I Put Indian Pacific Train's Platinum "First Class" To The Test

[@JeffWALLACE-p2g]

I am Australian and a very regular traveller. The price/quality of this train is a great example of the reason I don’t travel in Australia. The value just isn’t there.

[@125sloth]

Exactly right. I was involved in passenger services back in the day and worked on all interstate trains, from Melbourne, as well as trains within the state. I was also a consultant on rail travel for a number of travel agents and their franchises, I was actually considered an "expert" on passenger rail, as I had worked on the actual trains being promoted. Today when people can go overseas by air, and partake in train travel for less money, (even with airfares), than in their own country, something is obviously wrong. And that is most heritage trains are now privately owned and run for people with more money than sense, (just a figure of speech with all due respect). The UK and Europe do heritage trains, and indeed regular trains so much better than Australia, sadly.Another issue with the day excursion trains for those just wanting a nostalgic day out with family is not only the cost, but the trips are often ruined by a section, (not all), of rail "enthusiasts" who seem the think that the trains are there just for them. Well they are not, if it is a publicly advertised excursion. These clowns do nothing to promote a positive look with their childish carryings on and rudeness, but that's a story for another time. Your comment about the price and quality of the Indian Pacific is spot on. It is a rip off, (along with many other heritage trains here), compared to the value for similar trips overseas. It is greed by private operators that puts them offside with travellers.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

The cost of diesel for that vast journey and pulling that enormous train is why. Some costs have just gone up nothing we can do about that. The Howard government pegged our gas and oil prices to the international prices so there is no advantage for us even though we are the biggest exporter of natural gas in the world we're going to have to import some. That is bad management clearly.

[@paulgerrard9227]

I agree. Australian travel prices are extreme and the delivery mediocre. Food a vast rip off with even humble burgers now seeking gourmet status. The distances are vast and the experiences are generally dull.

[@margaretcampbell2681]

I agree. I don’t know why the companies don’t get this

[@chefjohnwt]

We were on the same journey as you, and we featured in your clip at least four times. We were in the other Platinum cabin (the rowdy lot), such a shame we didn't meet. Agree with the start of the journey, and the rocky first night sleep. However, the staff were so beautiful and helpful. Food was good, the experience was indeed terrific. It was worth it in our mind, and we would probably return one day to experience the Ghan. Happy travels, we may indeed meet again on a future journey.

[@KrisKk08]

It looks like you enjoyed it a lot more than Gary. He “didn’t really like” a lot of things.

[@KrisKk08]

Btw does he ask permission to film you as a courtesy?

[@qingdao16]

I've just returned from a 3 week trip to Japan. I spent $670 on three JR passes which provided 19 days of unlimited travel on Japan Rail's superb network. I am glad I travelled on the Indian-Pacific back in the early 70s so I can say I've done the journey. There is no chance I will ever travel on the IP again. Vastly overpriced these days.

[@randall8379]

Was $670 (USD?) the 1st (Green) or 2nd class fare? They recently dramatically increased the price

[@qingdao16]

@@randall8379 That was the 2nd class fare (AUD) which we purchased after the price increases. We bought regional passes too rather than the whole of Japan pass as we were not travelling north of Osaka so I bought 2 JR West all area 7 day passes and 1 JR Kyushu North 5 day pass. We got excellent value from all 3.

[@randall8379]

@@qingdao16 I think you have to take a lot of trains to justify the dramatic fare hike. I was thinking it would be better to buy individual tickets. By the way, I'm curious to know, were the trains comfortable in terms of room temperature or overheated?

[@qingdao16]

@@randall8379 We based ourselves in 3 cities and did day trips so as an example from Osaka, we visited Himeji, Okayama, Kyoto (twice) and then journeyed down to Fukuoka (Hakata) for the next stage of the trip. Reserved seat prices (return 2nd class) were (from either Shin-Osaka or Osaka stations) Himeji (7220 yen) Okayama (12520 yen) Kyoto (1160 yen) and the one way trip to Hakata was 15080 yen. We paid 26000 yen for the 7 day pass and got over 37000 yen value from our trips. As for comfort, the trains were superb. None were uncomfortable in terms of inside temperature.

[@kparker1615]

I guess when you get given trips for free like he has, his review is brought and paid for.. have done this trip, trust me, you are not missing out on anything

[@lindseysharon259]

I love it when my favourite travel channels do videos about my favourite mode of transportation. I know you use to do more than cruise videos, but this was still an unexpected yet very pleasant surprise! Hopefully we get to see more train and/or excursion specific videos in the future!

[@alexbaker7871]

Oh me too. Before my European River cruise last year I probably watched most of Gary’s terrific videos.

[@gordonclark7632]

As an Australian, I would love to explore the country and especially on a long train journey. However, the costs for these journeys is so expensive that it is beyond reach of most of us. I sometime wonder if we price ourselves out of the market and that is why people find it cheaper to head off overseas for far less cost. I am glad you liked the trip although I would have been disappointed with missing out not he full train journey and being bused to another station.

[@kparker1615]

He was a given the trip for free and not being honest with the viewers - his opinions are brought and paid for... this is an over priced boring experience you will regret spending money on..

[@baobo67]

@@kparker1615 Good on you K, we are not fools. All about the food food and more food. No mention of the shower/toilet facilities? Important in a review. If they were shared that could be a deal breaker for some. His only negative was the Syd Lithgow coach trip which was a one off anyway and the price. My feedback from O/S visitors is Food great, Train itself "tired" contrary to the publicity etc.,the bumpy track as stated. Cost not mentioned as part of big package from OS. Wonder why their carriage was not full?Cheers.

[@pushpanathannn]

@@kparker1615 Fully agreed with you...For that sort price, u would have an excellent overseas trip and for much cheaper...not worth at all...donot know why people are going-on this type train to see around the Australian desert...

