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

The Indian Pacific is one of the famous and costliest train journeys in the world travelling 2,700 miles (4,352 kilometres) between Sydney and Perth Australia. So, I had very high expectations, but before we even got on board, I started to have concerns as things were going wrong which would have been fine if it was just me and my partner travelling, but we had booked two cabins in the premium Platinum class carriages to take my mother-in-law on a special once-in-a-lifetime trip for her 80th birthday. Adding even more pressure for this to be perfect.
Join me as I share our experience on this famous train over the 3 nights and 4 days it takes, and if I thought it was worth it all by the end.
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ABOUT TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS: If you want to get cruising right, Tips For Travellers makes it easy to plan and have the incredible cruise experiences you dream of every time. All my Tips For Travellers advice, tips and tricks tips draw on everything that I have learnt on the 101 cruises I have done to date.
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[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@user-cc5mu7to8e]

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

[@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.

[@jeanallan8106]

Happy Birthday Sally 😊 Loved the trip recap!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@Tonimaree25]

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

[@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.❤

[@JaneNewAuthor]

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

[@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.

[@ballantynemoyes8019]

I travelled on the Indian Pacific back in the day when it was a regular scheduled service and not a luxury tourist rip-off. The fare was $600. My cabin was very comfortable, staff were superb and food was very good and included in the price and I certainly wouldn't want to have my dinner or lunch on a long trestle table in the middle of the desert. I wouldn't waste my money on today's Indian Pacific.

[@dpg-xyz]

Adelaide is totally underrated! Great place

[@martinjenkins6467]

Yeah I went there from Perth before Going on the Ghan to Darwin. Bit embarrassed because we always Put Adelaide down. But there was heaps to see and do. Couldn't get over How close everything is. In Perth you Have to travel for ages to get from one End to the other.

[@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

[@pumpkinpastie]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@redhatbear1135]

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]

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

[@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 !

[@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.

[@elsie2]

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.

[@phyllisvasquez5027]

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

[@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.

[@qldfirefighter1]

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

[@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.

[@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! 😊

[@godders7964]

A good and extensive video, thanks. Many Australians put this journey on their "bucket list" so the cost is not exorbitant for them. It's a long trip, but the scenery is fascinating. The crew and the food are exceptional and for drinkers that is an excellent wine list.

[@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.

[@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 😄

[@EG-nx3sl]

Thanks for the video Gary❤ The experience looks a bit too touristy and “curated” for me personally but I’m glad you all had a great time!

[@gregsierocinski8826]

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

[@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.

[@user-ek1fn9vw1l]

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

[@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.

[@peonycottageboutique4154]

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!

[@mmmmdeliciousbacon]

Wow that was an awesome video, thank you sharing ❤

[@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!

[@Chris75572]

Thanks for the video dude. Nice work.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching

[@PeaceTrainJump]

Loved the video. Happy birthday to Sally.

[@johnnybonilla1834]

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

[@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.

[@rutroe88]

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

[@StewartPaton]

Thanks Gary - good review. I wanted to do the trip this year, but alas booked out. I think I would need to book further in advance than my typical levels of personal planning supports. Oh well, maybe next year I'll get lucky. I did do the Overland last year, which isn't really comparable though. It seems everything is expensive in Australia these days

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@idl9ave419]

As a rail fan, and someone interested in Australia, I really enjoyed this video both as a review and as a daily diary of your trip. I know your cruise reviews are generally summations of the overall experience, but I do get vicarious pleasure from the "diary' approach. I'm really looking forward to a video about your upcoming voyage on the Queen Anne. It looks like a real departure from the styles Cunard has referenced since the Queen Mary2 was introduced, and I'll be interested to know if you think it is successful. (We are already booked for Summer, 2025).)

[@PeppersOnly912]

I couldn’t think of anything less appealing than wasting my hard earned to watch desert rattle by

[@peterbradley2735]

I totally agree. the whole trip seems like a waste of money to me. Just go to say 3 different really nice restaurants over a few days.

[@happytraveller2122]

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

[@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,....

[@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! 👋🏼

[@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.

[@heatherhall7898]

Hooray for train videos! Please consider others (e.g. Rovos)

[@giraffesinc.2193]

Thank you for pointing out the vegetarian options on the train! I do hope you, your partner, and your dear Mother had a lovely trip.

[@whome8444]

Loved this video!

[@gilliandrysdale5306]

looked quite the experience glad you enjoyed it after spending all that money!

[@joliettraveler]

Great video. Someday I will take this trip. The hazelnut chocolate tart looks to die for.

[@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.

[@patrinadrakes5873]

Love your videos. Your MIL looks fantastic for 80.

[@juliatarrel1674]

I want to do that trip. Also the Ghan. (Also: Australia surprises a lot of people with just how big we are.)

[@EmeraldHill-vo1cs]

And how expensive.

[@jeffreywagner5234]

Great video! Thanks.

[@markdurieu6579]

A tip you can use for cruises trips hotel stays We always take a power board and if overseas an adaptor as you found on the train only had one outlet. Handy for multiple devices

[@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.

