Luxury train travel is about the experience. The sumptuousness and elegance of the carriages combined with the safe and smooth ride of the trains are a tribute to a more romantic past era. The service is expert and genuinely friendly; the food is generally of a very high standard. These are not train trips you take to get from A to B – unless you were Agatha Christie, you wouldn’t choose a train if time and destination were your highest priorities. What luxury train trips do provide are some of the most fabulous scenery on earth. As if this were not enticing enough, the list of other goodies accompanying luxury train travel is a long one. It includes: top-class service, adventure, relaxation, great camaraderie, superlative food and wine, a chance to get some reading done, the opportunity to make new friends, a workout in a new gym, maybe a spa or even a swimming pool, stepping back in time and whiling away the hours as life slides past your picture window.
The comfort of the carriages and the sociable atmosphere on board make these journeys particularly well suited to the business and professional market, where people have time but don’t wish to waste it. And if time is money, luxury train travel isn’t cheap, although, compared to other high-standing holidays, by international standards it is reasonably priced. Travel aboard luxury trains isn’t necessarily a civilized experience. Many of the train passengers tend to dress for dinner and appreciate the sumptuous luxury that is the hallmark of these journeys. Once in a while there will be someone slightly thrown by the unaccustomed attention – but this soon wears off as the calming and unpressured quality of life aboard kicks in. Most passengers are well-travelled and are looking for something new. In general, it’s not the first time they’ve been to Europe or the Americas or South Africa or Australia. They’ve done the lot but want a new angle – with a bit of polish. The best passengers are travelers, first and foremost. Not just tourists.
Historical Background
The idea of a luxury train journey has been with us since the earliest days of rail travel. In the 19th century, the building of extensive railway networks had already made rail travel the fastest and most practical choice of transportation in Europe for both goods and passengers. At that time, train travel was new and glamorous. It could symbolize wealth, comfort, and a certain social status, as well as a desire to explore. Trains began to offer sleeping cars, salons or observation cars, as well as elegant restaurant service that sold meals that were extravagant for the times. It is from this period we see the services that were to become iconic from as early as the 1860s on trains such as the Orient Express, various Flèche d’Or, and the Golden Arrow. These were the trains of opulent interiors, full-service dining cars, and grand luxury from the Gilded Age. But while they remain the most symbolic, other services appeared, catering to different kinds of experience and passengers. For the early part of the 20th century, rail travel and luxury train journeys continued apace.
In the late 19th century, travel in general and rail travel in particular had become much easier due to several factors: improved infrastructure, larger train stations with ample facilities for travelers, and a larger, cheaper workforce. Some long-distance services such as the Orient Express became even larger, more comfortable, and more luxurious. This was a product of the time as some of the political and financial elites rose to prominence. For many of these men, custom cars, which were to become luxury trains, were an important revenue stream. Railways saw the benefit in luxury trains, as did operators of prestigious trains themselves, and they rushed to develop their own premium coaches in the early 20th century. A close relationship developed between technology and luxury, hinged at first on an interest in opulent travel, and that relationship continued to evolve as the 20th century rolled on.
Modern Appeal and Trends
Travelers are increasingly in search of unique and sustainable experiences rooted in the local culture and history of the places they visit. The existing notion of luxury as craftsmanship, heritage, and excellence resonates inherently with modern luxury values. A premium is now placed on travel as an experience, where a journey promises exclusivity and escapism in equal measure. In an age of 24/7 connectivity, rail offers a rare and seductive digital detox. Passengers can truly relax, exchanging emails and meetings for views across lakes and mountains. Private cabins create intimate surroundings, but public carriages, featuring full-length windows, panoramic lounges, and outdoor observation areas amplify the sense of escape. Today’s luxury trains have been redesigned to transport the passenger in superior comfort while also providing the essential element of time. Just as the first generation ventured on Europe’s mountain routes to gain the healing powers of the sun and mountain air, passengers today search for an emotional connection to the true spirit of the destination, in addition to experiencing the elite scenery en route.