[@trackdusty]

@@pushpanathannn Pensioners rates?

[@mikequinn6206]

Overpriced? That's because, even if you don't believe it, Australians are paid a living wage unlike much of the rest of the world.​@@kparker1615

[@randall8379]

I rode the Indian-Pacific in the early 80s when it was a normal train - no tourism frills. My compartment was large. Very early 60s style furnishings. Food was plain. You met real Australians, very friendly, not wealthy international tourists. Price was very reasonable. Prices you quote are insane.

[@stephanguitar9778]

Did it in 1978, was cheaper than flying. 2nd class sleeper

[@EG-nx3sl]

Thanks for sharing, I personally would prefer your trip over Gary’s, I always like a more authentic experience than a touristy one no matter how luxurious.

[@randall8379]

@@EG-nx3sl Thanks, that's what I think. The trip he took is rather pretentious. I like trains for transport. Of course I want comfort but I don't need the entertainment, guitar player, organized tours and all the rest. Plus too much food! And the price is shocking. There are other experiences I want. Glad I did the Indian-Pacific when it was a 'normal' train.

[@randall8379]

BailyChap comments (can't find the post) that the train I rode in the 1980s is probably the same. I assumed that as the equipment in the video is old -- I suspect 1960s. The same is true of the CANADIAN transcontinental train operated by VIA RAIL CANADA. It was manufactured in the 1950s by the Budd Company in Philadelphia. The equipment has been refurbished of course. It too used to be a 'normal' passenger train with affordable prices but now it's quite expensive - though nothing like the outrageous price charged for the IP.

[@brackenboy6321]

@@randall8379 Rather than a point to point passenger train service this is an experience, equated to a cruise ship experience on land.

[@RiverDanube]

Glad you enjoyed the trip. As Australians, we would never go on this trip at the high prices being charged.

[@kparker1615]

He did not pay, he was given it free, and I doubt he would pay for it with his one money either - brought and paid for review - so sick of these

[@Gough-jf9zf]

@@kparker1615 Why did he say each cabin cost him $8,300?

[@RiverDanube]

@@kparker1615 That would explain a lot. It’s crazy how people are so easily conned at the suggestions of other ‘influencers’.

[@RiverDanube]

@@HoolyDooly-si2zz That’s interesting. We were going to take the train from Adelaide to Perth about 35 years ago, at the cost of about $50 but we took the bus instead. I was disappointed and regret not doing it but with the prices these days, it’s an utter joke.

[@RiverDanube]

​​@@HoolyDooly-si2zz You're so right. It wasn't all about the money and fancy food. It was no nonsense. I heard so many good reports about the long distance trains and anyone could afford to do it. We waved our grand parents off at Spencer Street station in the 70s on their round trip travel to Perth. Their first venture beyond Melbourne, affordable and they loved it Your trip sounds memorable and the train officers so accommodating.

[@MikeJackson1955]

I've been on both the original Ghan, on the narrow guage in 1980 and the new Ghan to Alice Springs in 1986, plus a leg of the IP from Parkes to Sydney. In those days the train carried sitting cars as well as sleepers, and was used as a way to actually get places. Now all the trains, except the Overland, are for tourists, 1st, 2nd and last. Only cashed up retirees take the trip as locals, the majority are overseas visitors. Wish we still had normal trains doing long distance travel here. Sadly missed.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

The diesel is so expensive to run! Sitting cars would be almost an ordeal but I guess you can adjust over time. I've done some excellent journeys in India and the train carriages decoupled leaving us on the station platform and we had cooks who made incredible food on the spot. It was the trip of a lifetime and not part of a commercial tour it was organised by some people I knew with the contacts in the railways. The beds had super thick and stiff real linen and we were given sweet tea in tea cups at regular intervals. It was charming. India has changed too.

[@user-jx6lf8cy4s]

I did this train in 1972 when it was the cheapest way to cross the country. I couldnt afford the sleeper and bought a seat. The staff were great and let me sleep on the bench seats in the lounge. The train was full of youngsters like myself and it was non stop party all the way. So glad I had that experience then as it was memorable and affordable. I would go again today if I didnt have to pay for all the extras, side trips, alcohol etc which really boosts the price and no longer appeals. Plus you need to book years in advance to get the comfy bed - no bunk beds for me anymore! I dont enjoy tours and buffets prefering to do it my way. As I do love train travel, we take regular trains whenever we can. Affordable, comfortable, with the ability to be flexible, it is my favourite way to travel.

[@joshlock4627]

Was their a Broken Hill drag queen ?

[@deborahcurtis1385]

Trains are dignified and not stressful. Driving is exhausting!

[@ianmcleod9088]

Typical of Australian railways , just out to rip people off . A truly great way to travel but out of the reach of most Aussies which is disappointing .

[@Tonimaree25]

Great video Gary. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us.

[@Geoduck.]

Gary it was fun to see Mark's Mother enjoying the train. It's clear she enjoyed it because she was smiling in every video. We enjoy your train excursions they add value to your channel.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Yes she loved it! She never stopped smiling !!

[@johnnybonilla1834]

Tell her to wash your feet. She's not in her living room, eating popcorn and watching the telly

[@travelgirl747]

I came here to see if anyone else mentioned her dirty feet up on the couch.

[@KrisKk08]

Seems like mom liked it a lot more than her grumpy son-in-law.

[@AussiePom]

I've done the trip across Australia from Sydney to Perth and back again and it didn't cost me $8300 but then I drove my own car. I took diversions off the road to see the sights and stayed in motels and ate good food, food with names I knew not food for the inner city latte sipping set. The Indian Pacific used to be an old people's train known as the Pensioner Express in the days when it was state run. Now in private hands the costs for ordinary Australians are exorbitant.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

Sadly it would be uneconomic to run it for pensioners now so they've done the smart thing and made it upmarket and gourmet. I think the demographic is still on the older side. The food looks excellent. I went across the Nullarbor by car at one stage too and we got into such a mesmeric rhythm and attuned with the endlessness I was actually disappointed when it ended and we arrived in Perth!

