There is something essentially magical about train travel. From the rhythmic chug of the train engine to the ever-changing views framed at your window, this combination of adventure and comfort in a seamless blend stays unparalleled. With Anecdotes, we bring together the most opulent and most exclusive rail journeys across the globe to present you with an escape in which the experience is as much about the journey as the destination itself.
Let’s look at some of the most unique rail journeys our world has to offer!
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express: Europe’s Timeless Elegance
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is often regarded as the epitome of luxury rail travel. This legendary train is an inspiration for numerous novels and cinematic works, and onboard, one will take a sentimental journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe. From London to Venice and Paris to Istanbul, this Orient Express journey—already steeped in history, elegance, and romance—awaits.
Each of the well-restored carriages speak for themselves, in providing elements from the 1920s: Art Deco interiors, refined furnishings, and exclusive service. Gourmet meals concocted by top chefs offer the best dining experience on board. Every moment inside this train feels like being whisked through time, enveloped in rich luxury.
Anecdotes Suggested Itineraries:
Paris to Budapest (Round-trip)
Paris to Vienna (Round-trip)
Paris to Venice (Overnight Journey)
Best Time to Travel– April – October
The Rocky Mountaineer: Canada’s Spectacular Scenery
Imagine yourself winding through the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The Rocky Mountaineer will get you all this and much more. This world-renowned train journey offers unparalleled views of Canada’s most wonderful landscapes from the comfort of a luxurious seat.
The Rocky Mountaineer routes include Vancouver to Banff or Jasper and pass through regions inaccessible by road, offering a front-row viewpoint of the grandeur of nature. Glass-domed coaches provide expansive vistas, while gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, and fascinating storytelling complement your journey. This is an adventure that promises both relaxation and astounding beauty.
Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:
Essential Rockies by Train
Vancouver to Banff – 6 Days
Best Time to Travel– April to October
As an addition, Anecdotes also recommends combining the Rocky Mountaineer trains with a splendid Cruise through the Alaska landscape. Anecdotes cruise tour, offering a bucket list combination of cruise & rail experience, would include a one-week roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, covering glacial highlights of Alaska, followed by a train journey through the Rockies.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train: Asia’s Exotic Elegance
For those in search of a journey that delivers an essential insight into the mystique and allure of Southeast Asia, the Eastern and Oriental Express has no bounds. This luxurious train meanders across Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, effortlessly blending cultures, landscapes, and experiences.
The interior of the train echoes the exotic charm of the region, sporting rich panelling, silk-upholstered furnishings, and intricate decoration. Each cabin is an oasis of comfort, featuring en-suite facilities and panoramic windows. Dining celebrates Asian and international cuisine, skillfully prepared using the freshest ingredients. The journey gives a subliminal view, from pulsating and vibrant cityscapes to rural tranquillity, into the heart of Southeastern Asia.
Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:
Three Nights Essence of Malaysia
Best time to travel– November-February
The Belmond Andean Explorer: Peru’s Breathtaking Highlands
The Belmond Andean Explorer is amongst South America’s finest luxury sleeper trains and will take you on an extraordinary journey through the Andean highlands of Peru. From the old Inca city of Cusco via breathtaking Lake Titicaca to the elegant, colonial town of Arequipa, the train journey gives a unique perspective to the rich cultural and natural heritage.
Inherent in the coach design, the rich colours and traditional patterns of Peru, evoke warm elegance. There is also an observation car with superb panoramic views of dramatic landscapes. Onboard, you will enjoy gourmet dining crafted from locally sourced ingredients, paired with the highest level of service. This is the journey that combines adventure and luxury and gets you up close and personal with breathtaking scenery.
Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:
Andean Plains and Islands of Discovery
2 nights: Arequipa – Puno – Cusco
Best time to travel-August- December
The Maharajas’ Express: India’s Royal Splendor
Experience the Royal lifestyle, onboard India’s famous Maharajas’ Express. This award-winning journey takes you on the gilded lives of India’s maharajas, with routes covering some of the iconic destinations across the country, from the hustle of Delhi and Mumbai to the serene landscapes across Rajasthan.
The Maharajas’ Express interiors pay homage to royal India: luxurious cabins, exquisite dining cars, and lavish lounges. Every journey is a cultural odyssey, with excursions off the train to some of India’s most famous landmarks, including the Taj Mahal and Jaipur’s Amber Fort. This onboard culinary experience is a feast for the senses, with a menu that showcases the best of Indian and international cuisine. This isn’t a train journey, but a royal adventure.
Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:
The Indian Splendour (6 Nights/ 7 Days)
Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbau
Best time to travel- October- April
Anecdotes recommends combining the rail journey with a classical tour of North India including Delhi, Varanasi and Rishikesh, or a south India experience, including Kerala and Goa.
The Ghan: Australia’s Epic Expedition
The Ghan stretches right across the Australian continent, from Adelaide to Darwin. On board this iconic train voyage, you’ll travel across some of the contrasting landscapes of Australia—from South Australia’s rolling hills to the red deserts of the Outback and finally, the tropical north.
The Ghan offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and immersive off-train experiences—a fully inclusive package. It is designed to encompass the grandeur of the natural and cultural wonders of Australia, including the breaking journeys in Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge. Its interior comfort is well balanced, with a different outside view running from the window to evoke both relaxation and excitement.
Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:
The Ghan Expedition between Darwin and Adelaide.
3 nights/ 4 days
Best Time to travel– April – November
In Essence…
At Anecdotes, we believe that journey’s have the potential to create tales of a lifetime! Our selection of rail journeys are crafted to allow one to experience the world in a unique and classical form. From the elegance of Europe to the wild beauty in Africa, mysteriousness in Asia, and majestic landscapes in Australia and South America – these are journey‘s designed to capture your heart and soul.
Join us on one of these unforgettable rail adventures, and let us help you create your Anecdotes through these journeys! Connect with us, to plan your next travel experience!
