Glamour on the Rails: Twilight Express Mizukaze & The Ghan

Twilight Express Mizukaze

One of Japan's most coveted luxury trains, the Twilight Express runs the rails between Kyoto, Osaka, and Shimonoseki at the southern trip Honshu, with opportunities to delve into traditional culture, art, and history at stops like Matsue, Izumo, and Miyajima along the way.

Operated by Japan's JR East and Jr West rail companies, the train also passes along the Sea of Japan, Mount Daisen and the Seto Inland Sea islands, best viewed from the glass-encased observation car. 

The train's seductive cabins feature Art Deco design personas, curved wood panelling, custom furniture and, rare for a train, marble bathrooms with free-standing bathtubs. This aesthetic extends to the elegant dining car. where the best of traditional washoku (Japanese cuisine) is laced with ingredients sourced along the route. 

The Ghan 

Australia's most iconic rail experience, The Ghan travels 2,979 kilometers across Australia's Red Centre, between Adelaide in South Australia and Darwin in Northern Territories. Along the way, you'll have the chance to try award-winning wines, dine under the stars and explore the mesmerizing Finders Ranges. Other activities include exploring Alice Springs' Standley Chasm Culture Walk, the Nitmiluk Cutta Cutta Caves and a scenic flight from Coober Pedy to the Painted Hills. 

You can also do the trip in new levels of luxury, thanks to the introduction of the new Gold Premium service, which sits between Gold and Platinum and offers dedicated cabins with large beds and high-quality linens and access to the Gold Premium Lounge, which serves a range of complimentary beverages, and Gold Premium Dining, home to elegant, multi-course regionally inspired meals. Other perks include all-inclusive Off Train Experiences and preferences on tour selections, priority luggage and a 75kg luggage allowance per guest.