The modern luxury train traveler is used to smart, rather than ritzy, and modern-day carriages reflect these tastes. The design of the suites is less about opulence and more about reimagined classicism, with plentiful space and subtle lighting allowing the breathtaking views from the full-length windows to take center stage. It is sometimes said of luxury train travel that it is not so much a way of getting somewhere as it is a destination in itself. This is reflective of the experience on board. Each cabin is its own little private retreat, a sanctuary where passengers can retreat to read, enjoy a long, lingering meal, or simply watch the passing scenery unfold. The restaurant car is an anchor for fine dining – offering a social, gastronomic experience even seasoned epicureans can savor. Meanwhile, innovative modern amenities throughout, such as double spa carriages and wellness-exclusive concierge-tended decks, make a modern-day refuge of exceptional comfort. With their history and classic design underpinned with contemporary style, luxury trains are exceptionally photogenic and have found fame on social media, capturing the imagination of travelers. Followers of such glamorous globetrotters seek to channel their aspirational lifestyles; cruising the same vintage carriages to discover the same incredible landscapes and hidden enclaves. The magic of a luxury train lies in the alchemy of bringing a bygone romantic age together with the turbocharged design of tomorrow. Since the original launch of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, in terms of space utilization, sustainability, and all-encompassing feedback-driven service, it’s never been a better time for luxury train travel. Guests seek to reclaim something personal and seemingly lost in an airport terminal and often in conventional premium classes. They are looking for a touch of the romance of the rail, no longer to be rushed. That is the true luxury of this era. The three R’s of sustainability frame the ecological and social credentials of boarding a luxury train: Restoring – bringing tired, old carriages into something useful and beautiful; Rejuvenation – creating meaningful long-term careers that are directly linked with the destinations the lines connect; Reconnecting – promoting authenticity in exposing the good life through intelligent, emotive design. Manifestations of this value include supporting local artisans and initiatives for food and drink curation, as well as designing bespoke excursions for each departure. It comes as no surprise that lounging in private suites and savoring a five-course dinner complemented by local wines represents more than just a physical luxury. It’s a metaphorical act of an individual journey that cannot be fast-tracked.
Iconic Luxury Train Routes in Europe
Experiencing Europe by train means traveling on some of the most scenic and panoramic routes where the train cars are part of the scenery. From Norway to Switzerland, the list of scenic trains available in Europe is endless, but there are a couple of routes that are so famous that they are bucket-listed by train aficionados all over the world.
The allure of train travel is evident in the classic routes that have lived on in history and in the hearts of travelers. The Orient Express is perhaps the most iconic of these, created in 1883, the original Orient Express was the first luxury train of its kind and spanned eight decades of glamorous departures and literary allure. Although the route changed throughout its many years of operation, the service remained top-tier and filled with intrigue. Some of the world’s original train cars and sleeping carriages are still active today, creating a journey that channels high society traditions from decades past to those who are lucky enough to score a ticket. One of the highly coveted journeys using the authentic Orient Express train cars of yore is that of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This four-day journey celebrates the elegance of the 1920s and 30s, using train cars rich in Art Deco detailing. Travelers enjoy gourmet food, vintage champagne, uniformed stewards, and the option to dress in their finest attire. Wine tastings, private cabins, and tours of various cities are also available.
Other trains include the Royal Scotsman, a train that takes you into the heart of Scotland and reveals the romantic landscapes of the Highlands. This four-night journey travels to castles, cathedrals, and charming Gaelic-speaking villages, as well as picturesque mountain landscapes. The Andalusian Explorer is another option, offering a much-needed touch of warm Spanish sun during the colder months. This Andalusian route uncovers the Moorish architecture of Granada, the history of Seville, and the coasts of southern Spain and Portugal. Finally, the Belmond British Pullman includes a plethora of themed itineraries that peer into English heritage and traditions. All railway routes and luxury trains offer their own unique experiences, but what they all have in common is the ability to turn the journey into a trip experience. Scenic landscapes and onboard services promise to enrich passengers with local experiences filled with charm and unveiled mystique, very much the original intention of train routes.
