If you enjoy the finer things in life then those luxurious
first class suites, new to some of the world’s leading airlines, may have
caught your attention of late. Or perhaps the complimentary private transfers,
the highest standard of food and wine and first class service, associated with
certain business and first class airfares, intrigues you. Well good news, Platinum
Service on board The Ghan, The Ghan Expedition, The Indian Pacific and Great
Southern gives you that rich experience too on the ground. We take a closer
look at the enhanced level of sophistication and the benefit of ventures
encountered between boarding and disembarking on some of the world’s most
iconic and renowned rail journeys.
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The space
It can feel somewhat cosy while travelling on a train but
not when you’re staying in the luxuriously spaced Platinum cabin, comparable to
the epitome of luxury in air travel. By day your rail cabin is configured into
a relaxing private lounge fitted with deluxe lounge seating, a table and two
ottomans to put your feet up. By night the spacious cabin transforms into a
comfortable bedroom with the lounges converting into either one double bed or
twin beds.
Feature after feature after feature
Get excited about the fantastic features that will make all
the difference during your travel time beginning with a full-size ensuite
equipped with shower, vanity with cupboard space, toilet and complimentary Appelles
Apothecary toiletries. Not to mention the Bollinger champagne, Haigh’s
chocolates, a nightcap at turndown, luxuriously soft linen and the list
continues. Your room is secure with a lockable door and in-cabin safe for any
valuables. There are power outlets located in the room as well as in-cabin
music channels and journey audio commentary available. Picture windows offer
you views of the expansive landscape from both sides of the train so you don’t
miss a moment of the expansive landscape.
Should you so desire, you can also receive a freshly
prepared continental breakfast upon request and refreshments served in-cabin.
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Incredible Off-Train Excursions
You may have heard the famous quote “it’s about the journey,
not the destination” and travelling by rail certainly gives you that journey. There
are an abundance of exciting off train excursions to be chosen from as you
travel through the Australian outback as a Platinum guest. Unlike a plane, you
can discover some destinational highlights and immersive, unique local
experiences along the way.
On The Ghan you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience the beauty of Australia’s outback via relaxing cruises, guided walks, exclusive nature experiences and cultural highlights. The Nitmiluk (formally Katherine) Gorge Cruise is a must-have experience while in Katherine. As you cruise down the Katherine River through the First and Second Gorges, large rock formations tower over the calm water while the calls of cicadas resonate in the background. Simpsons Gap is one of the most prominent gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges and you’ll have the opportunity to experience it on an informative Discovery Walk. Spot local wildlife as you venture past the Ghost Gums and stand in awe at the spectacular views of the ranges.
The Indian Pacific Off Train Experiences include visiting the famous Pro Hart Gallery in Broken Hill where you can browse three floors filled with a wide range of his signature paintings. In Broken Hill you’ll also have the opportunity to experience the unique and striking structure of the Miners Memorial and Trades Hall where you can learn about the city’s rich mining history. As a Platinum Service guest you’ll also enjoy an exclusive journey for the senses in the famed wine region of South Australia, the Barossa Valley, where you’ll experience the rolling landscapes and charming cellar doors. During the winter months guests will be invited to disembark in outback Rawlinna to partake in drinks and canapes served around a bonfire under the wide Nullarbor skies and further experiences include fantastic Adelaide and surrounds touring, the famed and spectacular Blue Mountains and the Golden Outback.
The luxurious Platinum Club Experience
Like the exclusive airline lounges, whereby entry is often
included with your business or first airfare, the Platinum Club is another
exclusive Platinum guest addition to your rail journey and features a deluxe
bar, lounge and fully flexible dining area with quartzite tabletops, timber
flooring, brass fittings and leather banquette lounge seating in tones of ash,
moss and sepia.
Platinum Club provides a menu that truly showcases the finest regional food, from Top End barramundi, locally farmed beef and lamb, mouth watering Margaret River cheese, gourmet Barossa Valley small goods and plenty of native Australian foods including Kangaroo, saltbush and wild rosella flower. All these delicious meals are complemented with a range of all-inclusive wines, beers and non-alcoholic beverages. You can also request an afternoon refreshment from this beverage list or choose from the self-serve bar while spacious tabletops provide the perfect spot for conversation or a game of cards.
Platinum Service transfers
Just to make things that much easier for you, a Platinum Service Transfer will provide you with complimentary transfers at the beginning and end of your journey for guests within 60km of the rail terminals. An added elegant touch making your experience all the more distinguished.
If you are looking for that first class travel experience why not enjoy it for longer.
