Look at the offers available for luxury train travel

Luxury Train Club Is Unique In Offering Members News about Luxury Train Discounts And Offers For Luxury Rail Cruises Worldwide

The Luxury Train Club presents what is probably the only list, anywhere, of so many luxury train offers, discounts, gifts  and reduced prices on rail cruises.

The Luxury Train Club features rail journeys by over 30 luxury trains in 39 countries worldwide.   Membership is simple and free, just subscribe to the Club newsletter.

A ‘like’ at Facebook/LuxuryTrainClub is rewarded by news and views.

MEMBER DISCOUNT

• Members of the Club (it’s free to join) benefit from a discount off the published prices of any journey listed on the Club’s website.

• 2.5% per booking
• Additional Club discounts may be available:
• for more than one booking
• during occasional Club promotions
• Please note that discounts are applied on full payment or on the final instalment where a deposit has been made and that a double or triple compartment, cabin or suite occupied by two or three passengers is one booking.
• Any Club discount is in addition to offers from the train companies.

THANK YOU

We value every Club member and appreciate every booking made.

We send a thank-you gift, which varies from time to time, to the leading passenger for every booking.  Currently, we are sending out one of the following choices:

• Gift from Osprey London, “offering a modern, spirited take on a quintessentially English heritage look”, something from their range of small leather goods;
• Gift from Noble Isles, a travel item from their range of bath and body products which use “the finest fragrance and natural extracts taking inspiration from all corners of the (British) Isles, from misty moorland and old English orchards to (Scottish) Highland distilleries and windswept coastal cliffs, to create a lasting sensory impression”;

• Please note that gifts are sent to the lead passenger on full payment or on the final instalment where a deposit has been made.

 CURRENT TRAIN-SPECIFIC OFFERS

AFRICA
For the rest of 2013 and all 2014, Blue Train passengers are offered one complimentary night at one of these hotels, before or after their journey – Sheraton Hotel, 131 on Herbert Baker, Castello Di Monte, Taj Cape Town or the Westin – and two day vouchers on the Cape Town Hop on-hop off bus (City & Peninsula Canal Tour).

Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa presents the gift of 2 Rovos wine flutes and a bottle of Amarula for each booking.

The Shongololo Express – this safari train has a relaxed First Class atmosphere and carries vehicles for its off-train programme.
2014 Early Bird offers for bookings made before 30 September 2013 :
Free Pre-night on board the train.
Free alcohol (wine, spirits & mixers and beer) on board for the duration of the trip. Please note only to be consumed on board.
Shongololo Express Tee shirt.
Shongololo Express Cap
Shongololo Express overnight bag and detachable day pack.
ALSO the following, specifically for each itinerary :
The Good Hope Adventure : Free open vehicle game drive in Kruger National Park;
The Southern Cross Adventure : Free open vehicle game drive in Kruger National Park;
The Dune Express Adventure : Free Mola Mola boat cruise in Swakopmund;
The Dr Livingstone Adventure : Free sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi.

CENTRAL EUROPE
The Danube Express presents a case of Hungarian wine booking any September departure. One case based on 2 people sharing a deluxe compartment, delivered to chosen address after the return.
Transylvanian East, departs Budapest September 18, 2013;
Transylvanian West, departs Istanbul September 22, 2013;
Central European, departs Budapest September 28, 2013.

ENGLAND / SCOTLAND
Travel on the British Pullman or Northern Belle and enjoy complimentary chauffeur service to and from the station.
To receive this exclusive offer, code ADLE must be quoted when booking.
Offer validity:
British Pullman bookings over £395 per person travelling before November 16, 2013
Northern Belle bookings over £340 per person travelling before November 30, 2013.
Offer cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion (except Club member discount).
Offer valid for new bookings only. Complimentary transfer from your home address to the departure station and return within 15 miles. One address per booking.
Supplement for passengers living from 16 – 20 miles is £25 per person, between 21 – 30 miles £65 per person. Supplements based on minimum of 2 travelling together and are double for single travellers.
Travel on the British Pullman or Northern Belle and receive £100 off per couple in June and July
To receive this exclusive offer, code P100 must be quoted when booking.
Offer validity:
Available on bookings made before 30th June 2013.
Offer cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion (except Club member discount).
Offer valid for new bookings only.
The Royal Scotsman is a country-house style of train with tours of Scotland for just 36 guests. Book in June, July or August 2013 and get an extra night; a complimentary 5* hotel night in Edinburgh is available for booking on some departures.

ENGLAND / EUROPE
The Venice-Simplon-Orient Express is the doyenne of luxury trains, with a number of current offers:
- Complimentary Cabin Suite upgrade: Book any London/Paris to Venice or Venice to Paris/London journey for two passengers and receive a free Cabin Suite upgrade. Offer valid for departure on 14, 15, 21 and 29 August 2013. Quote code VSLV when booking.
- Complimentary Onboard Credit: Book any Venice to Paris or London or any Paris or London to Venice journey departing in October 2013 and receive up to €300 credit to spend on board; purchasing opportunities include Champagne, caviar, fine wines, cocktails and gifts.
- Autumn Package with Hotel Cipriani, Venice: Book a Venice – London journey (departing 9, 12 or 19 October 2013) and receive two nights at the legendary Hotel Cipriani, Venice: total price £2,280 per person.

RUSSIA
The Imperial Russia Train is making one return journey in 2013, between Saint-Petersburg – Moscow (on the Grand Express) and then Moscow – Irkutsk / Lake Baikal. Outbound July 26 to August 6, inbound August 8 to 15. A special Club discount of 5% is available.

RUSSIA / CENTRAL ASIA
The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian and Silk Road is an hotel-on-wheels, the only fully en-suite train in Russia and central Asia. There is a credit offer of USD500 per person on some east-bound departures as well as discount off some Single supplements.

SPAIN

Al Andalus, with its Wagon Lits carriages, is operating between Madrid – Zaragoza for the first time this year.
Discounts per suite: Standard Suite EUR 700 Superior EUR 1,100
For these departures:
Madrid – Zaragoza August 4, 18
Zaragoza-Madrid July 14, 28. August 11, 25.

