One of my motivations in returning to Australia for a few months has
been to experience the world-class multi-day train journeys that venture
through some of the most uninhabitable parts of this sunburned country.
The first of these train journeys that I’ve embarked on has been The
Ghan; a three day, two night adventure from Darwin on the north coast
through the Red Centre to Adelaide on the south coast. As the train
travel evangelist that I am, this 54 hour, 3,000 kilometre journey was not to be missed.
After braving Darwin’s crocodiles and heat for a few days, I boarded
the train. I was lucky to be traveling in Gold service, which meant I
had my own private cabin and was served 3-course meals in the dining car
throughout the journey. (Other classes of travel range from Red service
with a sleeper or highly-reclining seat and food for purchase, to the
elite Platinum service with ensuite washrooms and room service).
Gold class. Ooh la la! I love my job.
Once acclimatized to the very welcome air conditioning after Darwin’s
heat, I explored my cabin. It was the perfect size for one person; cozy
but not cramped. (There are also twin cabins available for people
traveling together). I stuffed my things into various compartments and
went for a wander.
The Ghan's winding corridors | 
