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What's On
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
7 breathtaking bucket list train journeys worth travelling for in 2025
We forget about trains… Especially living in Dubai, where the people are so heavily reliant on cars to get around. Elsewhere, train tours and journeys are whole, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, offering an ever-transforming window into nature, history, heritage and a way of slow travel the world seems to have pushed into the shadows as commercial flying only grows and grows. This summer, take a trip…to take another trip – an easy, effortless adventure, featuring scenic landscapes, glamorous, old-world charm and a brand new perspective on travelling. Rocky Mountaineer – Canada and USA This train, founded in 1990, takes you through USA and Canada, and presents to you every formation of nature you can think of, of course, with amplified beauty. Roll through and past waterfalls, canyons, lakes, gorges and rivers between Vancouver, British Columbia and Alberta, from the East of Canada through to the West. In the US, the train goes from Moab in Utah and Denver in Colorado, with options to start or end in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, as well. Indulge in local Canadian treats and beer, and be regaled by the magical storytelling of the staff aboard. Floor to ceiling windows and large platforms for all the views. @rockymountaineer Maharajas' Express – India Moving through India, Maharajas' Express offers a level of opulence matched by few and a name that couldn't be more appropriate. Decked out to the tribute of the kings and queens bygone in the subcontinent, this sleeper train comes with extensive amenities, including full-sized closets, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TVs, even in the bottom-tier suites. Garlands, welcome flower showers, personal butlers, champagne breakfasts and country-club style establishments onboard complete this luxury experience. The train operates four different itineraries from October to April, mainly focused on Rajasthan. @maharajas_express Dar es Salam by Rovos Rail – Africa Rovos Rail is inspired by the African safari experience, and has been traversing the lands of Africa for more than 30 years. It's can be quite a long one, if you wish it to be – a 15-day trans-Zambezi trip from South Africa to Tanzania, going through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. It's lavish, luxurious and marked by off-board experiences at every step, giving passengers a chance to immerse themselves in the cultural and historical wealth of the continent. Inside, find sleek wooden interiors, cosy corners and levels of full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs in the more fancy compartments. @rovosrail The Ghan – Australia The Ghan holds history from back in the first half of the 20th century, and offers a stretching picture of the Australian Outback like nothing else. It takes passengers across the heart of Australian country in four days, three nights, from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south, a journey through which one can discover the sometimes inconspicuous, but always spectacular beauty of the country's rolling, dry plains, arid deserts and domineering mountains – barren and beautiful. Inside, you'll find all the luxuries you might need, but off-board, you'll get a chance experience the rugged splendour of Central Australia yourself. @journeybeyondrail Glacier Express – Switzerland The views – that is why you need to do this trip. Switzerland is known far and wide for stunning sights few are able to forget, but the views of valleys, lakes, rivers, alpine landscapes and villages from the Glacier Express as it chugs along, slow and steady, give a glimpse into some of the most iconic natural landmarks of the country, including the Matterhorn, Piz Bernina, and the Rhine Gorge. The train connects the resort towns of Zermatt and Saint Moritz over eight hours – the world's slowest express train – during which you'll pass through 91 tunnels and cross 291 bridges, indulge in a six-course meal and have champagne. @ Belmond Hiram Bingham – Peru It is believed that American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered the Machu Picchu. Whether this is true or not, is still up foe debate, but this namesake train grand love letter to vintage train travel, taking you through the Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. Start in the city of Poroy, west of Cusco, and trail through Peru's most unforgettable landscapes to make your way to the Inca. Inside, the 20th century shines in the polished wood, the brass fittings, big windows and skylights, long, languid meals and expansive spaces to lounge in. @belmondhirambingham Eastern & Oriental Express – Singapore and Bangkok Think of the classical, Hercule Poirot-appropriate, Orient Express-style train, and this is what comes to mind. A stunning portal into the past, the Eastern & Oriental Express has it all, the polished wood, the corridors trimmed with silk, the silverware, the ornate carriages, the exotic, ornamental dining room. A 1920s-jazz-club-inspired Bar Car completes the time travelling and you can soak it all in as you traverse the landscapes of Thailand and Singapore. This is truly one of those perfect tributes to the bygone era of train travel, when it was a mode for the elite, draped in luxuries and amenities. It's considered to be one of the best train journeys in Southeast Asia and is absolutely unmissable. @easternoriental Images: Getty/Socials
