Friday, June 26, 2009

IT’S being touted as the “most cost-effective” way for a family to get to Hoedspruit at only R980 per person one way. The launch of Premier Classe’s Johannesburg to Hoedspruit rail service has lodges in the area excited at the prospect of the travel experience starting even before tourists get to their properties.

Initially only running once a week, with plans to increase the service to thrice weekly. Departing from Johannesburg Park Station, the Premier Classe service can cater for up to 76 passengers. Facilities include two dining cars seating up to 38 each, a lounge car offering the ultimate after-meal venue with complimentary tea and coffee, or beverages from a cash bar.
The cabins are spacious, with a selection accommodating from one to four guests. An internal telephone is available in the rooms should guests want to order refreshments.

For inbound international tourists who arrive at OR Tambo International in the afternoon, guests can head off immediately on their journey, saving a night’s accommodation in Johannesburg or Pretoria and getting their holiday experience under way immediately.

The train will be fitted with spa and wellness facilities run by Amani African Spas, which also operates spas at a variety of game lodges in the area, including Thornybush Game Lodge. Treatments range from full body massages, facials and body treatments to manicures and pedicures.

Other routes being run by Premier Classe include the Johannesburg-Cape Town, Johannesburg-Durban and Cape Town-Port Elizabeth.