The Orient Express
The Orient Express is so famous that it seems superfluous discussing it. I cannot speak about this train without devoting at least a few paragraphs to its history. This was the very first luxury train, or rolling hotel. The service was inaugurated in 1883 to take passengers from Paris to the exotic East. The Orient Express service was broken up in 2009, and sadly, it has since gone bankrupt. For decades, the train has remained in popular culture, having been the setting of several historical books and movies. There were two main Orient Express routes, with dozens of variations through the years. The Classical/Rahmy’s Orient Express ran from the 1920s until 1962 from Paris to Istanbul over Strasbourg, Munich, Vienna, and Budapest, and from 1919 it continued to Athens as well. The other route was from Paris, and after a locomotive change in Strasbourg, it went to Munich, Innsbruck, and then proceeded to cross the Dolomites in a tunnel that stretched for almost 8 kilometers, en route to a dining stop in the picturesque Tuscan town of Florence. It then continued along the shores of Lake Garda to Venice, where the famous restaurant wagon was attached for a luxurious Italian dinner. This service ceased operations in 1977. No other train in modern history has managed to maintain a cultural allure, or a grip on the popular imagination, as the Orient Express has. Today, the Venice Simplon Orient Express continues the tradition set by the original service. Each carriage has been lovingly restored to the height of 1920s opulence, and the train runs to a strict timetable throughout the year. Upon boarding, passengers are transported back in time to glamorous 1920s Europe. The staff is dressed in costumes reminiscent of the 20s, and the carriages are among the prettiest and most opulent one can imagine. The dining room is a mahogany carriage with dining settings for one, two, or four passengers. The Pullman service is a restaurant car decorated with beautiful marquetry.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is one of the world’s most luxurious and romantic trains. It has enjoyed almost a century of glamorous international travel from the roaring twenties until now. Not just a mode of transport, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a grand sense of occasion and an experience to be savored. A desire to recapture the magic and glamour of the golden age of travel was the impetus behind the founding father’s purchase and transformation of three art deco carriages in 1979.
The iconic black and gold carriages with plenty of shiny stainless steel and glossy mahogany date from the 1920s and 1930s, and the interiors recall another era when travel was about luxury, glamour, and romance, and meals were about great conversation and fantastic food. Being aboard is like living inside a classic novel or being a character in a mystery. Discover remarkable global journeys through Europe’s most picturesque landscapes. During the journey, passengers enjoy opulent interiors evoking the luxury of yesteryear, gourmet cuisine, and impeccable service. These legendary carriages are not just for connoisseurs and nostalgists but for the inquisitive traveler who values a truly exceptional experience of European cultural heritage as much as their destination. The train has featured in many films and television shows over the years and continues to be a popular setting for film and photography. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express embodies the idea of an elegant and sophisticated journey, as well as the sense of “an elegant and sophisticated journey. A memory which will be cherished for many years to come” for its passengers.
The VSOE charms all who make the journey. “To travel on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is akin to traveling with a mobile national monument: the train gains respect in the countries it visits, sometimes more than the more deserving passengers! It was truly a moving experience and one I will never forget,” recounted a traveler. Some passengers are repeat travelers. When asked the reasons for their enthusiasm aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, residents replied, “The excitement of boarding the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express never diminishes – it is world-class luxury and we simply have to do the journey at least once every couple of years.” The VSOE is about luxury, style, and gourmet dining. A travel agent revealed it is “the perfect train for celebrating a special occasion, inviting toasts, and creating special memories.” A culinary highlight not to be missed aboard the VSOE is the exquisite afternoon teas which are served in their sumptuous Bar Car. Guests can select from a broad selection of fine brews including rare limited edition teas. They are accompanied by beautifully presented finger sandwiches and delicate pastries and cakes – the perfect complement to a luxurious afternoon admiring the remarkable scenery. The full four-course dinner, served in two different vintage dining cars, sees guests invited to start their journey in style with a half-bottle of sparkling Champagne, followed by an aperitif enhanced with a bitter.
The Royal Scotsman
The only luxury train in Scotland, the Royal Scotsman, captures the charm and intrigue of this captivating part of the world. Launched in 1985, it is now entirely owned by Belmond. With a capacity for just 40 guests, it’s a unique, intimate environment in which to explore the heritage and culture of Scotland while enjoying all the perks of five-star luxury travel. The Royal Scotsman serves as one of the great locomotives for a leisurely scenic ride in Europe, given that the decadent interiors are just as striking as the captivating personas of the people waiting to welcome you on board. Here, fine dining is central to the itinerary, and the train’s offering is no exception. The train serves up a sumptuous array of Scottish dishes that celebrate local produce, such as Highland venison and fresh seafood. There’s also a choice of fine wines from the cellars and an ever-growing range of Scotch whisky to try.