Travel Weekly
31-05-2025
- General
- Travel Weekly
Three unforgettable stays in South Africa
Nadia "Sparkle" Henry At my agency, I specialize in crafting tailor-made itineraries that reflect each client's personality, lifestyle and vacation dreams. I don't just book trips, I create journeys that are immersive and memorable, often built around unique accommodations rich in culture and history. I always make it a point to travel to and immerse myself in these destinations and accommodations before recommending them; after all, nothing compares to firsthand experience. It enables me to share stories and insights directly with clients, enriching their journey before it even begins. In March, I traveled to South Africa to explore three accommodations that go far beyond just offering a place to sleep. My first stop was Rovos Rail, a family-owned luxury train company that is based in South Africa but operates routes through several countries, including Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia and Tanzania. I embarked on the three-night, four-day journey from Victoria Falls to Pretoria -- a trip that started at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel right outside the train station. The author in front of a Rovos Rail Luxury Train car in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. Photo Credit: Nadia "Sparkle" Henry Onboard, the cabins are comfortable and well appointed, with your choice of a king or two twin beds, a work desk and a private bathroom with a shower. The fare included accommodations, all meals and drinks, room service, laundry, excursions with guides, entrance fees and taxes. Basically, it's an all-inclusive experience, minus entertainment. That's the one area I felt could be enhanced, perhaps with local performances at some of the stops. One highlight was an early morning game drive in Hwange National Park, where we spotted lions, giraffes, zebras, impalas, baboons and wildebeests. Day three was a more relaxed pace as we took in breathtaking scenery from small villages to majestic mountains and crossed the Tropic of Capricorn, a moment that felt straight out of a movie. If you're looking to check a luxury train off your bucket list, or a client's list, Rovos Rail is a must. Related story: A personal quest to rediscover South Africa Next was the Shalati Resort, familiarly known as the "Train on the Bridge," which is suspended over the Sabi River in South Africa's Kruger National Park. The author's accommodations at Kruger Shalati Resort on the Selati Bridge over the Sabi River in Kruger National Park. Photo Credit: Nadia "Sparkle" Henry I've experienced few properties like this one. The resort offers two types of accommodations: 24 Carriage Suites onboard the train and seven Bridge House Suites located nearby in a lush garden setting. I stayed in both to get the full experience. The Carriage Suite was the standout. With large windows overlooking the river, I could watch animals roam from the comfort of my bed or enjoy the view while soaking in a deep bathtub. The train also features a bar and a pool perched on the bridge. Sipping a drink while swimming above the Sabi River was truly magical. Staying at Shalati includes all meals, house drinks and two daily game drives, one in the early morning and the other in the evening. They offered a different lens on wildlife behavior and were equally memorable. My final stop was Sanctuary Mandela, a boutique hotel in Johannesburg's Houghton suburb. Formerly the residence of Nelson Mandela after he was released from Robben Island prison, this intimate hotel has only nine rooms, each designed to reflect a part of Mandela's life story. I stayed in Room 2, named Rolihlahla after his birth name. The energy and legacy of Mandela are felt in every corner of the hotel, which doubles as a living museum, with memorabilia and stories throughout. The on-site restaurant serves Mandela's favorite meals, prepared by his longtime personal chef, Xoliswa Ndoyiya, who still cooks at the hotel part-time. If you're seeking accommodations that leave a lasting impression, I highly recommend these three for their stories, authenticity and immersive experiences. You, and your clients, will not be disappointed.
