Nicole Connolly | February 14, 2015 10:00 AM ET
4 Ways to Enjoy Luxury Train Travel

Photo via Flickr
Luxury train travel has been around for quite some time and it appears that it is only getting better. People love the nostalgia they feel from running a route that has existed for centuries or decades. They love the feeling of being catered to and the experience of being pampered while riding the rails. The trend is catching on as this mode of travel garners more attention with each passing year. Take a look at the following luxury trains the next time you find yourself in need of getting from point A to point B. These are the best of the best.
Deccan Odessey
This railway line runs from Delhi to Mumbai and is one of India's most luxurious trains. From its beginnings in 2003, they have recently upgraded the cars with new carpet and bedspreads. These improvements really stepped up the luxury and make a noticeable difference because the staff, amenities, and service were already fantastic. The food is amazing too. Choose between continental or Indian cuisine. Be ready to have a culinary spirit experience that is bar none.
The sleeping cars contain deluxe cabins and presidential suites. The deluxe cabins are 95 ft.² and, four to a car. The presidential suite splits the train car in two and features a double bed, sitting room, and two bathrooms. The lounge at the end of each sleeping car is filled with attendants to greet guests each day with cool drinks and towels after touring the countryside.
Shangri-La Express
This first-class luxury train is formerly known as the China Orient Express. This is the most luxurious train that is available in China. Featuring air-conditioned cars and sleeping compartments that have twin style bunk beds, the Shangri-La is economy luxury travel at its finest. The dining options are amazing too with local cuisine being offered for each meal. A great selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks are always available and the service is cheerful and exuberant. This is the perfect way to see the countryside of China and experience a bit of luxury while en route to your destination.
Al Andalus
If Art Deco is your favorite style, then be sure to try this train the next time you are in South Spain. A broad gauge rail, the Al Andalus features a bar, tearoom, and two dining cars. This train has at all. Stellar service, fantastic food, and luxury beyond comparison. The standard suite features two twin beds, with a private bathroom. Superior suites have a double bed, and a full bathroom. All cabins feature their own separate air conditioning. Dining service features a breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner service, which all feature top-notch meals and local wine.
The lounge car has a superb dance floor, live entertainment on certain nights, and plenty of space for games, reading books, or even connect to the internet should you need to. This train will make you feel as if you are in a swanky hotel with all of the luxury and amenities it has to offer. A great way to see South Spain as well.
The Glacier Express
This train holds the honor of being the slowest express train in the world. It takes eight hours to traverse 168 miles. However, the experience is well worth it. The Glacier Express features panoramic cars with windows that allow you to see the beautiful Swiss Alps from almost any angle. The train has been updated with new interiors that are elegant and an improved information system that delivers information in six different languages.
This is a day trip, as no overnight accommodations are to be found on the glacier express. Yet, while on board you can experience nice hot meals, or drinks and snacks. Be sure to grab a seat in the lounge car and enjoy a drink for a few hours of that eight-hour ride. This train has some of the best scenery in the world, and you will want to make sure that you book in advance or else you might find yourself shoulder to shoulder inside.
Now you have a few options to consider the next time you find yourself wanting to travel in style. These trains will have you spoiled before you arrive at your next destination. Yet, as with most things in life, that is part of the fun is it not?
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