ABBEY: Our entry to Italy was by train. We onboarded TrenItalia from Bellinzona to Milano Centrale. Then ItaliaRail going to Firenze Santa Maria Novella until the final stop at Poggibonsi-San Gimignano.
We were shocked by the amount of people at Milano Centrale. Maybe because it is the last days before the New Year and everyone is eager to go home and be with their families. The ride is the usual; food is included in the ticket. The seats are comfortable and almost clean. There is no lounge for ItaliaRail as well as TrenItalia unlike with Italo when we went from Firenze S.M. to Roma Tibirtuna.
We were given drinks as well as pastries on the lounge and got good seats while waiting for our train. The locomotive didn’t disappoint. The first class has large space for our luggages, is almost quiet and organized. We enjoyed our coffee, warm pastry and munchies.
Italy's Luxury Trains - Review of ItaliaRail and Italo
WILL: In our 20 years of travel experience, comfort has always been a priority, balancing it with the cost to fit within our budget. Today, as we wrap up our Italy trip, let's dive into Italy's Luxury Class train travel.
EUR47.90 / pax — From Milan to Florence we booked through ItaliaRail Business Quiet. I do not want to rant but can’t let this pass:
Purchasing tickets through ItaliaRail led us to an unexpected twist – being assigned to a Trenitalia Train. Foolishly, I assumed there'd be lounges aplenty at major Italian stations. Milan's bustling crowds proved me wrong, highlighting the need for better lounge access planning.
Despite the "Quiet" label, the Business Coach was anything but tranquil. Chatter about food drowned out any hopes of a nap, and dusty windows obscured the scenery.
On the bright side, a steaming cup of coffee accompanied by hot bread was a pleasant surprise. Plus, the pristine water closets were a saving grace.
Eur75.90 / pax — From Florence to Roma Tiburtina we booked Italo Club Executive Class. It only tooked us less than an hour riding this Italy’s luxury train.
The Florence Italo Club Lounge offered a dedicated space with an attendant serving drinks and sandwiches, unlike other self-service lounges.
Snagging seats just before the driver's cabin gave us an air of exclusivity. Quiet and spacious, with foldable tables providing ample legroom, it was a journey worth savoring.
While reveling in comfort, we almost missed the underwhelming snack – more suited for a schoolyard than a luxury train.
In conclusion, ItaliaRail fell short of our expectations, while Italo exceeded them, making our journey to Rome a pleasant one. Cheers to comfortable travels! On to our next adventure :)
Traveling from Singapore to neighboring countries here in Asia is a breeze, thanks to our robust currency. We are just hailing Grab or taxi our way to our next place to visit. BUT Europe means experiencing a significant currency conversion, especially in countries like Switzerland, where the Swiss Franc's value is considerably higher than our Singapore Dollar. Public transportation will significantly impact our budget, thus Switzerland tourists require more strategic planning.
So, when planning a trip to Switzerland, one question looms large: Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?
To answer this question, read our Switzerland itinerary and compare the costs of individual tickets versus the convenience of the Swiss Travel Pass. Note: We opted for 1st Class tickets to enjoy a more exclusive experience and avoid overcrowding, particularly in the Jungfrau region.
Swiss Travel Pass - Worth It? Read our Itinerary with the usual Public Transportation Costs Here
Calculate your next Switzerland Trip:
By meticulously planning our itinerary and estimating the costs of individual train and bus tickets, we realized the huge savings offered by the Swiss Travel Pass. Using the official SBB app, we calculated the fares for each leg of our journey, making informed decisions about our transportation needs.
Here are the freebies/discounts because we have the Swiss Travel Pass:
1.Glacier Garden — FREE
2.Callier Maison — FREE
3. Zermatt Bergbahnen — 50% Discount
In conclusion, the Swiss Travel Pass is undeniably worth it for travelers exploring Switzerland. By pre-planning your itinerary and considering your transportation requirements, you can maximize the benefits of the pass and enjoy seamless travel across Switzerland's picturesque landscapes.