Early Booking Discounts
The Spanish trains on the Luxury Train Club all offer three levels of pricing that take into account early booking discounts.

Al Andalus     El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo     El Transcantábrico Clásico     El Expreso de la Robla

Book more than 6 months in advance for the best prices, or between 4 and 6 months for the next level of discounts.  Full fares are applicable for bookings made less than 4 months before departure.  Please note: Club members still get our special 2.5% discount off all theses fares.

BOOKING & RESERVATIONS

All prices are at publicly-quoted rates.

We will be happy to answer any questions and make the booking for you  -  contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890205 or info@luxurytrainclub.com      Please sign up to our newsletter to be kept informed of interesting trains and special offers.

Clean air, stunning scenery and your private train

The Train Chartering Company reveals the world of private train hire and rail cruises in Asia, Africa, Europe, North America and South America; the range of these travel opportunities for special groups, corporate clients and individual customers is news to the majority of the  public.

Train Chartering, founded in 1997, is highlighting the opportunities to charter a private train in many countries around the world; very special rail experiences are now possible on five continents from the world’s leading charter train supplier. Train Chartering’s experience behind the planning makes train hire possible in many countries on five continents for corporate or marketing events, or simply for special private celebrations.

ASIA

The Eastern & Oriental Express is a luxury train from the same stable as the Venice-Simplon-Orient Express, and therefore has a level of service one would expect.  Private charters take in Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and other destinations.

The Maharajas’ Express is one of the top luxury trains in India, and is managed by Indian Railways.  Charter this train, and benefit from tried and tested excursion programmes to iconic sites with train tours starting from Mumbai and Delhi.

AFRICA

All of southern Africa’s leading trains, the Blue Train, the Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa and the Shongololo Express, are available for hire.  Each train has its own distinct identity, benefits and separate routes.

Train Chartering provides a consultation service to assist with planning, which can include a programme taking in charters of more than one of these trains.

EUROPE

The Majestic Train de Luxe replicates the imperial train of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire and operating mostly in Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, Switzerland and the Czech Republic.  Travel with fine dining by Austrian chef Toni Mörwald, relaxing to live music; hire from EUR 14,600 (USD 19,250) per trip.

Marshal Tito’s private train is now available for hire and is known as the Blue Train, a recently-refurbished glimpse of the lifestyle of this one-of-a-kind WW2 and cold war veteran.   Organize presentations or meetings in the ceremonial saloon, or celebrate a private occasion.  Minimum charter period from 12 hours for day travel, or sleep on-board or in hotels along the way.

NORTH AMERICA

The Royal Canadian Pacific is the most luxurious train on the continent, and one of the top 5 in the world.

Hire the train for CAN$55,000 a day for up to 30 passengers.

SOUTH AMERICA

Inca Rail’s Inca Princess is a private rail car for up to 12 passengers, the only carriage available for exclusive hire to and from Macho Picchu.  Panoramic UV-protected side windows and curved overhead windows ensure uninterrupted views. Knowledgeable stewards ensure attentive service.  The Inca Princess operates on demand all year round for US$10,000 one way or return.

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This is simply a selection of the trains and private carriages that Train Chartering provides to its corporate clients and individual customers.  Contact the company for more information about these trains and other quality rail travel opportunities.

About Train Chartering

Train Chartering, now in its 15th year, has provided private train charters and carriage hires to a wide range of clients.

Train Chartering operates mainly in the UK, Europe and North America – though rail travel can be arranged almost anywhere there are passenger trains.

Extensive experience and wide contact base allows the selection of the best trains available, along with a suite of on-board services, handling every detail from complex timetabling to food, entertainment and train branding.

Train Chartering leads a group of rail booking sites: Luxury Train Club, Train Hire, Private Rail Cars, and World Train Travel. The Luxury Train Club is part of Train Chartering.

Al Andalus -  new and  innovative route, 6 days and 5 night, Zaragoza to A Coruña.

The itinerary will include visits to La Rioja, Burgos, Astorga, Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra and Vigo.

La Rioja – wine tasting in a classic bodega of the world-renowned Rioja;

Burgos – with its Roman and Moorish history and architecture;

Astorga - founded by the Romans in 14BC, famous for pastries and chocolate;

Santiago de Compostela – the final destination of pilgrims who have for over 1,000 years walked the St. James Way, ‘El Camino de Santiago’, to the Cathedral where the remains of the apostle Saint James are buried;

Pontevedra – (derived from Old Bridge in Latin), sitting between mountains and the sea, with typical Galician mansions (pazos) and its shellfish cuisine accompanied by the local Albariño wine.

Vigo – Galicia’s largest city, with a long and often turbulent history reflected in its architecture and culture;

A Coruña – an important sea port for centuries, it played a key role in the Napoleonic Wars in the early 18th century.

Departure dates from Zaragoza: 21 and 28 July 2013

Prices per person for this special 6-days / 5-nights journey

Superior Suite, double        € 3,650

Superior Suite, single          € 4,850

Standard Suite, double       € 2,950

Standard Suite, single         € 3,950

Triple supplement (children under 12) : € 1,000

Contact us for more information and availability.

The Machu Picchu train encapsulates the authentic Peruvian atmosphere whilst transporting one in a comfortable executive style.  Passing through the stunning Andean scenery by train, travelling between Ollantaytambo, situated in the mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas, to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Inca, is a wonderful way to travel to this amazing city.

Members of the Club (free to join) benefit from:

- discount off the published prices of any journey

- a thank-you gift for every booking.

Accommodation

There are three types of air-conditioned carriages, incorporating traditional Peruvian tapestries and art, ambient lighting,comfortable seating all with tables and panoramic UV protected windows.

Executive Class:  Capacity of 42 passengers per carriage, with comfortable leather seats.

First Class:  Capacity of 30 passengers per carriage, with comfortable leather seats, tables dressed with flowers and hand-crafted Peruvian tapestries and table decorations.

