The Society of International Railway Travelers

02/13/2025

We are thrilled to announce that Eleanor Hardy, president of The Society of International Railway Travelers, was named today on the 2025 Travel + Leisure A-List—for the fourth year in a row. 🌟

She remains the only A-Lister specializing in luxury rail travel 🚂, a testament to her expertise and passion for extraordinary train journeys.

“I’m so thrilled because this calls attention to my favorite mode of travel — fabulous train travel — as well as the work of our amazing team at The Society of International Railway Travelers and that of our partners on great trains around the world,” said Mrs. Hardy. “Thanks to our wonderful clients as well – who make our world go around!” 🌍

Here’s to another incredible year of exploring the world by rail!

Interested in experiencing an adventure of your own? Email us at [email protected] to learn more, or visit our website linked in the bio. 🧳

01/05/2025

11/21/2024

Angela’s Castles of Transylvania tour began with the exploration two of Istanbul’s most historic sights – Hagia Sophia and the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), followed by the colorful and aromatic Spice Bazaar. 🌶️🫚

Swipe to the end to see a sweet, furry local that caught Angela’s attention! 🐈

From the Bazaar, it was a short walk to Sirkeci train station to board the waiting Golden Eagle Danube Express 🚂 for the fabulous rail adventure through Bulgaria, Romania & Hungary. Stay tuned!

11/12/2024

Exciting news! We’re thrilled to announce Belmond’s first-ever luxury sleeper train in England and Wales: the Britannic Explorer. 🇬🇧🚂

The company behind iconic trains like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and Royal Scotsman has added this British gem to its fabulous collection.💎

Departing from London Victoria Station, the 3-night scenic itineraries will feature UK destinations difficult to reach by car, including Cornwall, Wales, and the Lake District.

If three nights isn’t enough, you’re in luck. On select departures, you can combine two itineraries for a 6-night adventure!

Journeys begin July 2025. Visit our website (link in bio) for full details. Contact us today to book: [email protected]

11/08/2024

It’s been quite an exciting Fall for the team here at IRT!

We now get to follow along with Angela Walker and her husband, Shawn, as they board the Golden Eagle Danube Express for the unforgettable Castles of Transylvania tour. 🏰

Embark through four European countries, where vibrant cultures, ancient castles, and breathtaking views await. With four luxurious nights aboard the train, and stays at the stunning Four Seasons Sultanahmet in Istanbul and Four Seasons Gresham Palace in Budapest. 🌟 Don’t miss a moment of wonder—both on and off the rails!

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.