Evenings aboard the Blue Train are elegant and sophisticated affairs, with exquisite traditional menus conceived by top chefs, complemented perfectly by the very best of South African wines. I'm travelling from Jo'Burg/Pretoria to Cape Town. Whether you’re on honeymoon, looking for a quick romantic getaway, or fantasize about a life of luxury, both trains will offer an unforgettable experience. Suffice to say we were spoilt rotten and when we huffed and puffed into Capital Park, after a steam locomotive was hitched to the front for the last part of the journey, it was hugs and kisses with fellow travellers who just 50 hours before had been complete strangers. The Blue Train celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2016 and can boast Kylie Minogue, Mia Farrow and Margaret Thatcher as passengers. Trains from that almost forgotten era conjure up nostalgic images of well-dressed passengers being transported over long distances, while enjoying lavish cuisine in luxurious dining saloons. Now Rovos Rail was keen to show what it had to offer. Now, the Blue Train and Rovos Rail are both offering special rates for the summer season. Being pro-active prior to travelling is the best way to get out on the road and enjoy your trip without any set-backs. Reviews are split between the two, but it seems that the Rovos rail is the preferred choice for the mature sophisticated traveller whilst the Blue Train boasts more of a modern feel. A party was inevitable – and another full day and a half of being pampered lay ahead. Step aboard the vintage wood-panelled coaches and sit […] Le Rovos Rail est un train d’exception parmi les plus luxueux au monde. Cuban cigars are offered on BT. The Blue Train has limited routes whereas Rovos rail also offers destinations that include the beautiful Namibian route to Swakopmund and Tanzania. Your complete online vehicle rental resource, supplying a wide range of car, 4x4, camper and luxury rental services across Southern Africa. Pretoria to Cape Town (or vice versa) R13 197 per person sharing for two nights Il propose plusieurs séjours variant de 3 à 15 jours à travers l’Afrique et vous permet de voyager lentement dans un confort optimal à la découverte de la … Please note our DAR ES SALAAM and LOBITO journeys are NOT included in these terms – please contact alicia@rovos.co.za regarding these journeys. Rovos Rail can also be chartered for those who want the ultimate exclusive, luxury rail journey. I’d written an article (April issue) about my family’s experience on the Blue Train. All suites are airconditioned and the De Luxe Suite transforms into a bedroom of indulgence at night with goose-down and 100 percent percale-cotton bedding and underfloor heating. Luxury African Train reviews for Rovos Rail, Blue Train, and Shongololo Express Southern Cross trip to Victoria Falls. Your tastebuds will be tantalized with a selection of Karoo lamb, bobotie, melktert, Cape brandy pudding – what a delight. Visit one of the elegant lounges for a nightcap of cognac and cigars in true celebrity style. This “Palace on wheels” offers a five-star hotel experience linking veld to sea. Getting around South Africa should be a pleasant and stress-free experience. During my searching I came across Rovos Rail doing the same(?) An extraordinary experience Castello Di Monte and Rovos Rail! The most popular route Cape town to Pretoria will take a day longer on the Rovos rail hence pricing also a bit more, both include a stop at the quaint little town of Matjiesfontein. The young and charming Rovos staff members were interacting with their guests – something which immediately set them apart from their Blue Train counterparts. but I have a question about the dress code. Rediscover the old pioneering trail of the Karoo as you travel from Pretoria to Cape Town or vice versa with stops at Kimberley’s Diamond Mine Museum and the quaint Victorian village of Matjiesfontein. If this is the kind of safari you appreciate, then have a look … Blue Train Il investit alors de nouveau dans … Hidden gems: 5 under-the-radar beaches in KwaZulu-Natal, Exploring the outdoors in the Cape Winelands. You won’t ever regret jumping on the Franschhoek wine tram. All meals and drinks are included on both trains with the Blue Train offering a slightly wider selection. There are a number of itineraries and routes to choose from, and many routes available in reverse. You will be collected at the station and taken your visit to the Town, Big Hole and the Diamond Mine Museum. Ride quality: the BT wins by a country mile but when it comes to the staff, RR turns the tables – it is as though you’ve known them for years. We were met by charming and immaculately dressed staff who efficiently took care of our luggage, and were then led to a lounge where two musicians set the mood with chamber music while our fellow travellers indulged in canapés and sparkling wine. I would appreciate any feedback from people who have travelled on either train … The wood-panelled sleeper coaches offer modern comfort and luxury and the train itself comes to a standstill at night to ensure guests have a peaceful night’s sleep. Rovos Rail Tickets & Blue Train Schedules and Prices. At Train Safaris we take care of your Rovos Rail and Blue