Inca Princess: Inca Princess is a private rail car for up to 12 passengers, the only carriage available for exclusive hire to and from Macho Picchu.  Panoramic UV-protected side windows and curved overhead windows ensure uninterrupted views of the passing landscape.  An outside balcony is an unusual feature, great for photographic opportunities.  Inside, elegant wood-veneered panels compliment vibrant Andean artwork.

The dining area has four tables decorated with local tapestries and ceramics from the Jallpa Nina Ceramics Workshop in the Sacred Valley. Eight upholstered swivel armchairs are set on either side of the tables allow guests to relax and enjoy the onboard service.  A black leather L-shaped sofa offers further seating and separates the lounge from the bar area.  The bar, with its polished marble top and four leather bar stools encourages convivial conversation over a drink.   The carriage has its own well-appointed washroom.  Soft lighting and quiet music induce a sense of calm and serenity.

Knowledgeable stewards ensure attentive service.  On boarding, passengers are greeted with hand towels and champagne or orange juice.  Stewards offer a selection of natural fruit drinks, cocktails, a full international bar menu and a selection of hot beverages during the journey.  A tasting menu by the Chefs of Lima’s acclaimed Le Cordon Bleu School is served, which uses local ingredients from the Sacred Valley, Amazon and other areas of Peru, accompanied by South American wines.  In between pointing out interesting landmarks along the journey, deserts are served which incorporate exotic fruits and palette-delighting tastes.

The Inca Princess operates on demand all year round and can depart on any of Inca Rail’s 12 departure times.

Catering

The theme of the catering is Peruvian artisan cuisine, which allows one to enjoy tasty traditional cooking using the finest Andean ingredients followed by teas and herbal infusions.

Executive Class:  A selection of organic handmade artisan biscuits and chocolates, with natural drinks and beverages.

First Class:  3-course menu including welcome cocktail, red and white wine as well as natural drinks and beverages.

Inca Princess: 5-course menu paired with a selection of fine wines.  Cocktails, snacks,natural drinks and beverages.

Itinerary

The journey time is 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, between Ollantaytambo (in the Sacred Valley) and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) and vice versa.

Executive Class:  3 departures daily all year.

First Class:  2 departures daily between 15 June/31 August, and 12-31 October, as well as Easter, Christmas and New Year.

Inca Princess:  Operates on demand on an exclusive basis.  Can be used on any of the 12 departures.

Dates and Prices

Low Season:  3 January – 26 March.  4 April – 14 June.  1 September – 11 October.  1 November – 20 December

Executive Class:  US$122 pp return, US$75 pp one-way

High Season:  27 March – 3 April.  15 June – 31 August.  12 – 31 October.  21 December – 2 January (2014)

Executive Class:  US$140 pp return, US$75 pp one-way

First Class:  US$215 pp return, US$215 pp one-way

Inca Princess:  US$ 10,000 for the whole carriage, single or return, all year round.

Rates include 10% Service Tax + 19% VAT

General Information

On Board Purchases:  Credit cards and currency.  MasterCard and Visa, or cash in the form of US$ or Nuevo Sol.

Luggage:  1 carry on bag per person, not exceeding 8kg in weight and of the same dimensions as airline hand luggage.

Tickets:  These are sent as e-tickets.

Children:  Ages up to and including 11 years’ old have a 50% discount.

What to Wear:  Smart casual and comfortable clothes are appropriate for any of the journeys.  It is suggested that passengers  bring a raincoat as well as a hat and sun block as it can become extremely hot.  Insect repellent is advised.

Climate:  At Machu Picchu, the subtropical climate means generally mild weather; the average year-round temperature during the day is 13ºC.  There are two distinct seasons – the rainy season is from November to March and brings heavy rains; the dry season from April to October brings higher temperatures.

Bookings and Reservations

All prices are at publicly-quoted rates.

We will be happy to answer any questions and make the booking for you  -  contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890205 or info@luxurytrainclub.com      Please sign up to our newsletter to be kept informed of interesting trains and special offers

St Petersburg to Irkutsk and Lake Baikal, via Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Tobolsk, Omsk and Novosibirsk.

This journey can be done in reverse.

Members of the Club (free to join) benefit from:

- discount off the published prices of any journey

- a thank-you gift for every booking.

One of the most famous railways in the world, the Trans-Siberian Railway is thousands of kilometres long, running from the shores of the Baltic Sea to the shores of the Pacific Ocean.  Travelling in the luxury of the Imperial Russia train, passing by all the largest historical and cultural centres of the vast Russian Empire and visiting many of them, is an incredible way to journey through the heart of Russia.

Accommodation

Suites:    VIP Suite – The suites have comfortable seating in the form of a  sofa and an armchair.  During the evening it is converted into upper and lower berths by the steward.  A wardrobe allows one to store clothes and luggage, and there are individual air conditioning controls.  There is a shower ensuite with bathrobe and slippers provided. Complimentary mini bottle of Vodka and Russian sweets.

Restaurant Cars:    There are two elegant dining cars, one in opulent gold upholstery, the other in a rich red and gold upholstery.  The large panoramic windows provide amazing vistas  whilst enjoying traditional cuisine.

Bar Car:    The bar car is a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board.  Unwind in comfortable surroundings and watch the Russian landscape go by.  The carriage is separated by a decorative partition, thus giving two comfortable areas where one can eat, dance or just relax.

Itineraries

The tour guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.

Day 1 –  St Petersburg.  City tour that includes visits to the exquisite Smolny Cathedral, a masterpiece of Rastrelli’s baroque; and/or the shimmering mosaics and marble floor patterns at the Church of the Saviour on Blood; and/or the ancient icon painting and carved iconostases at the St. Sampson’s Cathedral (built at the reign of by Peter I in gratitude for the victorious Poltava battle); and/or the icons of golden mosaics and the columns of malachite and lapis lazuli in the grand St. Isaac’s Cathedral.

