Train journeys
Timeless elegance: Britain’s new ‘ludicrously luxurious’ train
The Britannic Explorer – due to be launched in July 2025 – is a luxury hotel on wheels that will travel through some of the UK’s most magnificent landscapes.
- by Anthony Lambert
After 65 years, is a Eurail pass still worth it for Aussies?
For years backpacking with a Eurail pass was a rite of passage; now new generations are choosing this old-school way of travelling.
- by Jane Richards
★★★★
Saudi Arabia
Top speed 300km/h: On board the Middle East’s first high-speed train
Clean, efficient and punctual, this Saudi train has been modified to cope with temperatures up to 50 degrees.
- by Belinda Jackson
Three new heritage train trips let you explore the outback in comfort
Two restored 2000-class trains built in 1971 offer excursions through outback Queensland.
- by Tim Richards
Opinion
India
My first Indian train journey was life-changing
Your life can change on a train. And I’m not talking about the romanticised ‘Before Sunrise’ version, where you meet a gorgeous European backpacker.
- by Ben Groundwater
Freddie Mercury loved this town so much, Queen bought the local studio
It’s a genteel Swiss lakeside resort, but this city was home for the flamboyant British singer.
- by Tim Richards
On board epic Aussie train’s new ‘premium economy’ class
The Ghan’s new “gold premium” class is similar in concept to premium economy on a plane, except you have your own private bathroom.
- by Craig Platt
★★★★½
Amsterdam
Eurostar’s spacious premium economy sure beats flying with kids
Efficient, eco-conscious and somewhat scenic, the Eurostar trip from London to Amsterdam is an excellent option for families.
- by Tatyana Leonov
Ten reasons Japan’s bullet trains still put others to shame
Japan’s iconic Shinkansen are celebrating 60 years of operation and they just keep getting better (and faster).
- by Danielle Demetriou
The $13 rocky train journey around Europe’s most active volcano
This relatively little-known, almost perfectly circular rail loop has been traversing Mount Etna since the late 19th century, but it’s no tourist train.
- by Anthony Dennis