Tag: trains

  • Riding the Rails – VIA Rail Canadian from Vancouver to Toronto

    Riding the Rails – VIA Rail Canadian from Vancouver to Toronto

    Canada is vast, evidenced by the fact it takes five days to go from one side of the country to the other on a train (and that’s the slimmest bit). To embark on this epic adventure, which we took in 2025, you need to board The Canadian. Four glistening silver trains which have been plying the route since the 1950s make up the fleet that operates the route and it was our turn to see why people completely fall in love with the journey. Join us for our full VIA Rail Canadian from Vancouver to Toronto review.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    Don’t miss our post stuffed full of 40 tips for taking the VIA Rail Canadian HERE

    A Quick History of the VIA Rail Canadian

    Traversing Canada from one side to the other seems so very easy in 2025. Hop on a plane and you can do it in 4.5 hours, hop on the train and its 5 days. Google thinks that you could make the journey by walking solidly for 28 days, but that just isnt practical! In the 1800s, you didn’t really have a good way to travel from coast to coast. Well, when British Columbia joined the Confederation, they wanted to ensure a rail connection to the rest of the country. It took years, but in 1885, the Canadian Pacific Railway was completed.

    Passenger trains were launched and these were rather swish. Think plush sleeper cars, big-windowed dome coaches, and full-on dining cars serving proper meals on white tablecloths. Cars began to dominate the travel scene and by the 1960s, plane travel became accessible to the masses. The trains just didn’t hold the same appeal with fewer and fewer tickets selling. The government took over in 1977, and VIA Rail was formed. They reduced the train network but The Canadian was kept in place with its fabulous 1950s rolling stock in place. It is now mostly a tourist train, although that does include a decent number of domestic tourists, keen to relax and see some of their own country from eye level. With slow travel and climate concerns gaining popularity in the travel sector, it seems that it will continue to sell out for years to come.

    Our Trip

    After deciding I fancied starting our holiday in Vancouver, and ending in Niagara Falls we needed to look at logistics. There are those that board the VIA Rail Canadian and don’t disembark four four nights, travelling the whole 4,466km (2,775 mile) journey in one go. I thought about doing this but decided, this would be a perfect reason to stop off in a more unusual destination. After some research, I settled on the city of Winnipeg, about halfway along. So we split the trip into two halves: two nights from Vancouver to Winnipeg, and then another two from there to Toronto. Honestly, I would have liked to stop off in Jasper too but as the train only comes every few days, it extended the trip too much for our annual leave allowance. Plus, I figured we would have the chance to return to Jasper on a future adventure.

    Departing Pacific Central Station

    We arrived rather early for our train adventure. Call me paranoid but I love contingency time and it gae us time to look around. The Pacific Central Station is a rather grand building that dates back to 1917. It retains many of its original features, including long wooden benches which, although asthetically pleasing, are murder on your bottom! The vintage clock hanging from the ceiling, roman numersals and all, told us that we were two hours early. We were just keen to get into the lounge and grab a coffee. Lounge access is only granted once you are checked in, but there was nobody at the desk as the inbound train was running late.

    Check In

    Happily, they allowed us to drop our luggage off so at least we weren’t weighed down by our backpacks. Everyone is encouraged to check in their larger bags, only bringing a small hand luggage into their carriage in an effort to ensure everyone has enough room. We had decanted two days of things into tote bags.

    After poppng across the road for some pictures, we decided to line up, ready to check in. We were directed to the Sleeper Class queue and waited for about thirty minutes. They called forward the Prestige passengers and the n it was our turn. The check in was fast, with the staff clearly a little rushed. They couldn’t begin the check in until the train had arrived and so they were struggling to get it turned around in the shortest possible time.

    We showed our passport and tickets before being shown to a seocnd desk where we could request a dining time. Our train had just one dining car for the Sleeper Class passengers (in summer there are two), and so there were three times to choose from. The middle slot, the classic dinner time had all been snapped up so we decided to go for the latest sitting.

    The Lounge

    Honestly, the lounge feels slightly misnamed. There were a few seats inside in what was essentially a corridor. We found a station with tea, coffee, chocolate and biscuits so I grabbed a coffee. Most of the seating was outside. It was in the shade so it was a bit chilly. Mr Fluskey popped back in and got a hot chocolate, mostly to keep his hands warm. We sat and waited, chatting to two fellow passengers that strangely, we never saw on board. They made an announcement to apologise for a further delay and put on the patio heaters.

    All Aboard

    The iconic call of “All Aboard” (“Tous à Bord”), rang out across the station and we excitedly scrambled up to join the throng. Everyone surged forward and began the walk along the platform. There were buggies to help those that would struggle with the walk which was nice as it is a long train!

    We found our carriage and were greeted by our room attendant who advised us to head to our room and wait for her. It was so exciting and we began poking around, exploring the nooks and crannies of our cabin for two. She popped her head around the door and then came in to show us the details of the cabin and explain how she would convert the beds using a special key.

    Roll Away Party

    After the briefing, we made a mad dash for the back of the train and the fancy Park car. I had read somewhere that this was the main hangout for the Prestige passengers. In the summer, we wouldn’t be allowed in here until 16:00 on day two, so we thought we would make the most of being here for this departure. There were canapes being handed out and little glasses of bubbly for everyone. It was less than five minutes after we arrived that the station platforms began to slide away and the train was off. The most was jubilant and the conversation pleasingly social.

    I popped down the bar and asked if we were allowed a second glass of sparkling wine and they said of course! I don’t know if anyone else knew this because I didn’t see anyone else take advantage. What rookies. The grey suburbs of Vancouver morphed into industrial areas running alongside the tracks. Crossing a long bridge and rounding a bend, we left the urban world behind, ready to roll our way towards The Rockies.

    A Look Around the VIA Rail Canadian

    Our Room – A Cabin for Two

    There are several options for travelling on the VIA Rail Canadian. Economy offers reclining seats, the berths are seats by day and bunkbeds by night, cabins for one are teeny tiny single rooms with a sink and toilet, and Prestige rooms have double beds and ensuite bathrooms. We opted for a very happy medium., the cabin for two.

    The Room

    By day, the cabin has two seats. These can be moved around but not super easily. There is a nice picture window, ideal for watching the world slip past by day and for a touch of stargazing at night. We could ask for the lower bunk to be left down if we fancied a nap or just wanted to stretch out but we liked having the extra space during the day.

    I have heard people say that these rooms are tiny but honestly, when compared to Amtrak’s roomettes or the Caledonian Sleeper’s classic room, they are bigger by at least a foot in each direction and that doesnt include the attached toilet. There was plenty of room during the day, but with the beds down and the ladder out, it was tight.

    The Bed

    The beds were prepared nightly by the room attendants, using a special key. The bottom bunk was from the wall, Murphy bed style, and the top came down from the ceiling. The alcove that it came from gave the top bunkbed a good amount of headroom. Mr Fluskey could sit up easily. The bedding consisted of a proper duvet cover and a reasonably plump pillow. I like a high pillow shelf, so I popped a thin blow-up pillow underneath, but it was enough for Mr Fluskey. It was a nice, comfortable sleep, especially decent for a train bed.

    The Bathroom

    Within the room is a sink which is really handy. It does let noise into the room from the pipes but putting the plug down really helps and putting a towel over that is even better. As well as the tap for washing your hands etc, there is a drinking water tap. This is amazing and saves so many trips down to other cars to get a midnight glug. We got soap and moisturiser provided. On both of our trains, these were different brnds so it is a fun lucky dip to see what you end up with.

    The cabin for two has a teeny en suite, delightfully named “The Annex”. This really is small but it is so nice to have your own toilet. This, combined with the sink in the room, mean you can get ready for bed without queueing for the bathroom, or go for a midnight wee without running into anyone else. It works like a cruise toilet, vacuuming the waste away after a worrying long thinking period. Apparently, the pipes can freeze in the dead of winter but we had no issues and it was really rather cold outside. I bought a room freshener packet to hang in the toilet, keeping it smelling fresher during the trip.

    The Shower

    Each sleeper carriage has a shower located between the sleeper cabins and the berths. There is a changing area before you hop into the shower itself with enough room for most people to get dry comfortably. Mr Fluskey tried the shower and said it was warm and had a medium flow. Apparently, a few years ago, someone left the shower running and flooded the carriage so now they all have timer buttons (like the local swimming pool). This can get tedious, but it is better than having a room full of shower water. They provide a shower kit with a towel, soap and shampoo.

    Storage

    Storage is limited within the cabin, hence having to leave the bigger bags to go in the luggage car. There is a large shelf up above the toilet which easily fit our two hand luggage sized backpacks. Above the sink is a small cubby for washbags. We couldn’t fit both of ours here but mine has a hanging hook so I could pop it elsewhere.

    A thin hanging space by the door. is for your coats and boots (or whatever it is you need in summer). Above that is a mini locker for any bits and bobs you need handy, but don’t want cluttering the room the whole time. Some people use this for snacks, and it’s worth remembering that this should only be shelf-stable goodies, as there is no fridge available. Mind you, you will be very well fed, so you shouldn’t need any to be honest.

    Exploring the VIA Rail Canadian

    We didn’t spend loads of time in our cabin during the day opting, instead, to make the most of the other cars.

    Skyline Cars (Upstairs)

    Our train had two Skyline Cars with domed glass roofs designed for maximum views. The first of the Skyline cars was based in the economy section of the train and was reserved exclusively for those passengers. Ours was a hub of activities. The Skyline Car has the most divine 1950s styling and I fell utterly in love with its retro charm. I spent the whole of the first morning upstairs, drinking in the gorgeous Canadian Rockies and sipping the included coffee. It was the perfect place to spot Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies. The mist lifted and the sky cleared at exactly the right time. We were lucky.

    From the Rockies to the flat prairies of Manitoba and the lakes of Ontario, each region unveiled a new facet of the Canadian landscape and these cars are the best place to let it all roll by.

    Skyline Cars (Downstairs)

    Downstairs in the Skyline Car was the activities room and a little lounge. This is a handy place to charge your phone or other devices, or indulge is a more traditional form of entertainment. There is a stack of board games and jigsaw puzzles for everyone to use. It was great fun passing through every so often and seeing the progress someone was making on a puzzle. Other activities on offer were:

    • Wine Tasting – We did two during our trip. The first was a straightforward tasting with some info about Canada’s different wine regions. The next was more of a game where we had to pair the wines blindly to their descriptions, which was great fun…even if we were rather bad at it.
    • Beer Tasting – If you know us, you know beer isn’t our thing so we skipped this one.
    • Talks – With each new province, the train activities co-ordinator would give a short talk about the region. It was really nice to have some context for those gorgeous views.
    • Bingo – Have you ever played bingo with cards before? Turns out, it is such a lot of fun…if highly competitive. I won a postcard of the Canadian when I got my winning board.
    • Films – They have a small TV in the room where they sometimes do film night, or show documentaries. Obviously, being blind, this wasn’t great for me but actually, I didn’t feel the absense of telly for a few days.
    The Park Car

    Right at the back of the train (the caboose) is the Park Car. This also has a dome roof but it is of a slightly higher calibre. It is attached to some of the Prestige cabins so this is where those passengers tend to hang out. In fact, on a busy train, regular sleeper car passengers have to wait until later in the day to join them. Being a little off-season, we had full access aside from the first six rows of the viewing car, which were reserved. Down in the lounge are some lovely, comfortable seats, perfect for enjoying a drink and chatting with others sitting opposite. I think the 1950s styling in here is especially obvious and I adored it. Note the drink holders in the tables, a nod to the most popular activity in this car. A couple of steps down from the lounge is the onboard bar. Drinks are included for Prestige folks, but we paid as we went. Sometimes the card machines here didn’t get signal. It was a heart-stopping five minutes watching our drink, already poured, just out of reach as we hoped the signal would return.

    The Dining Car

    At busier times, there can be two dining cars on the train (A & B), but on our journey, there was just the one. They say that B must be fancier if you do have two, as this is where the Prestige passengers dine, but we cannot confirm or deny.

    Dining on the VIA Rail Canadian

    If there is one thing you cannot fault, it is the food. Every meal was served with care, cooked to perfection and delicious. You are going to be fed well on the Canadian.

    Breakfast

    I’m not a big breakfast person, but on the Canadian, I couldn’t resist. The hash browns that came with many of the breakfasts were thinly sliced potatoes, fried to crispy perfection. Happily for me, there was no onion in it, so I could stuff myself full of it. A common theme of the menus onboard the VIA Rail Canadian is that they come and go. This is even true with breakfast. You will find the Transcontinental every day, but everything else will change. I think the options with eggs (the Transcontinental and omelettes) were the best as they seemed super fresh and didn’t fill you up with carbs when lunch was only a few hours away.

    For those who don’t want a formal breakfast, or are up too early, there is a continental breakfast available to grab in the Skyline/activities car. This includes muffins, pastries, jams, fruits, juices and hot drinks. On our first morning, jet lag and excitement to spot Mount Robson had me up before the sun. I grabbed some coffee in my thermos and a muffin to take with me up the stairs to the dome seats.

    Lunch & Dinner

    If you were thinking of having a light lunch, think again. At both lunch and dinner, you are going to get a multicourse feast. The meals celebrate local ingredients from across Canada served in both traditionally Canadian dishes and some fun ones from further afield. Yes, there’s beef from Alberta, and it is delicious.

    At lunch, you can choose from a soup or fruit juice to start, then there is a main meal (or entree) and a light dessert….(Is light dessert an oxymoron?) Similarly, dinner begins with either a soup or salad. The salads were all interesting and delicious so we tended to opt for those. Then we could choose from four different main courses. I was very impressed with the selection and the quality of cookery. The galley is tiny, and it is astonishing that the chefs produce such great food. Perfectly pink meat, tasty sauces and veggies that still have a little bite, this isn’t canteen food. We have had the same standard on some other luxury trains around the world, and I feel like the food on The Canadian is underrated.

    A word of warning, at dinner, you need to leave room for dessert. The cakes are large, rich and utterly impossible to resist. The carrot cake cheesecake was served twice, and I couldn’t finish it on either occasion, which I am still kicking myself about. It was spiced and sweet with just the right level of sour from the cream cheese….I am genuinely sad I don’t have someone coming to serve me a slice tonight. The chocolate cake was the last cake I had, and it was truly decadent. Seriously, if you are taking the VIA Rail Canadian, do not skip your sweet course!

    Drinks

    As mentioned, there is a bar in the Park Car. The prices really aren’t bad, especially considering you are a captive audience. We had a couple of simple mixed drinks during one evening and a glass of Canadian ice wine during a chilled-out afternoon.

    You can order drinks from the dinner table, and so we discovered, there is no bar service in the Park car during dinner times. We stood at the bar for slightly too long before we figured that out. If you want a drink at dinner, wait until you are seated, and they will take your order at the table. There are wines and beers from Canada and further afield, and enough spirits/liquor to satisfy most palates.

    You can also have in-room drinks. Just bring your favourite beverage and you can enjoy it in the cabin. We bought a couple of sodas/pops/fizzy drinks and chucked in a shot or two of rum before dinner. It was rather pleasant as a pre-dinner tipple.

    The Staff

    A quick word on the staff aboard VIA Rail Canadian. They were all a perfect mix of no nonsense and fantastically fun. I am not sure how they have struck this balance, but they have nailed it. Sadly, I am terrible with names (and far too blind to read name badges) but let’s be real, I am sure that even the staff we didn’t have the pleasure of meeting were just as nice, so I am comfortable making such sweeping generalisations. They must have had something special, as I felt the distinct teacher’s pet urge to please and be liked by all of them.

    The Stops

    Jasper

    Our first longer stop was in the famous town of Jasper. This is really popular with tourists all year round thanks to its proximity to gorgeous lakes and mountains, and its homely charm. Just looking around, the snow-capped Rockies gave every angle a gorgeous background. There was a huge fire in Jasper in 2024, but signs throughout the town celebrate the community coming together to rebuild. We had 45 minutes to explore and mostly sent it popping in and out of food spots. You wouldn’t think we were eating up to 9 courses a day in the dining coach. We grabbed a Bear Paw (a cinnamon pastry) and a Beaver Tail, a deep-fried pastry topped in our case, with apple and yet more cinnamon.

    Winnipeg

    We broke our journey in Winnipeg, the logic being that Winnipeg is a lesser-visited destination and less accessible to us in the future. We might pop back to Jasper as part of a Canadian lakes type trip, but Winnipeg is pretty far from….everything. Honestly, most people were just confused when we said we wanted three days in the city but it was great fun and definitely worth checking out. During our three day stop (between our train arriving and the next one) we:

    • Ate in some wonderful restaurants, including Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar, James Avenue Pumphouse, Tabula Rasa and Clementine. Seriously, who knew there was a great food scene there?
    • Tried amazing cocktails at Darling Bar, Sous Sol, Solera and the iconic railway hotel, The Fort Garry.
    • Got thoroughly absorbed in the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
    • Explored a snowy wilderness and played on a toboggan onto a frozen lake at Fort Whyte Alive,
    • Saw how coins are made for Canada and many other countries in their Royal Mint.
    • Took a trip to a Scandinavian-style spa called Thermea. Dashing between hot pools and saunas in below-freezing temps was such fun.
    • Explored The Leaf, a botanical garden that was the perfect spot to warm up.
    Fresh Air

    Along the route, the train had some stops which were between 10-20 minutes. We were given some notice to get laid up and then the staff popped out extra stairs so we could all disembark. We did laps of the platforms to get our steps in, and the smokers amongst the travellers could have a quick smoke break too. It was good to have some walking time in a space that was wide and not swaying and we tried to make the most of it every time.

