As a backpacker it’s all about getting good value for money, and I’ve found the perfect way to travel Queensland’s coast in a safe, fast and comfortable way that also gives you the opportunity to take in the scenery along the way.
Traveltrain’s Tilt Train is a quick, cruisy and convenient way to access Queensland’s favourite backpacker destinations, including Fraser Island, Hervey Bay, the Whitsunday Islands and famous Great Barrier Reef.
Traveltrain operates three Tilt Trains; the Bundaberg service (a quick four hour trip) the Rockhampton service and the business class style, overnight service to Cairns.
On the Cairns Tilt Train you’ll see amazing scenery as you travel along the coast from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping at key tourist hotspots including the backpacker haven of Airlie Beach!
The facilities onboard are excellent. It’s clean, new and modern. There are huge toilets (and showers on the Cairns service), water fountains, and luggage racks located throughout to plonk your huge backpack if you choose not to check it in.
All seats face the direction of travel, are reclinable and have footrests with a fold down table. There’s onboard entertainment on all trains and business class seats have personal entertainment systems, power points, pillows and blankets – what more could you ask for?
Whilst chilling out in your big, comfy, seat your Traveltrain onboard crew frequently stroll through the carriage with light refreshments, confectionery and beverages – including alcohol, all served to your seat!
My favourite part of all is the Tilt Train’s Galley where you can stretch your legs and best of all make friends! Relax, grab a meat pie and cold beer and strike up a conversation with your fellow backpackers. It’s a great opportunity to meet people and share your travelling tales.
I just checked today (Jan 2010) and the Backpacker price starts at $68 one way Brisbane to Bundaberg and, as a bonus all backpackers would appreciate, Traveltrain regularly offers sensational discounts and specials throughout the year.
All in all, the Tilt Train proves to be the only way I’d head up and down the Queensland coast. You really can’t go wrong; as a backpacker it’s got everything and more than what you’d expect on a train service, providing the ultimate backpacker journey!
For more information or to book your terrific Tilt Train trip, go to www.traveltrain.com.au and click on Tilt Train in the destination snapshot map.
Amanda Silva
Round the world backpacker with train travel as preferred on-land mode of transport.
Note: Thanks to Amanda for sending in this contribution
