A few of the Rhino crash got the opportunity to spend a morning on the Blue Train, South Africa’s most iconic train. On arrival we were shown to the comfortable arrival lounge where we were served hot drinks and light snacks before we boarded the train. We were assigned two luxury cabins and spent a few minutes getting a feel for the accommodation.
It was a sweltering day and the air-conditioning was a blessing, although we weren’t in the suites long enough to enjoy the entertainment centre, its mere presence was noted with glee by the more technically minded! After finding our train legs we headed to the lounge car where we made ourselves comfortable on couches amidst the plush decor and enjoyed a glass (or two) of champagne. Sure it was early morning, but this being a special occasion.
To find out more about the train were given the full rundown by the Manager, who was notably enthusiastic about his beloved train. We were then shown through the various room types where it was noted that all the bathrooms have under floor heating, fancy that, on a train no-less.
Then came the food, I had been looking forward to this part all morning as the Blue Train is noted for its executive chefs and also because a few weeks ago I watched a “Floyd on Africa” episode where he cooks on the Blue Train. On that note, R.I.P. Keith Floyd, what a legend. The dining car has large windows allowing you to enjoy the passing view while you dine, and in the lounge car there is even a TV showing a live feed of the view in front of the train, I couldn’t watch that for any length of time for fear of seeing the movie style parked car on the tracks (I have an active imagination.. especially after a couple of glasses of champagne.) Brunch was a starter of Eggs Benedict followed by a main of either a fillet steak with mushroom or pepper sauce or a whole stuffed fish. For desert, the difficult choice between either crème brulee or a stack of blueberry pancakes. Steak and champagne before noon, it doesn’t get much better than that. We disembarked in Worcester and Rhino Tripping took us home.
Have a look at the Blue Train and it’s journeys on our website:
https://www.rhinoafrica.com/who_we_recommend/the_blue_train/
As well as the other Luxury Rail options in South Africa:
https://www.rhinoafrica.com/luxury_rail_journeys