Following this there is a visit to the beautiful  State Hermitage.  The collection of the State Hermitage includes more than three million works of art and artefacts of the world culture.

With these wonderful impressions, one leaves St Petersburg on the Grand Express train to settle in for the overnight journey to Moscow.

Day 2  – Moscow.   Here there is a visit to the amazing Kremlin, a treasure house of magnificent art.  Walk  along  Arbat Street, created in the 15^th century, thus laying claim to being one of the oldest surviving streets of the capital.  Originally the street formed part of an important trade route and was home to a large number of craftsmen.  Then we visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, with its beautiful interior and its copper domes that dominate the skyline.  Afterwards there is a tour of the famous metro stations, each one a delight of artist achievement and a surprising find underground.

Following this day of culture, we join the ‘Imperial Russia’ Train to settle in as it travels overnight to Kazan.

Day 3 – Kazan.  This picturesque Tartar capital with its beautiful colourful domes  is situated on the banks of the Volga.  There is a Grand city tour of ‘Old Kazan’, followed by a visit to the Kazan Kremlin and a delicious lunch of Tartar cuisine.  We rejoin the train to travel to Yekaterinburg.

Day 4 – Yekaterinburg.   The city tour is dedicated to the final days of the last Russian Emperor and his family, Tsar Nicholas II.  There is a visit to the Church on Blood which was built in memory of the tragic events.  We also visit the orthodox monastery with temples that are considered to be pearls of Russian construction.  Finally, before returning to the train,  we go to the Europe/Asia boundary where one can stand with a foot in each continent.

Day 5 – Tobolsk.   Arriving in Tobolsk, in the Russian heartland, one is taken on a visit of  the amazing Tobolsk Kremlin (a 17^th century fortress), within which is the Chamber Museum of Nicolas II.   The Romanov Royal family were sent to Tobolsk after being deposed.   The tour includes a visit to the obelisk to the conqueror of Siberia, and to the Svyato-Znamensky friary.

Day 6 -  Omsk.   On arrival in Omsk, the city of Cossacks,  we are welcomed in the traditional Russian manner with bread and salt.  There is a city tour, during which we visit the museums of Dostoevsky, Vrubel, followed by a tour to the first Siberian Fruit Garden and Achair monastery

Day 7 –  Novosibirsk.   Novosibirsk is a city of academic science.  It has not lost the charm of its past, which is shown in the Bark, Sun and Train museum.  We visit these and the Opera House, as well as ancient streets and the Ob River.

Day 8  -  Relax on the train

Day 9 -  Irkutsk.  Called the ‘Paris of Siberia’, with its classic wooden architecture and the Decembrist House museum (dedicated to the memory of the exiled aristocrats, forced to flee to this remote outpost after the failed revolution of 1825).  We visit this museum as well as the “wooden lace” house, also called the “House of Europe”, before wandering  the amazing streets of the city.  There is free time at the 130 Quarter (Irkutskaya Sloboda),  a quarter with reconstructed city buildings from the 19^th century.

Visit to the Talsty ethnographic museum  located in a picturesque place on the right bank of the Angara river.

Day 10  -  Baikal.  Following the night in Irkutsk,  we take the ferry to the Listvyanka village, the closest settlement to Irkutsk on the shores of the beautiful Lake Baikal,  the deepest lake in the world and known as  the Pearl of Siberia with its unique breed of freshwater seal.   Enjoy a picnic lunch and go on to the Chersky Stone observation point with a beautiful view of the southern part of the lake and the source of the Angara River.  Visit to Baikal Museum which displays the flora and fauna of the lake.

Day 11 -  Irkutsk  and the end of the journey.

Dates and Prices

2013

St Petersburg to Irkutsk:   July 26 to August 6

Irkutsk to St Petersburg:   August 8 to August 15

Euro 8500 per person

Euro 4250 supplement for single person.

General Information

Included:  Hotel – 1 night in St Petersburg and 1 night in Irkutsk.   Transfers – from airport to hotel and return to airport.  Porterage between hotels and stations.  Luggage service at stations.  Excursions with local guides.  Tour director (English speaking).  Doctor on board.  Tea/coffee throughout the day.  Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Luggage:  There is limited storage space inside the cabin for luggage storage.  Soft-topped luggage is easier to store.  Clients can have assistance to store their luggage.

Gratuities:  Tipping is at your discretion.

Dress Code:  During the day, dress is casual both on and off the train.   In the evening we suggest smart casual.

Visas:  These are not included.  Please take  into consideration the time needed to obtain visas and the number required depending on which countries the train passes through.

Changes:  Tours may be subject to change.

Booking & Reservations

All prices are at publicly-quoted rates.

We will be happy to answer any questions and make the booking for you  -  contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890205 or info@luxurytrainclub.com      Please sign up to our newsletter to be kept informed of interesting trains and special offers.

Ladies’ Day, Thursday 20 June 2013 – Royal Ascot, from Manchester, Crewe or Birmingham

“Everyone who should be here is here” 

Travelling in an Orient Express train to Ladies’ Day at Royal Ascot has to be THE way to travel!

Only eclipsed by your very own private carriage just for your party.

Individual tickets and private carriage hire both include brunch with Bellini, racecourse admission, reserved grandstand enclosure entrance, dinner with champagne & wine.

Journey to one of the most popular sporting and social venues.

The Royal meeting is one of the most famous in the equestrian calendar where top class racing is combined with pageantry, style and tradition.

Ladies Day is a very important event in the social year, with the wonderful array of hats gracing the grandstands.

Enjoy brunch with Bellini on the outward journey and dinner with champagne and half a bottle of wine upon the return.

Admission to the racecourse and reserved entrance to the grandstand enclosure are included.  With an early departure and returning from 20.30hrs onwards, this will be a day to remember.

Please note: You will receive your entry badge before you leave the train.  It is not possible to re-enter the course once you have left the main gates.

