A short holiday was not planned but after talking to friends in Melbourne we decided to visit them as we had many holidays with them over many years and now they were having some health problems. After thinking about taking our caravan over there we decided on the train trip as it would be more relaxing especially for my husband who is the main driver.
We left Adelaide at about 7am on the Overland to Melbourne and were pleased that check in was very easy and well organised. Our seats were booked in the Red Premium carriage so we were very well catered for with a choice of breakfast around 9am.
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| Fruit compote |
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| Breakfast was delicious |
After breakfast we were served tea and/or coffee by friendly staff. We found the time passed quite quickly and the scenery at times was interesting as we have driven over to Melbourne a few times so we were able to recognise some of the towns and other landmarks. Some passengers were walking through to the cafe in the next carriage where drinks and other snacks etc were available. Before long we were offered morning tea at our seats and again we were happy with the choices, not that we were hungry after our breakfast.
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| A coffee in the cafe just because we wanted to check it out, and no charge for us. |
Back to our seats and did some reading as well as looking at the maps we were given. The train stopped a couple of times to either let passengers on or off but nobody else was allowed off the train as it was a very short stopover. There were single travellers who had single seats and couples had double. When food was served we were able to use a fold down table which was very solid but a bit hard to operate but the staff were always available to help anyone.
Lunch arrived and again was delicious but I didn't take photos. The time passed and most passengers had a nap, including us, so before we knew it there was afternoon tea! Cake and coffee was again very good and we were surprised that we were able to eat it after not having much exercise.
We arrived on the outskirts of Melbourne abot 6.30pm and were told by staff there was a slight delay because of traffic but we slowly arrived at the Southern Cross Station about half an hour late.
It was a good trip and we really enjoyed it and so much more relaxing than driving. We were assisted off the train with our small wheel cases which was another courtesy offered which was helpful.
We foundcthe Southern Cross station a bit confusing but finally found our way to our hotel which was about 15 min. walk.
Our 4 days in Melbourne went very fast with our friends and we headed back on the Overland early the follwing Friday.
A few photos out and about in Melbourne.
