Conjuring up timeless images of rich and famous jet-setters of the past, the luxury train is back. There is nothing like being pampered with white-glove service, gourmet local cuisine, and the camaraderie of like-minded travelers in the lounge cars on iconic train journeys.
The most iconic symbol of elegance is the Belmond Venice Simplon -Orient Express. With storybook destinations across Europe like Venice, London, Paris, Vienna, Prague and Berlin, you will join the ranks of Tolstoy, Marlene Dietrich, Mata Hari and Sean Connery as you are transported to a world of opulence from the golden age of travel. With single or twin cabins or suites inside the renovated sleeping cars of the 1920s and 1930s, you will experience rolling countryside and majestic mountain scenery. Evening dress for dinner is part of the experience as you enjoy the famed cuisine.
Some would say that the world’s greatest train journey would be on the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express which travels through the mysterious countryside of Russia on east and west itineraries connecting Moscow to Vladivostok. They also have other itineraries including Silk Road to Beijing. Their largest suite is 120 square feet and sleeps two in a king bed with a private bathroom with shower.
You can safari in style on board the luxurious trains by Rovos Rail in South Africa. The largest suites are 172 square feet and take up half a carriage; each has its own private lounge area, full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The journeys include time to safari and sightsee off the train.
Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury train that combines genuine daytime getaways with sleeping accommodations at night, all while traversing the Peruvian Andes. On one of the highest train routes in the world, you will cross through breathtaking cities on its way from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa, and exploring natural wonders and ancient kingdoms on one and two-night trips.
Sail into an age when the jewel studded maharajas with swords in hand rode ornamented war elephants. Palace on Wheels, the first luxury train of India, recreates a bygone era of indulgence and grace. With its ethnic interior decor, gracious hospitality and a tastefully crafted journey that chugs along former Rajput princedoms and the Taj Mahal in Agra, this Indian luxury train journey is a ride of a lifetime.
A scenic train journey through beautiful landscapes will give you memories to last a lifetime.
Reserve your dream vacations by contacting Lainey Melnick, the owner of the Westlake-area branch of Dream Vacations, 855-GR8-TRIP, www.855GR8TRIP.com, lmelnick@dreamvacations.com. Lainey has been a part of the Westlake community and an Eanes ISD parent for 20 years. She is the 2017 recipient of the OPAL Award for Women for outstanding performance and leadership, and serves as the Westlake Chamber of Commerce Humanitarian Committee Chair.