[@AussiePom]

@@deborahcurtis1385 Perhaps today it could called the Cashed Up Pensioner's Express.

[@xr6lad]

Tbh I have always wanted to go on it but as an Australian I find it expensive as well and not convinced it’s value for money. The one time I was close to booking it I looked at the prices and ended up going to Europe thinking ‘ similar price’

[@martinjenkins6467]

That's our problem we have a beautiful Country but is so expensive to holiday In. That's why alot go to Bali.

[@MikeJackson1955]

For $8K USD we could have a month in Europe!

[@kparker1615]

His review is brought and paid for, it is a boring experience.. not even worth half of what they charge

[@le13579]

​@@kparker1615 Give it up parker. You've made your point more than enough times and I don't agree with you in any of them.

[@shad5107]

Yep. Going on a European river cruise because I feel it would be crazy if I spent that amount of money on a holiday in my own country.

[@Stephanie-uj7un]

I was so thrilled to see a vlog about a train journey. I love your coverage of cruises, and you did a fantastic job of covering, in detail, the train journey! It looks very interesting! Thanks!

[@shanojebs]

This is the 2nd review of this train I've seen after Noel Philips, and it confirmed what i assumed, the overall trip and experiences and food aren't cost effective, and is aimed at the rich and retired. The cost of flying and eating out in Adelaide and Perth seems better. Even flying to Europe for a luxury train trip is cheaper. I really don't understand why the Indian Pacific costs so much.

[@125sloth]

You are so right. Australia in general prices itself out of Australians holidaying here, and the train trips are a joke with their costs. Certainly much cheaper overseas.

[@joshlock4627]

And aimed at the woke brigade, with a drag queen

[@deborahcurtis1385]

It's the current cost of diesel pulling such an incredibly long train over such a massively long distance. It would also wear the engines.

[@pwhnckexstflajizdryvombqug9042]

This is not a train journey (for the sake of traveling between the two cities) it's a cruise ship on rails.

[@qldfirefighter1]

What A great pair. Giving mum/mum inlaw a trip of a life time. Nothing else matters.

[@KirkWhammitt]

Pair of tossers! That mum must be so ashamed to be near them!

[@soniacattley1186]

When I moved to Sydney (from Adelaide) my dads "fee" to bring my car across was to return on the Indian pacific.

[@Cadcare]

Smart dad you have there. 😊

[@krystleklearcentral]

@@Cadcare They don't bring cars to Sydney anymore which really sucks, I had a bucket list item of driving to Perth and getting the train back, but to do that now I would have to hire a car.

[@mabamabam]

@@krystleklearcentral You can still put your car on a train. Just likely not the same train. Although the indian pacific does pull cars sometimes.

[@krystleklearcentral]

@@mabamabam they don’t take cars into Sydney anymore. I 100% know this. Nobody does.

[@BaileyChap]

@@krystleklearcentral I also have rather unfortunate news, NO passenger-carrying trains in Australia carry cars anymore, Journey beyond quietly removed motorail from the IP and Ghan in December.

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

I didn’t know that the train stopped at places along the way. Much More interesting than I had thought! Thank you for the video!

[@joeharris2892]

yeah and sometimes not where you want its not like you can get off

[@andrewtailby4364]

Back in 90's it used to be a service that stopped at many more stations. Also it wasnt over priced and also had 3 classes being gold class and holiday class and red class which was coach style cheap seats and was a cheap way to travel to perth and food was so much better.

[@lorraine-leetyerman7925]

I'm Australian and went on the Indian Pacific from Perth to Sydney. I found the food was exceptional, the staff amazing, the stops fun and informative. A totally fantastic experience.

[@joshlock4627]

Yeah, but the price is ridiculous and nothing informative from a drag queen The informative part is only taken from a woke perspective . (Studied Australian History and the crap they dribble is half wrong )

[@michaelflick1177]

Horrendoubsly expensive.

[@coleenbrennen487]

My daughter ( who is 18) and I did this trip in June last year and traveled in Platinum. Was one of the best trips I’ve ever done . I’m an avid cruiser and had never done train travel before . Definitely a convert ! Ps .. we also did the Drag Queen walking tour in Broken Hill !! Such fun !

[@KnittingPasta]

I like watching your videos while I do chores or relax. I live alone, so it's nice to have calm, interesting videos

[@freeagent8225]

I used to live alone but now I have a cat.

[@RobertB56]

I used to drive it out of Perth to Kalgoorlie and change crews head back to Perth on freighter the next day,the owners of the Indian Pacific dont own Locomotives or locomotive crew and the job is contracted out to Pacific National who i worked for until my retirement in 2019 after 44 years as a locomotive driver.

[@shawnbell6392]

This is one of the grand railway journeys in the world. I did it years ago when it stopped in Kalgoorlie. I went to a pub rather than the mine tour and drank beer talking to a guy cycling across Australia. One way to reduce the cost is to take Gold class one way and then fly back on an economy air ticket. I had a small single bedroom and it remains a treasured experience.

[@charlesmattina5359]

We overcome the outlet dilemma by having a converter cube which has 4 USB ports on top. Even travelling within the US, these extra ports come in handy for phone, watch and whatever charging all at once.

[@EmeraldHill-vo1cs]

Yep, definately the way to go.

[@Reed-2big]

We’ve found several countries’ available plugs lacking! Some worse than a cruise ship! All our adapters hold 2 US plugs although one has to be 2 prong. Our old chargers fit those nicely, but normally we plug CPAPs into them. We don’t carry converters anymore as we only have one device that must be 110v and it’s an electric toothbrush that will hold a charge for over a week, and manual brushes exist! We do have a power strip with 3 outlets that help too. It has a European plug which works great on a cruise as we can then use all the outlets in the cabin!

