Traveling is not all about reaching a destination. Most people make the mistake of hurrying to their tourist spot and not enjoying the journey. Every day we have to go from one place to another for work, for shopping or to get back home. We are always in a hurry to get somewhere and never try to enjoy the sceneries out of our car windows. Long distance flights are for sleeping, resting and convenience. The train rides, however, teach us about enjoying the roads, the valleys and the spectacular scenery that we pass. Some train rides are nothing less than a luxurious vacation where we get all the facilities of a five star and get to see picturesque places too. Train rides are still popular because they take away the hurry from our minds and make us fall in love with the journey instead of the destination.
Glacier Express
Once you have boarded the Glacier Express, stop keeping count of time and enjoy yourself. Though it is an express train but still it takes around 8 hours for covering the 180 mile journey. The passengers, however, do not complain. The view from the train window is breathtaking. The train runs between two very famous mountain resorts located on the Swiss Alps. You can book a stay with either St. Moritz or Zermatt and you won’t regret it ever. The Glacier Express crosses a total of 91 tunnels and 291 bridges. Even moving slow is an adventure when the altitude is 6,670 feet.
Pride of Africa
There is plenty of reason behind calling this train the Pride of Africa. Africa is a continent of natural contrasts and contradictions. Some parts of it are covered with dense forest and some other has deserts that spawn over a huge landmass. One conventional trip is not enough for helping you estimate its beauty but if your board this train journey then you will get to see the surprisingly spectacular sights of Africa and enjoy the miracles of nature for 14 days. The train moves from Cape Town to Dr Es Salaam. It will move through the Kruger National Park and the Victoria Falls giving you a chance to soak in the beauty of nature with all your senses.
Eastern & Oriental Express
If you want to enjoy a luxurious train ride that offers you the comfort of staying on a high-end hotel while on the move then you should surely opt for the Eastern & Oriental Express. It runs from Singapore to Bangkok through lush countryside and valleys. There is an open air observation car at the back of the train and you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty galore around you. The Fables of Hills are seven days and six nights long and give good value for the package of $9,200, meals included. You can even get down for some time and enjoy local fruits and tea.
Golden Eagle, Trans Siberian Express
This is one of the most adventurous and luxurious train journeys. It is a full holiday in itself. If you want to move through 8 different time zones and travel 6,000 miles sitting on the lap of luxury then the Golden Eagle is perfect for you. The ride begins with a welcoming round of first class champagne. Get down at the Lake Baikal and watch the wild seals play their games. It starts from the Ural Mountains and stops at Irkutsk. Qualified butlers and heated floors make this train ride amazingly comfortable.
Palace on Wheels
If you want to live life king size then the Palace on Wheels is the right opportunity for you. This train turns back time and offers the best regal luxury on board. Starting from Delhi, India it takes you to the desert kingdom of Rajasthan and offers something new at every twist and turn. It uses a steam engine at the beginning of the journey for pulling the train and creates a nostalgic feeling. The food is excellent and so are the added advantages of this luxury trip. You will be welcomed by elephants at Jaipur and then savor a delicious lunch at the Lake Palace of Udaipur. The journey ends with a lovely evening at Taj Mahal.
Royal Scotsman
If money is not a problem then treat yourself to a luxury holiday in the Royal Scotsman. This is the costliest train ride in this world and probably the most luxurious as well. Nameless valleys and picturesque waterfalls strewn on the way will take your breath away. A 4 day ride will cost more than a two weeks luxury holiday but still it is worth it. The cabins are very comfortable.
Venice Simplon – Orient Express
It has been one of the best train journeys of the world for many decades. A lot of movies have been made and novels have been written regarding the charm and enigma of the Oriental Express. It moves through the famous European cities like Venice, Rome, Budapest and London. The beauty of the Alps is something you will enjoy tremendously while on board.