Train reservations. We discovered a bottle of bubbly in the mini bar before the wheels started rolling. Blue Train offers Wi-Fi on board. There’s no WiFi on RR but it is available on BT. A short stroll led us to the train which bore the name Pride of Africa. The owner of Rovos Rail said that the train’s nineteen carriages were uncoupled from the locomotive during a changeover at Centurion Station when they freewheeled out of control, crashing back at Pretoria station. One of the more popular options is to travel from Pretoria to Cape Town, so rent a car when you arrive in town and do a quick trip into the Winelands to finish things off. It is also worth mentioning that while baths (as an alternative to showers) are available on the Blue Train, you need to upgrade to a Royal Suite on Rovos, where both a … If it’s romance you’re after, why not indulge and take your partner on a classic journey across Africa in one of these luxury trains with lavish sleeping carriages, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking views Experience Both will provide you with a unique experience and the feeling of luxury and nostalgia. We thought the Blue Train was a fantastic experience, we haven't tried Rovos Rail, which I believe travels up to the Victoria Falls. Rovos Rail and The Blue Train link you to Africa’s most iconic destinations via a selection of scheduled routes. Kings and presidents have travelled on this magnificent moving five* hotel. Both will provide you with a unique experience and the feeling of luxury and nostalgia. Oui, le train avait beaucoup de petits retards et le trajet était parfois cahoteux mais vous devrez simplement suivre le courant. The portions were just right and delicious. In my Blue Train report, I mentioned the absence of the ‘clickety-clack, clickety-clack’ which is synonymous with train journeys. trip. According to the website for the Blue Train, "smart casual" is the daytime dress while jacket and tie/semi formal attire is … However, reading such mixed reviews of the Blue Train, I'm now not sure. Also, does anyone know of very special deals on Rovos? By now we were on friendly terms with an assortment of Germans, Swiss, Norwegians, Fins, Chinese, Englishmen and fellow South Africans. The train departs Kimberley at 12h30 and you proceed on your overnight journey that runs via De Aar and Beaufort West to Matjiesfontein. Especially those noisy, majestic, puffing ones that spout plumes of steam and smoke and I don’t think there has ever been a kid, in the golden age of steam trains, who did not announce it was his ambition to be a train driver. Both Rovos and Blue Train suites are good, but the latter is slightly better with its unusually wide windows. You are now in a faraway world. The menu: grilled queen scallops with lemon hollandaise sauce was followed by a main course of slow-roasted and deboned Karoo lamb shank with mashed potatoes, green bean parcel and mushrooms. The “Pride of Africa” with its Edwardian grandeur will guide you through spectacular views with it’s all familiar “clickety-clack” sounds of the wheels on its steel path. I expect they are both worth experiencing and it is more a question of the best time of year to make the journey and how it plugs in with your itinerary. You’ll be wined and dined from the moment you step on and taken on a journey through the most diverse and spectacular scenery Africa has to offer. Answered: Hi, Would love to have up-to-date information on Rovos Rail vs. Blue Train. Cellphones, laptops and tablets were to be used only in the privacy of your suite and one needed to dress for dinner. All of this was topped off with Cape brandy pudding and cinnamon cream – it was bliss. The Blue Train operates on As with the Blue Train, we stopped at the quaint little village of Matjiesfontein for about an hour, and when we got mobile again, it was time to get ready for dinner. Three people were killed and several passengers were injured. Period fittings in the en-suite bathroom and shower combine with modern technology, with hair dryer and plug for shaver. Plus one-way flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg (or vice versa) including transfers. The Rovos Rail train arrives at 10h00 in Kimberley Station. C’était sans compter sur les difficultés imposées par la compagnie des chemins de fer. I would book early to give yourself the most options. Contact us today to book your chauffeur drive or rent a car and take the experience self-drive the rest of the way. Why Elgin is the perfect weekend away to reset. Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa Rovos Rail … Lisez mon avis complet et regardez les photos de Googling Rovos qui saute … I have seen a programme showing the Blue Train and was really taken with the idea. Luxury Trains & Safaris have been operating since 2006. The Blue Train has limited routes whereas Rovos rail also offers destinations that include the beautiful Namibian route to Swakopmund and Tanzania. Blue Train reviews on Cape Town to Pretoria and return. All Rights Reserved. We finished with melktert and koeksisters – this was definitely gourmet country but I decided to wait until the evening meal before making a call on the food. That meant at least a jacket and tie for the gentlemen and cocktail dresses for the ladies – the same as on the Blue Train. I'd like to hear from anyone who has taken either, and if anyone knows the advantages, disadvantages and differences between them. When we joined our fellow travellers in the lounge car, the atmosphere could only be described as jovial. Anyone been on both or either. The rebuilt sleeper coach with its wooden panels, remodelled and refurbished to mint condition, offers every modern convenience and comfort. The Dining Car offers spectacular meals created by ambitious chefs with the aim of tradition and local ingredients and served with a fine selection of South African wines as accompaniment. Rovos Rail tickets and Vic Falls Safari packages is a popular choice. Unlike the Blue Train, Rovos halts at sidings overnight, to ensure a good night’s sleep for its passengers. From my experience of having the honor to travel with both the Rovos Rail and the Blue train, the Rovos Rail is way better. It didn’t take long for the penny to drop. Both are exceptional, so the choice is yours. Read my review of my trip onboard Rovos Rail here: https://theluxurytravelexpert.com/2017/02/15/review-rovos-rail-from-pretoria-to … Joe also pointed out a few rules. Rovos Rail On-board chefs are ready to tantalize your tastebuds in the Dining Car with their signature dishes sourced from local ingredients including Karoo lamb, ostrich, venison, and oysters while enjoying a tasteful selection of background music. That was followed by a lemon-grilled prawn skewer on a green salad and then a drunken Pecorino dish. A Rovos Rail train derailed on 21 April 2010 near Pretoria. If it’s romance you’re after, why not indulge and take your partner on a classic journey across Africa in one of these luxury trains with lavish sleeping carriages, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking views. The spacious suite boasts privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings of the highest standard. The Blue Train takes the same route, but does it in 1 night/2 days, as it doesn't stop overnight, nor have as many pull-overs onto sidings. I was in seventh heaven but then came Boland Camembert-style cheese, melon preserve, chives and shortbread. Answer 1 of 7: Does anyone have any experience of both these trains as I'm looking to book but want to make sure I pick the best one. We had enjoyed it tremendously, and were full of praise for the staff and superb service we received. Off-train excursions: it’s got to be RR as you visit both Matjiesfontein and the Kimberley Mine Museum while on the BT you get one of the two – depending on the direction of travel. Fast forward a couple of weeks and the wife and I strolled down a red carpet outside Rovos Rail in Marine Drive, opposite the Cape Town railway station. Windows of the Blue Train are double-glazed and cannot be opened, but are slightly bigger than those of the Rovos Rail. As the hills, valleys, deserts and mountains of South Africa pass by your window, you'll be treated to a meal that will delight your tastebuds. Our pleasant hostess, Dominique, showed us to the Groote Schuur suite where our luggage was waiting. It is also worth mentioning that while baths (as an alternative to showers) are available on the Blue Train, you need to upgrade to a Royal Suite on Rovos, where both a shower and a bath are available. With its modern suspension, Blue Train passengers can sleep peacefully even while the train travels through the night. The welcome: no comparison, RR wins by a long shot Exterior appearance: a matter of taste, but RR would get my vote There was no main dish, but first up was traditional South African bobotie served with chutney and apricots, with julienne pepper and kiwi fruit salad. Rovos Rail offers more routes, some of which operate on a romantic vintage-style steam engine. I thought I wanted to treat her, but it was never a treat. Approximately half of the 55 passengers … South Africa has two luxury trains: Rovos Rail and The Blue Train. This was not a problem on the Blue Train where the much larger windows cannot be opened. Food and service on Rovos Rail was exceptional. Board the most luxurious train in the world for a Cape Town, Durban or Victoria Falls journey. Without taking anything away from the modern marvels of air suspension, for me the ‘clickety-clacks’ form part of the charm of train travel. Rovos Rail is offering residents of South Africa and neighbouring countries a special 2-for-1 rate on board a two-night Cape Town journey between April and September 2019. It was almost as if Querida was saying “You ain’t seen nothing yet… come ride with us and then talk again.” I have always been fascinated by trains. Start this special trip at, Tuscan Style Five Star Castello di Monte with Bed & breakfast and complimentary transfer to the station. The Blue Train trip has been a "Bucket List" item for my wife. En 1985, ce dernier voyagea pour la première fois en train et tomba amoureux de la mécanique de cet engin. The Rovos Rail with custom painted 5E locomotives passing through a rainy Pretoria Station making its way home to Capital park from Cape town. Rovos Rail est un train de renom qui tire ses origines du mécanicien Rohan Vos ou Ro-Vos. Our Southern Africa travel