coast by rail

Anti-clockwise from far left:

The Gastronomical delights served at the Queen Adelaide Restaurant

Meeting the locals

Sparsely populated Rawlinna station

Brian McFadden leads the Christmas carols for local kids

A hot game of golf for Santa in Watson

Indian Pacific through Outback Australia

The Indian Pacific winds through the Australian outback Exchange Hotel, a famous Kalgoorlie pub

Welcome to Gold Class

The Australian experience does not merely pass by the train windows. Passengers have the opportunity to explore historic settlements along the route such as Broken Hill, Adelaide, Kalgoorlie and the remote outback town of Cook which currently boasts of a population of four

Travel noTebook

The Ind I an Pac I f I c

Tr A in i nform AT ion

While the cruise ship I travelled on no longer operates, the highly recommended Assam Bengal Navigation’s Sukapha does, an experience I find not dissimilar to travelling with friends. Assam Bengal Navigation operates cruises from Kolkata to Farakka on the Hugli, and from Farakka to Patna on the Ganges. The cruises may be taken separately or combined. The Sukapha is compact at 40 metres long and with a maximum of 24 guests; it maintains an onboard ambience convivial to relaxation. Cabins are spacious with a lounge, dining and observation deck for viewing the passing scenery. Contact: India: Assam Bengal Navigation Co. Tel: 9192070 42330 E-mail: sales@assambengal.in Website: www.assambengalnavigation.com

Indian Pacific departs from both Sydney and Perth twice a week (during high season) and takes 3 days and 3 nights to reach end points. Depending on the number of booked passengers, the train length can vary from a single train of 15 carriages (427 meters) to a double train with 22 carriages (770metres) plus locomotives and motorail.

Tr A in ACCommodAT ion

There are three categories to suit every taste and budget from Platinum and Gold in the luxury end to cost effective Red which offers both sleeper and just seats for the budget conscious. The ticket for Platinum and Gold services includes superior sleeping accommodation, en-suite, complimentary toiletries, magazines, 24 hours tea and coffee and the facilities of a nice lounge as well as elegant dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant.

P er TH inform AT ion

Western Australia’s dynamic capital city is a place to be seen. Stay at Medina Grand (www.medina.com.au) close to many of the must see and attractions more info www.greatsouthernrail.com.au

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