    Arriving into Union Station

    We woke up on our final morning into a landscape full of frozen water. Ontario is a huge province and it is defined by its water. Pools, lakes, streams and other watery ways are dotted throughout. With an almost total covering of snow, we could just see some melt in smaller ponds as the March weather rose just above freezing. We watched white land fill with dwellings, roads and other urban delights until we were fully in the outskirts of Toronto. Then, we turned a corner and right in front of us was the iconic CN Tower, the most recognisable spot in Toronto. Somehow, despite having been five hours behind schedule when we went to bed on the last night, we actually arrived two hours early. We spilled into the large, echoing main hall of Union Station and decided that, with the extra time, we should grab a drink. Much like the Fort Garry in Winnipeg, the Royal York sits opposite the matching station. It is now a Fairmont so the drinks are rather more pricy than the Fort Garry, but ending our journey with an amazing bevvie felt appropriate. The backpacks we were carrying and the scruffy hair we had did not…but hey ho.

    After five days, five provinces, two trains, and one unforgettable experience, our epic transcontinental rail adventure came to an end in the heart of Toronto.

    Final Thoughts on Our VIA Rail Canadian from Vancouver to Toronto Review

    Travelling across Canada aboard the VIA Rail Canadian truly put the scale of Canada into perspective. Splitting the journey in Winnipeg added a chance to get our land legs back and to explore a lesser-known city, but I would have loved the journey even if we had done it all as one. We were genuinely surprised by how comfortable, social, and charming the whole experience was. Yes, there were delays, but they somehow felt like a novel part of the journey. Knowing that we were in for a slow pace helped us relax and just enjoy the views.

    For anyone looking for gentle adventure, with an appreciation for slow travel, and who loves retro charm, The Canadian is an experience not to be missed. We would love to head back to Canada one day and finish our journey up the east coast. After taking the commuter trains, we would hop on The Ocean and end up in Halifax…but that’s an adventure for another time.

    Rosie xx

  • 40 VIA Rail Canadian Tips – The Iconic Train Across Canada

    40 VIA Rail Canadian Tips – The Iconic Train Across Canada

    Taking VIA Rail’s Canadian from coast to coast is a true travel adventure, and should be on everybody’s bucket list. Mind you, the thought of travelling across Canada over four nights of train travel could seem a little daunting. That is why we have put together our VIA Rail Canadian tips to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    Tips for Planning

    1.) Decide When to Travel on the Canadian

    • As a rule, summer is the busiest time to take The Canadian. You’ll find longer trains, higher prices and views full of glistening lakes, yellow prairies and blazing sunshine. Stepping out for your fresh air breaks is a pleasure, with the suns rays toasting you nicely. It is also the best time for spotting wildlife as everything is awake.
    • Autumn/fall offers the chance to see the beautiful changing of the leaves. The crowd dwindles and prices fall.
    • Winter is the cheapest time to take the train. You’ll find longer will stay warm as you watch the snowy vistas roll by. Fresh air breaks are brisk!
    • Spring is short in much of Canada but if you catch it just right, the cherry blossoms will wave you off in one city and hello in the other. Wildlife starts to wake up and emerge and the ice melt gives everything a lush green.

    2.) Choose Which Direction to Travel on the Canadian

    Train 1 – Toronto to Vancouver Wed & Sun

    If you are coming from Europe or somewhere else that lies east of Canada, doing it this way round will lessen your jetlag woes by reducing the time zone difference on the the first couple of days..

    Train 2 -Vancouver to Toronto Mon & Fri

    For the best views of Mount Robson, opt to travel from Vancouver. Typically, the train will approach Jasper sometime on the first morning. Admittedly, because this is many peoples highlight, it does mean the views afterwards could be a letdown..

    3.) Weigh Up Which Accommodation to Book on the Canadian

    There are five options to choose from aboard The Canadian:

    • Economy – Seated accommodation with no food included
    • Berths – Seats in an open carriage that covert into bunk beds. Food and soft drinks included.
    • Single Sleeper – Single bed private rooms with toilet and sink. Food and soft drinks included.
    • Double Sleeper – Bunk bed private rooms with toilet and sink. Food and soft drinks included.
    • Prestige – Double bed private rooms with private bathroom including shoer. All food and drink included. Lots of included extras.

    When considering which to choose you need to consider your budget, desired level of comfort and privacy requirements.

    4.) True Budget – A Few Economy Tips

    Economy on the Canadian consists of two seats on ither side of the aisle. they do recline by 40 degrees, and there is very good legroom but you are not able to lie flat. You will find power at each seat for charging devices and a fold down table for meals, laptops etc etc

    Economy Class doesn’t come with any food included but there is a full menu to order from and of course, you can bring food and drink with you. That only applies to soft drinks however, as you cannot drink your own alccohol on board.

    All bathroom facilities are shared but they are kept in great condition. Economy also has its own Skyline Car with a lounge and domed glass roof sp you are not stuck in the same seat the whole time.

    Most of the tips included in the rest of this article are for those in Sleeper Class plus as we have never travelled in economy and honestly, unless you are just doing a shorter day time trip, we don’t think four nights in economy is the best plan.

    5.) The Cheapest Bed – A Few Berth Tips

    The berths are the cheapest option in Sleeper Plus. By day, the seats are in sets of two, facing each other. They are nice and wide, sitting either side of the windows but it is worth remembering that they are in an open corridor. If you know your berth companion then you can spread out and relax but facing a stranger for five days might be a little awkward. Mind you, I suppose they wouldn’t stay a stranger for long! By night, the bottom bunk is converted into a bed, and a second bed pulls down from the ceiling. There are thick curtains that fasten with magnets to keep them private. if you are travelling solo and are concerned about safety then spend the extra for a Cabin for One for peace of mind.

    When booking, remember that the top bunks are cheaper as you have to climb up there and there is no window. If you are looking for the very cheapest way book Sleeper Plus Class, book early for opposite ones and you’ll have seats across the aisle in the day. On the flip side, bear in mind that the lower berths are actually the second biggest beds after Prestige. If you need a lot of room, these will give you more room that the Cabin for one beds.

    In a berth, you are going to be sharing a communal bathroom for both the shower facilities and the toilet. You are also going to sharing electrical outlets and these are not near the Berths. Instead, they are in the activity car so heavy device usage is not reommended if you are sitting in here.

    6.) The Perfect Balance – A Few Sleeper Class Tips

    We think that is definitely worth choosing Sleeper Class Plus if your budget allows. The extra splurge gives you a lovely level of privacy as well as:

    • Access to a lounge before embarking in Toronto or Vancouver.
    • Access to little snacks throughout the day in the activity car.
    • Priority boarding after Prestige Class.
    • Three delicious multicourse meals a day.
    Cabin for One

    The Cabin for one (Roomette) is a dinky room that is not much bigger than your single bed. In the day, you have a seat and then the Murphy bed is brought down from the wall. You get a nice big window so it is rather lovely to be in bed, lying alongside the view. You get your own sink and toilet but do bear in mind that the bed covers the toilet when it is lowered.

    Cabin for Two

    During the day, you have two folding chairs (which can be moved). Then, at night, one Murphy bed is brought down from the wall, and the top bunk bed comes down from the ceiling. These lie perpendicular to the window. You have a sink in the room and a small toilet behind a door. When booking a room, remember:

    • Rooms B D F face forwards.
    • Rooms A C E face backwards.
    • Room F is a little bigger. These sell out first.

    Call reservations and ask for a specific room if you have a strong preference.

    7.) Splashing Out – Prestige Sleeper Tips

    If budget is no problem, or you are celebrating something big, than get yourself a Prestige Class room. As with the rest of the cabins, you have a private room, food and soft drinks, priority boarding and snacks all day. However your room will be decked out in slightly fancier decor and it is 50% bigger than the Sleeper Cabin for Two. You also have a private bathroom but here, it includes a shower! By day you have a sectional couch/sofa which wraps in a L by the window. By night a large double bed descends from the ceiling, allowing you to snuggle with your travel buddy in comfort or starfish to your heart’s content. You also have a TV with plenty of pre-loaded films and a cooler cabinet that can be stocked with your preference of drinks in the room.

    In Prestige Class, you are provided with some fun extras:

    • All of your alcoholic beverages.
    • Reserved seating in front rows of the Park Car.
    • Exclusive access to the Park Car for the first part of the journey on busy journeys.
    • Concierge service.
    • Priority seating for dining, allowing you to choose your seating time first.

    8.) To Stop or Not to Stop

    A perfect journey on The Canadian takes five days, four nights or around 100 hour. You might want to do the whole adventure as one long trip, going from end to end and taking the entire time to relax. Alternatively, you are able to stop off and stay in one of the towns it visits, catching the next train, three or four days later. If seeing Canada is your aim, then a stop is worthwhile but if you are here just for the train, maybe not. The two most popular stops are Jasper and Winnipeg.

    • Jasper – A picture-perfect mountain town, Jasper is surrounded by peaks and pretty lakes. it is great for hiking in summer or snowy activities in winter.
    • Winnipeg – A big city that lies at the heart of Canada. With an up-and-coming culinary scene, some marvellous museums like the Human Rights Museum and nearby nature, it’s an underrated gem.

    Once you have decided when you want to travel on the Canadian, which way you want to go and in which class, it is time to book.

    Tips for Booking

    9.) Book Early

    Get thee to the VIA Rail website ASAP to start your booking journey. If you have specific dates, or want to travel in the busier summer months then a year to 11 months in advance is advisable. Get it booked and worry about securing your annual leave afterwards.

    10.) Bag a Discount

    To save a few pennies, look at booking off season. Prices plummet in winter so you can bag a real bargain. No matter when you are planning to travel, make sure you sign up for the VIA Rail newsletter. Every Tuesday, they offer discount,s and you don’t want to miss out.

    If you are able to wait, VIA Rail has had some incredible Black Friday discounts in the past. Of course., we can never guarantee this will remain the case but if it isn’t too far off for you, then it might be worth the gamble.

    11.) Keep an Eye on The Discount

    Once you have booked, don’t leave it there. You always try to call and rebook if good discount pops up (Black Friday for example), we have heard of at least one couple doing this. Just be sure to physically rather doing it online to ensure you don’t lose your cabin or berths.

    12.) Join the Loyalty Program

    The VIA Preference Program is free to join and so you might as well. You are going to get a crazy amount of points travelling all the way across the country and you never know when you’ll be back in Canada to use them. This is especially useful if you actually live in Canada.

    Tips for Packing

    13.) Know the Baggage Rules

    There isn’t an awful lot of room to store bags in the cabins and even less in the berths and economy carriages. You will have to check any bigger bags at your point of origin and they won’t be returned to you until you disembark. Checked bags are free. Bring a hand luggage sized bag with all your essentials to have on board.

    14.) What to Pack for the Canadian

    • A multiplug and extension cord – There are only two plugs in the private rooms and they are by the sink. There are no plugs in the berths or economy, you will need to use the outlets in the Park Car or Skyline Car, having a multiplug that you can share with fellow passengers will make you many friends.
    • A power bank – If you don’t have plugs in your sleeping area, this is a must-have. You might also want it when you are up in domes, draining batteries, filming all of the beautiful landscapes.
    • Shoes for the bathroom – If you are using the communal bathrooms (toilets and showers) you might want waterproof shoes that are easy to rinse off, or even to wear into the shower itself. KI use jellies and Mr Fluskey uses flip-flops. It is also nice to use these to slip on quickly for dinner etc. Hefting winter boots on and off is a real pain.
    • Air freshener – A little something to hang or prop in your private toilet keeps everything just a little fresher and more pleasant as they don’t have a window.
    • Outdoor clothes – in winter, you will need warmer layers for the “fresh air stops”. Plus, the dome cars can be quite cold due to the glass over your head. It helps to have a hat and scarf.
    • Sun gear – On the flipside, in summer, the sun blazes through the dome car roof so a sun hat and sunglasses will make it much more comfortable. Don’t forget the sun cream too.
    • Hot water bottle – I took a mini version to have with me in the dome car and at night. You can fill it at the coffee stations.
    • A refillable cup or flask – Free tea and coffee are available in sleeper class and it is always a good plan to use a refillable cup to prevent unnecessary waste. You will also be able yto keep coffee warm for use on the train and on chilly platforms.
    • Binoculars – If you are travelling at the right time of year, you might want to try and do some wildife spotting.
    • Headphones – Podcasts, music and audiobooks really help to pass the time with a little entertainment. You may also want to use headphones to block out the rail noise at night.
    • Cash – Don’t forget to bring some actual money if you are planning to tip the staff onboard. You will also find that paying by card on the PDQ machines can be a little temperamental in remote areas. It would be a shame to have a drin poured for you that you can’t have!
    • Bedding – This is only relevant if you are in Economy Class. In all of the Sleeper Class options will have bedding provided. If you want a cover, sleeping bag or pillow in economy, you need to bring it with you.

    15.) What VIA Rail Will Provide

    In Prestige and Sleeper Class, you will be provided with:

    • Earplugs.
    • Hand soap.
    • A towel.
    • A face cloth/flannel,
    • Shampoo and soap.

    This means that you don’t have to pack any of these but if you have really good ear plugs or you love a specific shampoo and conditioner combo, then squeeze them in.

    Tips for Getting On Board

    16.) Ace Your Departure Day

    Try to arrive at least 90 minutes before your train. When you get to the station, you will be directed to three desks. The first is the luggage drop. You just need to show your tickets, and they will tag up your bags to your destination before whisking them away to the baggage car. Arrive with your bags ready to go to prevent the repacking on the station floor debacle. Second is the check-in desk, where they will scan your tickets and may also check your government-issued ID, so have both handy. The final desk is where you will choose dining time for the first day. Arriving earlier gives you a better choice of dining times.

    You can then head into the lounge if you are in Prestige or Sleeper class. Bear in mind that there is not a full buffet or anything in the lounge. Instead, you will just find some biscuits, but tea, coffee, hot chocolate and water are provided. Toronto is all inside, but the majority of the seating at Union Pacific in Vancouver is outside, so a jacket and a hot chocolate are both nice to have.

    17.) Boarding

    After the iconic “All Aboard” has sounded, it is time to join the train. Friendly staff will point you to the correct car if you get confused. The platform is long but there is a buggy for those with reduced mobility. You will be directed to your spot on board and then the lovely attendants will come and introduce themselves, explaining the particular quirks of your sleeping area.

    Once you’re settled in, head for a dome carriage for the “Roll Away Party” where champagne/sparkling wine and nibbles/hors d’oeuvres are served. If it is a summer or busy then, stick to the Skyline car, but if you are travelling in off-season, go all the way to the back for the Park Car. You will get a lovely view as you view and share the experience with the fancy Prestige guests who get a nice talk along the way. We found that asking for a second drink garnered one, so don’t be afraid to enquire. We also had a wine reception leaving Jasper that they allowed us a sip at as well so it isn’t just for the terminus stations.

    Tips for Onboard Life on the VIA Rail Canadian

    18.) Find Your Train Legs

    The bumping, swerving and rolling of the train carriages can make walking a little tricky. It can take some getting used to so don’t rush. Take your time when walking through the carriages and keep one hand running along the wall in case of a sudden jolt. Remember, even the professionals struggle sometimes.

    19.) Make Use of the Different Carriages

    Take time to explore the train (it’s the only walking you’re going to do onboard).

    • Sleeping Accommodations – In most carriages, you will find a few sleeper cabins for one, followed by sleeper cabins for two and finally three sets of berths.
    • Park Car – If you are in Prestige, this is yours all day, every day. If you are in Sleeper Class, travelling in peak season, you are going to have access to it after 4pm. During off-season, it’ll be most of the time but do check the signage and follow the instructions. You will find the bar here and at the very back, a gorgeous V-shaped lounge. Upstairs is a dome section with plusher seats than the Skyline car.
    • Skyline Cars – This is where you will find the domes. Upstairs, sit at the back for views both ways or sit at the front for panoramic views. Downstairs is a small lounge with tables and plugs. There are separate Skyline cars for economy passengers. Then, further along the carriage is the activities area with the snacks for Sleeper Class passengers.
    • Dining Car – A carriage lined with tables that turns into a hive of activity at every meal time.

    20.) Enjoy Disconnecting

    As the train trundles through five large Canadian provinces, you will find that your phone signal will dwindle and disappear. This is one of the reasons they don’t have any wifi onboard. In theory, the business lounge has wifi, but it didn’t work when we visited. Don’t stress about it and enjoy the chance to actually disconnect from the digital world. Read a book, appreciate the scenery and relish using your phone for photography purposes only.

    21.) Join In With the Activities

    You might not have the internet, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do. During the trip, remember to check the whiteboard for activities as they do put on a few. We saw:

    • Wine tasting – Extra booze? You know we joined in. We tried two different kinds of tasting and that covered six different types of wine.
    • Beer tasting – Even the fact that the beer was free didn’t tempt us into the tasting.
    • Board games – Jigsaws and board games aplenty are on offer all day. It is cool to pass through every so often and check on other people’s progress as well as grabbing something to play with yourself.
    • Talks – Train staff give some lovely little talks with some fun facts about each new province that you cross into.
    • Trivia – We missed this entirely but heard it was a good laugh.
    • Film night – The people onboard got to vote for which film to screen and Shrek won (despite my attempt to swing it the other way).
    • Bingo – We played with a reusable board and cards, which was an unusual set-up but really fun

    22.) Take in the Views

    Obviously, you get great views from the dome cars, but don’t forget, you can also get a lovely view from your room. During the day, keep the door open, it’ll let in lots of light and double the views as you’ll be able to see the window across the corridor too.

