1. The Golden Chariot, India
India's latest hotel on rails was launched in March. The Golden Chariot features cabins reminiscent of Mysore palaces, two restaurants and an Ayurvedic spa. Routes take you through the southern Indian state of Karnataka, and there is scope to visit heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries and beaches (www.thegoldenchariot.co.in).
Tailor-made packages are offered by TransIndus (020- 8566 2729; www.transindus. co.uk). Eleven-day trips start at £2,736 per person, which includes return flights from Heathrow to Bangalore, seven nights’ full board on the train and four nights at the Taj West End Hotel in Bangalore
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2. The Danube Express, Central Europe
Europe’s newest luxury train is the brainchild of British rail entrepreneur Howard Trindle, whose attention to detail and 21st-century comfort will be revealed when the Danube Express starts operations in September. From Budapest, the train will offer four itineraries through Central Europe.
The Polish Explorer itinerary is offered by Danube Express (01462 441 400; www.danubeexpress. com). The eight-day trip starts at £2,090, including return air travel from London to Budapest, four nights’ half board in hotels and three nights’ full board on the train.
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3. The Ghan, Australia
The line from Adelaide to Alice Springs was extended across Australia to Darwin in 2004. The Ghan(www.gsr.com.au) is renowned for its stylish Gold Service. From September this year, a deluxe Platinum Service will offer bigger cabins, pillow menus and 24-hour room service.
The Ghan journeys are offered by Bridge & Wickers (020-7483 6555; www.bridgeandwickers.co.uk). The luxury Platinum two-night trip starts at £1,910 per person, full board. Flights are not included.
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4. The Canadian, Canada
Travelling across Canada from Toronto to Vancouver, The Canadian(www.viarail.ca) offers a spectacular three-day journeythrough lakelands and prairies and the Rockies.
The Canadian in Winter trip is offered by Great Rail Journeys (01904 521 905; www. greatrail.com). The 11-day trip starts at £1,695 per person and includes flights, the three-day Canadian journey, hotel accommodation, transfers and some meals.
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5. The Golden Eagle, Russia
Launched in April last year, The Golden Eagle is the first fully en-suite private train in Russia, taking passengers along the Trans-Siberian route from Moscow to Vladivostock (or vice versa). The 60luxury cabins have underfloorheating and DVD players.
The Golden Eagle is operated by GW Travel (0161-928 9410; www.gwtravel.co.uk). The 15-day trip starts at £5,495 per person, full board. Flights are not included.
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14 June 2008, Chosen by Harriet O'Brien
