The Society of International Railway Travelers

10/21/2024

Rovos Rail’s 16-Day Cape Town to Dar es Salaam is one of our most popular journeys for many reasons. ⭐️

“Big five” game drives 🐘 are a highlight of this amazing adventure, and IRT Traveler, Rick M., shared these beautiful images with us after traveling with Rovos Rail last month.

He was thrilled to tell us that they “came back to the lodge happy as clams” after their guide was determined to find a cheetah to check off their final box of witnessing the “big five”. 🐆

Every day on this tour is unforgettable and unique, and we thank Rick for sharing this wonderful experience with us.

10/11/2024

As you journey on the Al-Andalus, you are reminded every day of the beauty of the Spanish countryside. ☀️

The region of Andalusia unfolds with rolling plains of olive groves, sunflower fields, and vineyards, which give the area a rich agricultural identity.

Arriving into Seville on the final day of this tour gives you one last glimpse of the breathtaking views. 🇪🇸❤️

10/10/2024

The journey on Al-Andalus is enriched with some of Spain’s most elegant cuisine and exquisite wines.

On Day 5 of this journey, the train travels into the beautiful Jerez train station, as seen in the first image. A visit to a sherry winery showcases a canopy of grape vines covering the street in the heart of sherry country.

With two overnights in Jerez, our journey is soon coming to end with a tour in Cadiz, followed by our final stop in Seville.

09/30/2024

Following a delicious breakfast on board, take in the beauty of Córdoba’s streets as Owen and Eleanor make their way to the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.

Also known as the Mezquita, the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba stands as a symbol of Córdoba’s diverse cultural history and is one of the most remarkable monuments in the world.

With just a few more stops along the way to Seville, there is still so much to see on this picturesque journey.

09/19/2024

The UNESCO World Heritage cities 🌎 of Úbeda and Baeza are the next stops along the way on this magnificent journey through Southern Spain on Al-Andalus. 🇪🇸

Renowned for its remarkable Renaissance architecture 🏛️ and vibrant history these are perfect destinations for history buffs and dreamers alike! 📖

09/18/2024

Every day on the Al-Andalus journey is enriched with tours of some of Spain’s most beautiful sights. 🇪🇸

A visit to the Alhambra was a perfect way to begin this luxurious trip. 😍 Nestled in the hills of Granda, this stunning palace was built by the Nasrid sovereigns of the Kingdom of Granada and is one of Spain’s most popular monuments.

With its lush gardens ⛲️, panoramic views 🌄, and intricate design 🖌️, the Alhambra will leave you speechless.

09/11/2024

We hope you enjoyed the glimpse into Rachel’s journey from Istanbul to Paris on the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient Express.

Now let’s travel 1,000 miles south and visit Malaga, Spain, where our agency’s founders Owen & Eleanor Hardy are beginning their adventure on the Al-Andalus luxury train of Southern Spain.

Stay tuned for the beautiful sights they see along the way from Malaga to Seville.

08/31/2024

Fine dining is at the heart of the VSOE experience. Chef Jean Imbert’s team churns out culinary masterpiece after masterpiece in two tiny galleys onboard.

08/15/2024

🛫 Our team had a blast at Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas this year! 🌎

From professional development seminars to networking with the best of the best in travel — we loved connecting with our Virtuoso partners to bring new and exciting opportunities for luxury travel to our clients. ✨

Ready to plan your next adventure? 🚂 Email our travel experts today at [email protected] and let’s get started making your dreams a reality!

08/02/2024

With only 6 months left in the year, now is the perfect time to start planning how you want to celebrate the holiday season!

Embark on an unforgetting holiday adventure with our two exclusive trips aboard Golden Eagle Danube Express:

🎄Christmas Markets of Central Europe: Discover the magic of the holiday season as you explore enchanting Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, and Hungary. Indulge in festive treats, shop for unique gifts, and immerse yourself in the charming holiday spirit. 🎁

🥂New Year’s in Vienna: Ring in the New Year in style and luxury. Travel through picturesque landscapes, enjoy exquisite dining, and celebrate New Year’s Eve in the stunning city of Vienna.🎇

Make this season truly special! Email our rail experts today to book: [email protected].