[@Dont_Gnaw_on_the_Kitty_1]

It's an $8000 dollar trip and only 1 power point, that's BS. They could have provided power boards.

[@shininglightandlove2281]

My husband and I would love to do this trip but at present it is beyond our reach financially. We receive the age pension as sole income. Pleased you are fortunate enough to experience the trip and others. It really does look lovely. Relaxing. My daughter worked on the Country Link trains many years ago when she was 18. She is now 46. Thank you for this very informative video.

[@bobbere]

Nothing lovely about it, save your pensions, the Indian Pacific is two to three days of sheer boredom interspersed with meagre so called fancy meals. In your situation there are far cheaper week long all inclusive sea cruises for half the price.

[@pumpkinpastie]

As an Aussie, so proud you - as such an intrepid traveller - love the Adelaide Central Market so much ❤

[@Mods-1976]

Great review and thanks for the Video credit on the footage you used. The Nullarbor is a magical place and Rawlinna (Pronounced Raw-Linna) is an amazing pastoral operation smack bang in the middle of some of the most beautiful country southern Australia has to offer. A touch under 3 million acres which in its peak has shorn 75 -80 thousand sheep. I'd suggest if you ever have the time, driving across the Nullarbor so you can take in all it has to offer at your own pace, it's history and the beautiful desolate landscapes. Look forward to seeing more of your travel reviews.

[@JaneNewAuthor]

I did the Sydney to Adelaide stretch last year. Beyond alright - beyond disappointed. And I love trains!

[@AuMechanic]

Did the return trip in about 1972 with my mother and older brother and sister visiting our WA relatives from Melb, I was about 10yo and the only young one, there were plenty of people middle aged but I still enjoyed it. Adelaide to Perth is the best part as it is the real desert not just pastoral paddocks, I suggest fly to Adelaide and skip the rest and it'd be cheaper too. Also looks like price fluctuates a lot depending on the month.

[@trig1900]

I travelled on the Trans back in 1977. The experience was markedly different back then. The only stop was in Broken Hill to change engines and drivers... LOL. The service was great and there was even a butler if you wanted tea or dinner in your cabin [first class]. They also carried out the reconfiguration of the cabins for night time use. After a day of using the 'platinum' lounge, my wife [of 1 week; just married] and I spent a lot of time in the second class lounge because the age group was decidedly younger, like us. Without the stops we pretty much made our own entertainment and it was a fun trip.

[@mikeyphoto48]

That was a surprise,, I actually thought you were going to whinge about the trip. As a former frequent Ghan traveller, (tour host) I loved the train experience,, yes it’s expensive, yes it’s slow, yes it’s not particularly luxurious,,,, but it’s an amazing journey echoing a bygone era. Everyone should experience travel this way at least once , IF you can afford it.❤

[@joshlock4627]

The broken hill clown puts a massive negative on the trip . That’s isn’t a bygone era . Sick of the alphabet gang being thrust in my face . I will not tolerate my children being exposed to the broken hill stop

[@jamesking1952]

To say it was Platinum standard what was that woman doing putting her bare feet up in the lounge car? Disgusting? !

[@liro9940]

Her feet were filthy. I saw that too how rude.

[@jonathont7866]

going barefoot isn't taboo in Australia the way it is in many other countries. It's perfectly normal to see lots of people barefoot in grocery stores, malls, even very casual cafes. It's not something I would do, and I would personally still have found it inappropriate to be going barefoot in that situation but I think it's the sort of thing that would be much more common in Australia than elsewhere.

[@cairhien987]

@@jonathont7866 I'm cool with her going barefoot - but definitely not having them up on the seats! Unless if it's in your own home - not feet up on seats shoes, slippers or no. It's just rude imo

[@jonathont7866]

@@cairhien987 I personally agree, putting your feet up on seat is plain rude and she's old enough to know better; it's certainly something I was taught at a young age.

[@Neenie_W]

I was shocked, just so rude. And no it is not that common to see people bare foot in the part of Aus where I live, perhaps whennear the beach on a warm day.

[@aussiestallion69]

I’m an Aussie, absolutely love rail travel and I was expecting something special about your trip, I must say you are very diplomatic. Those meals were shocking by normal Australian standards, worse than standard cafe fare. The cabin quality very poor compared to Europe and Japan. Sadly for that completely overpriced fare I’m embarrassed to think this is what we can come up with. At least I know this is not a journey I’ll be taking.

[@rayatkin3913]

Same report from friends of mine who did the trip middle of last year. Said it was no better than Moscow-Vladivostok during the Soviet years. One to be avoided.

[@murielbuxton6993]

Couldn't think of anything more boring. Very unorganised. The stops were at night so didn't see much

[@aussiefarmer6012]

Agree with you. Very ordinary for the overinflated price. Total gouge to put that many carriages on that they don't leave from Central railway station. The Ghan is even worse I think, you miss half the scenery as it travels all night.

[@lisadolan689]

I would’ve spat the dummy about having to get a coach to Lithgow 😐 Nope. Management need to take a trip in France

[@chrishutchison4875]

Went on the train some years go. This gentleman is very diplomatic. It was horrible! Spent years travelling on trains in Europe and Asia. The uni class from Penang to Bangkok is far better and a fraction of the cost. And such friendly,humble people. If you know Australia and it’s abysmal standards of service,cuisine and value you won’t be surprised by this report. The most boring landscapes and very geriatric. I’m Eighty. Save your money and go Europe,Canada and Asia.

[@janathompson1204]

Looks like a lovely trip! The food choices and the tours look very nice. The lady with her bare feet on the seat in the lounge though!🫣 I hope your mother in law had a great time!

[@baroquejen]

I gasped when I saw that. What was that lady thinking?? Ew.