As far as itineraries go, this 3-night Classic Journey takes in some of the must-stops in the Scottish Highlands. Guests enjoy private onboard cabins, relax in the tranquillity of onboard amenities, and indulge in spa treatments. Scotland’s people and places come alive as the train captures the emotion of luxury travel and, probably most importantly, captures the essence of a country becoming only too ready to share its heritage, culture, and secrets. “My journey was inspired by travel rather than to get from A to B. In a world of almost instant everything, my reasons for travelling this way were to revel in mobility, to be a constant part of the ever-changing scene. I wanted to experience and appreciate these fine examples of railway architecture and engineering, to relive what once could only be imagined, a return to a more genteel time.”
Amenities and Services on Luxury Trains
On a luxury train journey in Europe, passengers will feast on gourmet cuisine made with fresh local ingredients, prepared by talented, well-known chefs. Menus are tailored individually and vary day by day. The focus is on high quality, as well as sustainability and organic ingredients sourced from various countries. The highest standards of hygiene and careful cleaning procedures protect the passengers in this respect. Some trains even have a sommelier who provides wine advice based on the individual meals. The luxurious coaches offer accommodation in lavishly appointed double-bedded cabins with extra luxury and comfort onboard. Due to the well-chosen routes, passengers can enjoy the scenery from the privacy of their luxurious cabins with amenities such as spacious compartments, extravagant interiors, and modern copies of luxurious standard couchettes. As a culmination of the best hotels on wheels, overnight travels are comprised of full beds with proper mattresses and pillows, fresh bed linen provided daily, washbasins, premium washrooms, soft personal robes, an equal number of towels and toiletries, as well as a private daily maid service at all times. Several luxurious trains have been voted to ensure that riders experience the highest quality service. Everything on these luxury train journeys has been tailored to meet personal demands. Cultural highlights and contact with other like-minded learners and train crew have largely replaced the many activities that passengers would experience in the context of freedom of movement programs.
Fine Dining Experiences
The gourmet journey already starts before the first meal is served on luxury trains. Chefs and their kitchen staff are meticulously planning and selecting the best local and seasonal products available, as well as reorganizing the daily meals to suit the daily changes. Emphasizing fresh, local foods and complementing them with a global selection of wines and spirits is a fundamental selling point for luxury trains. Traditionally, the finest dining car in Europe was known for its incredible lineup of tasty things to eat, from its three gourmet lunches to its traditional afternoon Continental tea. Memorable breakfast menus have all but vanished, giving way to a banquet buffet of a morning feast. Come evening, the commitment to superb dining continues, often with as grand an event as the departure dinner from the station.
The dining experience on these top luxury European passenger trains has been changing alongside dining at some of Europe’s best restaurants. Around Europe today, luxury trains, especially those carrying prestigious names, count some of the continent’s most talented and renowned head chefs as both regular and occasional participants in the kitchen onboard. It is they who create those impressive breakfast and lunch presentations and multi-course evening dinners that truly rival the world’s best. Some also produce a variety of themed meals over the course of a weekend or weeklong journey, such as cheese and wine tastings, seven-course white-tie galas, or even special programs such as sampling dishes in preparation for a stop.
Luxurious Accommodations
One of the hallmarks of a luxury train journey is the cabins in which guests sleep. Casually styled as suites on some of the pricier trains, the accommodations on European luxury trains are incredibly comfortable and beautifully designed. Each cabin has a slightly different aesthetic, but all are designed with an eye toward elegance and luxury. The high-end amenities and lavish bedding ensure a comfortable, restful night’s sleep, as well as a comfortable place to sit during the day. En-suite bathrooms in each cabin ensure privacy while a walk-in shower reinforces the glamour and elegance of such a journey.
European luxury train operators have designed their sleeping arrangements to cater to adults in most circumstances, though larger cabins and family accommodations may be available. Each sleeper car also has a lounge area that is located at the furthest end from the locomotive, where the train’s movement is felt the least. The observation cars provide guests with high-resolution panoramic views of the journey, much of it through windows that span part of the ceiling. While an observation car is certainly a popular feature of a luxury train, not all luxury train routes offer them, and those that do may not have more than one observation car. In terms of occupancy, it can vary by train and booking type. In general, luxury train cabin occupancy won’t exceed four beds; some cabins made for families or parties of three can have beds for up to six people.