06/21/2024

Dreaming of a luxurious Spanish adventure? 🇪🇸 Explore the beauty of Southern Spain aboard Al-Andalus, or journey along Northern Spain’s Green coast on El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo! 🛤️ 2025 departures are now available to book. 🗓️

Both trains are beloved by IRT travelers for their emphasis on regional cuisine and wine🍷and stunning countryside views☀️of Spain. We also can’t forget to mention their supremely comfortable, all-en-suite cabins.

If either of these trips have always been on your bucket list, don’t delay. Booking for 2025 is now open. Contact us now for the best choice of departures.

05/08/2024

Not one, but TWO luxury trains highlight the Australia Rail Extravaganza. 🇦🇺

Extremely limited space remains for Summer 2025.

This private, custom-designed itinerary will be tailored just for you.

Highlights include:
⭐️Platinum Class on two World’s Top 25 Trains®- Indian Pacific and The Ghan;
⭐️4 days at Longitude 131, a premiere 5-star wilderness resort at Uluru;
⭐️Kakadu National Park (home to hundreds of rare birds and world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles). 🐊

From star-gazing 🌌 in the deserts of Rawlinna, to swimming in waterfall 🤿 plunge pool, Australia is calling your name.

Contact us today to start planning this unforgettable journey. 🦘

04/25/2024

Recent IRT Traveler reminds us why so many have loved ❤️ Southern Spain’s Al Andalus! 🇪🇸

“It’s a gorgeous train with a superb staff. The food is excellent and the service impeccable. It’s very well done, definitely classy and elegant and very enjoyable. It provides ample reason to return to Andalusia some day.” -IRT Traveler Phillip M., April 2024 ⭐️

Limited space for 2024 remains. Or get on our first notice list for 2025, which will open for sale in the next 6-8 weeks.

04/19/2024

Embark on the ultimate Namibian Safari aboard Rovos Rail’s luxurious Pride of Africa! 🇳🇦

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Africa as you traverse the vast desert plains 🏜️ from the comfort of your elegant suite. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife along the way! 🐘

From indulging in gourmet dining 🍽️ and fine wines 🍷, to exploring the rich culture and history in the local villages and ancient rock formations of the vlei, this adventure to Namibia will create unforgetting memories. 🚋

04/10/2024

Check out the home page of Travel + Leisure's A-List this week for more on IRT President Eleanor Hardy Bravo, Eleanor. 👏👏👏

In Travel + Leisure's 22nd annual A-List, we bring you the world’s top vacation specialists, who can take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary.

04/04/2024

🔥Hot off the press!🔥

Pick-up the latest issues of Harper’s Bazaar and Travel + Leisure to find insider tips about traveling on luxury trains from our own Eleanor Flagler Hardy, President of The Society of International Railway Travelers.

Eleanor is quoted in Harper’s talking up the revamped Eastern & Oriental Express.🚂 In Travel + Leisure, she has been chosen, once again, as an A-List advisor for 2024.🌟

We are honored to be included in both of these beautiful magazines!

03/22/2024

Experience luxury and culture through the heart of Northern India on our newest 15-day tour from Delhi to Mumbai, with exclusive extensions to Shimla & Amritsar. 🇮🇳

With five nights aboard the Deccan Odyssey 🚂🌟, explore iconic Rajasthan landmarks like Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur’s Amber Fort, and the Taj Mahal, all while traveling in comfort aboard this private train. Experience India’s timeless charm on this unforgettable trip. ✨

For a shorter journey, opt for the 9-day tour option packed with indulgence and discovery. Every moment is a celebration of luxury and culture. 🇮🇳🪷

03/15/2024

We are thrilled to announce our inclusion — not once, not twice, but three times over‼️— on the Condé Nast Top Travel Specialists list for 2024.

Agency President Eleanor Flagler Hardy and senior advisors Angela Walker and Rachel Hardy are all represented on this prestigious ‘Best of’ list. 🌟

Thanks to our incredible partners all over the world, and our amazing staff. Special mention goes to Executive Assistant Kyle Lewis, and Founder/Marketing Guru Owen Hardy. 🌎

03/11/2024

The historic route made famous by Agatha Christie — and the original Orient Express — is now being offered on Europe’s most comfortable, all en-suite luxury train – the Golden Eagle Danube Express! 🌟

This exciting new 8-day tour is truly all-inclusive: 5-star hotels in Paris and Istanbul, off-train touring, all meals and drinks, arrival and departure transfers, and staff gratuities.