[@AngieRTaylor]

That bare foot lady was being just ‘ick’… I guess she checked her grace/class with her larger luggage! LOL

[@AngieRTaylor]

Gary - hoping you are going to experience/review Explora Journeys soon - it would be awesome to hear your thoughts on this new, luxury cruise line

[@baraitalo]

It's a lot more common in Oz and nz to wear bare feet

[@johnnybonilla1834]

​@@baroquejenit was the mom or grandma who was with their group. I guess it wasn't the day of the week to take a shower

[@gregneil612]

It’s a shame that the beginning of your trip was changed but Journey Beyond have no control over track maintenance. There are two versions of platinum carriages. Yours was an older style. The new ones have multiple power points and usb points. Also, platinum guests have an extra course at every meal. The non alcoholic sparkling was a Maggie Beer one. She owns a property in Adelaide and had a tv show called “The Cook and the Chef.

[@melStephens1994]

That is the best trip I have ever done! I’ve never done platinum but I’m saving up for it, just the night between Sydney and Adelaide though. I’ve been on the Indian Pacific several times and it’s two sister trains as well only done the Great Southern once but I want to do it again. I never have any complaints about these trips because they’re all just so great. Sorry you had to catch a bus to meet the train, but unfortunately, when work has to be done it has to be done

[@BlindGuardian050]

Great video for what to expect you covered a lot of it very informative. Was looking at this trip from Sydney as I've lived in Sydney my entire life and basically never left the state

[@stuschwartz6683]

My husband and I cruising Hawaii to Sydney and then the Ghan in October. This video was very helpful.....and we can't wait. Love all of your travel reports! Stu from San Diego

[@debbieball1650]

Your videos are SO well done and SO informative…thank you! Been following you for years. Now you’ve whet my appetite for this train trip!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

I’m surprised that most guests weren’t drinking the wine at the Central Market … when I did this tour (admittedly in gold), almost everyone on my table did the wine tasting. I appreciate that not everyone drinks or is interested, but as you say, Adelaide is known for its wines and just because you don’t choose a wine tour doesn’t mean you don’t want to try food matched to local wine. 🤔

[@alanjones7050]

Agree with you on this. When in Adelaide it’s what you do.

[@andreamacritchie8468]

Love love love your videos Gary, no matter what the subject, so interesting, down to earth and informative, I learn so much from them!

[@beautifully_wonderfullymade]

I live near the railway line that goes from Sydney city to Lithgow. It often has to close for maintenance. As it is also a very busy commuter train line during the week, these maintenance times are usually scheduled for the weekend and at fairly late notice. The trainline that goes between Penrith and the Blue Mountains needs regular maintenance due to the topography of the area. Plus recently we have had a lot of rain n flooding. I am very certain that had the provider been able to travel from Sydney city via the train they would have. The trip via the Bus between the City to Penrith can be high traffic on the M4. However, when you cross over the Nepean River and get on the Great Western Highway and go through the Blue Mountains. It is actually quite lovely. Can't say the train trip from the City to Penrith is all to scenic, so you aren't missing much. When the train gets to the mountains it often runs parallel to the road so most of the view from the train or bus would be pretty much be the same. Yes you don't have your own cabin on a bus, but it isn't a long trip time wise in comparison to the whole journey to Perth. I personally love the drive up the through the Blue Mountains. Thanks for showing us your travels, it sounded lovely.

[@DChatburn1]

Very timely video, thanks. I will be traveling on the Indian Pacific from Sydney on the 29th of May. I will be traveling in a Gold Single, so I paid much less than you paid, but from reviews that I got from others who have taken the same trip, they said that Gold Class was very comfortable, I hope so. I am very much looking forward to the adventure. I found that working with the folks at Journey Beyond was very good and they have been very responsive to all of my inquiries.

[@carolynrose9522]

Travelled gold service in 2000’s. It was lovely.

[@gilbydog7350]

Have a great trip.

[@DChatburn1]

I'm at Sydney station today. I'm very excited for the journey to begin.

[@carolynrose9522]

Happy travels

[@johnblyth9787]

I worked for the rail way in New South Wales and booked several trips to Perth and return. I also done the trip myself one way to Perth While the track closure would be dissapointing, it is necessary to do work. Just as a road needs repair so do rail lines. Australia has a good safety record with rail. Thank you for your thoughts and experiances. While it may be expensive, compare it to driving a car, booking motels and dinning. If you are international car higher also. Back in 1972 i think it was around $600 per person. Hope to see more of you videos.

[@phyllisvasquez5027]

I loved watching this video. This is probably my favorite of your vlogs!

[@ohasis8331]

Pretty good breakdown, thanks. I'd looked at a couple of different Australian train trips and was disappointed with their prices. One thing to conclude is the prebooked, prepaid seasonal trips seem to offer reasonable discounts. Flown over the country a few times for work and the red centre is always striking.

[@DavidDugan-w2c]

Thanks for taking us along.

[@rosella1919]

Ive been on both The Ghan and Great Southern Gold Class. I wouldn’t waste my money on Platinum. We had a dedicated bar carriage as well as the Queen Adelaide dining car. The service on all Journey Beyond trains is fabulous. The best part for me is meeting people and it seems to us the the Gold Class passengers had the chance to mix a lot more with other passengers. We met some lovely people on both trains. I’m from Adelaide btw, so I suppose I’m a bit biased.

[@laurencehyde2168]

Very informative,thanks and well produced video.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@karendawson9372]

Your mother in law is AMAZING - I’m 58 and she looks fitter and healthier than me!! 🌻

[@Tigers529]

Great video as usual

[@BeautifulLei-gd4rf]

I am from Perth Western Australia. Thank you for sharing your journey. I am a little surprised about the living areas. Looks very basic considering the price but thank you, your commentary was outstanding.

