Maria Is My Name

A simple travel blog written from a mid-life point of view.

Following up on the first part of my luxe train voyages list, this is the second (and final) instalment of my top picks for train trips around the world. The list is in no particular order–simply journeys added to my bucket list.

Enjoy!

Rovos Rail Pride of Africa

Photo via https://www.rovos.com

Considered to be one of the most luxurious trains in the world, Pride of Africa takes guests between Cape Town, South Africa and Cairo, Egypt with magnificent journeys to the east and to the west also available. Pride of Africa combines the golden age of rail travel with modern amenities. Suites are ultra-deluxe, decorated in Edwardian period features. A well-stocked mini-bar is available, as is 24-hour room service. Lunch and dinner are multi-course affairs served on lovely china, silver and crisp linens. Fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes are on the menu. All meals are served in one one of two Victorian-era restaurant cars.

The Ghan

Photo via http://www.greatsouthernrail.com.au/trains/the-ghan

Named for the Afghan cameleers who once traveled this route, The Ghan has been traversing Australia for more than 80 years, taking guests from Adelaide to Darwin, in comfort and luxury. Large panoramic windows provide optimum viewing of the ever-changing Australian landscape. In the restaurant car, onboard chefs prepare menus that feature Australian and International cuisine.

The Danube Express

Photo via http://www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com/trains/golden-eagle-danube-express

Headquartered in Budapest, Hungary, all itineraries through central Europe either start or go through Budapest. The Danube Express serves only 50 passengers in a combination of modern conveniences and traditional style. Deluxe sleeping carriages offer private compartments with en-suite washrooms, and two lower beds that fold up into seating during the day. There are windows that open throughout the train for maximum views. All meals are freshly cooked onboard by experienced chefs using local and seasonal ingredients.

4. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Railway

Photo via http://www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com/trains/golden-eagle

Need to see Siberia? This is the way to do it. Launched in Moscow in 2007, the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian is an all-suite luxury train. Its route is the famous Trans-Siberian between Moscow and Vladivostok. Covering 9,258km (6,152 miles) and taking seven days, it is the biggest train ride in the world. For luxury travelers, two Imperial suites were added in 2012, providing 120 square feet of space, a fixed king-sized bed, en-suite shower, a dedicated dressing table and lounge area. Dining takes place in one of two restaurant cars offering a central buffet.

The Eastern and Oriental Express

Photo via http://www.belmond.com

This train runs 1,262 miles between Singapore, Malaysia and Bangkok and is one of the most beautiful in the world, conjuring up images of a bygone era filled with glamour and opulence. Dining on board this train is a highlight. Its French chef has developed dishes that have received international accolades for blending Western and Eastern culinary styles. Breakfast is served in your compartment, while high tea can be enjoyed wherever you prefer.

Which rail do you want to ride?