Dress Code

Ladies within the main Grandstand enclosure are encouraged to dress in a manner as befits a formal occasion. Ladies are kindly asked to take particular note of the following:

• A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.
• Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted.
• Trousers must be full length and worn with a top that adheres to the guidelines above.
• Jackets/pashminas may be worn but dresses/tops underneath should still comply with the dress code.
• Midriffs must be covered.
• Shorts are not permitted.

Gentlemen must wear a suit with a shirt and tie.

Access:  This journey is not suitable for passengers with special access needs/wheelchair users.

Travel Times 

Outbound Departures:   Manchester Victoria  7.00hrs;   Crewe 8.00hrs; Birmingham International 9.30hrs;  Ascot arrival 12.30hrs.

Return Arrivals:   Ascot departure 18.00hrs;   Birmingham International 20.30hrs;   Crewe 21.45hrs;  Manchester Victoria 22.45hrs.

NOTE: Times are for guidance only – exact timings will be sent out with train tickets.

Price

Tickets    £520 per person

Private carriage of 42 seats        £21,840 (there is no supplement for the carriage)

‘Tickets To Ride’  Vouchers

The Club’s Ticket To Ride luxury train travel vouchers, valid for any of our rail holidays, are perfect luxury train gifts for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and indeed many special occasions.

The Club offers unique ‘Ticket To Ride’ pre-paid vouchers for any of our listed luxury train journeys.

Membership of the Club is free

The only subscription is to our newsletter, with its special offers and luxury train news

Tickets To Ride are available for purchase by our members throughout the year, and make a very special gift for an important person or couple in your life.

A Ticket To Ride can be worth any amount from USD $250 or GBP £150 or EUR €185, in any one of those currencies.

Ticket To Ride travel vouchers can be customised with background photos, logos or other graphics at no extra charge, as long as the required files are provided.   The Club has a useful .pdf guide to adding personalised vouchers to a wedding list.

Any Club discount or offer still applies if the Ticket To Ride is redeemed in full payment of a qualifying train journey.

Each Ticket To Ride is valid for one year from date of issue and can be redeemed towards the partial or complete payment for any journey featured on the Luxury Train Club website, as long as there is availability on that particular trip, even if the booked journey starts later than one year after issue.   More than one voucher can be used to pay for any one journey.

Vouchers from the Luxury Train Club are an ideal way to show you care while giving choice – over 25 luxury trains through 35 countries mean that your present can be used for the perfect experience.

Current Discounts and Offers for Club Members

Membership is free, requiring just a subscription to our newsletter on the Club site.  We would also appreciate a ‘like’ at Facebook/LuxuryTrainClub (useful and interesting information about luxury train travel).

-             Ask for any available discounts;

-             Rovos Rail, gift of 2 Rovos wine flutes and a bottle of Amarula, for each booking, until 31 May;

-             Gift from Osprey, e.g. from their range of small leather goods, for every booking except on Shongololo Express, sent on final payment, until 31 May;

-             Pre- and post-tour & offers on trains e.g. Venice-Simplon-Orient Express and Golden Eagle, ask for details;

-              El Transcantábrico Clásico

EUR 400 per person discount on double suite

6 April, León – Santiago de Compostela

27 April, Santiago de Compostela – León

4 May, Leon – Santiago de Compostela

-              El Expreso de La Robla

EUR 200 per person discount on double cabin

9 May, Bilbao – León – Bilbao

Remember – Membership of the Club is free

The only subscription is to our newsletter, with its special offers and luxury train news,

(We ask for a like at Facebook/LuxuryTrainClub)

Mothers are special; are they pampered enough?

Simon Pielow, a concierge at the Luxury Train Club, says, “Mothers may not always make a fuss about it, but they do love having special attention occasionally! Luxury train travel is just the ticket, and there’s no excuse of being too busy with so many departures to choose from; we even have ‘Ticket To Ride’ vouchers so she can select her own favourite journey at leisure.”

Mother’s Day is any day here at the Luxury Train Club.   The calendar of luxury train journeys is very useful, showing up to 10 daily departures.

A trip to a flower show for the day with Pullman dining, a luxury holiday in a suite with private bathroom, travel between world-class cities, to Royal Ascot for Ladies’ Day by Orient Express; these are just a a selection of journeys that show the range of what the Club offers anyone wanting to say ‘thank you’.

Mothers Day is celebrated on various days around the world.  Wikipedia provides a useful guide to many such dates around the world.

Luxury train journeys are about relaxed and gentle rail cruises along some of the world’s most celebrated railways.  Cabins on the trains that offer overnight accommodation are of high quality, carefully designed to make the most of the space, almost always with attached private bathrooms. There are dedicated staff, fresh linen, toiletries and a turndown service.

Current offers and discounts for Club Members include:

-              2.5% discount off any journey, valid until 31 March;

-              Al Andalus, gift of a Noble Isle Travel Trio for each booking, until 31 March;

-              Rovos Rail, gift of  2 Rovos wine flutes and a bottle of Amarula, until 31 May;

-              Gifts from Osprey, e.g. key fob / silk scarf, for all bookings except Al Andalus & Rovos, until 31 May;

-              EUR 800 discount on double suite, El Transcantábrico Clásico, 23 March depart, Leon – Santiago de Compostela.

-              EUR 800 discount on double suite, El Transcantábrico Clásico, 30 March depart, Santiago de Compostela – Leon;

If you are not already a Member, joining the Club is simple and free, requiring just a subscription to the Club newsletter and a like at Facebook/LuxuryTrainClub.

Fay says, “A gem of a train that takes you to a little-visited portion of south-west Africa.   What spectacular vistas present themselves from the Desert Express!  What’s more, our travellers are able to wander in them during the excursions.”

Members of the Club (free to join) benefit from:

- discount off the published prices of any journey

- a thank-you gift for every booking.

ABOUT THE TRAIN

The Desert Express first class tourist train travels through a beautiful part of Africa.

It passes through the amazing landscapes of Namibia from the apricot coloured dunes of the Namib desert to the rough Atlantic coast line.  As the lights of civilisation are left behind, spectacular sunsets give way to silent darkness under a blanket of stars, followed by wonderful sunrises.

