But my optimism didn't last long, as I was informed there would be a limited
lounge car service due to staff levels, and it was advisable to eat and drink prior to my journey.
Avoid the entry-level model and equipment is decent, with our
Lounge car getting 15-inch alloy wheels, a wealth of chrome body trim, air conditioning, rear parking sensors, cruise control and digital radio as well as the touchscreen interface.
The downside is the buzzer goes off in the
lounge car, not just in the galley but the length of the carriage and as the train fills up before departure the insistent buzzing becomes incessant.
Breathe in the fresh air from the observation deck before gathering in the
lounge car for a drink in the evening.
Enhancements to the current service include a new booking system making it possible to book up to 12 months in advance, a series of new menus offering a taste of Scotland in the on-board
lounge car and the introduction of guest lounges for select stations.
The Cafe at the lower level of the Sightseer
Lounge Car was almost always empty, save for the lady manning it, feeding my need for solitude.
Sofas in the train's
lounge car were made of bentwood, employing a technique that involved bending wood while combined with steam.
You can get up and walk around, including to a
lounge car with wraparound glass and, for now, to the dining car for a meal with real food.
While the rest of the Wine Train's collection of 100 year old railcars are undergoing restoration, the Champagne Vista Dome, Grappa Power Car, a
Lounge Car and the rarely experienced Deli Car will be connected to form the exclusive Vista Dome Premier.
And while the 500 could never be described as fast, this one takes nearly 13 seconds to get from 0-62mph and doesn't even do 100mph, the entry-level 1.2-litre petrol engine in my mid-range
Lounge car proved quite perky on the move.
Loft
Lounge Car Park, 1.30pm, 3.30pm, 5pm Oyster Opera Visitors to Southside will be serenaded by opera singers as members of Oyster Opera break into song just about anywhere.