After all the bad press airlines have been getting recently, we aren’t dying to get on a plane any time soon. But we are dying for a vacation (minus the stress, delays and anxiety).
So we started brainstorming, what other forms of high-speed travel will get us to our destination? And then it came to us; trains. And even better; luxury, boozy trains. Not only will these trains get you from point A to point B, they are equipped with large suites, personal bathrooms, multi-course meals, and most importantly, bars.
Even though these luxury trains aren’t yet in North America, we have some inspiration from the around the world to try and get this American train moving (pun intended). So, hit us up if you’re interested in starting a luxury train company with DIA.
Belmond Andean Explorer
This is the first luxury sleeper train in South America, and they set the bar pretty high. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glittering lakes and herds of grazing alpacas. A professional chef provides perfectly prepared Peruvian meals and even hosts a ceviche-making class. But let’s get to the good stuff: booze. This train has a wide selection of places you can drink, including a piano bar car, observation car and open-air terrace where you can enjoy a Pisco Sour as the Andes drift by.
Rovos Rail
Have you been wanting to check off an African safari from your bucket list? Well you can do it in style on the Rovos Rail. Choose from journeys that whisk you to places like Cape Town and Victoria Falls as you take in the gorgeous scenery (and maybe a giraffe or two), all from the comfort of their luxury accommodations. Enjoy a form meal in the Victorian ding car that serves a large selection of South African wins or a night cap in the starlit observation car. You can even enjoy a scotch with a cigar in the smoking lounge.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Travel back in time to the roaring 1920s in the luxe Venice Simplon-Orient-Exrpress. Embark on a one-night journey between Western European cities or take a longer trip to places like Istanbul or Budapest. Either way, you’ll enjoy the exquisite decor and nightly entertainment. Indulge in a multi-course meal for brunch or sip libations in both the traditional bar car or at the glamorous Champagne bar.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima
Travel forward in time on this ultra-modern Japanese train. Every journey on Train Suite Shiki-Shima highlights Japan’s seasons and diverse landscape, whether you’re on board for one night or three. They have unique trips offered for each season, so you can take in the surrounding nature at its peak. Not only does each suite take up an entire car, but they also offer amenities such as fireplaces and a mix of traditional and modern architecture. The lounge car is the perfect place to sip on some Japanese whisky while taking in the forest-inspired design.
Honestly, we might never fly again. These luxury booze trains rock.