NOSTALGIA ROLLS IN CLASS 

The Venerable Raffles Hotel in Singapore flaunts its age, service and the luxury of another era. Nostalgia is enjoying a big revival in more than just hotels. The ultimate in another long-vanished style from the past is designed for those who have already done the private or concorde jet bit. The really fancy private railroad car is coming to a railway station near you. The private observation car "California" with dome seating for 24, and eight bedroom-compartments in the lower deck provides sleeping accommodations for 16. Two other private cars complete the "Train": The "Kansas" provides formal dining for eight, has three bedrooms, luxury lounge for ten plus outdoor observation deck. The "Utah" has a cafe lounge, bar, piano and seating plus table set up Capacity for 30. These are not routine railway coach cars. If it can be made in brass, etched glass or kid leather, they got it.

These cars are available for travel from their homes base in Denver to Seattle, Washington. The one-way charter fee for this Once-in-a-Lifetime "Great Pacific Express" journey is just US$16 000. Included in the price are all railroad and mileage charges, mechanic, chef, steward, and one attendant per car, three meals per day and associated beverage services. The first return trip was scheduled for the first week in november. The Great Pacific Express is making charter runs through the British Columbia interior to Williams Lake and/or Lillooet and return. These two-day round trips charters run between C$35 000 and C$45 000.

Some people may find this a bit pricey. But wealthy corporations at home and abroad may wish to hold a moving conference, a unique way to go. Where else can you get the chance to see B.C.'s spectacular scenery from such an exhalted viewing platform. The route provides an experience only replicated by such opulent mobile, living legends as the European "Orient Express", India's "Palace on Wheels" and South Africa's fabled "Blue Train."

If you want to go to Whistler in class, this will make your day. More Information: Paatricia Ulicki, President, Western Inter-National Group, Vancouver, B.C.

Phone: (604) 988-6385.

* * *

< previous | chapter index | next >
back to Main Chapter Listing
back to Home Page