Oftentimes, cabins on European luxury trains will include a second, pull-down bunk bed for additional guests. Some companies have accommodated solo travelers by offering single-occupancy rates. Of course, you’re also getting personalized service, with staff members dedicated to ensuring that you have the amenities you need.
Onboard Entertainment and Activities
Luxury trains have built cultures of interpretation and comfort around their services, exploring onboard as well as offboard entertainment options to satisfy their passengers. Cruising through the rural backwaters of Europe, trains — and the tour companies that operate them — have forged relationships with local entities interested in selling to the sort of clientele they believe these railway voyages can deliver. Onboard entertainment programs mainly consist of providing guests with cultural insights into the destinations visited. Often, passengers can expect to encounter a series of guest lecturers, scholars, and autodidacts who offer presentations, group discussions, demonstrations, exercises, and performances as a means to help passengers understand the route, the regions, or the cultures they are passing through. Many of those who sign up for the available excursion programs like clubby wheelhouse trips or bike rides. Travelers aboard luxury railcars also engage in self-improvement while on their travels.
From solace in the library car to art workshops and scenic yoga sessions, luxury trains offer a range of activities that put aside traditional forms of leisure for a more exploratory and lighthearted approach to multi-modal downtime. Sparing time can be an opportunity for light exercise such as morning yoga in the observation car or in local parks, but can also include more high-impact activities like mountain climbing. Those who “aspire to the certainty of leisure” can best find it in the safety of a stationary life, packaged goods bearing association seals of oldness, powers, and luxury, whereas those who embrace the spirit cultivate wanderlust. Gatherings of like-minded individuals make for convivial camps. Luxury trains offer the use of their spaces for celebratory events. Themed enjoyment and conviviality can provide fine opportunities to raise spirits. Cultural pride inside luxurious rolling stock are hallmark luxury train experiences.
Planning Your Luxury Train Journey
The type of journey you embark upon depends on your preferred experience and schedule. Some routes expose passengers to new landscapes and countries, while others offer personalized activities and stops. Knowing what you are looking for in a train journey is the first step to choosing a route. It is also advisable to book a journey several months in advance, as routes may be sold out during popular travel seasons. Birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions may encourage guests to embark on luxury train journeys, and some operators add special touches or assistance in planning a particular event. Some routes operate only at certain times of the year, or fewer trains run in low season. If you have a tight travel schedule, check the availability of the route before making any concrete plans.
Certain routes are very popular, and given that there are only a limited number of cabins per car, booking a seat in advance is crucial. Travelers looking to book a ticket for a specific journey can choose from a variety of ticket packages, from one-way or round trip fares to longer stays. When deciding what package will work best for you, make sure the offering complements your travel style. Those embarking on a journey abroad should consult a travel agent or use resources to secure tickets and make plans. After travelers have booked their tickets, they can pack essentials for the trip, such as a good book, clothing appropriate to the climate, and formal wear for certain lunches and dinners.
Choosing the Right Route
While many travelers might have a general understanding of their ideal vacation experience or the type of train atmosphere they would like to enjoy, the first step in planning your luxury train ride is finding the right route for your trip. Before delving into the scenic glory of a particular passage, consider the cultural backdrop awaiting at your journey’s end. From there, a route aligning with your top priorities will ideally present itself. For those passionate about dining and drink, world-class vineyards or Michelin-starred restaurants might be the height of luxury. Those focused on post-pandemic relaxation might best enjoy fresh alpine air or a crisp ocean breeze; flushing your lungs of a year’s worth of indoor air sounds luxurious indeed! Lifestyle routes take a variety of shapes, each appealing to a unique set of interests. To begin, peruse our initial suggestions, both filled with highlights any discerning luxury traveler can’t miss: once-in-a-lifetime voyages, permissive allowances, and an asymmetrical route. Customizable options: any luxury train journey can be chartered as a private charter or tailored as a themed group trip. Since some routes are shorter or longer than others, and some extend to include multiple countries and regions, one itinerary might better suit your overall travel plans than another. Hop off in a port town for an easy-transit destination or embark on a whirlwind countdown adventure with the kids; the final choice is all about you. Between these operators, there’s a tract of track for every price point and geographical preference.
