What is excluded in the Blue Train price?

Beyond the Blue: Understanding What Your Blue Train Ticket Doesn’t Cover

The Blue Train. Just the name evokes images of unparalleled luxury, gliding across the South African landscape in opulent style. Indeed, the experience is designed to be all-encompassing, leaving you to simply relax and revel in the journey. And, for the most part, it is. The Blue Train offers an “all-inclusive” fare, but it’s crucial to understand what falls outside of that umbrella, ensuring your journey remains seamless and surprise-free.

So, while you can anticipate gourmet meals, delightful high teas, and a wide-ranging selection of drinks included in the price, there are certain luxurious extras that are not. Let’s delve into the specifics of what you’ll need to budget for in addition to your ticket.

The Fine Print: Exclusions in the All-Inclusive Fare

While the Blue Train aims to provide a truly indulgent experience, the “all-inclusive” nature of the fare does have its limitations. The primary exclusions to be aware of are:

• Premium Indulgences: Dreaming of toasting the scenery with a flute of French champagne? Or perhaps indulging in a spoonful of decadent caviar? These high-end delicacies are not included in the standard fare and will come at an additional cost. Consider them the “above and beyond” luxuries that can further elevate your experience, but they require a separate payment.

• Connecting to the Outside World (Beyond Wi-Fi): In today’s connected world, staying in touch is often a necessity. While Wi-Fi might be available in certain areas of the train (check availability beforehand), making external phone calls from the Blue Train is not included. You’ll be responsible for any charges associated with these calls, so planning your communication strategy ahead of time is recommended. Consider utilizing roaming plans or local SIM cards if necessary.

Important Considerations to Remember

Beyond the specific exclusions, there are a couple of key details to keep in mind:

• Price is Per Person, Per Journey: The quoted price for a Blue Train journey always reflects the cost per person for a single, one-way trip. If you are traveling as a couple or intend to return by train, remember to factor that into your overall budget.

• Subject to Change: Like any pricing structure, the fares for the Blue Train are subject to change. It’s always prudent to confirm the latest prices and any potential updates to inclusions and exclusions directly with the Blue Train reservations team or a reputable travel agency before booking.

Planning Your Perfect Blue Train Journey

Understanding these exclusions empowers you to plan your Blue Train journey more effectively. By knowing what’s covered and what isn’t, you can avoid any unexpected costs and tailor your experience to your exact preferences. Consider these exclusions as opportunities to personalize your trip further. Perhaps a single bottle of champagne to celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoying the digital detox that comes with limited connectivity.

Ultimately, the Blue Train offers an unforgettable travel experience. By understanding the nuances of the all-inclusive fare, you can ensure that your journey is not only luxurious but also perfectly tailored to your individual needs and expectations. So, prepare to be transported to a world of elegance and adventure, but do so with a clear understanding of what your ticket truly encompasses.