Have you ever had the urge to take a train across a country and explore a new place in an old-fashioned way? There are plenty of possibilities for luxurious train travel all over the world. If you live in the US, you know that trains are definitely not the most luxurious form of travel. But hop on a plane and you might be able to catch a train that will fulfill your luxury-train-travel dreams.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express travels from London to Venice and stops in some of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Paris, Verona (think: Romeo & Juliet) and Venice are three cities you won\’t miss while aboard this express. The train is glamorous and beautiful, with an old-world charm. While going westward, the train serves a delicious brunch of lobster. Yes, you can eat lobster on a train.
On the Rocky Mountaineer, one of the few luxurious train travel experiences in North America, you can travel from Banff to Vancouver (Canada). If you travel on the Rocky Mountaineer from September-October, you can experience the beautiful foliage and landscapes of Canada in the fall.
In India, you can travel along the Maharajas\’ Express, which journeys from Delhi to Mumbai and is a recent addition to luxury train travel. The three-night ride is as luxurious as you can get on a train, with bars, restaurants and beautiful decor.
If you love tapas, wine and Spanish language, consider traveling using The Transcantabrico Gran Lujo that travels from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela. This train moves slowly along the Atlantic coast of Spain and includes the opportunity for daytime excursions and plenty of food and drink. You can even stop and experience the famous Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
Riding aboard these trains is an experience you may only be able to have once in your lifetime. There are plenty of trains that may be more accessible to you, but don’t you think it’s time to hop on a plane, then board a train to live a life of luxury? Even if it is only for a few days, the place your train ride ends might be just another new place to explore.