Romance of the Rails

On October 4th, 1883, the train that would become The Orient Express left Paris for Constantinople for the first time, forever redefining long distance travel. In the years that followed George Nagelmakers, a visionary young Belgian, realized his dream: transform travel into a luxurious experience, enabling royals and businessmen alike an ease of cross-border journeying that set the precedent for travel today. One hundred and forty years later, embark on the journey of a lifetime, enter the world of the sumptuous, glamorous, legendary Venice Simplon. Paris to Istanbul, five exquisite nights.

Perhaps you have a penchant for more exotic climes. Is India calling but the thought of backpacking and mosquito nets aren’t appealing? All aboard! The Maharajah’s Express awaits. Beautifully appointed suites and exotic local delicacies abound. India’s railway history dates back to 1844 and today boasts an astonishing 63,327 kilometers of track. We’re opting for The Treasures of India, a 4 day, 3 night journey: Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Delhi. Recline in the Lounge or Safari Bar and take in the spectacular views in luxurious comfort or order luncheon in bed and watch the world go by.

How about, The Best of the Rockies, Canada’s most exquisite railway journey. The Rocky Mountaineer travels exclusively during daylight hours so you won’t miss any of the spectacular landscapes. Every evening you’re transported to a luxury hotel and treated to the finest service Western Canada has to offer.

Gold Leaf class boasts a bi-level car with glass-domed roof for a truly unique viewing experience. The romantic outdoor deck is spacious … feel the wind in your hair and breathe that unmatchable mountain air. You’ll visit glaciers, spectacular Lake Louise, the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake, and a natural rock bridge spanning Kicking Horse River.

Speaking of the Rockies, south of the border The Rocky Mountaineer offers a two day journey through Utah, Denver and Colorado on their spectacular “Rockies to the Red Rocks” package. Choose SilverLeaf Plus service for one of the finest railway classes in the US with finely appointed sleeper suites, beautiful lounge, exterior viewing platform and gourmet dining. They’re famous for their hand-crafted cocktails and expert wine pairings so be sure to bring your ID. Recline and take in the extraordinary landscapes: gaping canyons, stunning desserts, natural archways and enchanting hoodoos (pinnacles of weathered rock).

Sip a cappuccino as you cross the Continental Divide or have your morning coffee in the fresh air at one of the stops. Highlights include Ruby Canyon, it’s on our bucket list, and Mount Garfield. Add-on destinations such as Las Vegas or Salt Lake City can be arranged. Have you ever seen a hoodoo?

Here’s the railway experience we’re longing for The Andean Explorer: one of the great trains of our generation. Board this magnificent, Peruvian gem in Arequipa, be dazzled in Puno and swept away as you disembark in Cusco, less than an hour from Machu Picchu.

Fashioned with the same ethos of iconic trains of yesteryear, the Andean Explorer spares no expense in pampering their guests. But you won’t find old world charm, you’ll be cradled in a fresh, contemporary aesthetic inspired by Andean culture and design. In the dining car, Muna, named for an Andean herb, you will be treated to “the full spectrum of Peruvian flavors” and world class dining. The spa car (yes, there’s a spa car . . . clay floral wrap, anyone?) is called Picaflor, hummingbird. Be still my heart! Allow yourself to be swept away by Lake Titicaca, discover the “floating community” of Islas Uros, indulge yourself in the market at La Raya. I’m sold!

Perhaps we should have a Laflore Paris, “Trolala-Lovers” convention aboard one of these amazing trains.

Wherever you go, whomever you're with, remember to embrace the moment . . . may you find the beauty in all things great and small.

Until next time . . . .