Forbes
23-05-2025
- Forbes
What 86% Of Ultra-Luxury Travelers Want, And How 3 Trips Get It Right
Aerial view of the Tetiaroa Atoll in French Polynesia. 86% of ultra-luxury travelers define a vacation as a way to disconnect from work fully. Nearly all, 97%, plan to travel specifically to reduce stress, anxiety or fully unplug, according to Flywire's latest study. Well-being is the top priority for travelers spending $10,000 or more on their trips, looking for private space, personalized service, and fine dining. Only 36% said they plan to take bucket list trips, while 84% named personal joy, self-discovery and slow travel as the reasons for their vacation. The study also shows that 36% of ultra-luxury travelers always seek accommodations with sustainability-focused policies when booking trips, while 86% consider sustainability at least some of the time. So, where can affluent travelers go to truly unplug, travel sustainably and immerse themselves in the journey, not just the destination? A luxury steam train, evoking the charm of old-world elegance, awaits its guests in Pretoria, ready to take them on an over 2,000-mile journey through Southern Africa and Namibia. The Namibia Safari by Rovos Rail is not about the distance but the experience. The 'Pride of Africa' luxury train is taking passengers along the coast of Namibia. "Travelling with us isn't about the destination, in fact, that doesn't really matter. Our trips are about the journey," says Rohan Vos, owner and CEO of Rovos Rail in an email interview. Its 'Pride of Africa' train features meticulously restored wood-paneled coaches, accommodating up to 72 passengers in 36 suites. Guests can choose from Pullman, Deluxe or Royal Suites, the latter occupying half a carriage and featuring a Victorian-style bathtub. During the journey, travelers enjoy gourmet dining in Edwardian-style dining cars, attentive service and panoramic views from the observation car at the end of the train. One of the suites on the 'Pride of Africa' train by Rovos Rail. Highlights of the trip include the Diamond Mine Museum in Kimberley, a sunset cruise on the Orange River, hiking Fish River Canyon and walking along the quiver trees of Garas Park. A journey in Africa cannot be complete without a game drive, bush dinner and overnight stay in Sossusvlei, then later in Etosha National Park, as well as a visit to the cheetah conservation project in Otjiwarongo. After crossing the Namib Desert, the journey ends in Walvis Bay. "It was important to us from the very beginning that this wasn't just a train ride. We wanted our guests to learn a bit about this country, its history and its diverse culture, and of course experience our magnificent wildlife," says Vos. He admits to having favorites, and among Rovos Rail's 11 curated journeys, the Namibia Safari holds a uniquely special place. The train is going through the Namib Desert. Rovos Rail combines luxury with a strong commitment to sustainability across its operations. In 2018, the company installed vacuum toilets that use air instead of water, cutting water usage by 90%. Onboard, Rovos Rail uses eco-friendly sugarcane toilet paper and biodegradable, plant-based water bottles produced by its Cape Town facility. It also prioritizes purchasing from local, accredited, ethical farms and sources ingredients from local entrepreneurs to support small businesses and reduce supply chain emissions. After touching down on the pristine atoll of Tetiaroa, once the retreat of Tahitian royalty, going barefoot on the warm, powder-soft sands will feel less like a choice and more like a natural response. The Brando is more than an ultra-luxury resort that blends barefoot elegance with groundbreaking sustainability. It is a private island in French Polynesia, a tropical escape to experience serenity, seclusion and a life rich in nature. Aerial view of the Tetiaroa atoll where The Brando is nestled at the tip of the island. Paddling a kayak through narrow waterways, snorkeling on coral reefs, enjoying a secluded picnic in one of the islets, learning about traditional Polynesian palm weaving are all activities that slow down guests to the tranquil rhythm of island life. It is a place where you may not even notice that you have turned off your devices upon arrival. You wake with the sun and spend your day under the shades of palm trees, ride a bike to explore the island, learn a Polynesian dance or sail across the lagoon. A day will flow gently from one mindful moment to the next. Two bicycles are parked at the entrance to the spa at The Brando. Sustainability has always been at the forefront of The Brando, the world's first LEED Platinum-certified resort, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024. Its accolades include installing 3,700 photovoltaic solar panels to produce 70% of the resort's energy needs and developing a seawater air conditioning system that harnesses cold water from a depth of 1.8 miles to save 90% on energy consumption. Richard Bailey is the resort's co-founder, one of the Ocean Elders, and the founder of the Tetiaroa Society and Blue Climate Initiative. Tetiaroa Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation, scientific research and education. The Brando is also home to the Ecostation, a research facility operated by the Tetiaroa Society that hosts marine biologists from all across the world. Its flagship program is eradicating invasive species in the atoll's coral reef. Outdoor dining at the restaurant at The Brando during sunset. When the mist rolls over the green hills, and the scent of rain-kissed earth lingers in the air, stepping through the gates of a medieval castle will feel less like checking into a hotel and more like entering another century. "Arriving at Kilkea Castle, you will be immediately struck by its impressive story of over 840 years," says Jack Fitzsimons, director of experiences at Kilkea Castle. 