10 train journeys that offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences

Operating between Bangkok and Singapore, the E&O is Asia’s answer to the Orient Express. The train is finally resuming operations in February 2024 following a pandemic-induced hiatus. The open observation car and vintage décor of the cabins make the journey a unique experience. The train meanders through the rice paddies and jungles of Malaysia, over the legendary River Kwai in Thailand, passing by hilltop pagodas. Off-train experiences include snorkelling in Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park. The Eastern & Oriental runs all year round, taking four nights and three days one way, and two nights and three full days in the opposite direction. Guests can also opt for a short Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur trip aboard the E&O. Website

Dar es Salaam by Rovos Rail, Africa

This journey combines the romance of slow travel with the marvels of an African safari. The Rovos Rail journey takes explorers on a 15-day trans-Zambezi trip from South Africa to Tanzania, traversing through Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia. The itinerary includes tours of the diamond towns of Kimberley and Pretoria, drives around Madikwe Game Reserve, an overnight stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel, and a bush walk at Chisimba Falls.

Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Seven Stars takes you beyond the bustling tourist hotspots of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka to Kyushu, the most southerly of the country’s four largest islands. Pick from multiple itineraries (either three nights, four days or one night, two days) to imbibe everything that ‘seven’ represents—the seven prefectures of Kyushu, the seven-carriage train, and the seven major attractions of the island (nature; food; hot springs; history and culture; ‘power spots’ or places with healing properties to refresh the mind body and soul; humanity; and trains). The panoramic windows of the first and seventh cars are a signature feature of this luxurious train, perfect to admire the mountains and fields passing by.