    23.) Protect your Valuables

    The private rooms have locks, BUT you are unable to lock door behind you when you leave. They only lock from the inside. If you are worried about your belongings, then you have two options. You could bring a day bag for moving around the train in which you can keep your valuables. Alternatively, you can padlock a locked bag to something in the room. There is no door on the berths so you can’t lock anything up at any point.

    24.) Reduce Your Room Noise

    Trust me on this. Close your sink cover and put the plug down in the sink to make it quieter. Even better, pop a towel over the top as well. You’d be amazed at how much noise comes up from the rails through that pipe.

    25.) Tipping the Crew

    Tipping is entirely optional when you travel on the VIA Rail Canadian but it seems that most people do leave a tip in some form for the dining room staff and the room attendants.

    In the dining carriage, some people leave a smaller tip at the end of each meal, whereas some people tip twice along the way. The crew changes in Winnipeg so it’s once before Winnipeg and once at the end of the journey (assuming you are going all the way through).

    In terms of room attendants, we did see a recommendation that $5 per day is ok, but we went with $10 a day as they went above and beyond for us.

    26.) Keep an Eye on the Sky

    The great expanse of the prairies can produce some incredible sunsets. Sadly, our days were a bit grey but you just never know, so don’t forget to keep track of when sunset is due.

    After dark, head to the Skyline Dome and if nobody else is around, you can ask for the lights to be turned down for a bit of stargazing. Mind you, we did some lovely stargazing just lying in bed so anywhere with a window will do.

    27.) Expect Delays

    VIA Rail owns the train that you are travelling on, but they do not own the rails in runs upon. As such, they need to give way to the mighty freight trains that haul goods across the country. The train will stop often to let an astronomically long freighter pass, stacked two shipping containers high. There is no point fretting about this. Sometimes they make the time up, sometimes they don’t, but either way, you’ll get there eventually.

    28.) Check the Time

    As you traverse the width of Canada, you are going to pass through four different time zones. The train manager will announce the new time over the tannoy so make sure you listen out for the announcements. Oddly, Saskatchewan doesn’t use daylight saving time so don’t let that one catch you out in the summer months.

    29.) Get the Best Views of Mount Robson

    There are plenty of beautiful views along the way as you travel onboard the VIA Rail Canadian but most people agree that spotting the mighty Mount Robson is a highlight. This is the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies at 3,954 m above sea level. For the best views up in the dome car grab a seat early, and in the right spot.

    • Train 1 (Heading West) – Sit on the right after Jasper
    • Train 2 (Heading East) – Sit on the left before Jasper

    Tips for Dining and Drinking

    30.) Make Friends

    Dinner and lunch are both served in two or three sittings and as the tables are for four people, it is most likely you will be sharing with strangers. The staff seat couples sitting beside each other and facing the newbies. Take this chance to have a chat and turn those strangers into friends. It will be an awfully awkward meal otherwise..Have you ever tried to ignore someone sitting right in front of you?

    31.) Dinner Seating

    As mentioned, seating is done so that couples sit next to each other. This ensures that one person in each couple has a window seat.

    If you get travel sick, arrive a minute or two early and ask to sit facing forwards in the dining car.

    When the train is at its busiest, there will be two dining cars attached. Rumour has it, dining car B might be better as the Prestige passengers use it but we cannot confirm or deny this as we only had one.

    32.) The Menu

    The whole menu for lunch and dinner changes every day so if you want to try something, grab it when you see it. It might not be back! Breakfast has some of the same dishes, like the delicious Transcontinental breakfast but other options do change day to day.

    33.) Dinner Times

    Some people like to dine in the daylight whilst others to stay in the dome cars until it gets dark and then enjoy dinner. Consider your preferred dining time but do remember that Prestige passengers get priority so you might not get your first choice.

    Lunch and dinner are both multicourse meals, so you could consider dining later to ensure you have room for dessert.

    34.) Make Use of Your Included Drinks

    During dinner, your soft drinks (fizzy pop, soda) are included, but during the rest of the time it’s only tea, coffee and hot chocolate. If you have a Diet Coke addiction, make sure you get enough during those meals! You are welcome to bring your own cups to use with the hot drinks provided, so filling a thermos full of coffee to take up to the dome car is perfectly acceptable.

    35.) Don’t Skip Breakfast

    There are set times for lunch and dinner but not breakfast. You can pop in at any time during the breakfast hours and the staff will do a last call if you are having a lie-in. If jet lag has ruined you and you wake up way ahead of that time, there is a self-serve continental brekkie up for grabs (mostly muffins and fruit) put out for real early birds.

    36.) Enjoy Some Snacks

    There are lots of little snacks that are included in the sleeper and prestige classes. They can be found in the Skyline and Park cars so there isn’t any need to pack any snacks yourself. The Prestige rooms have a “cooling cupboard” but it’s not actually a fridge. Nobody else has a way to keep anything cool, so bear that in mind before you bring your favourite chilled snacks.

    37.) Time for a “Drink Drink”

    If you love an adult beverage, here are the ways you can enjoy them during the trip.

    • It feels naughty, but you are allowed to bring your own alcohol to drink in your cabin or berth. We bought some rum with us and purchased a couple of cans of pop onboard to mix with it for a pre-dinner beverage.
    • You can buy alcoholic beverages from the bar in the Park car for most of the day, but during dinner service, there might not be anyone here. Make sure you get your drinks sorted ahead of dinner. Alternatively, you can order drinks during dinner from your dining table. These will be added to a tab that you can pay at the end of your journey.
    • You could try to make friends with Prestige in hopes that they will share their alcohol inclusions…but that is probably easier said than done, and to be honest, the drinks are pretty good value so it isn’t really worth the hassle.
    • They may run a couple of wine or beer tastings during your journey. The pours are rather small but it is a nice way to get a cheeky extra drink whilst you learn about some cool local producers.

    Miscellaneous Tips

    38.) Don’t Make Plans for Your Arrival Day

    As I mentioned, delays are not only possible but common. The arrival time listed on your booking is more of a suggestion than anything. It would be a real shame to miss an onward connection or bucketlist attraction visit due to a late train. Best thing to do is to plan anything important for the following day and then have some fun extras in the back of your mind for if you arrive on time or early. We actually rolled into Toronto two hours early (having been five hours delayed the day before) and so we popped across the road to the gorgeous Fairmont Royal York to fill that extra time!

    39.) Fun Journeys to Add On

    If you are travelling on The Canadian, consider adding one of these journeys on to extend your trip

    • The Skeena – Rolling from Jasper to Prince Rupert, The Skeena takes visitors through the wilds of northern BC where the train is the only connection for many communities.
    • The Polar Bear Train – Although this is not its official name, it is widely known as such for the polar bear sighting opportunities at the end of the line in Churchill. This train carves a line two days north from Winnipeg to Churchill.
    • The Ocean – If you fancy another night on a train then hop on one of the many commuter trains from Toronto to Montreal and then climb onboard The Ocean. This trip is around 24 hours and travels up the coast from Mntreal to Halifax.
    • The Maple Leaf – Extending down to the south-east from Toronto, this two hour trip takes you down to iconic Niagara Falls.

    40.) Smoking/Vaping

    There is no smoking or vaping allowed onboard. You will have to make use of the “fresh air” time at station stops to indulge. Check with your room attendant to confirm where and when this is ok. If you are a heavy smoker or vaper, then bring some alternative options (nicotine gum, patches) if you don’t think you can make it. Breaking the rules can lead to fines or even prosecution.

    Final Thoughts on These VIA Rail Canadian Tips

    We hope you are as excited to take your train adventure as we were, and feel a little more prepared now too. Have the best time and if we missed any important VIA Rail Canadian tips, let us know!

    Rosie xx

  • Riding the Rails – A Brightline Premium Review

    Riding the Rails – A Brightline Premium Review

    When I first heard about the new train line carving it’s way up through Florida, I was super excited. Then it seemed to go rather quiet. Future plans slowly evolved, tracks were laid and trains were built. Now the Brightline plys it’s way between Orlando and MIami many times a day. We finally had the chance to jump onboard in November 2024 and we can’t to share our Brightline Premium review.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    The Brightline

    Way back in time, we first heard about this shiny new train line when it was being touted as a Virgin Trains project. “Awesome”, I thought, “We will fly to Florida with Virgin and then hop on a Virgin Train”. However, things went quiet from that end. I guess they decided the project wasn’t for them, and a new player entered the chat. Brightline had a spiffy website and seemed to be making progress (with a predictable blip due to COVID). Before we knew it, they had trains up and running between Miami and Fort Lauderdale and eventually, all the way up to Orlando. In November 2024, we had a trip planned to the theme park capital and decided it would be fun to try out the new service along the way.

    Miami Station

    The Brightline section is separate from the main Miami Station but is right next door. Coming at it from the South, it was about four minutes from the start of the Triline station. We took a covered walkway with plenty of retail space ready for its new occupants.

    We head for the giant yellow sign and waited for the whoosh of air con as the doors opened. I was mentally prepared for it to be freezing but actually, it was a comfortable cool (this coming from a lizard like me).

    The station was fresh and modern, with shiny floors and busy, bright screens. From speakers, chart toppers were playing, giving it a funky I’ve. There was a luggage drop off and guest services desk to the right. We passed this and made our way straight up the escalators.

    Up here, things are clearly still to be added with a sign for a food hall and more. We were running slightly behind schedule so made our way straight through the ticket barriers. This was super easy with QR codes available on the Brightline app and in my Apple Wallet. Next was a quick bag scan and we were through.

    The Brightline Lounge

    The Brightline Lounge had plenty of seating, a classy bar called Mary Mary and a shop selling snacks and souvenirs. Again, it was all airy and nicely lit, with fun details. It is just our style.

    The Premium Lounge

    So when I said we were running behind schedule, it is because we wanted some time in the Premium Lounge. Our train was due to depart at 08:50 and it was 08:30.

    The Premium Lounge was reminiscent of an airport lounge, with funky seating options but it had the advantage of a nice view to the city outside. This blew every other train lounge I’ve seen out of the water. On a central island we’re loads of breakfast options.

    There waa:

    • Fresh fruit
    • A small selection of deli meats
    • Cake
    • A warmer with sausage, mini omelettes and breakfast potatoes
    • A baked goods selection including bagels, waffles and pastries

    There was also a drinks station. Here was a coffee machine offering both filter coffee and espresso options as well as chai tea and fancy flavoured coffees. Below a fridge was stocked with waters and canned soft drinks/sodas. Finally, on the right was a drinks dispenser with beers and wines. I heard no less than six people say that it was too early for alcohol. In the UK, everyone would be holding a boozy beverage, instead telling their friends that it’s five o’clock somewhere. I guess airport rules don’t apply in train world?

    Now, at the time of writing, I am trying to maintain an intermittent fasting diet so this was torture. I just had a black coffee but wanted more than anything to construct a breakfast bagel with the round sausage patty, omelette and cheese slice. So much so that I was desperately trying to convince Mr Fluskey to have one, but he was happily demolishing some Frosties and a yogurt. All too soon our train was called for boarding so I grabbed my coffee and we made a beeline for Platform 2.

    A note from future me: I am writing this on the train and am deeply regretting not just indulging in a plate full of salami, waffles with syrup and that bagel….what an idiot.

    The Bright Blue

    Up another escalator were the platforms and our waiting train, the Bright Blue. As we walked along, the adverts covering the windows stood out to me. You would if ever see this on most trains around the world….you have to fund your railways somehow though, eh?

    Onboard

    The interior was lovely, with a light taupe colour scheme. There were two big light strips on the ceiling and two small blue ones. I wonder if they all have this blue or if this is because we are on the Bright Blue?

    There is a reasonably sized luggage rack at the end of the carriage and then a lovely large overhead shelf running along the whole carriage. Our backpacks and larger suitcases were stowed comfortably up there.

    The Seats

    The 21 inch wide leather seats were really comfy with oodles of leg room and even a slight recline. These are the kind of seats that slide forward rather than reclining into the space of the passenger behind. Thank goodness nobody will have to endure the drama that plane seats reclining brings. I am five foot but there was more than enough leg room me. Looking around at the taller folks around, they seemed perfectly comfortable too. And speaking of comfort, these seats are beautifully padded so a numb bum is not going to be your travel companion.

    There are tables of two and four which face each other, but for the “airline style” seats which face the backs of the seat in front, there is still loads of table space. The tray tables are huge, with plenty of room for a laptop or a full picnic. Theres even a cute little pop out (currently quite stiff but I am sure they will ease over time) for a little coffee cup or phone stand.

    The last thing to mention is the abundance of plugs around the seats. you are not gong to be fighting with the prson next to you for power. On each seat, under the central armrest you get two US plugs and two USB-A sockets. Then, there are two more mainline plugs under the seats in front. My seat’s plugs werrent working but Mr Fluskey’s were so there was still room for both of us to charge everything we needed.

    Food & Drinks

    We had read that drinks and snacks were included as standard in the Premium carriage. In the UK, this means a packet of biscuits and a cup of coffee or soft drink normally. Well, we were not prepared for the abundance on offer. The first service came through and I grabbed another black coffee and a snack for later, thinking we should make the most of the offer whilst it was there. (Me from the future again, my hands are a little jittery and I am wired).

    We were offered drinks and snack another four or five times. Mr Fluskey had plenty of caffeine and sugar in the form of several cans of fizzy drink. We left the journey with a bag full of snacks ready for our theme park days, saving us a trip to a supermarket. There’s a Clif Bar, M&Ms, popcorn and other nibbly goodies. Honestly, the amount you could eat and drink alone make the upgrade worth it.

    The Bathroom/Restroom

    Clean, large and well-maintained, this is everything you can ask from a train bathroom. This one has a fun wall design and not one but two large mirrors as well. I’m not sure getting changed in a train toilet is the greatest option but if needs must, this one has you covered.

    The door is opened, closed and locked using electronic buttons. Then, once you have done your business, the flush is a proximity sensor down on the right. I have a feeling this might confuse a few people. Then there is the Dyson tap. I love these cool tap and hand dryer combos bu pt Mr Fluskey hates them so clearly, they are massively divisive. There didn’t seem to be instructions anywhere so I bet lots of people miss it.

    The Views

    Sadly, the film on the windows was everywhere so it made taking photos and videos out of the window really tricky. Even more so was the sun shade which was pulled down by nearly every passenger. As ours was shared by three rows of seats and we are far too British, when the gent in the row behind pulled it down, we left it down whilst quietly grumbling about it. This is where the single seats facing each other have a major advantage. There is one shade per table and if you are travelling with those opposite, you can decide between you.

    Orlando Station

    We pulled into the Orlando station, located at Terminal 3 of the MCO airport. So handy for anyone travelling up to fly out..or the other way around. We hopped on the escalators into the station building for a quick look around.

    The whole place had a similar vibe to the Miami terminus but on a much smaller scale. The Premium Lounge was about a third of the size but still had loads of seating., It was just closer together. We tried to see what food was on offer but the main buffet was tucked away and we could only spot pastries…so that is all we can confirm.

    Now, one of the coolest little extras with Brightline Premium is that we were given a $10 Uber credit to be used from the station. This got us halfway to our hotel and was a really nice touch.

    Is Brightline Premium Worth It?

    Looking at some of the journeys for next month, you are looking at a price difference of between $20 and $80. For that extra money you are getting a larger seat, less crowded carriage …so far, so normal. However, then if you consider the swanky lounges and generous snack offerings things start to look better value. Finally, you are given that $10 Uber credit to use at the end of your journey which, for anyone travelling on to a hotel or home, is a great bonus. Alternatively, a preferential rate is offered in the Brightline car parks/garages.

    Honestly, the Smart carriages, Brightline’s standard cars, are still really nice. The only physical differences are that they have more people in and seats two inches narrower. Everyone gets free Wi-Fi onboard and you can buy snacks or forgo them entirely if you are not into munching between meals. I think that as a special treat or if you are on a vacation, Brightline Premium is definitely worth it, but if this was my regular commute I wouldn’t upgrade.

    The Future of Brightline

    In Florida, there are plans to extend the Brightline through Orlando, past Universal and over to Tampa. This is incredible news for non-drivers like me and I think it is excellent.

    I am also hopeful for the safety record to continue to improve as Floridians get used to staying away from the train tracks. Sadly, after years of slow and steady Amtrak trains, people think they can just nip across and be fine, but this is often not the case.

    Finally, there is good movement on Brightline West. This new route would run from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, utterly changing the game on the other side of the country. Fingers crossed!

    Final Thoughts on Our Brightline Premium Review

    The Brightline lived up to my expectations and then blew right past them. Clean, efficient and comfortable, this train is what modern train travel looks like. There are no arguments over navigation, dodgy i95 drivers and you get snacks. Plus, if it is the right time of day, you can all have a glass of wine in the lounge and then sleep your way to your destination if you like. Divine.

    Oh, and one last thought. I am hoping that passengers learn how to use their “train voice”, the hushed, slightly shameful half-whisper of train commuters around the world…but thats a me thing and it won’t stop me hopping back onboard soon.

    Rosie xx

  • The 10 Best Scenic Trains in Switzerland to Take with a Swiss Travel Pass

    The 10 Best Scenic Trains in Switzerland to Take with a Swiss Travel Pass

    Switzerland is the most beautiful country. Rolling green meadows, snow-capped peaks and azure lakes abound. Criss-crossing the gorgeous landscape is an incredible transport network. Efficient and well organised, it is the gold standard and leading the way are the trains. Pretty views, incredible destinations and unusual carriages make these the 10 best scenic trains in Switzerland.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    What is the Swiss Travel Pass?