Bonus Savings Tip: We purchased our Swiss Travel Pass through Klook and saved CHF617 compared to the regular price of CHF665, enjoying an additional CHF48 off. For similar savings, consider purchasing your pass through Klook.
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Swiss Travel Pass
(W) https://www.sbb.ch/
Buy on Klook: https://www.klook.com/en-SG/invite/Y9UUR6?c=USD
CHECK THIS OUT!
Accommodation Excellence
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ABBEY: Switzerland is known for their trains and we didn’t pass the opportunity to board two of their famous trains; GoldenPass Express and Glacier Express.
Both of the trains showcase a great experience. We were amazed by the snowy winter landscape on the trains’ panoramic windows. Our food was booked and served at the Glacier Express and I can say that nothing fancy about that; it was so-so. However there is a difference in service.
GoldenPass Express took forever to take our order (we are almost at our destination) but for Glacier Express it was swift and we enjoyed our coffee along with the magnificent views. The Glacier Express also chimes to notify the passengers to put on their headphones and listen to information about their current location.
There are other trains that go almost or part of same route as these panoramic trains but we want to have the experience given by these luxury trains. The trip in itself is magical.
Glacier vs. GoldenPass Swiss Train Comparison
GoldenPass Swiss Panoramic Train Video
Glacier Express Swiss Panoramic Train Video
WILL: Did you know that Switzerland boasts not just one, but five premium panoramic trains, each claiming the title of the world’s most beautiful rail route? If you're planning a trip to this picturesque country, riding one of these trains is an absolute must-do. While time constraints and logistics may limit your choices, we've experienced two of these breathtaking journeys: the GoldenPass Express and the Glacier Express.
GoldenPass Express: December Reservation (CHF: 20.00/pax)
You might have caught glimpses of Switzerland's stunning landscapes in Roger Federer and Trevor Noah's Train Adventure video—that's the GoldenPass Route. What stands out for us? The sheer thrill of traversing cliffs while ascending mountains is unmatched. The engineering precision on display is awe-inspiring; you won't find a dull moment on this ride!
However, it's worth noting that the first-class train can feel a bit cramped, with limited space for luggage. Service can also be slow, which led Abbey to opt out of ordering food altogether. Considering the price per person, the level of comfort and service doesn't quite match expectations.
Glacier Express - December Reservation (CHF: 49.00/pax)
Known as the world's slowest express train, our journey from Zermatt to Chur aboard the Glacier Express was nothing short of spectacular. Picture-perfect scenes of snow-covered valleys unfold before your eyes (don't forget your sunglasses!). Witness locals embracing the winter wonderland with sledges and skis—it's a sight to behold.
With at least three stewards onboard, the service on the Glacier Express is exemplary. They attend to passengers' needs promptly and ensure a comfortable journey throughout. Each seat even comes equipped with earphones, allowing you to delve into the history and must-know facts about various points of interest along the route.
While the onboard food offerings may not be extravagant, the option to bring your own snacks, like chips and wine, adds a personal touch to the journey.
In conclusion, faced with the choice between the GoldenPass and Glacier Express, our vote goes to the Glacier Express without hesitation!
A quick reminder: The reservation fee is separate from the train fare, so be prepared to pay for both when booking your journey.
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At last we set our feet to the Land of the Rising Sun. It is not without its navigation challenges as you explore but fret not. The technology, through internet and apps, will help you towards an enjoyable vacation.
We had Google Maps and Japan Travel Apps installed in our phone and we also got the pocket wifi for the duration of our trip. The apps are helpful specially with the train timings. They even show the platform where you supposed to wait for your train.
Our Japan Rail Pass is with the Green Car but you still have to book a seat reservation.
We opted to book the either ends of the coach to place our luggages and still have extra legroom.
