JULY 2010
– by Seema Prakash
I’d never been on a luxury train before. I didn’t know what to expect, but at the same time I did. I knew that we would be cosseted from beginning to end, and we were. I knew the train was state-of-the-art smooth, and it was.
But, as a native of the country, what I didn’t expect, was that I would actually get into the excitement of it all — the red carpet welcome at every station, the traditional flower and tika greetings, the local dancers and musicians — I really got into the groove of this train journey.
What made the Maharajas’ Express trip really magical, is the way everything flowed, so one really didn't have to think of anything (as someone else had). All one had to do was enjoy oneself. And we did, of course.
The journey we were on was called "Princely India," which started in Bombay and ended in Delhi (with stops in Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore and Agra). Our off-board excursions were delightful and led by excellent guides. There was some flexibility in the itineraries during the day — additional trips could be arranged such as shopping or hotel spas.
The train itself was great. Nice amenities in the rooms, consistently gracious and attentive staff, as well as good food (both Continental and Indian). Every arrival and departure was well executed. The timing was brilliantly synchronized and rarely off for a second. Really not sure how it was done, but it was — the extra car that was needed suddenly appeared with no fumbling, for instance. Cool beverages and moist towels arrived as soon as we re-boarded the train from day trips — the staff even remembering which beverages everyone preferred. [The train and on-ground staff continue to receive additional training to maintain a high level of hospitality.]
My very favorite part of the whole trip was my first Bengal Tiger sighting. We had an extremely early wake-up call that morning, with coffee, tea and cookies. Then it was straight off, driving to Ranthambore National Park. Afterwards we stopped for a break near the park at Taj’s Sawai Madhopur Lodge. My thanks to our guide Yogesh Sharma for sharing this picture of the actual tiger we saw that morning (since my own camera had mysteriously stopped working that day).
For our last night’s dinner aboard the Maharajas’ Express, all the guests were excited to get dressed up in provided saris, bangles, kurta pajamas and turbans. I found myself having just as much fun — the women looked beautiful and the men were potential royalty!
For more information on the Maharajas’ Express train journeys with Cox & Kings, please contact Seema Prakash, India & Beyond Product Manager at sprakash@coxandkingsusa.com, or call 1-800-999-1758.
You may also visit our Maharajas’ Express website to view more photos and learn more about guest lecturers.
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