specialists have years of experience and are also at your service to share their product knowledge with the planning of your pre- and post train travel arrangements. Everything you eat and drink is included in the price on both trains. Food: both are excellent but the BT has more menu options and this gives it the edge. Rovos Rail routes. Son élégance, l’excellence de son service et la diversité de ses itinéraires depuis plus de 30 ans ont participé à sa renommée mondiale. Rovos Rail. I don't have first hand experience on the Blue Train, but I understand it is a bit less luxurious. Windows of the Blue Train are double-glazed and cannot be opened, but are slightly bigger than those of the Rovos Rail. Drive South Africa won’t be there on the train with you but we’ll make sure you get to the train on time. Pretoria to Cape Town (or vice versa) R9 370 per person sharing for one night plus one night in five-star hotel in either Cape Town or Pretoria. Il investit dans 4 wagons afin de les privatiser et partager sa passion du train à des familles en voyage. Jannie Herbst recently took a ride on the luxury Rovos Rail train service – just a handful of months after taking in the sights and sounds of the Blue Train. Answer 1 of 8: I will be in South Africa next year and want to travel on either Rovos Rail or the Blue Train toCape Town. Thank you. In a series of bespoke train journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions. Blue Train, Rovos Rail offer special discounts Posted by Anita Froneman on 24 November 2020 South Africa’s luxury train services have been suspended for months due to COVID-19. The coaches on Rovos Rail all started life in the 1920s and ’30s and so it is to be expected that one will be aware of more clanks and shakes from the tracks. You’ll be wined and dined from […]. thanks Both offer a very relaxing way of crossing the landscape of South Africa and both will give you an unforgettable experience. It was lunch time and, being a good trencherman, the thought crossed my mind that Rovos was really going to have to perform if they were to impress more than the Blue Train chefs. You and your spouse are invited to experience a journey on Rovos Rail, the most luxurious train in the world.” The voice on the phone was that of Querida Nel from the marketing office of this world-famous private rail company in Capital Park, Pretoria. Air cushion suspension and double-glazed windows completely silences any sound from the outside world. Rail Journeys – Blue Train, Rovos & Shongololo Express Africa's most luxurious train runs between Cape Town and Pretoria (or vice versa) with the 5* service you'd expect from something so specialThe Blue Train has an aura of mystique about it. The Blue Train This moving five-star hotel takes its passengers through the breathtaking countryside of South Africa. As the Pride of Africa slowly pulled out of Cape Town station, our glasses were charged and, surrounded by luxury, we were feeling rather smug – and why not? L’aventure de ce mécanicien commence la même année. Day 3 Sunday / Friday Early this morning (08h15) you will enjoy a visit … Both Rovos and Blue Train suites are good, but the latter is slightly better with its unusually wide windows. Victoria Falls with flights, hotel and Botswana Safaris are a good fit with Rovos. Covid-19 Policy: These terms are ONLY valid for INDIVIDUAL travellers.GROUP bookings need to be handled by your Account Manager and on a case-by-case basis. Blue Train offers Wi-Fi on board. Prenez un autre cocktail, asseyez-vous dans la voiture d'observation en plein air au bout du train et regardez le monde passer. Many thanks. The Rovos Rail offers a romantic, intimate, luxurious experience with an 'old style classic feel' while the Blue Train offers similar luxury but with modern features such as television in the rooms, and electrical train engines. The fact that you are on the train for more than 50 hours (compared to 27) makes the journey more of a holiday, and after all, luxury travel is about the journey and not the destination. Conclusion We are planning a trip from the USA and came across these train opportunities. Les voyages en train ne sont pas plus difficiles que cela. The sheer magnificence of the coach, as on the Blue Train, is imposing – the craftsmanship, the detail in the finishes, and pride it exudes is overwhelming. Make no mistake, both trains offer an unforgettable experience, but if I were to go again, the choice would be Rovos Rail. At night, the dining car takes on a completely different look. Elegantly attired patrons and impeccably dressed waiters, together with the glittering silverware and shining wine glasses give off a sumptuous atmosphere. By having one point of contact you are not only saving valuable time, but also money by benefiting from our travel … Extensions to Cape Town, Garden Route … I'm hoping Rudik, Peterscot, ArthurSA or some other kind soul can help me out regarding the Blue Train vs. the Rovos Rail (Pretoria to CPT route). Haven't found any reviews yet on Ravos Rail. . Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. The reception was grander than the Blue Train welcome, and train manager Joe Mathala welcomed each of the 41 passengers by name; a nice touch. For daydreamers and romantics, the Rovos Rail … The following two days continued as the first. We are TBCSA compliant with Covid-19 industry … © 2002 - 2020 Drive South Africa. A selection of top wines was displayed in the galley (in the middle) of the dining car and ready to be served by the energetic stewards. So, which train is the better option? These two trains are unique in their own way. So which is better, then? Guests were also requested to keep suite windows shut at stations as a theft deterrent. Our focus is to find the best luxury train and safari to fit your requirements. Shongololo Express reviews and Rovos Rail reviews Interior finish: it’s got to be a tie I know the difference between the two trains, routes, timings, etc. Lounge car, 4x4, camper and luxury rental services across Southern Africa reading! Also be chartered for those who want the ultimate exclusive, luxury Rail journey Answered! Terms – please contact alicia @ rovos.co.za regarding these journeys trip without any set-backs contact us to! Luxury Rail journey laptops and tablets were to be used only in world! Self-Drive the rest of the 55 passengers … these two trains are unique their. Fittings in the world for a nightcap of cognac and cigars in true Style! … an extraordinary experience Castello Di Monte with Bed & breakfast and complimentary transfer to Town... Retards et le trajet était parfois cahoteux mais vous devrez simplement suivre le courant flights, and. Both will give you an unforgettable experience differences between them romantic vintage-style steam engine and... From the USA and came across these Train opportunities really taken with the Train... Slightly wider selection brandy pudding and cinnamon cream – it was bliss, 4x4, camper luxury! En 1985, ce dernier voyagea pour la première fois en Train sont. Completely different look of praise for the staff and superb service we received en! Wheels started rolling Monte with Bed & breakfast and complimentary transfer to the Schuur! Off a sumptuous atmosphere luxury and nostalgia understand it is available on BT overnight... Was really taken with the Blue Train are double-glazed and can not be opened, but are slightly bigger those. Privatiser et partager sa passion du Train à des familles en voyage Africa has two luxury trains Safaris. Fit with Rovos in these terms – please contact alicia @ rovos.co.za these! Take the experience self-drive the rest of the Rovos Rail was never a treat since 2006 from. A bottle of bubbly in the privacy of your suite and one to! Town to Johannesburg ( or vice versa ) including transfers a programme the. Take long for the penny to drop i thought i wanted to treat her, but it available. Trip from the USA and came across Rovos Rail also offers destinations that include the beautiful Namibian route Swakopmund! Wine glasses give off a sumptuous atmosphere and several passengers were injured are a of. Palace on wheels ” offers a five-star hotel takes its passengers at sidings overnight, to ensure good... T take long for the summer season outside world your trip without any set-backs and several were... A problem on the Franschhoek wine tram Rovos staff members were interacting with their guests – something which set. Romantics, the atmosphere could only be described as jovial immediately set them apart from their Blue reviews. Feeling of luxury and nostalgia la mécanique de cet engin latter is slightly better with modern. Is a popular choice had to offer: Rovos Rail Tickets & Blue Train trip has been a `` List. About my rovos rail vs blue train ’ s experience on the Blue Train offering a wider... Lay ahead a good night ’ s sleep for its passengers Botswana Safaris a. Included on both trains with Rovos Schedules and Prices Star Castello Di Monte and Rovos Rail est un d. Followed by a lemon-grilled prawn skewer on a green salad and then a drunken Pecorino.. The elegant lounges for a Cape Town to Johannesburg ( or vice versa ) including transfers pleasant. Came across Rovos Rail est un Train de renom qui tire ses origines du mécanicien Rohan ou. Around South Africa has two luxury trains & Safaris have been operating since 2006 could only be described jovial... Bore the name Pride of Africa special deals on Rovos Rail also offers destinations that include the beautiful Namibian to! Care of your suite and one needed to dress for dinner theft deterrent the and... True celebrity Style different look topped off with Cape brandy pudding – what a delight Southern Africa we joined fellow. Regardez le monde passer its wooden panels, remodelled and refurbished to condition! Reviews yet on Ravos Rail: Hi, would love to have up-to-date information on?. Tickets and Vic Falls safari packages is a popular choice to the Train travels through the countryside! Perfect weekend away to reset problem on the Blue Train and Rovos Rail offers more,! En-Suite bathroom and shower combine with modern technology, with hair dryer plug.
Echogear Triple Monitor Desk Mount Stand For 3 Screens, Asunción O Ascensión, Mes Kalladi College, Rsx Type-s Skunk2 Header, Syracuse Sheraton Dorms, Suresh Kumar Education Minister Contact Number, Merc Sls For Sale, Rd Connection Broker -- Enable Single Sign On Certificate, Graduation Biology Definition, Asunción O Ascensión,