Always check if reservation is required in trains else you take the local train which takes more travel time.
We ask hotel staff for directions to confirm where we’re going.
Signs in Japan are written in their language along with English, and sometimes Korean and Chinese.
Favorite Food
Hard to say which one is my favorite but their pork bone broth ramen, omakase and rice balls stood out.
This is the first time I got a coffee in can which served hot. Perfect for cold weather.
Favorite Accommodation
Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku is the place I liked the most. It was an onsen alongside a river and mountains. Hot and cold in one place. Our accommodation includes breakfast and dinner as well as shuttle to and from the train station. Worry free and total relaxation.
Favorite Train Ride
All our train rides are unique but what I enjoyed the most are the ones in Shinkansen (bullet train). We booked for the Green Car and it was awesome; fast, spacious, clean, and quiet. And best thing is you can eat inside the train.
Best Experience
Overall the Japan stay is best experience. We got to know a little bit more about the country; their infrastructure, culture, and food.
Ultimate Japan Adventure Exploring Fukuoka, Kyoto, Gunma, and Tokyo - Laregst Onsen in Japan Itinerary
Ultimate Japan Adventure Exploring Fukuoka, Kyoto, Gunma, and Tokyo - Tallest Gundam in Japan Itinerary
WILL:
How to Enter Japan without Missing Connecting Flight
We had a connecting flight from Tokyo to Hakata and we missed our flight. Our flight ETA in Narita Japan is 2:35, and our more than 3 hours layover is not enough to transfer from Narita to Haneda. Why? There’s a long wait in the immigration that time and a heaby traffic everywhere. The 1 hour bus travel to became more than 2. Luckily ANA re-booked our ticket to yhe next flight without questions asked. Literally no questions. Haha. From there, I fell in love with ANA. So what is the lesson? Since Narita and Haneda is pretty far from each other you need to alot a 2 hours travel time by bus/train, 2 hours to clear immigration and 1hour for the automated check-in. More ore less 6 hours is pretty safe for a transfer.
Favorite Accommodation
Who beats to our Takaragawa Onsen Stay? We experienced the old and traditional side of Japan. But I know not everyone do not like ro stay in suburbs so my next suggestion is look for Montan Hostel. We stayed at montan Hakata. The staffs are lively and helpful, the room is huge, clean and most specially it is affordable! Indeed a value for your money! You won’t regret staying in this hostel. Wink-wink.
Favorite Food
Although we had a fun experience dining in Takaragawa’s dishes, omakase at Sushi Tokyo Ten and the most expensive coffee we had in LV Cafe what I really enjoyed is eating food from the groceries. Haha! It feels so local. The unforgettable rice balls, bentos, chips and LOVE chocolate. The best part is, it is veryyy cheap! I love the food and booze in Tokyo Bay Cruise Symphony. If they say booze it is indeed booze. Undilutedand unoverwhelmed with ice! A MUST when you visit the capital of Japan. Ohh, before I forgot, the Hojicha Tea of Starbucks Japan is a thing not to forget in your travel.
Favourite Train Ride
Do you know that our train ride total cost is JPY240,044 and we bought the Japan Rail Pass for only SGD791.30(Klook). We saved SGD1,476.27! We really do maximised our Japan Rain Pass. Haha! My favourite train ride is from Hakata to Osaka, Sakura 550. The views outside is majestic and you’ll wonder how Japan sticks to its culture and agriculture while being one of the advanced and developed countries in Asia. This idea truly baffling and amazed me at the same time.
Best Experience
Everything!!! We had a great time! We enjoyed the food, the tranquility, bullet train ride is unforgettable experience. One tip I will give to you! STAY AWAY on tourist flooded sites. If you can’t and want to experience what you’ve seen in your feeds, go there early as 6AM. Japan is the Rising Sun of the east so expect that 5AM the sun is already grazing its rays. Enjoy your Japan Planning. Hope this blog will help you in your itinerary!
