests. The luxurious private staterooms come fully furnished with 3 piece private en-suite bathroom, and single or double beds. The attention to detail in each stateroom has every need covered, including: in-room safe, internal telephone, bathrobes and Aveda amenities. When not feeling like royalty in your stateroom, enjoy the train’s open-platform observation areas, inviting salons, and five-star dining. The outstanding cuisine and service, combined with the excellent staff and fantastic vistas, make for a thoroughly satisfying experience. Stately musical events complete the world class train service that arguably makes the Royal Canadian Pacific the best in the Western Hemisphere.