    Travelling around Switzerland by train is easy but it isn’t always cheap. There are a few different passes on offer, including the half-fare card and Interrail/Eurail passes which will help. However, for the best flexibility and coverage, we love the Swiss Travel Pass. As well as trains throughout Switzerland, it includes trams, boats and buses as well as entry to over 500 museums. It can be incredible value if you use it wisely.

    What to know more? Check out what we LOVE about the Swiss Travel Pass here.

    The 10 Best Scenic Trains in Switzerland (In No Particular Order)

    A Quick Note About the Golden Pass

    Running between Montreux on the shore of Lake Geneva and Interlaken/Zweisimmen, the Golden Pass Line has three trains on this list. Each train traverses a lakeside hill above Lake Geneva, which glistens gently below. Then meander through green or snow-blanketed hills and picturesque villages with steep valley sides rising up to either side. It is one of the cutest routes in Switzerland and three super trains run on this route (number 1, 2 & 3 on this list).

    1 – Golden Pass Panoramic

    The first of our Golden Pass options is not the prettiest on the inside. However, it is not the inside we are concerned with. Each carriage has large windows, with extra panoramic windows on the roof to extend the views up to the surrounding peaks, and sky beyond. It is modern and comfortable but with a slightly plasticky feel.

    TOP TIP

    For an extra special treat (and an extra fee) you can pay to sit at the very front of the front carriage. The driver sits above this area so riders gets a view of tracks ahead of them and to both sides. This is very immersive, incredibly novel and if you speed up your videos, looks like a very scenic rollercoaster. It even has windscreen wipers, something I have never experienced on a train!

    2 – Belle Epoque

    Boasting the same beautiful lakeside switchbacks, and sweeping valley views as the Golden Pass Panoramic, the Belle Epoque train has carriages to rival the superb views outside. The interior is designed to recreate the magic of vintage train travel. The wooden accents and turquoise brocade finishings are warm and inviting, with a clean but vintage vibe. It feels so luxurious.

    TOP TIP

    The best part is that this train does not cost a penny more than the normal train. You need to check the schedule. You can reserve a seat for €9, or thereabouts, but we found that all the reservations were in one carriage. The next carriage along was empty so it may not be worth it unless it is peak season.

    3 – Golden Pass Express

    The third of our Golden Pass trio is the newest of the three. The Golden Pass Express is a modern and ingenious train. Whereas you need to change at Zweisimmen on the previous two Golden Pass trains, on the Golden Pass Express you can travel directly through to Interlaken. This is due to the undercarriage wizardry. When the track gauge changes at Zweisimmen, the wheel bogeys extend along with it. If you are seated in the extremely luxurious Prestige Class, there are screens where you can watch it happen.

    For a full review of the Golden Pass Express Prestige Class, CLICK HERE

    4 – Bernina Express

    Taking passengers across the Swiss/Italian border several times a day, the Bernina Express is the most famous train that runs on this track. It travels up from the foothills to the Swiss mountains above through the Bernina pass. There are striking valleys views and cute towns to peer nosily through.

    The most famous section of the track is something we all tried to create with our wooden Brio train kits as kids. The Brusio Spiral Viaduct (also known as the circular viaduct), sends the train around a 360° loop as it climbs or descends depending on which way you are travelling. The viaduct is 110 metres long and was built to minimise the slope of the tracks here, whilst avoiding the tedium of switchbacks.

    TOP TIP

    Although the Bernina Express runs between Switzerland and Italy, you can hop off at Campocologno if you have a Swiss only rail pass. Disembark here before catching the return journey.

    5 – Gornergrat Bahn

    Hauling tourists from Zermatt up to the Gornergrat for over 100 years, the Gornergrat Bahn is a highlight of any trip to the small resort town. This is the highest open rack rail (cog rail) train in Europe climbing from from Zermatt station at 1,620m up to its top station at 3,089m. The trip takes 33 minutes and has gradients of up to 20%.

    TOP TIP

    You can pay for priority boarding on the Gornergrat Railway. This is around CHF 7 and is 100% worth it if you want fantastic photos. Either way, try and snag seats on the right-hand side of the train as you face forward. for stunning Matterhorn views.

    6 – Jungfrau Railway (With Some Extras)

    There are two ways to reach Jungfraujoch. We think it’s worth going both ways for some fantastic trains views (as well as a rather super cable car). First, hop on a Wengernalp Railways train to Lauterbrunnen (this in itself is a very pretty little train ride). If you can, spend an hour marvelling at the gorgeous waterfalls that tumble towards the valley floor.

    From here, head for Kleine Scheidegg. Here you can switch to the original Jungfrau Railway train to take people up to the Jungfraujoch station. The train passes through the valley and plenty of waterfalls before it curves around the pretty car-free village on Wengen. Then you will find it cranking slowly uphill and into a tunnel that ends at the Junfraujoch station, Europe’s highest station. For this leg, you are going to want to be on the right side of the train as it is facing forwards.

    On your way back, the train (Jungfrau Railway) is in a tunnel 99% of the time but it stops at Eismeer Station, down at 3,159m. It has windows with a fabulous view of the Ischmeer (Ice Sea) … or so we hear. The day we visited, the clouds were inpenetrable.

    The train temrinates at Eigergletsher Station which has a fun outdoor terrace and from here, you can catch the swanky new Eiger Express cable car down to the popular town of Grindlewald. From there, you can hop back on the cure blue and yellow train down to Interlaken.

    7 – Glacier Express

    I was thinking of doing a “saving the best for last” moment with the Glacier Express but there are a couple of things people dislike about this iconic train journey…but more on that later.

    Commonly known as “The slowest express train in the world”, the Glacier Express takes eight hours to wind its stately way between St Moritz and Zermatt. The slow pace is intentional, allowing people to soak in the sumptuous views. For slightly more than half of the year, snow surrounds the higher sections of tracks but even in summer, it caps the mountains around. As you travel 180 miles between Zrematt and St Moritz, the tracks travel over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels. Countless gorgeous valleys appear below you and then rise up above. The Schöllenen Gorge will take your breath away, the Landwasser Viaduct is utterly capitivating and the Oberalp Pass, right up at 2,033 m, is the crowning glory of the route.

    The most obvious drawback for some people is the price. Although your ticket is covered by your Swiss Travel Pass, you do still need a seat reservation. As many people’s dream trip is sitting in Excellence Class, the £500ish reservation fee can put some people off. The good news is, the views are the same from every carriage so you can definitely just spend enough to sit in second-class and have a lovely time.

    TOP TIP

    If the expensive Excellence Class is a little out of your budget, (as it is ours), don’t fret! You can bring a picnic on board and enjoy your own food and drink throughout the trip. This means if you really want to sit and sip a bottle of bubbly, you can! Just remember to bring your own glasses. 

    8 – Vorelpen Express

    The Vorelpen Express travels between Lucerne in central Switzerland to St Gallen in the east every hour. This is the slowest way to connect between these two cities. Going via Zurich and switching trains is actually about 20 minutes quicker, but we are here for a relaxing time. It meanders through the low-lying foothills of the “pre-Alps” and skirts pretty lakes. The modern copper/orange Traverso trains lack the panoramic windows of many of these scenic trains, but they do have nice big windows so the views are still great. Some particularly picturesque sections include the glittering Lake Lucerne with Pilatus rising beyond, Mount Rigi and rolling green of the Toggenburg. Finally, just outside St Gallen, the train crosses the 99m high Sitter Viaduct, the highest train bridge in Switzerland…and that’s saying something.

    TOP TIP

    Don’t miss the “bistro car” which, rather than being a person behind a counter, is comprised of a couple of vending machines. One serves hot drinks, and then other cold drinks and snacks.

    9 – Zurich to the Rhine Falls

    As this train journey from Zurich to Schaffhausen trundles through the grey outskirts of the city you will assuredly be wondering why it on the list of best scenic trains in Switzerland. That’s fair, suburbs are rarely stunning. The scenic section comes right before you arrive at Neuhausen Rheinfall, 50 minutes and 23 miles later. The train line edges its way up the Rhine river at its most dramatic point. You are going to get wonderful views across the Rhein Falls, Europe’s biggest waterfall.

    TOP TIP

    Make sure you are sitting on the right as the train is facing forward for the view.

    Full disclosure, we haven’t taken this train to Rhine Falls, but have some some of the route on another trip and got to see the view in the museum at the Rhine Falls.

    10 – Luzern–Interlaken Express

    It is a lesser-known panoramic train so you will find it much easier to find a seat, and may even have a section all to yourself. The route is plied by swanky modern trains with roof windows, giving lovely views of the valleys it passes through. There are two main sections to this route, one traverses pretty green hills and cute villages. The other curves around the edge of the stunning, milky turquoise Lake Brienz. If you get peckish, there is a bistro car in the middle of the train which serves food and drinks all day.

    TOP TIP

    Both sides of the train will have fab views during the train ride so there is no need to scramble for seats. If you are departing from Lucerne, Lake Lucerne and Lake Alpnach will be on the left but then the best views switch for the rest of the journey. If you have room in the carriage, you can hop seats but if not, opt for the right. (The train switches direction during its journey but don’t move at this point, you are still in the right seat).

    Final Thoughts on the 10 Best Scenic Trains in Switzerland

    After two extensive trips through Switzerland by train, I can confidently say I am hooked. The seamless travel and fantastic pass options make travelling a breeze. Thus far, these are the 10 best scenic trains in Switzerland that we have taken, but there may be some more hidden gems. The Gotthard Express and Brienz-Rothorn Railway for instance…we will have to return to try and find them!

    Rosie xx

  • Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? – 7 Reasons to Choose a Swiss Travel Pass

    Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? – 7 Reasons to Choose a Swiss Travel Pass

    The Swiss Travel Pass is an amazing way to see Switzerland using public transport. It is the ultimate pass over and above the other pass options on offer. However, it doesn’t come cheap. So is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it? Here are 7 reasons to choose the Swiss Travel Pass.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    What is the Swiss Travel Pass?

    The Swiss Travel Pass is the ultimate addition to any Swiss adventure. It allows the holder to travel on buses, boats, trams and trains throughout Switzerland. You can opt for first or second class (obviously, we are first class kids these days). There are two variations of The Swiss Travel Pass:

    • The Swiss Travel Pass – The Swiss Travel Pass can be used on consecutive days (3, 4, 6, 8 or 15). Be sure you have big journeys planned on these days, or a big discount on a trip up a mountain planned to ensure it is good value every day.
    • The Swiss Travel Pass Flex – The Flex pass can be used for the same number of days (3, 4, 6, 8 or 15) but at any time within one month. It costs more but means you can split the expensive journeys up and relax between them.

    7 Reasons to Choose the Swiss Travel Pass

    1 – The Swiss Travel Pass Provides Plenty of Flexibility

    The best-laid plans of mice, men and tourists often go awry…that’s the poem, right?

    Happily, not being tied for certain trains means you have a bit more leeway. If you miss a train, no dramas, you can hop on the next one. In fact, in St Gallen, we left so much contingency time to walk to the station that we were on time for the one before…so we got that. No faffing changing tickets or having to bag a train conductor to accept a different train time, we just hopped on and flashed our pass when the tickets were checked.

    Of course, there are trains you will want or need to reserve but day to day, you have so much more flexibility.

    2 – The Swiss Travel Pass Doesn’t Just Cover Trains

    The Swiss Travel Pass doesn’t just get you passage on the trains of the country. These will probably be the primary way you travel around Switzerland, and it’s the main way to make The Swiss Travel Pass worth it, but you can use other forms of transport too.

    Trams, some funiculars and boats too are all included! It’s such fun discovering new ways of getting around. For example, when we visited Aare Gorge from Interlaken, we caught a train and bus from Interlaken. However, on the way back, we travelled on the boat that crossed Lake Brienz from Brienz to Iseltwald, had a little look around and then caught a different bus back to Interlaken. It was much more exciting and being on the water, in the sun just makes it feel so much more like an adventure.

    3 – The Swiss Travel Pass Includes Amazing Scenic Trains

    Some of Switzerland’s most iconic trains are included on the Swiss Travel Pass. The country is crisscrossed with the most beautiful train journeys, carving through picturesque valleys, skirting glittering lakes and climbing over mountain passes. The most renowned routes have panoramic trains which extend the views up to the mountain peaks. All you need to travel on these, you only need a Swiss Travel Pass. You can pay for a reservation for some but you don’t have to. (If you are travelling in high summer and want a window, you might want to).

    When it comes to the two biggest hitters, the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express, you just need to pay the reservation fee in your fare class. Travelling on these two trains alone will cover the cost of A three day pass so it is absolutely worth it if this is part of your Swiss trip.

    Check out our reviews for the Bernina Express and Glacier Express trains here.

    4 – The Swiss Travel Pass Also Includes Museums

    If you love museum hopping, and discovering those small and charming museums that every town seems to have, then you are going to be thrilled with your Swiss Travel Pass. It includes free or discounted entry to around 500 museums, galleries and historic buildings. To find a full list, check out the Swiss Museum Pass website here. Some of our favourites were:

    • St Gallen’s Museumstrasse has three big museums that are all included so you can spend most of a day popping in and out, soaking up culture along the way. You can also access the absolutely beautiful Abbey Library which is worth travelling to St Gallen for.
    • Lucerne has some weird and wonderful museums (especially the Glacier Garden and nearby Bourbaki Panorama) which are included. However, the Swiss Museum of Transport or Verkehrshaus der Schweiz is not. You will get 50% off with the pass though.
    • In Montreux, Chateau Chillon is included. This medieval castle right on Lake Geneva is so imposing and interesting.
    • Sadly, we missed the Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt but we have heard great things!
    • Zurich has a fair few museums included. The Swiss National Museum in Zurich is interactive and you can lose half a day there for sure. A couple of other notable museums included are the FIFA Football Museum, the Swiss Finance Museum (more interesting than it sounds).
    • Finally, head to Gruyere where you can visit both the Maison du Gruyere (the cheese museum) and the castle in the medieval town. It is the perfect cheesy day trip!

    Just remember, it has to be a travel day to use the pass so if you are excited to visit a certain museum, ensure you are travelling early or late that day to allow plenty of time.

    5 – The Swiss Travel Pass Grants Access to Discounted Mountain Excursions

    One of the most popular things to do in Switzerland is hop on a cable car or railway and go up. Viewpoints, mountain visitor centres and fun activities galore are on offer at the top of several famous mountains. These are not cheap excursions though. Happily, the Swiss Travel Pass gets you up to 50% off at many of Switzerland’s funiculars, cable cars and mountain railways.

    • If you are planning to visit Jungfraujoch from Interlaken Ost for example, travelling up by cable car and train, and coming back via the older trains, you are going to save CHF 76. It goes from 223.80 to 147.80. That’s not insignificant!
    • To reach Pilatus, near Lucerne, you can get to the funicular station for free. Then, to head up on the cogwheel railway and back down on the cable car, you are going to save CHF 39 (78 to 39).
    • Harder Kulm in Interlaken comes down 50% from CHF 38 to CHF 19.

    You can see that travelling into or out of the area on the same day as making one of these large savings, really bumps up the value of the pass.

    6 – The Swiss Travel Pass is Good for Budgeting

    Switzerland is an expensive country so anything you can do to help you plan your financials is a good idea. You are quickly going to find yourself spending more than planned unless you really sit and make a budget. Paying for the pass is a big layout initially but once you have paid for your Swiss Travel Pass, it is settled. It doesn’t have to cost you an extra penny for transport around Switzerland unless you are planning to pay for reservations.

    7 – The Swiss Travel Pass Gives You Spontaneity

    The possibility of taking fun day trips and side quests is greatly increased when you feel like you want to make the most of your Swiss Travel Pass.

    Found a great deal on Too Good to Go that is about to end a tram ride away? Had a sudden craving to capture a photo at a famous viewpoint before the sunset or visit a museum before the last entry? No dramas! The Swiss Travel Pass has it covered and doesn’t cost you a penny more. If it starts raining, your feet are freezing or you are just really tired, you can board a nice warm, dry bus or tram at the last minute without stressing about the added cost. Now, I know that many hotels and hostels give you a pass to use local transport when you check in but getting to your accommodation in the first place can be a chore, and it doesn’t cover as many options as the Swiss Travel Pass does.

    We were in Montreux and found out that the Gruyere annual cheese festival coincided with our visit. Well, this gave us the chance to try both the Belle Epoque (the 1930s style train) on the way up and the GoldenPass Panoramic train on the way back and it didn’t cost us anything. We may not have done the trip if we had to pay for each of those trains individually and just stayed put in Montreux. Similarly, we found a fun wine tasting around the lake from Montreux and could just hop on the train to get there.

    Final Thoughts on Why to Choose the Swiss Travel Pass

    So is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it? Definitely! If you can afford it, you should absolutely be picking up a Swiss Travel Pass. It is going to make your trip to Switzerland so much more enjoyable and if you use it well, you can get great value from it too. Next time we are in the country, I will be clutching mine, ready to see more of stunning Switzerland!

    Rosie xx

  • Riding the Rails – A Bernina Express First Class Review

    Riding the Rails – A Bernina Express First Class Review

    We have had the pleasure of arriving into Switzerland by train and by plane. Both were perfectly nice, but taking the Bernina Express from Italy to St Moritz was an experience! If you are planning to take the same journey then read on for our full Bernina Express First Class review.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    The Bernina Express

    The Bernina Express travels from Tirano in Italy, on a steady 7% gradient up to the Swiss Alps. We caught the train up to St Moritz which takes around 2.5 hours but you can travel to Chur which will take around 4. (Thats “Cor” like door rather than “Chur” like her). This route was electrified in the 1920s and have been carrying happy travellers ever since.