[@JaneTaubman]

A lovely reminder of our trip last year. We travelled Gold and really enjoyed the scenery and the company. Having started with two nights in Sydney, after the train we had two nights in Perth, two in Melbourne and back to Sydney for an 11 night Celebrity Cruise to New Zealand in a balcony cabin. For two we paid £5500 each including our UK and domestic flights, so I must assume Premier is a huge price jump if you paid £2000 each just for the train.

[@scarlette1667]

Love the drag tour so fun

[@carolgilchrist6443]

We loved that trip from Perth to Sydney. We hope to be on Al Andalus in Southern Spain next year and are already booked on Golden Eagle Danube Express in Eastern Europe in 2026. Expedition cruising with Lindblad (our favorite), we get a nice mix of transport and experiences. Rail in Spain will be combined with land-based exploring in Morocco.

[@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

[@andyh5666]

Nice review. I also did platinum class on the Indian Pacific - but Perth to Sydney as a solo traveler. Regrettably our Rawlina stop was cancelled due to traffic scheduling (which we were advised about in the weeks prior). This was a real shame. Additionally, same as you but in reverse, we had to bus it from Lithgow to Sydney due to weather/flooding. Both of these combined took a bit of the shine off the journey infortunately although I'm aware these issues are outside of the control of Journey Beyond. Still a very memorable trip and on the back of that I'm doing the Ghan Adelaide to Darwin in June - but doing the substantially cheaper Gold Class single this time around.

[@briangasser973]

Gary, you have some travel budget between this trip and all of your cruises. Glad you can make it work for Mark and yourself.

[@thom7529]

Great video! Mark really looks like his mum!

[@Sydney2217]

Big Thanks for your review .

[@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.

[@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,

[@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.

[@elipotter369]

It's very scenic on the train going up through the Blue Mountains which you missed out on going by coach to Lithgow. I think the views from the train are probably better than the road. The kangaroo usually tastes better than the like best beef, so I wonder if it just wasn't a good recipe, cooking or piece of meat. It looks okay in the picture. The Barossa Valley in South Australia is very picturesque and peaceful, i loved it even though not a big wine drinker, we went to the famous brand wineries and looked around the lovely establishments. I also bought a small coffee table made of old wine barrels at a great wood crafts shop.

[@deidresmith2335]

We have done both the Ghan and the Indian Pacific...thoroughly enjoyed both...but preferred the Ghan...only went Gold class though and cabins are very squeezy....also on the Indian Pacific we went Perth to Sydney...would much prefer going the other way as tours are at a better time...thanx for the great video..

[@rodblievers620]

What an informative review thanks. We’ve been looking at this trip for a while. Btw, Rawling is pronounced as spelled - not row-leena.

[@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.

[@michaelmarmion648]

I did the Sydney to Adelaide leg and had the worst nights sleep ever, impossible to sleep on those outdated tracks. Food was nice, crew were good too but all together not worth paying that much money when sleep was impossible. Great review❤

[@Queenfan1961]

Thank you for sharing, I think that’s just a little bit too chopped up for my taste. I wouldn’t want to have to have the scheduled tours at six in the morning when I haven’t had my coffee yet! But thank you again for sharing. Very nice video.

[@anniemon]

You can get a coffee before your tour. We did the train trip Sept 2023.

[@diangara3298]

Really enjoyed this review.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@grandmasmagic3858]

a belated welcome to Australia Gary and Co..it would have been nice to include the prices in AUD because you do have an Aussie audience here...I've been umming and ahring about doing the Ghan leg..maybe within the next two years perhaps..

[@stuartferguson7947]

It sounds like you were on the West Bound trip immediately after our East Bound trip over Christmas 2023, we left the train for buses at Lithgow for Central. Whats very obvious is that the East Bound and West Bound itineraries are very different and you missed out on standing on Kalgoorlie Station at 1am on Christmas Morning waiting for “the tran” but that’s what memories are made of ~ seriously, people considering this trip should read the itineraries carefully, EastBound V Westbound appear to be two different experiences. PS ~ we have done The Ghan northbound too, personal opinion, I preferred The Ghan

[@bookwormfaith]

oh nice nice the tracks are almost fully repaired then - when I did this early last year, the tracks were washed out all the way to broken hill, so we actually bypassed it and went to Adelaide via Mmelbbourne

[@josephbennett4236]

Very interesting video, as my wife and I are always talking about doing the Indian Pacific (we used to live in Perth, and would watch it come and go occasionally, but now live in Tasmania). The price has always been a stumbling block, though ... even for Gold. But your concluding comments (saying it's worth it) are encouraging. Was the other Platinum Lounge / Dining carriage much busier than yours, since it had its full complement of 30 guests?

[@blatherskite9601]

Excellent video, Gary! Unusual to have a rail-borne cruise., with excursions and good feeding. But, at about 7 minutes, did you mean to spell "Queen of the Desert" with two "s" - as in pudding? AS for the wines, it would be terribly disappointing to not feature Aussie wines on the wine list - they are absolutely superb.

[@mikeedwards9306]

Did the trip in July 2022 and it was fantastic!

[@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.

[@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.

[@kathyoliva6966]

Thank you Gary!

[@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)

[@get2dachoppa249]

This trip has been on my list of possibilities since before Covid. I’m thinking of doing a partial trip from Perth to Melbourne as close as possible to Formula 1 weekend in Melbourne, and attend the race.

[@MR863]

Great review

[@user-cc5mu7to8e]

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.