[@bels4116]

Thanks for sharing your trip Gary, I did this trip in 1996, I was my mums carer so it was a lot cheaper. That’s one crazy price for the 3 days! We loved our trip but it was a bit different to what is today. As a family in the 70s, we did Sydney to perth via nullabor a couple times as we went from Perth to the tip of Queensland return by car. The Indian Pacific I see has changed as when we settled in as our trip started we had someone come and ask us what beverage we liked for the mornings cuppas and what time, then being brought it to our cabin. We never got off and loved the commentary on board and the dining lounge. I'm glad you enjoyed it overall though. But I too don't like kangaroo meat. How crazy that we eat our national emblem!

[@sonofdat]

What a great video! I'm really glad you enjoyed the journey. The food looked delicious! I live about 60ks north of Adelaide about 100 metres from the track and love watching the trains pass by. Ill give you a wave next time! 😊

[@billsmith281]

Ive done the trip 3 times by car, stop whenever i want, take whatever i want, plenty of nice overnight places to sleep....& way cheaper than $8300, but its not for everyone.

[@EssEmm3]

That was USD. You could really take your time and stay at some nice hotels for that price. :O

[@jonathont7866]

@@EssEmm3 I'm assuming he was either mistaken when he said USD, or he was quoting the price for multiple people not a single, because it absolutely doesn't cost that much. Platinum per person costs $5190 to $7190 depending on the time of year. I don't think it's really all that unreasonable considering the quality of the food (and alcohol is included) and all the tours that are included (some are quite involved). Doing a road trip around the country has long been a dream of mine and I'm not sure you'd save all that much money on the Sydney to Perth stretch especially considering you'd need a lot longer than 3 nights to make the drive comfortably

[@judithstrachan9399]

He paid USD8,300 per cabin. I went back & checked.

[@sandiandgregh]

We really enjoyed this video. We're not "cruisers" (our furthest jaunt is the Northlink ferry from mainland Scotland to Shetland) but we still enjoy watching your cruise videos. We are definitely more "train" and "fly n explore" travellers although this particular train trip is a bit out of our reach financially. So, it was great to live it through your video. Thanks!

[@flowerpower8722]

I did Alice to Perth via Adelaide on a bus. Not recommended. Not complaining about any bus co., but it was surprisingly full the whole time so couldn't stretch out. It was non-stop overnight and half the morning to Adelaide, The bus stopped for meals at roadhouses and occasionally stopped for us to stretch our legs across the Nullabor. Dreary landscape, what you were looking at at 6.00am was identical to what you were looking at at 6.00pm (nobody's fault of course). And 3 days and 3 nights of sitting upright. No good for getting any sleep. So next time I go to Perth I'll be flying.

[@gregsierocinski8826]

Thank you for your review. It was very comprehensive. I’m glad you liked the food and experience. Regards

[@lindak8664]

I’ve wanted to do the Indian Pacific and the Ghan for years. I decided it wasn’t worth mortgaging the house for. I’ll have to be satisfied with having seen the IP at Central one time and seeing the Ghan when i was passing through Alice Springs a few years back. Which was a lucky fluke, we were running a couple days ahead of schedule! I hope you and Mark had a lovely time here though. And happy birthday Sally! What a wonderful birthday present 😄

[@locohombreau]

Just a note on the time: WA, NT and Queensland do not use Daylight Saving Time whereas everywhere else does. Under normal circumstances Perth is 2 hours behind Sydney and 90 minutes behind Adelaide. Your video was obviously during DST, so those times extend by an hour. Currently there is no DST in Australia.

[@jeanallan8106]

Happy Birthday Sally 😊 Loved the trip recap!

[@joshlock4627]

Except the broken hill clown and kissing the blue mountains climb .

[@Classickoolcars]

One of my mates just did this trip, only he went from Perth to Sydney…. Apparently the way this video went is the ideal way to go. Not Perth-Sydney. As the poster said it’s very clanky and rough going through the mountains. ESPECIALLY if you want to sleep. Mate was Gold class as well which he said was fairly cramped. Thanks for posting. Cheers

[@pippaul4279]

Gosh I went on that 1978 .cost 300$ . Had lot of fun . Made friends play cards .drank . .

[@wb8ert]

Two items: I always bring a power strip because, like you, I have been in accommodation with very few outlets. Finally, I'm surprised there wasn't an outdoor viewing car at the back of the train. Those cars are fantastic for seeing the scenery (and for smokers having a light during designated times). As for the cost, yes, start saving because it isn't just the train, but the planes (or ship) and hotels getting there and back. I think a cruise from the US to AU and then another to the UK with a train trip would be wonderfully delicious.

[@Kevin-go2dw]

Thank you for your review. Just had a quick look at the fares in Australian dollars and the cheapest is Gold single in June and July (winter) AUD$2430 up to Platinum in September - November (spring) at AUD$7515 per person. The west bound fares are different to the east bound. Originally the train was run by the government railways, Commonwealth Railway, later Australian National Railway and also the state railways. These basically no longer exist so the train is run by a private company. While I would love to do this or other long distance journeys by rail, I could not necessarily justify the expense.

[@BaileyChap]

The reason the fares are lower in the eastbound direction is quite simple, no one wants to travel on it! The trains timetable is often unforgiving of delays, and these usually affect the eastbound the worst, forcing it to skip stops, it's also shorter by a significant margin, as it has shorter experiences and barely stops in Adelaide. That said, if you want to ride the IP more for the train ride instead of the off-train excursions, this is the option for you! (As a side-note, in 2025 they'll be changing the eastbound to try to curb these issues, we shall see how that goes)

[@judithstrachan9399]

Thanks for doing my research for me. Considering how much I enjoyed the Ghan (not real good, but ok) I’d rather spend $2430 or more on a couple of cruises.

