Have you always wanted to channel your inner Indiana Jones? While you could always fly to your destination, you would miss out on some incredible sites along the way. If getting there is half the fun, you can’t go wrong by taking a scenic train journey. Even the Grand Canyon looks dollhouse-sized from high above the clouds! Not only is there an old-world charm and romance to riding along the rail road tracks, you’ll also get a front-row seat to some of the most alluring destinations on the globe. This is one way to do it in style. A luxury train vacation offers all the sights and experiences of a standard train journey, but with perks only some guests are privy to. From in-suite massages to feasts prepared by Michelin-starred chefs, these sojourns are nothing like the traditional locomotive trips of the past.

Here are six exclusive adventures that allow you to sit back, sip something sparkling, and admire the breathtaking scenery as they go on an adventure of a lifetime. The great news? These routes cover six continents, so no matter where you begin your trip, you’re sure to discover new vistas, absorb some incredible culture, and meet new friends as you trek across your homeland and discover new locales.

The Ghan in Australia Are you ready for one of the most majestic weeks of your life? Once you step aboard The Ghan in Australia, operated by Great Southern Rail, you’ve entered into an expedition that will give you a new-found appreciation for the beauty that awaits Down Under. The four-day, three-night coast-to-coast trip begins in Darwin and concludes in Adelaide. It covers 2,979 km, taking you into some of the most remote, yet fascinating parts of the continent. You can also choose to take alternative, shorter journeys to Alice Springs, departing from either Darwin or Adelaide.

Book the Platinum Service and experience it all with exclusive amenities that transport you into another world of comfort. You’ll unwind at the end of the day in a cabin that’s twice the size of the standard twin, and will enjoy a full suite stocked with goodies. You’ll also have VIP access to the Platinum Club, a dining experience that features an inclusive menu curated by on-board chefs. Eat, drink and soak in the sites — all from your double picture windows that make you feel like part of the scenery.

Platinum service starts at US $ 4,000 (per pax)

The Train Suite Shiki-shima in Japan This 10-car sleeper train isn’t just new and innovative. It also offers arguably the most luxe rail car travel experience. We’d expect nothing less from famed industrial designer Ken Okuyama, the brain behind some of Porsche’s and Ferrari’s sleekest machines.

Choose from either a two-day journey or a four-day one, both departing from Tokyo. Along the way, you’ll cross the regions of Kanto, Tohoku and Hokkaido and likely never want to leave. The second you arrive, you’re treated like royalty. From the red carpet entrance to the 24-hour butler service, you’ll have every wish catered for. In the mood for a piano recital after evening cocktails? There’s a pianist on board who can play any tune you request. You’ll also enjoy fantastic seasonal meals prepared by Katsuhiro Nakamura, the country’s first Michelin-star chef. Stay in one of the 17 suites, each of which is outfitted with a traditional Japanese soaking bath made of cypress wood. Splurge on one of the top suites and enjoy a glass fireplace, fresh flowers, and even Swarovski-encrusted binoculars.

With such opulence at your fingertips, you may never want to leave your room. Yet, may we suggest traveling down to the observatory at sunset? The wall-to-wall windows provide panoramic views of the fields and forests outside, so you never miss a beat — or an incredible view.

Suites start at $ 10,300 (per pax)

The Simplon-Orient-Express in Venice and London The Simplon-Orient-Express counts among one of the most iconic and treasured railcar experiences in the world, and for good reason. Agatha Christie wrote her acclaimed 1934 novel, Murder on the Orient Express , after a particularly inspiring trip aboard. Operated by luxury travel company Belmond, today’s version of the Orient Express looks much like it did back in Christie’s day, only much more glamorous. Visitors can choose from overnight journeys that depart from Venice or London. If you have a little more time, indulge in a longer 10-day excursion that winds through key European cities including Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, among others.

As you ride, enjoy top-notch fare by executive chef Christian Bodiguel, who has been on board the Orient for more than 30 years. You’ll have your pick from three different restaurant cars, each of which has been in operation since the ’20s, lending a classic and storied touch. From live music to cabins outfitted with pricey wood paneling, there’s lavishness and thrills around every corner. So bring your black tie or your cocktail dress and plan to ride in style.

Starts at US $2,900 (per ticket)

The Andean Explorer in Peru Heralded as South America’s first sleeper train, the Andean Explorer offers the ultimate way to view the country’s lush greenery and crystal clear waters. You can select either a one-night trip from Puno to the ancient city of Cusco, or a two-night journey that begins in Cusco and ends in the city centre of Arequipa.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Andes Mountains, Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca. Relax in an expansive cabin featuring Peruvian décor and plush upholstery. Worn out after a day sipping cocktails in the Observatory Car, or noshing on your alpaca tortellini dinner feast in one of the two atmospheric dining carriages? Step into the on-board, world-class spa and let an invigorating clay wrap transport you to another galaxy. At the end of the day, wind down with a cocktail on the observation deck, where you can dance to live Latin music, meet your new best friend, and taste an authentic pisco sour while the sun calls it a day.

Starts at US $1,425 (per ticket)

The Blue Train in South Africa Do you have 27 hours to spare to be completely transformed? The journey from Pretoria to Cape Town is one you’ll never forget. A posh lounge during the day, your deluxe suite will morph into a luxurious bedroom at night, complete with under-floor heating and marble-and-gold bathroom fixtures. Go for a traditional twin-bed suite or indulge in the train’s one full-sized bed for a truly pampered rest. At your leisure, enjoy a fine cigar and cognac in the Club Car or venture to the Lounge Car to take in panoramic views of the South African countryside, along with some of the country’s most prized pieces of fine art. The Lounge is also where you’ll enjoy your afternoon high tea in a traditional and elegant English setting, or where you can sip a glass of the train’s award-winning wine.

Starts at US $6,600 (per pax)

The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada The best way to see the Canadian Rockies is onboard The Rocky Mountaineer, the all-dome fleet that’s taking the country by storm. You can choose from one of four different routes. The ‘Coastal Package’ runs from Seattle to the Canadian Rockies via Vancouver. The ‘Rainforest to Gold Rush’ journey will take you from Vancouver to Jasper, as does the ‘Journey through the Clouds’ though the latter meanders through Kamloops while the former stops in Whistler and Quesnel. The fourth option travels from Vancouver to Banff by way of Lake Louise. There are four, six, and 10-day packages.

Another standalone feature here is the staff, who, apart from showcasing impeccable service, also enjoys sharing anecdotes with the riders. Unlike the other train journeys we’ve showcased here, you won’t sleep on the Rocky Mountaineer. Rather, you’ll hop off in the evening and enjoy a night at one of many deluxe hotels along the route, giving you the absolute best of both worlds by rail, and by land at your new destination every day.

Starts at US $6,800 (per pax)

Riding in style There’s a reason we’re drawn to train travel. It’s a throwback to when times were simpler, technology was less invasive, and everything was just a touch more elegant. It is easy on such a journey to indulge in some nostalgia, leave fretting for the strange new times be, and relax — on a true vacation. Make 2018 the year you experience these game-changing odysseys by yourself, or with someone you love. As you cross off your bucket list this December, don’t forget to give yourself a little something extra next year. Why not book a trip aboard any of these five luxury trains? When you do, you’ll step foot in one dimension and emerge into another, filled with glamour, style, and opulence.

Dhiram Shah is the Mumbai-based founder of Luxurylaunches.com

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