World’s Most Scenic Train Trip: Part 1

By Natasha Dragun

World’s Most Scenic Train Trip: Part 1
There is no better perspective on the world than from the comfort of a train carriage. From London to Singapore, Australia to Canada, MiNDFOOD brings you the greatest rail journeys on Earth

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

This fabled luxury train service from London to Venice is the epitome of a classic rail journey. Running the tracks since 1982, the Art Deco-style train operates from UK to France and Italy on overnight trips, with extended voyages to Istanbul and Budapest available. And no expense has been spared. Cabins are finished with polished woods, plush fabrics and crystal, nodding to the elegance and experiences of the golden age of travel. Dining is also five star – begin your evening in the new Champagne Bar before moving into the restaurant where white-gloved waiters lay heavy silver cutlery, pour the finest wines and serve set meals inspired by the seasons.

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The Rocky Mountaineer

Offering a number of routes around western Canada, the Rocky Mountaineer takes passengers through some of the country’s most jaw-dropping scenery – book the First Passage to the West and your route will take you along Kicking Horse River, through the Spiral Tunnels, along a route famous for uniting the country and connecting British Columbia to Canada more than 125 years ago. Trips operate exclusively through the day, with guests sleeping in hotels before re-boarding and continuing their journey. There are a number of classes available, but it’s hard to go past the GoldLeaf service: a custom-designed, bi-level, glass-domed coach with full-length windows and reclining seats. Gourmet meals are prepared on board and served to guests in the lower level dining car.

Eastern & Orient Express

Eastern & Oriental Express

Travel between Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand in style aboard this luxurious train, passing vibrant cities, rural villages, dense tropical jungle and gleaming pagodas along the way. Extremely comfortable air-conditioned cabins come with ensuite bathrooms, but many while away days in the colonial-style, teakwood open-air Observation Car, located at the rear of the train – the ideal perch for sightseeing, cocktail in hand. Breakfast is delivered to your cabin daily, while other meals can be enjoyed in the restaurant car.

Palace on Wheels

Palace on Wheels

This unforgettable train journey is a dazzling introduction to the forts and palaces of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Over eight days, the journey takes you from New Delhi to Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and finally Agra, where you will discover the history and romance of the Taj Mahal. On board, the train’s saloons are designed to highlight the cultural ethos of the state, represented through the use of furniture, handicrafts, painting and furnishings. After a day of exploring, make the most of the newly introduced spa where therapists offer Aryuvedic massage treatments.

The Ghan

The Ghan

It takes 54 hours to travel the 2979km from Adelaide to Darwin aboard The Ghan, with a four-hour stopover in Alice Springs along the way. There’s plenty to delight on board, including meals inspired by the destinations you visit: think, saltwater barramundi and grilled kangaroo fillet, complemented by boutique beers and some of Australia’s finest wines. Off-train experiences are truly immersive and might include a leisurely boat cruise around Nitmiluk Gorge, an indigenous painting experience in Katherine, or a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service base and the Alice Springs Telegraph Station.

 

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