10th-century castle in Castledermot, Kildare country, Ireland. The estate's beautifully manicured gardens and the historical sites on the grounds reveal a piece of history preserved. It is not a relic you cannot touch or experience but a living legacy woven into every stone pathway, ivy-covered wall and crack of an arrow on the archery range. In Kilkea, guests can stay in one of the uniquely styled castle rooms and suites, including the FitzGerald Suite in the Round Tower with sweeping estate views or the elegant Lady Elizabeth Suite overlooking the Killeshin Hills. While the carriage rooms in the castle courtyard offer a modern design and marble bathrooms, an option best suited for families, the self-catering lodges along the estate's golf course are ideal for groups or longer stays. The Blue Room in Kilkea Castle overlooking the estate's gardens in Castledermot, Kildare country, ... More Ireland. The estate's 18-hole golf course is a popular place to relax, trying out the ancient art of falconry, witnessing majestic birds of prey in flight, shooting down clay pigeons or exploring the picturesque Kildare countryside on horseback are all activities that will transport guests back to simple times, into the role of a lord or lady of the estate. At Kilkea Castle, slow travel is best enjoyed in its simplest forms, like an afternoon picnic by the River Griese, casting a line into quiet waters or drinking high tea in the Castle's drawing room. "Guests who want to take it easy and are not pressured to fill their agendas enjoy the pace here," says Fitzsimons. Archery in Kilkea Castle 'It is not easy to make a 10th-century castle sustainable, but we are committed to making this happen,' says Adrian Mooney, director of sales at Kilkea Castle. It eliminated single-use plastics and have put in place an aggressive recycling program for the entire estate. You grow or source ingredients locally to provide an authentic farm-to table dining experience. In addition, an on-site leach field handles wastewater. The buildings of the estate that are not landmarked under Irish law has solar panels, energy-efficient insulation and heating. 'To help save energy, Kilkea has installed a new building management system that monitors energy output and flags spikes and allows the management to address the issue quickly,' says Mooney. By fall 2025, Kilkea Castle plans to have access to geothermal energy to further reduce its carbon footprint.
IOL News
15-05-2025
- IOL News
The Hangout: A new brew on the choo choo
If you've ever daydreamed about traveling back to a more glamorous time, where slow travel meant rich wood interiors, vintage charm, and a glass of bubbly in hand—then let me introduce you to your next big adventure: South Africa's Rovos Rail. Recently crowned the fourth-best luxury train experience in the world for 2025 (thanks to a study by Japan Rail Pass), Rovos Rail is less about rushing and more about savoring every mile—in serious style. Think: plush suites, old-school elegance, and ever-changing African landscapes gliding past your window like a living postcard. I already feel like I'm daydreaming just thinking about it. This dreamy train journey has been turning heads since 1989, when South African entrepreneur Rohan Vos had a vision: to revive classic rail travel and make it magical. Mission very much accomplished. These lovingly restored trains are the perfect mix of vintage opulence and five-star comfort, where every detail is considered and the service makes you feel like royalty on rails. But here's the thing—it's not just about the luxury. It's about the experience. Depending on the route you choose (from a few days to over two weeks), you could be rolling past the lush Cape Winelands, through Namibia's sun-soaked deserts, or straight to the mighty Victoria Falls. There are also curated off-train excursions, from historic towns and game reserves to cultural gems that add depth to the journey. Trust me, this is bucket list stuff. Whether you're a hopeless romantic, a train travel enthusiast, or someone who just loves a luxurious escape, Rovos Rail is a one-of-a-kind way to see Africa—blending old-world glamour with heartfelt hospitality. And speaking of heart, one thing that truly stands out? The warm, fabulous staff. Every time I've been to a Rovos event or onboard the train, they've been an unforgettable part of the magic. And recently? That magic got a delicious upgrade. Cue the confetti (and the coffee beans): Nespresso just launched their exciting new global campaign, and we celebrated in true style—with a caffeine-fueled party aboard Rovos Rail. A fabulous crew of South Africa's finest—media stars, foodies, coffee lovers—jumped onboard for a celebration like no other. Big names like Sarah Langa, Maps Maponyane, and Natasha Joubert joined the journey, and every moment was brimming with flavor, flair, and fun. There were decadent Nespresso coffee cocktails, a show-stopping four-course dinner, hands-on latte art workshops, and even cheeky coffee riddles that had everyone laughing and kept us guessing between sips. But let's talk about the real star of the show: Arpeggio Extra. This bold new brew builds on the iconic Arpeggio (a Nespresso favorite since 1993), but now it's got an extra kick—literally. In its signature royal purple capsule, Arpeggio Extra boasts 60% more caffeine. Yip, it's strong, smooth, and velvety with deep dark roast vibes and indulgent cocoa notes. Basically, it's made for those who like their coffee with a little more everything. So yes, it is extra! And people love it, but for little insomniacs like me we've gotta grab that kick early! So whether you're boarding a luxury train or just looking to level up your morning cup, Arpeggio Extra brings the energy, elegance, and extra you didn't know you needed. Now that's a ride and a roast to remember. Ching Ching to Nespresso on their yummy new addition and well done to our very own Rovos Rail for rocking us to the top of the pops.
