Sip Your Way Through: Popular Rail Drinks Around the World
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Switzerland, rail journeys are not just about the destination, but also the journey itself. And what better way to enhance your train travel experience than with a delightful drink? Here, we explore some of the most popular rail drinks that have become synonymous with their respective routes.
Café au Lait on the Eurostar
The Eurostar, connecting London with Paris and Brussels, is famous for its Café au Lait. This simple yet comforting beverage is a staple in French cafés and has become a beloved choice among Eurostar passengers. The rich, steaming cup of coffee with warm milk is the perfect pick-me-up as you watch the countryside whizz by.
Sake on the Shinkansen
Japan's iconic bullet train, the Shinkansen, is renowned for its punctuality and speed. But it's also known for its onboard sake service. A traditional Japanese rice wine, sake is often served in small ceramic cups called 'choko'. It's a unique way to experience a taste of Japan while hurtling through the country's stunning landscapes.
Did you know?
- The Shinkansen's maximum speed is over 320 km/h (200 mph).
- Sake is often served warm, especially in winter.
Glühwein on the Glacier Express
The Glacier Express in Switzerland, dubbed the "slowest express train in the world", offers a leisurely journey through the Swiss Alps. As you wind through snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys, a steaming cup of Glühwein, a traditional Swiss mulled wine, is the perfect accompaniment. It's a comforting, spicy-sweet drink that warms you from the inside out.
Tea on the Trans-Siberian Railway
The Trans-Siberian Railway, the longest railway line in the world, stretches across Russia, Mongolia, and China. Tea is the beverage of choice here, with passengers often seen clutching steaming cups of the fragrant brew. Whether it's black tea with lemon and sugar or green tea with milk, it's a simple pleasure that helps pass the time on this epic journey.
Champagne on the Belmond Hiram Bingham
Peru's Belmond Hiram Bingham, a luxury train that takes passengers to Machu Picchu, serves champagne as its signature drink. As you wind through the stunning Andean landscape, a glass of bubbly in hand, you'll feel like you're in a real-life Indiana Jones adventure. It's a touch of elegance that adds to the overall experience.
Comparing Popular Rail Drinks
| Train | Drink | Taste | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eurostar | Café au Lait | Rich, creamy coffee | French café culture |
| Shinkansen | Sake | Rice-based, often warm | Japanese tradition |
| Glacier Express | Glühwein | Spicy, sweet mulled wine | Swiss winter tradition |
| Trans-Siberian Railway | Tea | Varies, often black or green | Russian and Asian tea culture |
| Belmond Hiram Bingham | Champagne | Bubbly, elegant | Luxury and celebration |
Each of these rail drinks offers a unique taste of the culture and journey they represent. Whether you're enjoying a creamy café au lait in France or a warming Glühwein in Switzerland, these beverages are more than just drinks - they're experiences in themselves.