[@williamboardman7638]

I enjoyed this video. I look forward to seeing more on your channel about excursions. The trains, artic, and a few other excursions such as glimpses of the Paul Gaugin activities are very interesting.

[@janpanaia8019]

This was a great review. I did the trip between Perth and Adelaide in 1969 with my family when it was cheaper than flying, and have wanted to do it ever since, but it's too expensive these days. I'd love to hear about your experience in Perth,

[@davidmorrison2739]

The train used to have a sit-up carriage, or two at one time, and there were second class sleepers with the toilet down the corridor. I think cheap plane fares killed the sit up option and perhaps the second class sleepers. With no express buses now between Sydney and Perth the only. realistic publlc transport is flying or absurdly-priced trains. There is the occasional cruise ship, but they are expensive and spasmodic. When I first went from Sydney to Perth by train we had to catch five trains, and not long before that it was six. But it was fun and not too dear.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

what a great experience you had!

[@davidmorrison2739]

@@deborahcurtis1385 Indeed. And I've edited out my typos!

[@Stephanie-uj7un]

Thanks!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks so much!!!

[@esmeraldablack2365]

Excellent video. High cost is due to Australian high wages in large part. Also high cost of food etc and payment for use of rail line (Journey Beyond Rail is a private company). Rovos in South Africia for instance is not as expensive because wages and cost of living is cheaper in comparison to Australia.

[@jeffarmstrong1308]

As Australians we had to travel their Ghan and Indian Pacific. Our budget only ran to Gold class though... Like your trip we found it a truly great experience and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am sorry that you missed the leg between Sydney and Lithgow. It is a wonderful trip and I recommend that you do it if you're ever back in Australia even if you have to use one of the interurban trains. Our trip was Perth to Sydney. The Sydney urban network is very busy and they could not hold the train for us while we did an off train tour of the Katoomba area. The main train continued down into Sydney and and we were put on one of the interurban trains (specially hired for us) for the final leg after our tour. You commented that there is only one power point in the cabins. The carriages were built in the early 1980's when people used far fewer devices than we do these days so it was no surprise that there was only one in our cabin. We were glad of a trick we had adopted while travelling in Europe especially in the heritage B&B's in England that we favoured where we ran into this problem frequently. We always carry a power strip in our luggage and an adapter to the local power points.

[@mitmac007]

I've travelled on the Indian Pacific 3 times, twice in 1992 and again in 1995. Back then it was a far better experience in my opinion, 3 classes of travel as well. Gold, silver and bronze, bronze being the sit up type with no bed and just a cafeteria to purchase food and drinks. But the price was the best thing, a return trip from East of Melbourne to Perth and back, on 3 different trains, the Gippslander, Overlander and the Indian Pacific, cost me $585 Aus dollars for sit up class, or the social class if you like, as you met and travelled with so many different people. Loved it.

[@DRNKonTIDE]

Gary, you're a better man than I. It would be a very cold day in a very hot place if were to take my mother-in-law on such a journey!

[@fionaforward3358]

You must be a horrible son in law!

[@martinjenkins6467]

That's a good one, Don't let the wife See this.

[@rosewood1]

Pretty fair and objective review. We travelled across Gold Class and put the car on the train. Camped on the drive back. Thoroughly enjoyed it. All our meals were on the train which I prefer ( its a train trip!) and alcohol wasnt included in the ticket which we prefer as we just drink what we actually would like and the ticket prices were much more reasonable. Would love to do it again Gold class. The old heritage carriages are all part of the experience! And at the more reasonable price adjusted for inflation! Our food was excellent and staff fabulous. Lots of issues that didnt really matter to us. Train had to leave very late but they still squeezed in some tours. It was a wonderful experience. Would make one comment. The NSW permanent way is very rough. Not as bad as Vietnam but it isnt good. If your elderly and unsteady on your feet and need a walking stick I would recommend a carer to help you around.

[@Paradise-on-Earth]

Thank you very much! So interesting!

[@cruisingforone]

You also need to save up for the Ritz sailing. Thanks for the video

[@tipsfortravellers]

Yes... I am not sure I am going to be able to afford that one! I keep looking at it and options but so crazy costly! They do some 5 night trips that may make it a bit easier,....

[@rutroe88]

Your content is great, but y'all are doing fantastic doing other travel content as well.

[@flufwix]

Thanks for sharing your experience. That’s extremely pricey. Knowing what you shared, I won’t be taking that trip.

[@simonvancoevorden295]

They are having a lend price wise ! People criticize Amtrack but far better experience.

[@suzimooreakathegadgetlady907]

I travelled on the Indian pacific 35 years ago first class. Thank you for your video, it’s wonderful to see how much it has changed, so much more luxury now.

[@CaroleDowney]

Sally is such a trooper! Hope she can join you more often!

[@waynehauser3611]

Thank you for an enjoyable video on this train and its journey . It's a trip that i wish to take . Will have to save quite a few more pennies though lol ! Cheers .

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Nienpet]

Skoonma looks good for 80. My partner and I are doing the Perth to Sydney trip next month in platinum as well. Holding thumbs for a good trip.

[@chriskelly9476]

We did this as a family when I was a kid in the early 90's. As a child I was bored out of my mind (as was my brother) but our parents seened to enjoy it. We only went on the trip because dad worked for Westrail, so he and mum got free tickets, they only had to pay for us kids. Don't think we would gave gone otherwise. I think I might enjoy it more as an adult but certainly couldn't afford it.

[@Tarathathe77wookiee]

Wow! Train has changed a lot since we traveled in 1999. Back then, Gold class was first class. Very comfortable bunk beds with en suite. Bar car didn't have leather seats but restaurant was the same. Looking at your video, I can see the food has changed A LOT. There were no off train meals back then either.

[@PeaceTrainJump]

Loved the video. Happy birthday to Sally.