    If you would rather watch our YouTube video about the experience, it is below (or you can do both).

    A Milan Stopover

    The night before our Bernina adventure, we flew into Milan. This was a late night flight so we did a quick self check in to our hostel and got a decent seven hours kip.

    It was just a 15 minute walk in the morning to catch our Trenord train from Milano Centrale up into the valley that lies between Italy, Switzerland Austria.

    Route: Milano Centrale – Tirano

    Train No: 2818

    Train Time: 09:20 (actually 09:24) – 12:05

    Even this train ride was lovely. Sure it passed some grey factories and uninspired suburbs, but then we left north Milan and hit the lakes. I don’t know why it hadn’t occurred to me sooner, but the train line runs up past Lake Lecco and Lake Como. The train was quite busy but nearly everyone bundled off at
    Varenna Esino, trying to trundle their wheeled suitcases across the tracks.

    TOP TIP: For the best views of the water, sit on the left side of the train, as you are facing forward.

    An Unexpected Stop

    We pulled into Tresenda, the second to last stop before Tirano, everyone disembarked. We weren’t paying an awful lot of attention to be honest, until the train guard came down and gave us a quizzical look. This is where the train terminated, not Tirano. She gave a heavy sigh, enquiring as to where we purchased our tickets. When we said The Trainline, she gave a knowing nod and informed us that this has been a common problem. The train hadn’t been going all the way to Tirano for a while.

    We dashed along the platform, following the last couple of stragglers as they turned the corner and made their way to a small waiting bus. I was in slight panic mode. Google told us that this bus was going all around the houses and would give us just a minute or two between its arrival and the Bernina Express departing. Thankfully, Google had no idea that this was in fact a rail replacement bus and it got us there, in just over 10 minutes.

    Tirano Station

    We made it to the station with time to run to the nearest supermarket. Switzerland has much higher food prices in Italy so we wanted to stock up on food and snacks for the next few days. We picked up crisps, biscuits, prosciutto, a couple of Aperol Spritz bottles, some Prosecco cans (or so we thought), a red pepper, smoked cheese, bread, and breakfast bars. Stocked up and feeling full of adrenaline, we hot-foot it back to the station with another ten minutes to spare. Less wound-up passengers thronged the square outside and I envied their relaxed demeanour, many having just emerged from the nearby restaurants full and happy.

    Route: Bernina Express, Tirano – St Moritz

    Train No: 974

    Train Time: 13:17 – 15:45

    After all the drama, we arrived back at Tirano station before our train arrived into the platform. Everyone bundled onboard as soon as the train doors opened. Luggage stowed, seats located and excitement high, the train pulled away.

    We travelled on the Swiss Travel Pass. Check out what we LOVE about the Swiss Travel Pass here.

    The Carriage

    At first glance, the seats look a little like normal train seats, rather than the fancy ones you may be expecting. I think it is the dark grey that makes them feel a tiny bit commuterish. They are very comfortable, however, so don’t let the colour put you off. In second class, there are two sets of four seats so you will be sat next to or opposite people you don’t know if you are in a couple. In first class, you will find sets of two opposite tables of four. If you both want a window seat then book early.

    Mind you, everyone still has a good view as the Bernina Express has the most glorious panoramic windows. They stretch up and over the carriage in one large pane of glass, rather than the separate roof windows you will find on many other routes. These give an incredible view and we loved them.

    On the small tables, everyone had a map (actually, it was printed ON the tables) and a small leaflet about the journey. I wish we had looked at this sooner as we found a link to an audioguide and we didn’t see it until it was almost time to get off. I love an audio commentary so this was silly of us.

    The Food and Drink

    Each table is provided with a menu of snacks, and drinks available to purchase. The prices were a little steep for Italy but rather good for Switzerland so I guess you just have to even it out mentally.

    However, you are allowed to bring your food and so most people were having picnics. After our rather rushed food shop, we accidentally picked up the sparkling red wine rather than the Prosecco we were aiming for, but we still poured the cans into our plastic champagne flutes and toasted the journey whilst munching on peanut crisps, bread cheese and ham.

    After our stop, everyone was presented with a small tin, made up to look like the Bernina Express’ iconic red trains. A quick flip over and I saw the Lindt logo. The tin contained Swiss chocolate hearts and they fueled us through the rest of our Swiss adventure (one a day for dessert). We also had a small carton of iced tea. It seemed to be camomile, alpines herbs and mint. It tasted just like my step-mum’s ice tea and I loved it!

    The Viaduct

    The Brusio Spiral Viaduct was my highlight. As a girl that spend many an hour creating similar structures with a wooden Brio set, it was astonishing. Built in 1908, the 110m long viaduct takes the train round 360 degrees and raises it up a whopping 70m! Originally, a spiral tunnel was planned but I am so glad that they went with the open structure. It is strangely alluring and the curve suits the meandering valley.

    The Views

    The full journey covers 144 kilometres (around 90 miles), goes through 55 tunnels and across 191 bridges. The Bernina Pass is a UNESCO World Hertiage Site so you know its going to be gorgeous. We passed through villages, and soared above them on viaducts. Bright blue lakes, green meadows and dark pine trees slipped by as we gazed through the windows.

    THREE TOP TIPS:

    • They do say that from Tirano the best views are on the right, and from Switzerland they are are on the left. However, you can’t see the direction of travel when you are booking so this is a bit tricky to sort out ahead of time. Maybe pop across if you find some free seats on your favourite side. We were on the left and I can confirm that we spent a fair amount of time gazing through the other side. Either way, try to nab seats towards the centre of carriage as this will give you the broadest view.
    • The excellent curved panorama windows in first class dont open, obviously, but head backwards and at the end of the train you will find a little vestibule. Here you can open the windows and catch unobstructed view as well as seeing backwards along the tracks.
    • On the older trains, you miss out on the panoramic windows but the smaller windows do open halfway. If you are doing a return journey then travel one way on the older trains and capture all your photos. Then you can relax and just enjoy the views on the newer one on the way back.

    Alp Grüm

    Just before we head up into the Bernina Pass, there was a stop called Alp Grüm. Here, everyone could get out and take in the views whilst stretching our legs. It was a bit cold and windy so it was a bit of a struggle to stay out for the full fifteen minutes without a coat (I really should have popped back on b oard and grabbed it but I was over-excited). To the south we could see a gorgeous valley and the beautiful glaciers beyond.

    St Moritz

    Knowing that we were now up in the mountains, we bundled up enthusiastically before disembarking. Everybody else seemed to dive off the train and were long gone by the time we stepped onto the platform. I revealed to unenthusiastic Mr Fluskey that we were half an hour’s walk from the hostel on the other side of the lake. However, he reminded me that the Swiss travel pass doesn’t just cover trains, but buses too! There was a bus that would take us right to the front door of the hostel and so we gratefully hopped on.

    After checking in, I thought it would be nice to take a walk around the lake and see what Saint Moritz had to offer. It was a beautiful walk if a little grey. When we reached town, we took several escalators up to the main area above the lake, but it was, like a ghost town. We were quite tired from our day of travel so we decided to bail that same bus once again back to the hostel.

    We made some dinner and watched Celebrity Race Across the World as we munched our way through it. Budget travel mode was activated. Leftover Wagamama noodles, one packet of cheap ramen, overpriced hummus from the co-op in St Moritz and a single red pepper from Italy made up our first backpacker dinner. Ah Switzerland, you humble us all.

    The Swiss Travel Pass

    The Swiss Travel Pass is the ultimate travel companion in Switzerland. It allows you hop on and off buses, trains, boats and trams throughout the country. There are two main kinds of passes, The Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. The Swiss Travel Pass means using it on consecutive days (3, 4, 6, 8 or 15). The Flex pass allows you the same number of days but at any time within one month. The flex costs a little more but means you can relax along your journey.

    The Swiss Travel Pass covers the length of the Bernina Express, despite the fact it starts or ends in Italy. You just need to book a reservation for your selected class. When we travelled (September 2024) this was around 28 CHF in first class and 26 CHF in second class. This is totally worth it!

    Final Thoughts on Our Bernina Express First Class Review

    The thing about Swiss trains is that they are just too beautiful. Despite having done it once, I want to do it again. The September travel date allowed us to see the change of summer into autumn but now we need to see it all covered in snow! Whenever you go, you are going to have a wonderful day. Enjoy travelling through the most gorgeous places, relaxing, and letting the train driver do all the hard work. Cheers!

    Rosie xx

  • 12 Reasons to Fall in Love with Train Travel

    12 Reasons to Fall in Love with Train Travel

    Over the last fifteen years of travelling together, a few travel experiences have cemented themselves as must dos. One of these is the chance to try out a train in each new country we visit. From rickety night trains in Myanmar to super smooth intercity European trains or the great, silver snakes that slowly wind across North America, they all have something to offer. We know that you will fall in love with train travel too, so here are 12 reasons to fall in love with train travel.

    Peru

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    1.) The Comfort Level

    If you have ever been stuck in a middle seat, on a 4-hour flight, with little to no legroom, this is for you! On a train, seat pitch is usually much greater than in your average economy seat. Even at five foot, I have been in plane seats where my knees are close to the seat in front of me, but never on a train. Groups can often find a spot to sit all together which is much more sociable to chat easily.

    You can also stand up and stretch, go for a wander or pop to the loo whenever you fancy. (Although it is still wise to avoid using the loo when in stations on older trains or when the ticket inspector is coming around). With no pesky seatbelt signs or laws, you are free to roam.

    2.) You Can Picnic

    Sure, you can have a few bits on a plane but what you can fit in your hand luggage and can squeeze on those tiny trays is limited. On a train, you can find a table and spread out a little. If booking tickets in advance you can even request a table which gives you better chance of nabbing one. You also don’t have to worry about the quantity of liquids meaning you can have plenty of water/wine and yummy sauces/dips.

    The other advantage is that the only designated driver is the one hired by the train company. You are free to have an alcoholic beverage, as long as public drinking is allowed in the country you’re travelling in. In the UK for example, it is perfectly normal for people to share a six pack on the way home from work on a Friday night, or for people to have a drink or two on the way to a fun event.

    3.) Station Locations

    The convenience of travelling from city centre to city centre cannot be understated. This is especially true for those airports that don’t have public transport connections…(why do they still exist)? A short walk or bus/metro ride to your hotel after a train journey is so much nicer than the long journey from the airport. This could mean that a break between journeys that would otherwise involve sitting in the airport can instead be used for some quick sightseeing. Many European train stations have lockers that you can pay to use, meaning you can run around hands-free.

    Now, this isn’t true all over the globe. The USA in particular will leave it’s Amtrak passengers miles from town sometimes. Just do your research ahead of time so you aren’t stuck.

    4.) No Luggage Restrictions…to a Point

    Most trains don’t have luggage restrictions. Some long-distance sleeper trains encourage checking your big bags for the journey but this is the exception rather than the rule. Really, on most train journeys the only restriction is your ability to get it to the train, hoist it up and get it off again. There are normally luggage storage areas for larger bags. Just remember to sit where you can see your luggage or to secure it with a cable lock or similar, just in case any opportunistic folks decide to take your suitcase off at the next station.

    The other nice things about train travel is that liquid restrictions don’t really exist. Feel free to pack your big bottle of shampoo or a bottle of bubbly home from Italy.

    Of course, we will always be light packers

    The only outlier is the Eurostar which does have certain rules that are more like those you might find on a aeroplane when it comes to luggage.

    Some things you might need to check about are:

    • Pets
    • Bicycles
    • Instruments
    • Sports Equipment
    • Alcohol
    • Prohibited Items

    5.) You Can Take in the View

    Travelling at 30,000 feet does produce some amazing views across the clouds, beautiful sunsets and some cool views of mountain tops. However, being at ground level, moving rather slower, there is so much more to see.

    Some trains have routes so gorgeous that they are a tourist attractions in their own right. There is a reason you may have heard of the Glacier Express and that train that runs through the island of Sri Lanka between Kandy to Badulla (Ella).

    Check out our full Glacier Express First Class Review here

    6.) It’s Environmental Impact

    Better for the world than driving, or flying, taking the train is one of the greenest modes of transport around. Let’s take London to Paris as a quick example (and probably the most extreme). Taking a flight is around 68.54kg of CO2 pp + another 58.56kg of “secondary effect from high level non-CO2 emissions”. Taking the Eurostar is only 2.88kg of CO2 total. Driving it (if you could) would be 82.08kg for a single person in a car. You can see that taking the train makes a huge difference.

    Find out how to get the cheapest Eurostar tickets with Eurostar Snap

    7.) Hassle-Free Travel

    Arriving at the station fifteen minutes before your train departs with no security lines is a breeze. Compare that to arranging a rental car or the general faff involved in airport travel and you will see how hassle-free a journey by train is. The most hassle you’ll receive is having your ticket checked at some point along the route.

    Slovenia

    The clack of the rails, the gentle vibration of the windows and the scenery slipping by all make train travel incredibly relaxing. You are not in control and so you don’t have to make any effort to watch for traffic or road signs. Instead you can sleep, watch a film, read a book or just enjoy the view.

    Look at that chill

    8.) Flexibility

    You can easily book a train that allows you to travel at any time on a certain date. Some open returns here in the UK allow you take the return leg any time within a month. It gives you so much choice.

    Some countries have travel passes (Germany and Switzerland for example) with which you can travel anywhere and at any time within say, a month. Interrail/Eurail even have multi-country passes that allow travel on an any given day in periods all the way up to three months. Flight passes like these are rare and changing regular flights can be time-consuming and expensive.

    For more info check out The Pros and Cons of Interrail and Eurail

    9.) Train Travel is an Adventure

    Catching a long distance train can be such an adventure. This is especially true if you are travelling in a country you don’t live in. Working out the timetables, buying your tickets and getting to the right platform at the right time can sometimes be a challenge, but it is so rewarding. Then there are overnight trains. Having a bed for the night, falling asleep in one location and waking up in another is always exciting. You can even take it to extremes, and travel for up to 7 nights on the same train.

    10.) Buckets of Nostalgia

    Whether you have fond memories of your train journeys as a child, or for a time gone by when steam trains criss-crossed the countryside full of Agatha Christie murder mysteries, there is a huge amount of nostalgia for train travel. Of course steam locomotives, and restored vintage carriages are the epitome of classic train travel, but even some modern trains can spark sense of romanticism.

    The Jacobite, Scotland

    11.) Affordability

    Train tickets can be extremely cheap when booked in advance. If you know where you want to go and when, there are some seriously low prices to be snapped up. in much of the world train tickets are based on distance, hit a certain level, and the prices do not increase at all. This is vastly different from airline prices which, after a certain point, will only ever go up. 

    Then, once again, consider night trains. Not only is the price of your journey sorted but it covers your accommodation too. You have saved a hotel fee and gain some time back on your trip as well. 

    Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand

    Finally, if you are delayed, claiming your money back is so much easier! Many train companies have delay repay schemes. In the UK, you put in the time of your train, when it arrived, (they check it to make sure you’re not making things up) and then a refund is issued. They have set amounts of refund depending on how late your train works. Many European countries have similar schemes and they all pay out with a much shorter delay, and in a much more timely manner, than most airlines.

    12.) Getting Social

    Now, I am not saying you have to start talking to every carriage-mate you have. In fact, as a Londoner, this gives me the horrors. However, sometimes you can make some fast train friends. People who are off to big events are so ready to chat with like-minded people (especially if they have a drink or two with them). Delays are another moment people tend to come together. The collective eye rolls, leading to sad sighs are a beautiful bonding moment.

    Our night train buddies in Thailand

    Final Thoughts

    I know the name of this blog is Flying Fluskey but I think I love trains just as much as I love flying. I will continue to find any excuse to travel across the world by rail. I hope this inspires you to fall in love with train travel too.

    Rosie xx

  • GoldenPass Belle Epoque vs GoldenPass Panoramic – The Battle of the GoldenPass

    GoldenPass Belle Epoque vs GoldenPass Panoramic – The Battle of the GoldenPass

    The GoldenPass is a pretty train line that runs between Montreux and Lucerne. For part of it, two gorgeous trains take tourists in style. The GoldenPass Belle Epoque is a vintage style train, and the GoldenPass Panoramic is equipped with extra windows for fabulous views. We took a day trip to Gruyere travelling one way with the Belle Epoque and the other with the Panorama and it was the most fun train geek day! However, if you can only take one, which one should you go for? Check out our comparison as we settle the debate of GoldenPass Belle Epoque vs GoldenPass Panoramic – The Battle of the GoldenPass.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    One Quick Note: Both of these trains travel between Montreux and Zweisimmen. To continue your journey to Interlaken or Lucerne you will need to change trains. For the direct service to Interlaken, the only option is the GoldenPass Express. You can read all about our experience on the GoldenPass Express HERE.

    GoldenPass Belle Epoque vs GoldenPass Panoramic

    The Route

    Well, this one is a dead draw as they both traverse the same tracks.

    Winner: Draw

    Read about the pros and cons of the Interrail Pass

    The Seats

    GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    The turquoise jacquard of the Belle Epoque, along with the real golden wood is so pretty. The seats are very upright so may not be too comfortable for a long journey, but they do look stunning. There are luggage racks and even the plugs, belying the Belle Epoque’s vintage vibes. Seats in second class are identical to those in first class but have a 2:2 configuration. The tables can fold out, making getting in and out easier. This is especially handy if you don’t know the people you are seated with.