Experience unforgettable adventures, from exploring the depths of Postojna Caves on an underground train to enjoying a luxurious eight-course Gala Dinner prepared by the train’s Head Chef 👨🏻‍🍳🍷

Departures in May & September, 2025 and 2026. Ask us about options to extend your journey in Istanbul and beyond. 🗺️

02/29/2024

Discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Central & Mediterranean Europe - all while traveling in luxury! 🚂

This May, the Golden Eagle Danube Express is offering three exciting itineraries highlighting spectacular scenery:

📍May 1-12: Balkan Explorer - Venice to Istanbul
📍May 10-16: Castles of Transylvania - Istanbul to Budapest
📍May 17-27: Grand Alpine Express - Budapest to Venice

Touring, accommodations, meals, drinks, and gratuities are all included— truly a worry-free adventure! 😍

Email us today to learn more about these incredible rail journeys, or visit our website to fill out our booking request form.

02/16/2024

We are proud to announce International Railway Travelers President Eleanor Hardy’s inclusion on the 2024 Travel + Leisure A-List! 🌟

This is her third year on the list — and she continues to be the one and only A-Lister specializing in luxury rail travel. 🚂

And we have many exciting developments to announce: wonderful new IRT staff, emerging destinations, and new luxury train offering all around the world. 🗺️ Stay tuned for these and other updates.

We are all looking forward to the year ahead in luxury train travel!

11/06/2023

It's so much fun talking with our guests, thanking them for their travel business, and learning why they are excited about their upcoing trip. R. Read just booked the May 31 Paris to Istanbul Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for 2024. This is a new departure, and we were delighted to secure the cabin for her. "I love trains. I love the Art Deco period. I really want to do it. And your service is wonderful." Thank you Ms. Read! The Society of International Railway Travelers is always here to help. Are you thinking you'd like to enjoy this amazing bucket list journey? Please email us at [email protected]. You will get to talk to a real person who has been on the train and knows it well -- not a chat bot.

09/29/2023

It's so much fun to open up reviews from our guests...This one from the iconic Istanbul to Paris journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Did you know we are offering this journey in the spring of 2024 -- as well as August? Please let us know your interest: [email protected]

"We would like to say what a wonderful time we had on the Orient Express, and thank you for your part in ensuring this. From the moment we were collected from the Pera Palace and driven to the station, to the minute we sped away from the Gard de Nord to our Paris hotel, everything went so smoothly, was so comfortable and took place in exquisite surroundings.

We thoroughly enjoyed our meals and the time spent chatting to other guests and staff in the bar and restaurant. The champagne session made for a delightful morning. The beautifully restored carriages and the bands playing at various stations along the way transported us back to the 1930s. Mention must be made of the excellent pianist in the bar and his huge and varied repertoire.

This really was a once in a lifetime experience and one we will continue to talk about and cherish in the years ahead.

Kind regards
Clare and Martin

07/11/2023

The Eastern & Oriental Express is back! We are now taking bookings for the 2024 season. Experience Singapore & Malaysia on Southeast Asia's most elegant luxury train. Visit our website for more details— and email us at [email protected] when you're ready to book. (Pics 3, 4, and 5 are ours — from Angela Walker's 2019 trip on the E&O.) 🚂 🇸🇬 🇲🇾 🌴

https://www.irtsociety.com/blog/the-eastern-oriental-express-announces-2024-relaunch-to-great-fanfare/?fbclid=IwAR2W_4J9x-dsd9UhNY0iPNRLWZCbeeS5Bb1VVPQwSnZOOSAX66xVRIXZbWg

07/07/2023

Check out Rachel Hardy's interview with The Compass — a digital travel trade mag. Her answers are informative for luxury travel lovers as well as industry insiders.

If you already work with a trusted travel advisor and are considering a luxury train trip, we recommend that your advisor work with a rail expert (like one of our staff at IRT) to make your trip as smooth as possible. We love working with other travel advisors and will give them — and therefore, you — the best advice to make your trip unforgettable.

https://buff.ly/3NYgo3c