Private rail cars – An Extraordinary Rail Road Journey

Private rail cars, also known as private rail couches are vehicles with single powered couch. Rail cars are sometimes either joined with a train or pulled by a locomotive. These cars are private cars used for business purpose while some cars are originally built for private use. It provides complete privacy to its passengers and is a luxurious and memorable way to travel. Private rail cars are used by wealthy people and tourists for entertainment and travel for a specific distance. These cars are also used by paymasters to transport and pay wages to railway employees who live in remote areas.

The word ‘private’ might mislead people about this entertaining transport facility, i.e. one may think every wealthy person owns a private rail car. These cars are for all to travel a specific distance and time depending on the terms and conditions of the owner. Rail cars first started in the 1900’s challenging the Orient Express providing the decorum of the 50’s to the modern facilities required by today’s elite class. Since then individuals, families, corporate, film stars to politicians enjoy travelling in rail cars as it is a unique travel adventure.  

Private rail cars are available in following countries:

• Australia: There is an illustrated carriage known as Prince of Wales. It was built for royal visit of Prince Edward in 1919.  It was later developed but it still retains its original features. It carries 10 passengers.
• Brazil: These special cars offer a rail and air trip from Rio De Janerio.
• Russia: This rail car is a modern private car fully staffed with bedrooms, bathrooms, lounge, dining areas and kitchen.
• United States of America: The largest number of private rail cars is in the USA than any other country. These are categorised into five groups:

1. Business car couch: Consists of seats as well as tables
2. Lounge with easy chair and bar
3. Sleeper couch with beds and bunks only
4. Other categories: Event or a party car

Today, in the present industrial world, tourists on vacation are mostly attracted to these private rail cars as it provides them the opportunity to praise and enjoy the beauty and greenery of the countryside of the tourist areas. There are also underground rail cars that attract a lot of people. The experience of rail cars is a very unique transport facility one must experience at least once in life.