When you think about opulence on a train, you can’t go past the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. This glamorous Art Deco gem pampers you with excellent cuisine and decadent amenities like suites with pompous private bathrooms and never-ending champagne. All, while you pass through some of the most interesting cities in Europe.

The Japanese Seven Stars in Kyushu has a reputation of offering an incredibly indulgent train experience that accommodates as little as 30 people in 14 suites. Guests are picked by lottery system and the lucky winners are able to enjoy intricate Japanese craftmanship on board with stunning rosewood and maple walls, beautifully etched sliding glass doors as well as traditional shoji paper screens.

The Northern Belle in the UK is embellished with exquisite fabrics and marquetry, intricate tables adorned by precious silverware, and elegant furniture for a truly unforgettable ride. The Blue Train’s systems for braking, suspension, lighting and under-floor-heating were designed with one thing in mind: The guests’ comfort.

Maybe an odd thing at the beginning, if it’s a novelty, but probably (or most likely) something to get used to very quickly. First-class-customer service is one of the staples on board of the Golden Eagle Luxury Train, next to a welcoming and elegant cabin with a cinematic view, fine dining and the option to explore some of the most remarkable places in the world.

If you want to see South Africa’s breath-taking landscapes and visit interesting tourist attractions along the way, you might want to indulge in a train journey on board of the Blue Train. You can expect luxurious suites that invite you to relax and wonder at panoramic views, gourmet cuisine paired with the finest wines of the country and to top it off, a personal butler that is ready to attend to your every wish. This railway trip has all to elements to become an unforgettable experience.

When transitioning from work to holidays, there’s often a lot of stress involved. Hurrying to the airport to catch a flight just to arrive exhausted at your destination will often prevent you from exploring your new surroundings right away. Travelling by train allows you to slow down, because there’s nowhere to go. The journey is the destination, and it unfolds before you when you gaze out of the window. Some railway journeys like the Golden Eagle also offer the opportunity to go on guided excursions at the various stops to make the most of your trip.

Today, you can enjoy many unforgettable rail adventures all over the world, with Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express being part of this exclusive list. While travelling from Singapore to Bangkok, you can let yourself sink back into first class comfort and luxury with spacious air-conditioned carriages furnished with precious wood and brass fittings as well as soft white sheets to sleep and rest in style.

In addition, there’s a steward on call for your every need, a resident pianist in the bar carriage, and an open deck to enjoy the beautiful scenery, which changes dramatically during the trip and offers new vistas at every turn. 

Another element that can’t be missing during your holidays: Good quality food. How much more convenient if you don’t have to walk around hungry at your destination in search of a restaurant? During a luxury train ride, your dining car is always travelling with you, and if you feel like dining in private, you will be provided with dinner in your own suite.

The Belmond Royal Scotsman is no exception, offering its guests an exquisite dining experience with menus reflecting the different seasons. A variety of fine wines from the extensive wine cellar complement each meal during lunch and dinner. As expected on a journey through Scotland, an exclusive range of malt whiskeys will keep you warm and cosy.

The chefs of the Blue Train only use fresh local ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes, from venison and ostrich to Karoo lamb and Knysna oysters. Served on fine porcelain and in delicate crystal to round off this culinary experience, each meal is accompanied by smooth jazz or light classic music to set the mood.