    On our journey, there was a big group booked in the same carriage as us, so it was really crowded, but the other first class compartment was completely empty. We didn’t have to share a table after all. We still recommend booking a reservation to ensure a seat, but then check out the rest of the train and see if you can move to make things a little quieter.

    GoldenPass Panoramic

    The GoldenPass Panoramic has a slightly dull dark grey and blue colour scheme with seat covers very reminiscent of British Rail in the 1990s. The seats are large with curved backs to help with ergonomics and comfort. For a longer trip, these would be better for a long ride for sure. The plastic tables fold out which again, is great for getting in and out. Seats in second class are grey and less plush, set in a 2:2 configuration and with no large tables. This isn’t ideal if you want a picnic…but I am sure you’ll manage.

    Winner : GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    The View

    As these two trains traverse the same stretch of track, they both get top marks for the scenery. This battle is going to come down to the windows…

    GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    The windows of the Belle Epoque are big, but nothing special. They do make sure that the tables and chairs match the width of the window so everyone gets a good view. You aren’t going to pay for a window seat and end up with a wall instead.

    Check out what we LOVE about the Swiss Travel Pass here.

    GoldenPass Panoramic

    As you expect, the windows on the panoramic train are a little bit special. Not only are they wider and taller than those on the Belle Epoque, but they are additional windows up on the ceiling giving extended views up to the mountains and the sky. Plus, if you are sitting in first class, the chairs are elevated, so it feels like you have windows from your knees upwards. It’s all landscape all the time!

    Then, if you are willing to splash a little extra cash, there is something rather exceptional. For an extra 16 CHF or so, you can go all the way to the front of the train. Under the driver, you can sit by a large front-facing window, or is that just a windscreen? It’s pretty unique and the views along the tracks are very cool, especially during the big turns, when you have a mountain looming in front of you and sweeping down towards the lake at Montreux.

    Winner : GoldenPass Panoramic

    The Catering

    GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    There is a menu of food and drink available available for purchase, but you can bring your own picnic. (If you have seen Instagram setups with afternoon teas and fancy tablecloths, those people brought that with them). The website says that catering is only for groups that have rebooked but we were able to order at the table so maybe this only refers to proper meals? We bought an eye-wateringly expensive glass of champagne to share, and the gentleman next to us was impelled to do the same. It just felt right in the fancy surroundings.

    GoldenPass Panoramic

    There is no food and drink option on the GoldenPass Panoramic, but again, you can bring your own picnic.

    Winner : GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    The Overall Experience

    GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    The Belle Epoque celebrates the golden age of train travel. Gleaming wooden panels and beautiful brass details give it a sense of authenticity, even if it is a new and slick Swiss train. Anyone British is hard-pressed not to mention Agatha Christie in their description of any lovely old train and I am trying hard not to…but it evokes the magic of Murder on the Orient Express. It has unmistakable 1920s vibes, and if you can snag a table for two, it is very romantic. If you are in it for the experience, then the Belle Epoque is for you.

    GoldenPass Panoramic

    The panoramic train is very modern and the interior is not particularly pretty. However, it is not the looks of the carriages that are its big selling point. You won’t be looking at the inside of the train at all with all that window to the outside on offer. If the scenery is the most important thing for you, then you will definitely want a seat on the panoramic.

    Winner : GoldenPass Belle Epoque

    Final Thoughts on GoldenPass Belle Epoque vs GoldenPass Panoramic

    As you can see, there are plus points on both of these trains, and I’m pretty sure you will have an excellent time. No matter which you pick. However, for me, it has to be the Belle Epoque as I don’t think I will ever get over the beauty of vintage trains. This is a fraction of the price of taking many luxury trains around the world, especially if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, Interrail Pass or similar.

    Travelling at the front of the GoldenPass Panoramic, with the giant windscreen, was definitely novel and I think for families that it is the way to go but as a couple, capturing the magic of vintage train travel is always going to be a winner.

    Both of these fantastic trains offer unique experiences so if you can try both then why not give it a go? You can change at any of the stops along the way if you are travelling on any kind of train pass. You’ll just have to wait an hour for the next train.

    Mind you, if you want real luxury then the GoldenPass Express Prestige Class wins handdown…but that’s another story.

    Rosie xx

  • Refinement on the Rails – Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls Full Review

    Refinement on the Rails – Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls Full Review

    In 2023, we had the chance to take a trip from the very top of our travel bucket list, a four-night trip with Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls. Four days went by in a flash and it was pure vintage joy all the way. Rovos Rail specialises in interesting itineraries all infused with the essence of golden age glamour. Join us for a full review of our time travelling with Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    To learn lots about Rovos Rail, check out our blog post; 16 Rovos Rail Tips which is stuffed full of important info.

    Arrival at Capital Park Station

    The Station

    We booked a taxi from our hotel in Johannesburg to Capital Park, the Rovos Rail station-cum-museum in Pretoria. It is not very near the main train station in the city so transport is a must. As we stepped out of the taxi, it was clear another world awaited. A red carpet led to a doorway under a colonial canopy. Neatly uniformed porters stood guard over a trolley already groaning with luggage, and the host smiled in greeting as we flapped in excitement. I was positively cooing. We gave our names, confirmed a few details, and attached our fancy new luggage labels to our bags before taking the red carpet inside. A lovely lady offered us water, juice or bubbles. No surprises, we took advantage of the wine. In the open lounge, across the sea of comfortable chairs and sofas, we spotted the table full of hot drinks, more juice and an ice bucket of sparkling wine available for top-ups. There was also a little afternoon tea so of course I grabbed a finger sandwich.

    Playing On the Locomotive

    We took our glasses outside to the platform, where we discovered a hissing, ticking, magnificent steam engine. This gorgeously restored locomotive is one of the beauties owned by Rovos Rail. Sadly, they are not able to pull the trains anymore due to a combination of regulations and logistics. Still, we had a grand old time taking photos, getting a glimpse into the furnace, and playing on the tracks in a way you can’t normally do. The rest of the guests were much better behaved, but I think they were missing out!

    A Look Around the Rovos Rail Museum

    On our way in, the staff mentioned a museum we almost totally forgot about. When they announced that our tour of the sheds was in 20 minutes, we suddenly remembered. I dashed through the corridor of twisted trees to find the museum and have a quick look around. It was a delightfully eclectic collection of rail, memorabilia, transportation paraphernalia, and other vintage machinery and art. I wish I’d had more time, but I had to whizz around. As I made it back, slightly out of breath, it was time to don our high viz vests and take the tour.

    A Tour of Capital Park

    Tours of Capital Park are conducted by Rohan Vos, the creator of Rovos Rail himself. His talk was both slick and still clearly bubbling with enthusiasm. You won’t find anyone older than seven who is more thrilled to talk about bogies.

    The group got to see how the carriages were salvaged, purchased and restored. It is an impressive transformation. New windows are cut, holes patched up in the sides and the interiors are totally redone. We also got a glimpse into the hardware under the train. The problems of the wheels, the fuel and the government bureaucracy, all told by the guy who does it for the love. The other nice thing we learned is that the skilled workers here are hired locally as part of a social initiative and trained up (no pun intended) on-site. It is so great to know the success of Rovos benefits the community it is based in.

    Welcome On Board Rovos Rail Pride of Africa

    Boarding the Rovos Rail

    After the tour, everyone took a seat in the lounge for a little admin. We had a quick talk about the train, including some safety information and a quick guide to how dinner worked. Then they began a register. As each name was called, the guests were whisked away. We were nearly last, and I started to get nervous that we’d been forgotten. Luckily, our names were finally announced (and with Fluskey pronounced properly) and we trotted excitedly along the platform. It was getting dark so we didn’t really get any good photos but hey ho, there was plenty of time for photos. We found our room and dived in, ready to have a proper nosy around.

    Our Room – The De Luxe Suite

    The Room

    The deluxe suites are 11 m², which I thought would feel smaller than it did. We weren’t in each other’s way much at all whilst in the room which isn’t always the case when we are travelling and it’s definitely the largest room we’ve ever had on a train.

    The decor was deliciously vintage with West African mahogany panelling, lily lamps and three super tactile light switches that made me smile every time I flicked them. That all sounds a little dark, but the modern lighting that was less obviously visible, plus the lovely large windows ensured it was light enough.

    …and speaking of the windows. The unusual and brilliant thing about all the rooms on Rovos Rail is that the windows open fully. This allows you to spot wildlife, enjoy the breeze and hang your head out like a happy dog from a car. In a rather thoughtful touch, everyone is provided with safety glasses so they can look out the window without fear of getting grit, smuts or insects in their eyes.

    In the centre of the room was a table and two chairs. The minibar was tucked beneath the table in a nice cupboard. This was a magic minibar but more on that later. Below that was a drawer full of tea and coffee, a kettle to make them and a teapot (how British). There was a wardrobe with plenty of shelving and a little hanging space. It couldn’t be deeper or it would eat up too much floor space. We hung our formal wear in here but used the shelves for the rest of our clothes. This was fine for our four-night trip but wouldn’t work on the longer itineraries.

    In terms of luggage storage, we fit our three hand luggage size cases under the bed easily, but for longer journeys or bigger bags, there is a large luggage shelf by the ceiling along the whole length of the room. We aren’t the tallest people or the heaviest packers so we didn’t bother with this higher storage.

    Our Bed

    Our bed was made up as a double. I think you can see from the wooden frame at the base of the bed that it could be two singles. Our set-up meant we had a giant bed where we were nowhere near each other overnight, which was ideal. Dealing with a swaying train is quite enough without adding a tossing and turning partner into the mix. I thought the bed was very comfortable. It was the right level of firmness for my taste, although I found the pillows a little soft. There are a million of these, however, so we could build the correct level of pillow every night. Turns out, the spare blanket tucked under one of these was perfection. The bed was beautifully turned down during dinner and our hostess even included Mr Fluskey’s travel pillow in her displays which was so sweet.

    Amenities

    Back to that magic mini bar. We popped beverage requests on a little form and our incredible, incredible room hostess would fill the fridge with these desired drinks. We had bubbly, Savannah Light (a low-alcohol South African cider) and Cokes for the duration of our trip. It was pretty epic. We also had water bottles provided and could have still, sparkling or both. The water in the taps is fine for washing and brushing your teeth, but it is tank water, so not for drinking. These bottles, I was happy to find out are plant-based and biodegradable. Sustainability is definitely something Rovos takes seriously.

    The amenity kit provided was quite extensive and again, has a focus on reusable, non-plastic products. As well as shampoo and conditioner, we also got lotion, insect repellent and even reusable face wipes. Plus if we needed earplugs, we could just ask the train manager, but we had brought our own from home.

    The Bathroom – A Full En Suite

    Every room on Rovos Rail has a full ensuite with a proper toilet, complete with wooden seat. It felt so luxurious on a train but I had spotted a pile of these seats on the warehouse tour so I was expecting no less! Not only that, but we had fluffy towels, fluffy robes and a proper shower. The large shower head was great but the other had a bit of a splutter so I stuck to the large one. I was amazed that the shower had enough room to shave my legs without having to train as a contortionist. There was even a cute little cabinet above the sink which contained room bug spray (important after indulging in our open windows).

    Exploring the Rovos Rail

    The Lovely Lounge Car

    The lounge car was in the centre of the train. It was full of sofas and armchairs, a comfortable place to read a book, have a chat with new train buddies or play one of the provided board games. The games were mostly quite traditional: Backgammon, Chess, Scrabble. I guess that my favourite kind of game that involves shouting answers too loudly (Taboo, Articulate, Heads Up) would shatter the refined ambience. In fact, Heads Up would be a definite no-no, as passengers are encouraged to leave laptops, tablets, phones etc in their suites apart from for photography purposes. The whole idea is to capture the decorum of days gone by and to coax passengers to get to know one another. I am absolutely certain that a carriage full of people scrolling through their social media would be a very different vibe.

    It was possible to order a drink and pick up a snack here too. There were nuts, sweet, dried fruit and even some biltong. At the back of the train was the bar car, the other spot for a nibble.

    My Favourite Spot – The Observation Car

    The bar car was quite plain, the drinks slightly hidden away but it did have some comfy seating options. Most were angled into the centre of the train making this a great place to sit and meet new people. Through the bar car was the observation deck. This had space for around 8 people comfortably, and lots more when the view was good. The whole thing was open air and sitting out here with a drink was so lovely. It is not often you can be outside on a train. The speed limitation of Rovos Rail lessened the wind and the nearby bar made this an extremely nice place to relax.

    Dining on the Rovos Rail

    Serving three nice meals a day on a train is no mean feat. When you are stuck in a rolling tube, the company could probably feed you whatever they want in terms of quality. However, Rovos Rail takes its dinners seriously. It is remarkable the fine dining that is produced in the small galley kitchen.

    All meals are served in the two dining cars. One is refurbished as a Victorian car and one is a touch more modern, styled as a 1940s car. They are both beautifully lined with wooden walls and carpeted in the signature deep green diamonds. The older style carriage had wooden beams and smaller windows, whereas the other was much brighter with bigger windows, less covered by their curtains. We liked to have dinner in the older style room (it is all vintage charm) but breakfast in the sunlight of the newer one.

    Breakfast

    Breakfast was served between 07:00 – 10:00 so of course we arrived at 09:30, cutting it a little fine. In the centre of the dining cars was a selection of yoghurts, cereal, fruit and granola bowls to grab and take to the table. Then, from the menu, we could choose from continental meats and cheeses, and hot options including omelettes and eggs prepared in a variety of ways. I had seen pictures of the tables stuffed with cheeses, meats and pastries but they are now served individually I am guessing this is either a hangover from the covid pandemic or to save waste. The baked goods came out in cute little baskets. The toast was great and Mr Fluskey couldn’t get enough of it. In each basket there was also a flaky pastry, I couldn’t resist those croissants, and a muffin which one of our fellow guests was nuts for. I was thrilled with the amount of smoked salmon that came with my eggs and the GIANT omelette. There were so many options of sides including salmon, sausages, bacon, mushrooms and tomato. Omelette fillings included ham, cheese, mushroom, tomato and onions. The one below had ham, cheese and tomato and look how stuffed it is! For someone who doesn’t eat breakfast often, I got stuck in! Oh, and the coffee was Kenyan and mellow enough to have black which was a great kick in the morning.

    Breakfast in Bed

    We ordered breakfast in our room one morning, feeling like we wanted to be super lazy and indulgent. I wrote our requests on a little card and left it in the room the night before. So far, so good. However, in the morning I opened the door to a line of staff all carrying cloches and realised that I had accidentally ordered two of everything! Well, we tried our best to eat everything but didn’t quite manage it. We added our little bottle of bubbles from the fridge to make it a truly special breakfast in bed…almost a bottomless brunch with the right ratio of food to booze!

    There was more food than this, but we only made it through this lot.
    Lunch

    Lunch and dinner only have one sitting. They are both scheduled and announced by a delightful gong/glockenspiel that is played throughout the train. (That doesn’t mean on a speaker, that means a host passes through the whole train playing the instrument in real life). The meal is a four-course affair with wine pairings…but more on that later. There is a starter which every day was a total flavour bomb (scroll the slideshow to see some of the lunch dishes we had). Then, the lunch main is always a little fun and modern South African fusion. A light cheese course and a whimsical dessert completed the meal. My particular favourites included the Amarula parfait (I am a big, big fan of the South African liqueur) and the coconut prawns which were absolute perfection.

    • Banoffee tartlet with bana and caramel cream
    • Prawns in coconut sauce with basmati
    • Amarula parfait with mango coulis
    • Karoo crumble cheese
    • Salmon fillet with asparagus, peas and fried brown rice
    • Leek and ricotta tarlet with black forest ham
    • Goats cheese with truffle honey and luxury melba
    • Almond chocolate trifle
    • Chorizo and butternut linguine
    • Pulled oyster mushroom
    Dinner

    For dinner, you will get another four courses and another four drink pairings. This is an elevated style of cooking with more celebration of local produce. The starters were all so delicious! The first night we had Cape Malay Bobotie Samosas. I had never eaten a samosa with a knife and form but it felt like I should. The inside was full of spicy cape malay stew and they were so, so delicious. It was widely agreed by everyone that we could have a bucketful each. My other favourite dishes included:

    • Smoked kudu carpaccio served with Italian additions of parmesan and pinenuts. It was packed with flavour but so delicate.
    • Springbok line and polenta cake. The meat was perfectly pink and the polenta cake was a lovely carb to serve on the side. I heard someone saying they didn’t eat theirs because they weren’t hungry and I was one glass of wine away from offering to have theirs.
    • The gravadlax was thick, subtly flavoured and additive. I asked if I could have the leftovers for breakfast but they laughed as if I wasn’t deadly serious!
    • The chocolate fondant was by far the best I’ve ever had. The ooze was perfect!
    • Butternut ravioli with herb butter and toasted pecans
    • Smoked kudu carpaccio with pine nuts and parmesan
    • Duo of champagne sorbet
    • Gravalax salmon with capers
    • Kilimanjaro cheese with apricot and thyme jelly and toasted grain bread
    • Cape Malay bobotie samosas
    • Beef fillet with potato gratin, tenderstem broccolli, glazed carrots and red wine jus
    • Blue cheese, a digestive and gooseberry preserve
    • Chocolate fondant with berry coulis and ice cream
    • The perfect chocolate fondant
    • Chicken breast stuffed with feta and sundried tomatoes and served on vegetable couscous.
    • Pineapple pudding with coconut marscapone
    • Mature Williston with rosemary shortbread and pinotage preserve
    • Springbok loin on wilted spinach, baby corn and polenta cake with plum jus
    • Amabutho cheese with water biscuit, clementine preserve and fresh fruit
    • Pot de creme with berries, pistachios and marscapone

    On our last night, we had a formal night. I guess that sounds weird when every dinner is formal, but they lit real candles, upped the level of indulgence in the food yet again and even made our napkins into little shirts which was utterly adorable.