On board you can enjoy the highest comfort, safety and first-class service in company with just a maximum of 48 guests.  The interesting modern interior of the train was designed in colours and motifs of the country.

Accommodation

Suites:    All 24 suites have two lower beds, private shower and toilet, large panorama windows and air-conditioning/heating.  They are designed to ensure maximum use of space. Complimentary toiletries are provided.  During the day they are transformed into comfortable lounges.

Dining Car:    The Welwitschia Restaurant has fascinating overhead lights, comprising of sandblasted glass panels depicting animal footprints in mud.  In this interesting setting, one can enjoy three course dinners of exquisite international cuisine as well as Namibian specialities like game and ostrich.

Lounge Car:    Relax in handmade amber-coloured leather armchairs amongst the beautiful glass engravings of the Namibian fauna and flora.

Bar Carriage:    In this carriage, the red golden woods with lovingly processed animal motifs create a convivial atmosphere.  Here you can enjoy South-African wines whilst watching unforgettable sunsets. In a section of this carriage is the only part of the train where one can smoke.

Itinerary

Windhoek to Swakopmund 

Friday  -  at midday the  journey departs from the charming German inspired Windhoek station, built in the early part of the 20^th century.  On boarding the train one is offered a fruit cocktail whilst being welcomed and taken to one’s suite to settle in.

By mid afternoon we have arrived at Oropoko for a game drive.

Rejoining the train, the journey continues whilst a delicious dinner is served.  The train halts for the night in a secure siding.

Saturday – during breakfast the journey continues through the famous sand dunes, stopping to allow one to walk on the warm sands and climb the giant sand dune, from where one can see the blue Atlantic Ocean in the distance.   The sands are a fabulous colour depending on the time of day, with red being dominant at sun rise.

We rejoin the train to travel  to Swakopmund on the Atlantic Ocean, where the journey ends at around 10.00hrs.   Swakopmund is rich in German architecture, dating back two centuries, and offers quaint shops as well as beaches.

 Swakopmund to Windhoek

Whilst one can travel only one way, there is the option to return on the train to Windhoek, or indeed start the journey from Swakopmund.  Thus the itinerary would be:

Saturday – at 14.30hrs join the train at Swakopmund station.  Crossing the gravel plains of the Namib, you head off to granite-like gneiss formations of the Kahn River Valley.  Enjoy a sundowner  in the open, as the last light of day is cast over the barren landscape.   A delicious dinner is served as the train approaches its stop-over for the night.

Train halts for the night in a secure siding.

Sunday  -  following breakfast, there is an early morning visit to a game farm to see lions being fed.  The train then continues to Windhoek, where it arrives at around 10.30hrs.

Dates and Prices

Dates

2013

Windhoek – Swakopmund:   February 8,15.   March 1,8.   April 12,26.   May 3.    November 29.   December 6,13,20.

Swakopmund – Windhoek:   February 9,16.   March 2,9.   April 13,27.   May 4.    November 30.   December 7,14,21.

Prices

2013 – GBP £ approximate

Single trip

N$3250 (£232)  per person in double occupancy

N$4150 (£297)  single occupancy

N$1670 (£119)  per child travelling with parent. 4-12yrs

Return trip

N$4700 (£337)  per person in double occupancy

N$6000 (£431)  single occupancy

N$2350 (£169)  per child travelling with parent. 4-12yrs

N$1800 (£129)  transport of vehicle

General Information

Dress Code:  Smart casual wear, with something for the night chill.

Included:  Dinner, breakfast, tax and excursions.

Excluded:  Drinks, lunch, gratuities

Pricing:  The minimum age for a child is 4 years.  Prices are quoted in Namibian dollars, with a pound sterling rate given which is liable to change according to currency rates.

Vehicle Transport:  Vehicles can be loaded at the rear of the train, with prior notice.

Booking and Reservations

All prices are at publicly-quoted rates.

We will be happy to answer any questions and make the booking for you  -  contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890205 or info@luxurytrainclub.com      Please sign up to our newsletter to be kept informed of interesting trains and special offers.

Suite Rose

Fay says, “Although St. Valentine’s Day is very special, the rest of the year should be equally filled with romance; our solution for those memorable occasions?  There is a luxury train departure on every single day of 2013, and Club members benefit from a discount for booking before March 31, 2013.”

The Calendar of Luxury Train Journeys makes it easy to find the train for your special day, which may not be Valentines Day.  Around the world, there are rail experiences available on every day in 2013.  Club membership is simple and free, requiring just a subscription to our newsletter.

Luxury trains are about a relaxed and gentle progress along some of the world’s most celebrated railways.  These rail cruises aren’t headlong rushes along high-speed rail lines, or crowded ‘buses on rail’.

The trains frequently travel through spectacular or scenic countryside, mountains, savannah, tundra and deserts or along coasts, riverbanks and lakeshores that you wouldn’t notice from a road.  Most train fares include programmes of excursions and visits to cities, sights and natural wonders along the route.

The standard of cuisine is as least as high as one would expect from a quality restaurant, and is complemented by an extensive bar and wine list, served by uniformed stewards, expert at being attentive without over-familiarity.

Trains that offer overnight accommodation have cabins of a high standard, with carefully designed living areas that make the most of available space.  Almost all such trains have en suite, attached private bathrooms.  There are dedicated cabin staff / butlers, fresh linen, toiletries and a turndown service.

All luxury trains make the most of their lounges and bar cars as convivial, sociable venues – but also frequently provide space or dedicated carriages for those couples who would simply prefer to enjoy time together.

Having chosen the special day from the Calendar, Club members will receive a 2.5% discount on the selected train experience, if it is booked by March 31, 2013.  The Luxury Train Club accepts any currency to pay for any journey, with appropriate charges.   The Club offers ‘Ticket To Ride’ pre-paid vouchers, valid for any of the Club’s rail holidays, which are original gifts for someone special, on any day of the year.