The South African
01-05-2025
- The South African
South African train ranks fourth among world's best luxury rail trips
The Rovos trail train. Image: Instagram via @rovosrail The global luxury travel market is steaming ahead, set to reach a jaw-dropping R7.4 trillion by 2028. But the days of luxury being defined by gold taps and marble lobbies are fading fast and being replaced by trains. Today's elite travellers crave something different: cultural immersion, adventure, and sustainability now trump old-school opulence. This shift has fuelled a renaissance in slow travel, with luxury train journeys taking centre stage. A recent study by Japan Rail Pass has crunched the numbers-TripAdvisor reviews, Instagram hashtags, and global search volumes-to reveal the world's most sought-after luxury train rides for 2025. The verdict? The Rocky Mountaineer, based in Vancouver, Canada, claims the crown as the world's best luxury train experience, scoring an impressive 8.88 out of 10. South Africa's own Rovos Rail is hot on its heels, ranked fourth globally with a score of 8.55 out of 10. Let's take a whistle-stop tour through the top contenders: Rocky Mountaineer (Vancouver, Canada) This train is a feast for the senses. Think panoramic glass-domed coaches, gourmet cuisine, and jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies. 'We want our guests to feel like they're part of the landscape, not just passing through it,' says a Rocky Mountaineer spokesperson. With over 60,000 Instagram hashtags and 48,000 monthly searches, it's clear this ride is on everyone's bucket list. This train is a feast for the senses. Think panoramic glass-domed coaches, gourmet cuisine, and jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies. 'We want our guests to feel like they're part of the landscape, not just passing through it,' says a Rocky Mountaineer spokesperson. With over 60,000 Instagram hashtags and 48,000 monthly searches, it's clear this ride is on everyone's bucket list. Napa Valley Wine Train (California, USA) Second place goes to this vintage charmer, gliding through California's wine country. Passengers sip and savour as vineyards roll by. It's no wonder the train boasts a 4.5-star TripAdvisor rating and nearly 30,000 monthly searches. Second place goes to this vintage charmer, gliding through California's wine country. Passengers sip and savour as vineyards roll by. It's no wonder the train boasts a 4.5-star TripAdvisor rating and nearly 30,000 monthly searches. GoldenPass Express (Montreux, Switzerland) In third, the GoldenPass Express offers a front-row seat to Switzerland's lakes and mountains. Its panoramic windows turn every journey into a moving postcard. In third, the GoldenPass Express offers a front-row seat to Switzerland's lakes and mountains. Its panoramic windows turn every journey into a moving postcard. Rovos Rail (Pretoria, South Africa) South Africa's pride, Rovos Rail, is a rolling five-star hotel. With wood-panelled charm, fine dining, and routes that showcase our country's dramatic landscapes. It's a must for anyone seeking 'the most luxurious train journey in the world.' Over 13,700 Instagram hashtags and 17,000 monthly searches prove its global appeal. 'It's about more than travel-it's about reliving a golden era of rail in modern comfort,' says a Rovos Rail representative. South Africa's pride, Rovos Rail, is a rolling five-star hotel. With wood-panelled charm, fine dining, and routes that showcase our country's dramatic landscapes. It's a must for anyone seeking 'the most luxurious train journey in the world.' Over 13,700 Instagram hashtags and 17,000 monthly searches prove its global appeal. 'It's about more than travel-it's about reliving a golden era of rail in modern comfort,' says a Rovos Rail representative. The Ghan (Adelaide, Australia) Rounding out the top five, The Ghan slices through Australia's wild heart, from Adelaide to Darwin, according to Railbookers Group . Why the surge in luxury rail? Haroun Khan, founder of JR Pass, explains: 'We've seen a clear shift in demand toward these kinds of journeys, not just as transport, but as destinations in themselves. Sightseeing and experiential travel are now key motivators.' For South Africans, there's pride in knowing Rovos Rail ranks among the world's best. And with the luxury travel market booming, there's never been a better time to book that bucket-list journey. Whether it's across the Rockies, through the vineyards of Napa, or right here at home, from Pretoria to Cape Town. All aboard for a new era of luxury-where the journey is the destination, and the world's most beautiful landscapes unfold outside your window. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