    The only thing I would change about the food service on board the train is the presentation of the cheese courses. They were on the same plates as the starters and mains, and although I understand it makes things easier, it always felt so lost on the plate.

    Drinks

    Rovos Rail is fully all-inclusive so all drinks are included. The only exception is French champagne which has a surcharge and has to be ordered ahead of time. I get that this might be a nice touch if you are planning a proposal or something but I can attest to the South African bubbly being delicious and free flowing so why bother? We had a fair few glasses of bubbly when it was offered and out of that magical fridge.

    Drinks at Dinner

    As mentioned, every lunch and dinner came with four suggested drink pairings. The first courses tended to be wine, moving from white to red. The wines were all South African and it was so interesting to learn about the breadth of the varieties they had (so many beyond Pinotage). I tried the red every time but didn’t always opt for a whole glass as it isn’t normally my jam. Sometimes I stuck with the white from the previous course, sometimes the onboard sommelier got us a white that would match the course and sometimes we went totally off menu (Mr Fluskey loves rum). The last course was often paired with a liqueur. We sipped our way through some strange barback bottles that you wouldn’t normally try by themselves. It was fun.

    Drinks After Dinner

    Throughout the day, it was possible to get drinks from both the lounge car and the bar car but it was nicest to head to the back and get an after-dinner drink. We were especially fond of the Springbok shooters that apparently taste like a South African sweet called a Peppermint Crisp. All I know is that they are minty, Amarula-y, and they make me happy. On our last night, the bar had a variety of cocktails that we could try which was swell. Along with our normal springbok digestif, I had a heart of darkness (Amarula and dark coffee liqueur), and we enjoyed mojitos and some other very grown-up sippers before moving back to bubbly. It was a nice night, chatting with our tour friends as well as meeting new train buddies, all helped along by the social oil of alcohol.

    Our Rovos Rail Excursions

    Our Rovos Rail trip from Pretoria and Victoria had two excursions. The first day was totally on board (apart from a lovely stop at a train station with a cool old train). We hopped off to take a stroll and to see the old loco. It was a bit mucky but Mr Fluskey still had a nice time climbing all over it.

    However, on afternoons two and three, we were off the train and exploring Zimbabwe.

    Motobo National Park

    Motobo National Park in Zimbabwe is not known as a game park, but more for its striking landscapes and cultural significance. After a 40 minute coach ride, the group divided between a few jeeps and the exploration of the park began. We had three main stops. The first was to learn the history of the park and the Bushmen that have inhabited this land for thousands of years. it was fascinating. The next was a market full of arts and crafts sellers, all of whom were from tribes that live around the park. We bought an incredibly detailed little wooden rhino for Mr Fluskey‘s family. Our final port of call was a pitstop for sundowners. I didn’t fancy a glass of wine, so I opted for a Grapetizer, which I had never tried, mixed with vodka…because I am classy.

    Everyone took a walk up the hill to see the grave of Cecil Rhodes. Zimbabwe has a love/hate relationship with this British businessman. He requested to be buried between the stones atop this sacred hill and it now a bit controversial, but you’ll learn all about that on the tour. Whoever end up here, it was a lovely place to watch the sunset.

    Hwange National Park

    Hwange National Park is home to tens of thousands of elephants, and if pachyderms are your poison, then you’ll love it. The train stopped right in the park as everyone gathered in the lounge car. We took the temporary steps down and to the waiting cars. Some people even used temporary steps to get into the jeeps!

    The game spotting in Hwangi is helped by the water holes built by the park. There isn’t a lot of natural water here so it really supports the wildlife. The drivers all take slightly different paths so you we saw different things from our train mates. We saw many majestic elephants, zebras, a grumpy hippo, gorgeous bird life, and a fair few impalas. Another group spotted lions, asleep in the shade near the waterhole. I am not going to lie, I was a little jealous.

    The group reconvened at the hideaway Safari camp with drinks and some substantial snacks. A glass of wine, a spinach pie, and a delightfully sticky chicken wing by the fire was the perfect end to the day.

    The Overall Experience of Our Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls

    They say that time flies when you’re having fun and I was astonished how time slipped by during our journey. Here are a couple of my favourite parts of the trip:

    The Gorge

    On our first full day, we ran alongside a steep hillside to one side of the train and a pretty river to the other. In the distance, we could spot iconic Baobab trees. Everyone was crammed onto the observation deck and it was a nice bonding moment.

    Dressing Up

    I love a costume, a dressing up party, or any kind of enforced dress code, which allows me to shop, plan and get into character. If we go to Disney, I am Disneybounding. If its a 20s night you know the hair and makeup is on theme! On board Rovos Rail we got to pick up some safari gear for day trips and formal attire for dinner. Finding the outfits, editing the outfits and working out how to pack the outfits were all part of the excitement. Then, as each activity arrived, it was really exciting to pull out the clothes we had planned and get into the style.

    The Wine Pairings

    It’s not often I have four drinks with lunch. It may be a little more common with dinner? However, it is definitely not normal for us to enjoy this kind of boozy indulgence for three days running. It was so fantastic being presented with beautiful bottles of delicious wine or weird and wonderful liqueurs with each course of our meals. Who knew South Africa had such a wide range of delicious wines?

    Our Breakfast in Bed

    Well, despite messing up my ordering and ending up with two of everything, clambering into bed with trays full of delicious breakfast and a bottle of sparkling wine from the fridge felt so luxurious. it felt like we were being a bit naughty. The train was passing through Hwange National Park at the time so we could do some wildlife spotting right from our sheets as we sipped the bubbly. It was a total treat.

    The Staff

    Everybody on board was so incredibly friendly. This wasn’t just at meal times or during service, but even as you passed through the carriages, everyone would have a little chat. Letting each other pass in the corridors with awkward giggles was always funny, and most interactions were more than just a sentence or two with plenty of genuine smiles. I couldn’t fault the service, and I feel like we were treated as family.

    Final Thoughts on Our Trip with Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls

    I don’t know if I can describe just how much I enjoyed this experience. Dressing up, being on our best behaviour and pretending to be awfully fancy was just fantastic fun. The whole four days, from start to finish, were beautifully curated by Rovos Rail but with space for everyone to have their own special holiday. It was a couple of days after our wedding anniversary but this would make the most phenomenal way to spend any kind of occasion and PERFECT for an engagement! I would hop aboard in a heartbeat if we ever got the chance to return to the rails, with a glass of bubbly in hand and a fancy frock in my bag.

    Rosie xx

  • 16 Rovos Rail Train Tips – Everything You Need to Know About Rovos Rail

    16 Rovos Rail Train Tips – Everything You Need to Know About Rovos Rail

    If you are off on the trip of a lifetime, catching the Rovos Rail train, you going to be full of questions. Alternatively, it could be your travel partner who hasn’t been involved in the booking whatsoever and has a million queries. To help out, we thought we would put together our own Rovos Rail FAQs as a quick reference guide for your amazing trip. Read on for our top Rovos Rail train tips.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    Don’t miss our review of Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls

    1.) How Long Has Rovos Rail Been Running?

    I am sort of avoiding saying that Rovos Rail has been going for a long time as I am very slightly older than Rovos Rail. In 1989, Rohan Vos decided to turn his idea of a family caravan train into a business. He took his family and some friends (four of whom paid for the trip) down to the Eastern Transvaal. Things gained steam (pun intended) in the 1990s and now Rovos Rail is widely considered the most luxurious train in Africa with a few years behind it.

    Rohan Vos is still hands-on and gives passengers tours of the workshops.

    2.) Where Does Rovos Rail Go? – The Rovos Rail Routes

    There are numerous routes that Rovos Rail offers. You can do as little as two nights, and as many as fifteen. You can remain within South Africa, travelling to Durban or Cape Town from Pretoria These are the shortest and cheapest routes, also saving you the cost of visas as you aren’t crossing any borders. If this is your once-in-a-lifetime trip and you have saved hard to go on a short trip then these are your best bet.

    Other itineraries stretch across South Africa, up into Namibia and round into Zimbabwe.

    Rovos Rail also has a special golf trip, the Golf Safari itinerary. This is a nine-night route that stays within South Africa. You will get a chance to take game drives and practice your drives as the train travels to game parks and golf courses alike. There are cultural excursions too so there is a little something for everyone.

    Finally, there are the routes that travel up into Eastern Africa and one that crosses right from Dar Es Salaam on the east coast to Lobido on the west. These long journeys take a little over two weeks and are total bucket list journeys.

    We love train travel! Check out more of our adventures by rail here.

    3.) What Are the Rooms Like on Rovos Rail?

    There are three kinds of rooms on Rovos Rail’s classic trains. Each has its own bathroom with a toilet, basin and either a shower or bath. You will also find an aircon unit in each room and a little bar heater in each bathroom so whether it is toasty or chilly outside, you will be comfortable

    • The Pullman Suite – This is the smallest of the suites at 7m2. You can opt to have your suite made up at bunkbeds, as a side by side twin or as a double at night. The longer journeys only have the beds set as side by side couches by day that can be made up as twins or a double bed at night. This gives you less space in the day but a nice place where you can both nap.
    • The Deluxe Suite – The deluxe gives you some more floor space at 10m2. There is a lounge area with two chairs and a desk/minibar. During the trip, you can opt to have your beds made up as two singles or one rather huge double.
    • The Royal Suite – This is the biggest suite totalling 16m2. They can only squeeze two of these into a carriage whereas you’ll find five Pullmans or the Deluxe suites. In the centre of the suite is a lounge area with two wingback chairs. In addition to all that extra floor space, this is the suite with the bath. Now, I don’t know about you but I think that taking a bubble bath, with a glass of bubbly is always a good idea. Add to that the novelty of being on a train? Bliss! (There is a shower too if you need a speedier clean).

    4.) How Much Does Rovos Rail Cost? – Rovos Rail Prices

    Prices change yearly so we will direct you to the Rovos Rail website for the latest costs. However, I can say that the cheapest room on the cheapest route (two nights in a Pullman suite, Pretoria – Durban) costs, 34,000 ZAR (£1,450) per person, based on two sharing. The most expensive room on the most expensive route (fifteen nights in a Royal Suite, Cape Town to Dar es Salaam) is $25,950 (£21,400) per person based on two sharing. When considering your route bear in mind the distance travelled and the room class you wish to take.

    Here you can find the rates and dates for 2024/2025

    5.) What Should I Pack for Rovos Rail?

    Your Luggage

    There is no restriction on board the Rovos Rail trains but there are a couple of things to bear in mind:

    • They have excellent porters at every station and you won’t have to haul your own bags aboard but you will have to get it to the station in the first place so don’t make it crazy heavy.
    • There is plenty of luggage storage space (under the bed and up on the huge luggage shelf but you might struggle to get your bag away if it is particularly weirdly shaped and/or bulky.
    • There was enough room in the wardrobe for two of us, for four days but we don’t pack heavily and on any longer journeys you may need to access your luggage more regularly so you will want to make sure they are easy to handle.
    Things to Pack for Rovos Rail?

    Don’t forget these essentials:

    • South African or British plug adaptors – The suites come with two different kinds of plugs. You will find the three-round pin South African kind (used hardly anywhere else) and the three-rectangle British kind (also used in Zimbabwe).
    • Sunglasses – It might sound obvious but you are going to be off the train on exciting excursions which may be bright and sunny and may be dusty. It is good to have your sunnies to protect you from both.
    • Reading materials – Laptops and iPads are discouraged outside of your suites so if you would like to relax in the lounge or observation car, you will need something a little more on the analogue side.
    • Cash for tipping and visas – South Africa takes ZAr (South African Rand). The rest of the countries Rovos Rail travels to will take USD (US Dollars). Ensure your dollars are printed after 2001.
    • Ear plugs and eye mask – the train does carry er plugs but it is best to bing a kind you know works for you. Together with an eye mask, this is your best chance for a great night’s sleep.
    • Any fussy toiletries – If you have to have your favourite brand of shampoo then don’t forget it. Each room has a great amenity kit with shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, insect repellent and more…but not your preferred brands.
    • Medicines – The train does have first aid and basic medicines but bring anything that is prescription or you can’t be without. Plus, some extra in case of delays…a good plan every time you travel.
    • Your dinner finery – Dressing for dinner is formal so you will need to pack some dinner outfits…but we will talk more about that later.

    6.) How Much Should I Tip on Rovos Rail?

    Tipping is not mandatory but the staff work incredibly hard and we think it is only fair. If you do decide to tip, the suggested amount is ZAR 100 – 200 ($10 – $20) per person per night. No need to worry about the awkward handover, tips/gratuities can be popped in a specified envelope in your room and given in at the end of the journey. Give what you can and don’t be embarrassed if it is not that much. Some people do tip other staff during the trip but this is not expected. You may also want to tip the guides/game drivers during excursions too.

    7.) Is There a Rovos Rail Dress Code?

    The Rovos Rail dress code is at once a little strict and quite casual. When you are planning your outfits, here are some things to consider.

    • In the daytime, they request that you dress in smart casual attire. This for me means a collared shirt for gents and avoiding loungewear. However, this is entirely personal and we saw plenty of people in more casual styles than we were expecting.
    • Some of the routes offer a game drive or safari so it is worth bearing this in mind and brining some neutral tones (khaki, cream) for these excursions. It can be chilly in the mornings or evenings on these trips so bring a warmer layer that you can add or take off as required.
    • For dinner, the rules are stricter. Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie and ladies are requested to wear a cocktail dress or a nice suit. Now, I love dressing up, this was half of the fun of planning the trip. The romance of train travel greatly increases when everyone looks elegant. If you only have hand luggage or just don’t own a whole bunch of suits, never fear. The same jacket with different accompanying shirts and/or ties will be fine. On our trip, a whole group of travellers had been told by their travel agent that the dress code was more casual for dinner so they didn’t go all out. They were not turned away from dinner
    • It is worth noting for people who like heels that the train does wobble and you may end up turning your ankle so stick to lower options to be on the safe side.
    • On longer trips, Rovos Rail hosts theme nights. If you are on these then check the itinerary as you may need gear for a 1920s night and/or an African night.

    Some outfit inspo:

    8.) What is the Food Like on Rovos Rail?

    All meals are served in the two dining cars. There is only one sitting so you can arrive a little late but less so at lunch or dinner. To chivvy yo to dinner and lunch, a lovely little gong is played throughout the length of the train.

    Breakfast

    (07:00-10:00) – This is the only meal you can arrive sporadically for. Whether you are an early rise that turns up right at 07:00 or the late morning lie-ins that run in at 09:45, you will get the same great service. There is a selection of cereals, granolas and fruits to grab. Every day the table gets a little basket wth a pastry, a muffin and some white and brown toast which is always great. Then you can pick from continental platters or cooked breakfast options. The salmon was particularly lovely and the omelette was a beast!

    Lunch

    (13:00) – Lunch is a four-course affair, served with wine pairings. It is a tiny bit lighter and more vegetarian than dinner but don’t get it twisted, it is still large and indulgent. If you get motion sick and have a game drive excursion, consider your intake. If you are a greedy girl like me, fill your boots!

    Afternoon Tea

    (16:30) – This is served on days when you don’t leave the train. It is available in the lounge car and the observation car too. You’ll find little cakes, tarts and some South African classic pastries like koek sisters too.

    Dinner

    (19:30) – This is the formal meal which is also four courses, all with a wine pairing. This is the heaviest meal of the day with tender cuts of meat and rich desserts. You may need to be rolled back to your suite after dinner…or to the observation car and its bar for a cocktail. The fare is a blend of South African and traditional fine French dining. It is amazing to see what they can produce in the tiny galley kitchens on board the train.

    It is possible to have meals in your room. We opted for breakfast in bed one day. However, it is worth bearing in mind that there isn’t much room on the table and it makes wine pairings obsolete. If you are planning to do this, make sure you specify what you want and how much of it you want. I accidentally ordered two of everything for our breakfast and it was a struggle to eat it all!

    You will also be fed at your point of origin, find biscuits in your room, snacks in the lounge cars and get given snacks on excursions so there is zero chance you will feel hungry at any point. It is pure foody joy.

    9.) Can Rovos Rail Cater to Dietary Requirements?

    When you book you’ll be asked for any dietary requirements. Ensuring you provide a detailed and timely response means the team has time to cater for you. If you leave it until you are on the train, you may be in trouble. They will try their best but choices will be fewer. Bear in mind that dietary restrictions due to religion cannot be catered for.

    10.) Are the Drinks Included on Rovos Rail?

    As mentioned, both lunch and dinner are four courses with wine pairings. Saying that, the last drink tends to be a liqueur or similar for a true digestif. These are not the only drinks you are entitled to. The train is all-inclusive. The only exception is if you want french champagne, which is an extra cost and needs to be booked in advance. The lovely collection of South African ines, including a few sparkling really makes this unnecessary though.

    When you board you will see a mini fridge in your room. It can be stocked with any drinks that they have on board so if you want a bottle of bubbly every day, it is yours. You can request any drink at dinner if you don’t fancy the wine pairings and between about 12:00 – 00:00 the bars are open in the lounges. One is a hidden pantry and the other, you can sit at and have a tipsy talk. Finally, you will probably get a nice rink during your excursions and on your return from said trips.

    On the last evening, we were surprised by a selection of cocktails on offer which you could pick off the bar like a fun boozy buffet.

    11.) Where is the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria?