[@johnnybonilla1834]

Sally, wash your feet or put some socks on please. Oh please

[@FraserAtSea]

I absolutely love the world of luxury train travel. Haven’t made it onto one yet, but hoping to start with the Caledonian Sleeper (yes, MUCH more basic than what you’ve shown us here 😂) This experience looks SO interesting - thanks for sharing with us - great to see you not on a ship!

[@miakey8082]

Hi Fraser, fancy seeing you here. I follow your cruising vids!

[@FraserAtSea]

@@miakey8082 ahh, hello! 👋🏼

[@klausadrift7568]

We did the same Platinum Class trip from Sidney to Adelaide a few years back to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. Overall the trip was enjoyable and luxurious. Apart from the stop-over in Broken Hill the scenery became then monotonous and had not much to offer The selection of wine and food was great, although my taste buds were not tickled and regrettably I found the food only on par with the meals served on business class flights. The cabins were spacious and comfortable and I cannot praise enough the staff's courtesy and efficiency. But would we do it again? The answer is a definite "No". Far too expensive and IMO not value for money. But it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and we had no regrets.

[@Chris75572]

Thanks for the video dude. Nice work.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching

[@mikeedwards9306]

Did the trip in July 2022 and it was fantastic!

[@wildiris1000]

Stumbled over this review and found it fascinating. I have only been on IP from Perth to Sydney in 1973 - after 2 years in UK. Don’t think it was so expensive then as then boyfriend and I were flat broke. Remember enjoying it as was desperate to see ‘the outback’ after 2 years away. The cabins (we would have been in budget) were small but we read, talked & drank up the scenery so they were adequate. Hope you’ve done one on The Ghan as I’m contemplating it at moment.

[@grahamnancledra7036]

It's a handful of years back but I did the Indian Pacific from Perth to Sydney as a single in Gold Class. I had much the same experiences as you did but some differences. We stopped in Kalgoorlie on the way out for a coach tour of the deserted town at night and were then taken to an outdoor mining museum where a small show was put on which was interesting and then to the mine itself. It was at night, dark and although you could get to judge the depth of the mime there wasn't much to see, except the lights of some moving vehicles. Bed and the next stop was in the morning for a wonderful outdoor breakfast at Rawlinna. We stopped at Cook, population: Human -2 Flies, 2 billion. Not the most wonderful place. I also walked up to see the engine but we were stopped from going to see the front for some obscure reason. Our next stop was Adelaide and like you I went to the market. It was early morning and the place was being set up by the stall holders. A decent breakfast with the excellent tour guide, and I was able to buy a few things to take back onto the train including some Kangaroo Island Gin, which I used as a night cap in my room. We stopped at Broken Hill and I went to the Drag show bar where a couple of the queens put on a short show, and those who wanted it had their photos taken with the artists. My tour was the first to offer the stop in the Blue Mountains, Those who chose the tour would be bussed back to Sydney. I had already a flight to Cairns booked that evening and there was no guarantee that I'd get back to Sydney in time to connect to the flight if I did the Blue Mountain tour. In gold (single) I found the accommodation cramped and we had to share showers. The food was great, I enjoyed the other passengers both Aussie and International. Would I do it again? Yes but in the direction you did it and I'd upgrade to Platinum. I enjoyed your video, and will look out for more. PS I'd also like to do the Ghan some time.

[@ackbar01]

I’ve done this and the Ghan expedition in Gold Class. Expensive but superb. Amazing experience. Although nearly left behind in Cook which could have been interesting. Always travel with a multi plug! They do phone calls but normal comms such as email can be slow. Pleased you enjoyed it over all. Ghan expedition has more off train excursions so you’d be fine in gold. Some couples actually went with a gold single each rather than bunks and found that to work well. Larger shared shower at end or corridor vs the small showers in the double rooms. All clean and tidy, seldom a wait. Absolutely amazing with the excursions in the red centre.

[@happytraveller2122]

Thanks for this.. on it in December 2024. Can’t wait

[@KF-bj3ce]

A very nice comprehensive review.

[@davidrayner9832]

I'm a retired train driver of 40 years and get JBR trips at half price. Wife and I did the Ghan last year and although you can request a forward facing cabin, you can't choose which car it's in or where it is in a car. We got an end cabin which put us over the bogie on a very rough track and got no sleep for three nights. JBR has no say in track maintenance but just as there are good and bad seats in a bus, plane, cinema, etc. there are good and bad seats or cabins on a train. Someone has to have the end cabins but that you can't choose would put me off doing another JBR trip and that's at half price. If I had to pay full price I wouldn't have done it at all as there are far better ways to spend that amount of money. That said, the off-train activities were great, the meals were great, and the staff were great but to spend that amount of money to get no sleep for three nights was terrible and remember that I was a driver for 40 years. I'm well accustomed to sleeping in uncomfortable places.

[@mikevale3620]

As an Aussie and therefore more likely taking domestic Australian holidays, this is not a train you can book a few weeks out from your vacation. I found it booked out almost a year ahead. The Indian-Pacific or IP for short being only a weekly service and prohibitively expensive, my travels earlier this year were 'reduced' to a cruise from Adelaide to Fremantle, FIVE nights, window cabin sharing for $1200 and flying home, Perth to Melbourne in Business class with Virgin for $1400. A steal considering the views of the Great Australian Bight from the air and a generous meal with a wine assortment. I consider the IP to be a package tour train, block booked by tour companies and therefore more likely utilised by international visitors to Australia.

[@WantYaLovin]

I did The Great Southern owned by the same American company. Pluses: food great, unlimited drinks. Minuses: single cabins tiny, had to get through 6 carriages to reach the bar and dining carriages, high price.

[@thom7529]

Great video! Mark really looks like his mum!

[@janetbloffwitch9862]

My husband and I went on the ghan last year, Darwin to Adelaide, it was the most amazing experience, including Kathryn gorge, Alice Springs and Coober pedy