Simon Pielow of The Luxury Train Club, says, “Luxury train travel is perfect for romance, allowing a couple to share quality time, combining the sybaritic pleasures of retro, slow travel in sumptuous surroundings with fine dining and memorable moments.”

About Tickets To Ride

Tickets To Ride are available for purchase by Club members throughout the year, and make a very special gift for an important person or couple.  A Ticket To Ride can be worth any amount from USD $750 or GBP £500 or EUR €600, in any one of those currencies.

Each Ticket To Ride is valid for one year from date of issue and can be redeemed towards the partial or complete payment for any journey featured on the Luxury Train Club website, as long as there is availability on that particular trip, even if the chosen journey takes place later than one year after issue.

Vouchers from the Luxury Train Club are an ideal way to show you care while giving choice to the lucky recipient.

The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express

Availability as of March 1, 2013

Discount for Members Only

Valid until 31st March 2013:

-              2.5% discount off prices; you must be a member.

Membership is free, requiring just a subscription to our newsletter on the Club site, and a like at Facebook/LuxuryTrainClub

Credit Offer and Single Supplement Savers for this train only:

- Credit Offer – $500 per person – on selected Eastbound departures;

- Some Single Supplement Savers – ask for details.

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS – EASTBOUND

Moscow  – Vladivostok

May 5 – May 19

GOOD AVAILABILITY plus CREDIT OFFER and SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SAVER AVAILABLE

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS - WESTBOUND

Vladivostok – Moscow

May 18 – June 1

LIMITED AVAILABILITY (Imperial Suites sold out)

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS – EASTBOUND

Moscow  – Vladivostok

June 3 – June 17

GOOD AVAILABILITY (Imperial Suites sold out)

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS - WESTBOUND

Vladivostok – Moscow

June 16 – June 30

SOLD OUT

TRANS-MONGOLIAN EXPRESS – EASTBOUND

Moscow  - Ulaan Baatar (including two days at the Naadam Festival)

July 1 – July 13

GOOD AVAILABILITY and CREDIT OFFER AVAILABLE

TRANS-MONGOLIAN EXPRESS - WESTBOUND

Ulaan Baatar - Moscow

July 10 – July 22

SOLD OUT

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS – EASTBOUND

Moscow  – Vladivostok

July 28 - August 11

GOOD AVAILABILITY and CREDIT OFFER AVAILABLE (Imperial Suites sold out)

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS - WESTBOUND

Vladivostok – Moscow

August 10 – August 24

SOLD OUT

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS – EASTBOUND

Moscow  – Vladivostok

August 25 – September 8

LIMITED AVAILABILITY (Imperial Suites sold out)

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS - WESTBOUND

Vladivostok – Moscow

September 7 – September 21

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

SILK ROAD – EASTBOUND

Moscow - Beijing

September 20 – October 10

GOOD AVAILABILITY and CREDIT OFFER AVAILABLE (Imperial Suites sold out)

SILK ROAD - WESTBOUND

Beijing - Moscow

September 24 – October 14

SOLD OUT  

TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS – EASTBOUND

Moscow  – Vladivostok

May 5 – May 19

GOOD AVAILABILITY plus CREDIT OFFER and SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SAVER AVAILABLE

Al Andalus headlines on CNN, November 30, 2012

The Luxury Train Club has recently appeared in print and on-line in the Sunday Times, one of the UK’s premier Sunday newspapers, and on-line in a CNN luxury train review.

The article on CNN covered 7 f the world’s top train journeys and is part of its ‘On The Move’ feature.

The trains featured from the Club were Al Andalus, the Golden Eagle and the Royal Canadian Pacific, although the other four trains, Eastern & Oriental Express, Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Hiram Bingham and Rovos Rail are also listed here, with reference to the train operators.

The Sunday Times also focussed on the Luxury Train Club, further emphasising our concierge-style service.  We have no reason not to give impartial advice to travellers, which allows us to match your needs to the appropriate rail holiday.

It is worth noting that the Club quotes public fares, equal to those of the train companies.

Fay says, “From the shores of the Pacific to the Indian Ocean, the Indian Pacific’s rails bind southern Australia.  Travellers have the time to relax and enjoy the passing scenery and some off-train visits as they skirt the fringes of this country, so large it is a continent.”

Members of the Club (free to join) benefit from:

- discount off the published prices of any journey

- a thank-you gift for every booking.

The Indian Pacific, with its blue engine, is an elegantly luxurious train with comfortable interiors.    

The modern suites with their wooden surroundings contrast to the fantastic retro-Edwardian décor of the dining car, all complete with panoramic windows for perfect observation.

This wonderful journey takes in two magnificent oceans, the Pacific and the Indian.  

Whether the final destination is west to Perth or east to Sydney, there are many opportunities to leave the train and experience some of the region’s highlights, creating many memories on one of the longest train journeys in the world.  

What a wonderful way to cross  a vast continent, in such luxury, enjoying meals whilst viewing the incredible landscapes.

Perth to Sydney, or vice versa

Itinerary

For four days and three nights, the Indian Pacific travels between Perth and Sydney (or vice versa) on one of the most fascinating luxury train journeys of the world.  Here is the Perth to Sydney itinerary.

Day 1 – Perth to Kalgoorlie

Perth, a sunny, beach-loving city that is closer to Singapore than Sydney and an important gateway to Asia.

As the train departs Perth, it climbs through the scenic Avon Valley and into Western Australia’s expansive wheat belt, before arriving late evening at your first stop in the gold rush town of Kalgoorlie.

Here the train is stationary overnight, which gives one the time to wander around the grand old pubs and absorb the atmosphere of a town that was built on fortune and hardship.

Day 2 – Kalgoorlie to Adelaide

As we depart Kalgoorlie, the landscape takes on a richer hue as the journey moves through the mallee scrub and into the ancient Nullabor Plain.  Nullabor is Latin for ‘no trees’, which creates a barren landscape that appears unchanged for millennia.