    All of Rovos Rail’s routes will start or end at their very own station in Pretoria. This is called Capital Park and is part station, part museum. It has bucket loads of colonial charm with white verandas and striped umbrellas. Rohan Vos will show guests around the worksheds and explain the fun and challenges or restoring the engines and carriages. You may get to see one of their gorgeously preserved steam engines which sadly they cannot run as the locomotives any more

    There is actually a museum within the grounds which is a delightfully eclectic collection of vintage items and transport memorabilia. Don’t forget to head out and have a look (they can pop you in a golf cart if you need one). You can take a glass of bubbly with you for the long journey.

    12.) How Do I Book Rovos Rail?

    All bookings are done directly through a form. This is isn’t the kind of train that you can book on an app in a second. Fill out the form and then send it off to their email and a representative will get back to you to let you know what is available. Don’t forget to tell them if you are celebrating because they love to make you feel super special.

    Long Journey Reservation Form

    Short Journey Reservation Form

    13.) Can I Smoke On Board Rovos Rail?

    Rovos Rail provides a smoking car, complete with a charming matchbox. This is located just before the bar and observation car at the back. Non-smokers can skip past it as it is a little closed-off lounge with a corridor that runs along the side. You cannot smoke in your room, the dining cars or in the open-air observation car. Make sure you indicate that you smoke on your booking form and they will place your room closer to the smoking car (isn’t that thoughtful!?)

    14.) Is There Internet on Rovos Rail?

    Rovos Rail strives to create an ambience of the golden age of travel. This is more about books and board games than scrolling on phones and tapping on keyboards. As such, they request that guests leave their electronics in their rooms, or at least don’t use them for anything other than photos in the common areas. They do not have WiFi on the train so there isn’t any chance to connect that way. We tried to get eSims for Zimbabwe (we wanted to stay on top of the social media on the go) but they barely picked u any signal the whole time. I am sure this wouldn’t be as bad on the South African routes but honestly, it’s not worth the stress. Just enjoy your digital detox. You’ll be able to connect at each end, most of the stations have WiFi and at most of the Namibian safari accommodations.

    Board games instead of Fortnite for…maybe a fortnight

    15.) What Happens if the Train is Delayed?

    Delays are semi-regular along most of the routes that Rovos Rail serves. Never fear, a certain amount of stoppage time is built into the itinerary. On most evenings the train manager will inform you how long the train will be parked overnight. This ice touch probably tells you how much sleep you’ll get (unless you are better at the sleeping thing than me). If there have been any bad delays during the day, they will just travel a little longer into the night. or leave a little earlier the next morning.

    The train administrative manager on board will connect with you to ensure they have your accurate transfer details for your arrival. If there is a delay they will contact the transfer provider and make sure they are there at the correct time.

    16.) Is There Laundry Available on Rovos Rail?

    You can have some laundry done on board but not your whole wardrobe. Honestly, unless you are just bringing hand luggage, you shouldn’t really need anything washed on the shorter journeys. If you are coming for a longer trip, think about how to reuse the items you have so they can be mixed, matched and washed minimally. There is no way to get dry cleaning done so be careful what evening wear you bring/get washed.

    As well as laundry, your host/hostess can have your clothes pressed for dinner and your shoes shined. There is no excuse to look shabby!

    A Few More Little Rovos Rail Train Tips:

    • Rovos Rail can try and advise you but finding out about entry requirements for the countries you will visit is up to you. Look up visa requirements and prices well in advance.
    • Rovos Rail is not accessible for those in wheelchairs due to the restrictive space on the train.
    • They can extend a train to accommodate more guests but it is unlikely they will pop on a whole extra carriage for just one extra room. It may say sold out despite the stretching capability of the train.
    • Children are allowed on board but they may limit the number and those that are booked are expected to be on best behaviour. Honestly, I am not sure children would enjoy the train that much.

    Final Thoughts for our Rovos Rail Train Tips

    The one thing missing from this post is just how lush travelling with Rovos Rail is. Once you are on board, you don’t need to worry about the logistics any more and can just settle in to the romance of train travel to the rattle of the rails. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to message us and we will try and answer it. If we have answered all of your queries then have the best time!

    Rosie xx

  • The Pros and Cons of Interrail and Eurail

    The Pros and Cons of Interrail and Eurail

    In May of 2023, we spent a month travelling around Europe with an Interrail pass. Mr Fluskey was there for some of it too but had to work a bit. We had Global Passes with unlimited travel days so their most flexible and wide ranging pass. After a month of travel, I have compiled a list of the pros and cons of Interrail and Eurail to help you decide if it is for you.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    THE PROS

    The Possibilities

    Travel planning is exciting!

    Well, I think it is anyway. Scanning through your possible destinations are lousy, the joy of research and discovery. You may start with a plan to see all the big hitters, London, Paris, Berlin, etc, but instead find a list of gorgeous underrated spots that sparks your wanderlust. Perhaps you decide to take an Instagram Odyssey with photo shoots covering Venice and Prague. It could be that you find you would rather take the slow route, hopping off at local stations. You’ve never heard of just to see what’s there.

    How exciting is that?!

    Flexibility

    It is true that Interrail can sometimes be a little more expensive than booking a bunch of advance tickets we ahead of time. However, these nice cheap tickets are normally non-flexible and non-refundable, meaning your itinerary is fixed. however, you can change your mind at a moments notice when you hold an interim past. Just add a new journey to your app and off you go.

    There are two exceptions to this joyful, flexible travel:

    • Travel Days – You can only travel on your “travel days”. Many passes have a certain number of these included (5 days in 30 for example). Once your travel has begun on any given, that is your day used up. You cannot change it once travel has started. (More on this on the cons section).
    • Reservations – This one will only affect you if you’re planning to take popular routes or fast trains that need reservations. Changing your mind at the last minute could mean you can’t find a new seat and/or you will lose your reservation fee. (More on this on the cons section).

    It’s Better for the Environment

    Now, I cannot claim to be a sustainable travel addict. I work for an airline and we fly long haul on a semi regular basis. However, we don’t have a car and I am a big advocate for public transport so train travel is one of my favourite ways to travel. It is wonderful to know that, although you are covering hundreds of miles, you aren’t having a terrible impact on the environment. On my Interrail trip, I travelled almost 5000km and the Eurail app tells me I saved up to 90% CO2 on flying. I also popped it into a carbon calculator and it was a third of the same distance by car….which is nice.

    No Designated Drivers

    Now I don’t just mean after a night out. Travelling around Europe is exhausting. There is so much to see and do, meaning you will be out and about, walking all day and repeating that day after day. If you then add driving on to this, you will be knackered! A long train day means everyone can have a nice nap…plus, you can all have a drink whenever you fancy.

    A glass of Aperol Spritz and a champagne flute with a red bubbly drink in Dubrovnik, Croatia
    Cocktails, cocktails, cocktails!

    Leading on from that:

    I’m Blind

    Well, visually impaired. This means, if I want o travel independently, I cannot drive. Sitting on a train requires no vision on my behalf so it is a great way to travel! If there is any reason you cannot drive, then catching the train is a great option for you too.

    Extra Discounts

    The Interrail past comes with a few little discounts that you wouldn’t get just travelling by train independently. Sam Hostel’s work with Interrail to offer people discounts on their beds, some cable, cars and vernaculars in Switzerland will give you up to 25% off, and even better if you are staying in Interlaken, Switzerland, you can take lake cruises completely free. One of the most useful and widely used discounts is 10% of anything on get your guide.com, discovers day, tours, food, activities, theme, parks, like Disneyland, Paris, and bottomless and boat trips in Budapest that leave you a little more than tipsy.

    Trains vs Buses

    One thing Europe blacks is seriously luxury coaches. I am sure they exist on the odd route, but for the main part, coaches in Europe, white standard with not that much legroom and not that much for Kline on your seat. This is one of the many reasons we’ve ever trains. Here are three more:

    • You can easily hop up and use the bathroom. Sometimes you will have the bathrooms on a coach but they tend to be cramped and a bit mucky. Obviously train toilets aren’t ideal, but they are a little bigger, usually a little cleaner, and there is more than one.
    • Trains can go slowly, obviously, but there is something a little less depressing about being delayed in some pretty countryside than on a motorway. In general, we think the views from the train are prettier than those on the road.
    • In general, the ride is more comfortable. You are not stopping and starting like you are on the road, you can get up and stretch your legs whenever you like, you aren’t wearing a seatbelt, so you feel a little more relaxed, and if you have lots of seats and are exhausted, you can have a little snooze stretched out across the lot.

    Trains vs Planes

    Now, I work for an airline, and I do enjoy flying, but there is no doubt that some aspects of travel by train are much better than those in an aircraft.

    You don’t have to deal with airports. Turning up three hours early, carrying teeny weeny liquids to comply with the rules, queuing, queuing, queuing, it is all the preserve of the airport. (It is worth saying that the Eurostar can feel a bit like this at the terminals but it still isn’t as bad). Train stations are usually in European city centres so once you disembark, you are right there in the thick of it. Over multiple stops, this really saves you a lot of time. Plus, the views from a plane are nice but they can’t beat those at ground level for interest.

    view out of a plane window of the wing and Rome when landing

    The App

    Finding trains was so easy with the app. To find a journey, you pop in your origin and destination, date and time and it will bring up all the options. You can filter search results by “No Reservations” or “No Changes” etc. I really enjoyed playing around to see different choices. My last few days of travel weren’t confirmed until we were already on the road….or is that rails….and I spent a happy hour or two looking at all the different ways to get back to London. Where I could stop, how long the different ways would cost and how long they would take!

    THE CONS

    The App

    Yes, the app can be glitchy too. My pass kept timing out strangely, meaning I had to deactivate it every time an inspector came around. This could be a few times with trains that crossed borders and it was a bit stressful when it wasn’t cooperating.

    The Price

    Overall, if you are going on a big adventure then the Interrail is a great option. If you are looking at the one country, minimum travel day passes then I am not sure it is worth it.

    It is also worth checking where you want to use it. If you have a Global Pass but spend two weeks in Poland where train travel is really cheap, you probably aren’t getting value out of your pass. Whereas, it is a thousand percent worth it for travelling on Swiss trains.

    Booking Reservations

    You’ve bought your pass and then you are bombarded with a bunch of “Reservation Required” messages. This does remove a bit of the flexibility on your trip. You will find that during high season or public holidays, you will need to organise these reservations ahead of time as they will run out.

    Most reservations cannot be made in the app, rather you will have to go to the Eurail website or the individual train operators website. This is a bit annoying. It is time consuming.

    Now, trains can be delayed and this may mess up your onward reservations. If this is the case, when you reach your transfer station, hot foot it to the ticket office and they should change your reservation for free. It’s always good to be fast and get their ahead of the other people on your train so you can request a window/aisle/any free seat.

    Reservation Fees

    There are plenty of trains that require you to pay for a reservation fee on top of the ticket price. If you are taking lots of fast or long distance trains, you will rack up the costs very quickly. It is possible to avoid reservation fees in most places by taking slow locals trains with lots of changes. But this may not be possible if you don’t have a long time to travel. It is also not possible when travelling from the U.K. to the continent. The Eurostar always requires a reservation and this is around £30.m each way.

    In total, for fast trains through France, return Eurostar trains, Swiss reservations and a night train, I spent an extra £100 or so.

    Being on a Schedule

    Yes you can hop and off trains but realistically you are going to be travelling between big urban centres. There may only be one train a day that goes directly between those two places and so you are beholden to their schedule.

    Travel Day Drama

    This is not something we experienced personally as our pass had unlimited travel days. On many passes, you choose how many travel days you think you’ll need. You can only take journeys on these days. (Night trains will run into the next day but won’t use another day unless you change onto another train). Once you have commenced travel on one of these days, it will be used up no matter how plans change/fail. You can’t change your mind and reset so once you have set foot on your first train, you are committed! If for any reason, you have to travel on more days than you planned, you will just have to pay for the extra transport as there is no way to add days to the pass.

    Your Luggage

    Choosing independent travel rather as part of a tour means dealing with your own luggage 100% of the time. Running through a train station, lugging bags up and down stairs is a world away from getting them on and off your group’s coach.

    City Transport Costs

    The Interrail Pass doesn’t cover travel within cities in most places. You might get lucky if they have a mainline rail system that passes through. But buses, metros, trams etc will need to be covered as an extra cost. This is one of those quirks that can catch people out so at least you are forewarned.

    Final Thoughts on the Pros and Cons of Interrail

    We had a blast Interrailing in Europe and although I’ve listed some cons, the the pros really outweighed them. It was a wonderful adventure and having the app allowed us to travel with a sense of control and freedom. If you can afford to Interrail then I cannot recommend it highly enough as an excellent way to see Europe.

    Rosie xx

  • 10 Reasons to Choose a First Class Interrail Pass

    10 Reasons to Choose a First Class Interrail Pass

    Travelling across Europe with interrail (for Europeans) or Eurail (for the rest of the world) is a travel rite of passage. Whether you are a hard-saving graduate, millennials after a fun adventure that is different from your normal holiday or recent retirees with time to travel, it is an amazing way to see the continent. There is no question there, the question we hope to answer is why you should choose a first class Interrail pass like we did. Here are 10 reasons you will love a first class Interrail pass.

    This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.

    If you haven’t already booked an Interrail ticket, use our link. It won’t cost you any extra but will help support the blog – BOOK NOW

    1.) More Personal Space

    The first and the most obvious difference between first and second class on European dreams as a side and comfort of the seats. This isn’t true on every train, sometimes the only difference is literally the addition of a small headrest cover (southern railway I’m looking at you). However, on 90% of services, you can expect a seat with more legroom, which is wider than standard or second class, and often with a nicer cover and more padding. And some trains have in the visually reclining seats, and Sam, like the French TGV, have comfortable foot rests that flip up to support your lower legs.

    2.) More Space in General

    In the carriages, you’ll often find that the seats are less densely packed. Many first class carriages have single seats on the side of the aisle, perfect for solo travellers. This is especially handy if you have to use a laptop as you won’t need to worry about your flapping elbows whilst you type.

    As the prices for first class on European trains can be a lot more expensive than standard. It is possible you will have carriages half empty or entirely empty. This is great for peace of mind…and peas in general. less people means less stress that your bag or go missing, less noise in the carriage and more relaxing for you.

    3.) The Toilets

    Even the bathroom in first class can be fancier, and as they are shared with fewer travellers, they are normally a little fresher too. (No matter which class you are in, remember that many stations charge to use the bathroom so using them on board is always a good plan).

    Going Interrailing? Check out our Interrail packing list here

    4.) Physical Convenience

    Train companies will oten arrange their carriages so that the first class are closer to the entrance or exit (at the front or back of the train). Look for this on Thalys and Eurostar in particular. This is probably designed for people who have to rush off to their very important business meetings but if you are Interrailing, you may just appreciate the time saving for a tight connection or just so you don’t have to drag your bag so far.

    5.) Easier Booking

    First class reservations are typically easier to snatch up as there are less people trying to reserve the seats. Often we strolled through packed second class cabins to our reserved first class seats in a nice, quiet cabin.

    6.) Those Little Extras

    Fancy a free newspaper? Or maybe you need some more modern entertainment. Perhaps a plug and free Wi-Fi would suffice? Well you’re funny little extras in many of first class carriage in Europe. The newspaper is more of a rarity, but I am guessing the power outlet for every seat is probably more useful in this day and age.

    7.) First Class Lounges

    There aren’t loads of lounges on offer to first class Interrail pass holders but those that do exist after a chance to sit and relax. In huge busy stations like Vienna heading up to the quiet sanctuary of the SBB lounge is a godsend. Are you fine plugs free Wi-Fi is, snacks and drinks. I’ve visited and stocked up on nibble before my Nightjet train to Strasbourg..

    If you haven’t already booked an Interrail ticket, use our link. It won’t cost you any extra but will help support the blog – BOOK NOW

    8.) At Seat Service (Paid Food)

    There are a few trains that offer at sea service. You will need to pay but it’s nice to pick something from the menu and have it arrive at your location. The alternative, staggering through a cluttering train and queueing at the buffet car seems a lot less appealing. The service can range from tea and coffee, to full on meals on some long-distance trains and even glasses of champagne on some special Swiss trains like the Glacier Express or the Belle Époque.

    Check out The Battle of the GoldenPass – Belle Epoque vs Panoramic

    One company that offers what I think is the best at-seat service is Regio Jet. These trains operate between Vienna, Budapest and Prague. The reservation to sit in business class is just €2.50 with your first class Interrail pass. This includes a welcome drink and you can opt for sparkling wine so that makes the fee worth it alone. Then you have a menu full of incredibly cheap food and drink options to choose from. Sushi and a slice of cake for €3.50? Nice!

    9.) At Seat Service (Free Food)

    In the UK you may get a meal, especially on the East Coast services that travel up the country. At the very least you should get a coffee on a long distance train. Check individual company websites to see what they offer.

    When travelling on the Eurostar, first class Interrail pass holders are in Standard Premier. In this carriage you are served a small, cold meal with juice or wine. It makes the reservation fee feel a little more worth it and the journey a little more luxurious.

    10.) The Superior Views

    A nice view is a nice view, I’ll grant you that. However, in some trains, especially in Switzerland, the first class carriage gets a superior window set up. Panoramic windows that extend right up to the ceiling give travellers beautiful views right up to the sky. Combine these with reclining seats and you have an exceedingly pleasant way to spend a few hours whilst covering a few miles.

    Final Thoughts

    Whether you’re travelling for leisure or business, using a first class Interrail pass promises a much more comfortable and convenient way to travel. It would definitely help make a truly memorable train adventure across Europe.

    Rosie xx