Luxury and opulence are the best ways to describe The Blue Train- a service that showcases the beauty of South Africa while enjoying a train ride.
Dubbed as the “5 star hotel on wheels”, the train affords guests the experience of the countryside while making them feel like a VIP.
The award winning train service, who was voted World’s Leading Luxury Train for three years, from 2009 to 2011, and Africa’s Leading Luxury Train for eight consecutive years, from 2009, offers panoramic size windows, on board entertainment, luxury boutiques that offer jewellery and branded mementos as well as GPS and WiFi.
Guests will also experience a personalised butler service, unlimited gourmet meals, drinks and handmade Cuban cigars, one night accommodation at a five star hotel in Cape Town (Taj Hotel, The Westin and African Pride 15 on Orange) and Pretoria (Sheraton Hotel and Castello Di Monte). An off the train excursion is included in the trip.
According to brand and communications manager Themba Masheula, the train is more than just a ride, it is an all inclusive package that mixes luxury with some of the most breathtaking sites in the country.
“The Blue Train has been operating since 1946 and is among the finest luxury train in the world. The strapline ‘A window to the Soul of South Africa’ says it all. Guests will be able to enjoy some beautiful views of the South African countryside in their own luxury cocoon of comfort, which will be one they never forget,” he said.
To experience all of the above, one has to be willing to fork out around R15 500 to R18 710 per a person sharing.