Booking Tickets and Packages
While travelers do not need to book their luxury train journeys straight away in a lot of cases, it is never a bad idea to book train travel in advance. Some luxury routes can get fully booked, and there is only a limited amount of availability in each train class per departure. Tickets can be booked from the operators of the train themselves, from a travel agency, or on a website specializing in luxury train travel. If booking direct or choosing between a direct operator and a travel agency, be aware that both the reservation policies and payment methods may differ quite a bit. On any of these platforms, you will often be able to filter through the various train and ticket types available to see which best suits your preferences and budget. Due to the various available booking platforms, it is also wise to check multiple to ensure the best route and deal for your travel needs, timeframe, and wants.
The price of a ticket will depend on a variety of factors, such as class of service, on-board services and catered meals, age of the passenger, length of the trip, and scheduled stops or day trips. Often, luxury rail operators will offer various ticket price options that can include promotions for limited time periods and access to special services. It is also important to note the option to book a package that includes hotels and excursions in the start and end cities of the train route, thereby extending your luxury train vacation experience. Specials like these and various discounts will be available from the rail operator, but remember to also check with a travel agency for package deals as well. Finally, cancellation policies will change depending on the operator, but commonly will follow a guideline of refunding part of the ticket cost or rescheduling the dates of the trip depending on the timeframe and listed rules of the cancellation policy.
Packing Tips and Essentials
When it comes to luxury train journeys, travelers are often curious about what to expect, including how to pack and what to bring. The best way to dress is comfortably and casually. Lightweight slacks, knit tops, comfortable footwear, and a versatile sweater or jacket work best for daytime sightseeing and evening dinners and entertainment. You might also want to consider packing a little movie night kit: a travel pillow, pajamas, and your favorite book. Invest in quality personal toiletries, since toiletry amenities may be sparse on board. You’ll also want to be sure to bring your passport and ticket confirmation for boarding and room assignments. If you plan to visit any religious sites, remember that shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless clothing may not be acceptable.
As for packing, you’ll probably want more clothes than you necessarily need. Weather can change dramatically on a single trip, especially in hilly and mountainous areas where you may find yourself at a variety of altitudes. Plus, nothing you do on board is done under duress. Think adventure at your own leisure in excellent company, accompanied by fine wine and a gourmet meal planned by an award-winning chef! In terms of supplies, cameras are encouraged along with travel alarm clocks for waking up to see the world go by from your bedroom window. Each train includes an air-conditioned luxury dome car for sightseeing and an open-air sightseeing platform at the rear of the train. Pack wisely and you’ll feel like you’re traveling with a good friend who just so happens to be a bit of a show-off! Organize your luggage for easy access to its contents once on board. Each train will have its own guidelines regarding carry-ons and baggage amounts.
Admittedly, the luxury train travel industry is a curious little side path of the tourism market. Arguably, it is irrelevant and outdated. There are few costs that compare with the train journey, and some might find the notion of luxury train travel laughably frivolous. But in an age defined by the unsustainable, almost pathological pursuit of productivity, efficiency, and speed, it is understandable that slow travel establishments have carved themselves an enduring niche. After all, is there anything quite so opulent or nostalgic as a bygone era reimagined? Presented with a personal valet, fine wines, sumptuous dining, caviar, and formality, as well as dramatic panoramas delivered with regularity, most people are hard-pressed to resist. Ultimately, it’s not luxury that appeals to so many, but the creation of soul-stirring and lasting memories. While nothing can ever fully compete with the indulgent, 100-year history of luxury train journeys, there are themes and movements that seem likely to dominate the luxury train travel industry in the short to medium term. Itching to contrast the lavish older experiences with contemporary innovation, many train operators are expected to fake it in the coming years. What can we expect as we peer into the crystal ball? We reckon fragrance cars—with perfume designers—the worldwide rollout of VR for bedroom and observation cars, an explosion in conflicting niche markets that contradict or critique the lavish past, elite shopping excursions, business-themed conferences, and luxury train travel sans spectacle altogether. Trendspotting from afar is an imprudent stab in the dark, of course, but suffice it to say that the longevity of rail tourism suggests that this segment will continue to develop long into the future, finding a way into the hearts of those for whom travel is not merely a way of getting from A to B. Instead, it is genuinely a way of life. And for that particular type of traveler, does it get much better than gilding those miles with gold leaf and champagne?