In the middle of this is one of the world’s most isolated outposts, Cook, where the train stops so that one can wander around.  The outpost used to advertise itself with the catchphrase ‘If you’re crook, come to Cook’, due to having an hospital.  Note the Australian dry sense of humour -  the hospital has closed as no one is ‘crook’;  in Aussie slang, this means sick or ill.

The train travels overnight to Adelaide.

Day 3 – Adelaide

We arrive here early in the morning, passing colonial buildings surrounded by park lands, beaches and hills.

After a city tour, one can either stop here for a few days (off-train accommodation is not included) or carry on to Broken Hill, travelling through wonderful landscapes.

Broken Hill is Australia’s longest-lived mining city, with beautiful 1920’s buildings.  Arriving here in the early evening, marvel at the clear light and beautiful colours that have drawn many artists to this area. This former mining town known as Silver City sits amidst distinctive desert landscapes and an oasis of lakes.

In a one-hour tour, learn about the rich mining history, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Base, see the Living Desert Sculptures and one of the impressive art galleries, before leaving Broken Hill later in the evening.  

Day 4 – Sydney

Watch the sandstone cliffs, forested valleys, escarpments and waterfalls of the Blue Mountains flow into the more arid landscapes of the New South Wales outback, as the train arrives at its final destination, Sydney.  

Accommodation

Cabins

Platinum Cabin

Each Platinum cabin has a double bed or twin beds, a spacious en suite bathroom and full room service; they have all the modern comforts in a classic style, with a distinctly Australian character.

• The cabin is 3.65m x 2.1m, including en suite bathroom
• It is a private lounge by day with a moveable table and 2 ottomans
• By night, the cabin converts to either a double bed or twin beds
• The interior is finished in polished Tasmanian Myrtle and plush pile floor coverings
• Cabins have a writing desk, next to the window
• En suite bathrooms have premium fittings, full size shower, vanity with cupboard space, mirror and toilet facilities
• A large panoramic window offers a unique perspective on the ever-changing Australian landscape
• Cabin have an additional interior window, allowing views on both sides of the train
• Roman blinds and light dimmers set the scene as required

The Dining Car:    Platinum Service guests dine in the beautifully decorated Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car.  The frequently-changing menus feature a blend of Australian and International cuisine, cooked by on-board chefs.  Quality wines and beverages are available for purchase. Vegetarian, children’s and some special dietary meals can be accommodated – please request these when booking.  A full breakfast may be taken  here or a continental in the privacy of your cabin.

Note: breakfast packs will be delivered to cabins on some services to cater for early morning destination arrivals and off-train tour requirements.

Lounge:    The welcoming Outback Explorer Lounge has a friendly atmosphere and is often the centre of activity on the journey, with its panoramic windows enabling passengers to see the passing scenery.   Socialise with other passengers or quietly relax and read.

Dates and Prices

Perth to Sydney or vice versa

Departures (until 31 March 2014)

Departure from Perth  every Sunday.  Departure from Sydney every Wednesday

Price

1 April 2013  to 31 March 2014

Advanced purchase      AUD$3,501 per person in double occupancy, for adult or child

Standard purchase        AUD$3, 890 per person in double occupancy, for adult or child

Included

• Welcome drink and appetizer on arrival in the cabin
• All meals and refreshments including soft drinks, beers, premium wines, tandard spirits, tea and coffee
• Full cabin steward service
• Complimentary nightcap and turn-down service
• Toiletries
• Binoculars and in-cabin entertainment on request
• Morning and afternoon tea in the cabin
• Optional in-cabin continental breakfast or full breakfast in the Queen Adelaide restaurant
• Priority restaurant seating, check-in and ‘Whistle Stop’ tour bookings
• Private transfers to/from the hotel or airport pre or post-journey
• Explore & Discover Stops available at Broken Hill, Adelaide and Kalgoorlie
• Fuel Price surcharge
• GST

General Information

Luggage:  Due to cabin space constraints, it is recommended guests take an ‘overnight bag’ containing all requirements for their journey with them in their cabin and check-in all other luggage. Each guest is permitted to check-in a maximum 3 x 25kg bags.  Note: Checked-in luggage cannot be accessed during the journey.

Booking & Reservations

All prices are at publicly-quoted rates.

We will be happy to answer any questions and make the booking for you  -  contact us in the UK : +44 (0)1249 890205 or info@luxurytrainclub.com      Please sign up to our newsletter to be kept informed of interesting trains and special offers.

New Luxury Train Travel Rewards Scheme Launched By The Luxury Train Club And Train Chartering

The Luxury Train Club has launched a luxury train travel rewards scheme to returning customers and clients of the Club or any Train Chartering business.  There is no other similar reward scheme in train travel. To benefit, returning customers need only subscribe the Luxury Train Club’s email newsletter.

Trains, carriages and rail cars are offered by Train Chartering, the Luxury Train Club and Private Rail Cars in many countries.    The Luxury Train Club currently lists 26 luxury trains travelling in 35 countries on 4 continents, as well as Private Rail Cars with its extensive range of private carriages in the USA and elsewhere.   Train Chartering has been supplying private trains to individuals and corporate clients for over 14 years.

The discount ranges from 2.5% to 10%, depending on how many times the customer has booked with the Luxury Train Club.

The offer applies to any luxury train booking using the Luxury Train Club’s services by any direct customer or client of any Train Chartering business, if the customer is a subscriber to the Luxury Train Club’s email newsletter.

We hope that you find the Luxury Train Club’s clear and comfortable-to-use website helpful when choosing between the world’s finest luxury train journeys.  We believe it is one of the most comprehensive sources of luxury train information anywhere and our concierge service makes booking easy. This incentive makes it even more attractive for our repeat customers to keep coming back.

Train Chartering hires out trains and carriages for many purposes, from family and association travel, film locations, to corporate hospitality, incentive travel, VIP travel and train journeys in the UK, Europe, USA and worldwide.

Enquiries

Please contact us.

Subscribe

Individuals interested in the reward scheme simply need to subscribe to the Luxury Train Club’s email newsletter.

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