Madurai: In a wave of positive global feedback, foreign tourists and travel vloggers are taking to the internet to praise the facilities, affordability, and unique services of Indian Railways. Their experiences, ranging from a surprise pizza delivery on a train to the comfort of private cabins, are challenging outdated perceptions and showcasing a modern side of Indian train travel.
These viral videos, highlighting efficiency and unexpected conveniences, are not just earning applause but are also poised to boost tourism by presenting India as a welcoming and comfortable destination for international travellers.
One of the most standout stories comes from British blogger Justin Murphy, who was on a 14-hour train journey. Deciding to order a pizza online, he was skeptical about the delivery. To his astonishment, as the train pulled into Madurai junction, a delivery person was waiting on the correct platform with his hot pizza, right on time. An amazed Murphy declared the service an “11 out of 10,” a moment that has since captured the imagination of viewers worldwide.
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The accolades extend beyond food delivery. A Scottish vlogger known as Hook was impressed by the seamless coordination of Indian Railways, noting how his ticket was checked promptly after departure. He compared his experience favorably to trains in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, emphasizing the “excellent service at a low cost” and the notable cleanliness of the AC coaches.
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For a couple from Greece, the surprise was the privacy and comfort of the First Class AC coach on their journey from Jaipur to Agra. They were delighted to find a clean, private two-bed cabin, which provided a quiet and relaxing environment with ample luggage space, making their journey exceptionally comfortable.
Meanwhile, the modern face of Indian railways, the Vande Bharat Express, received high praise from UK blogger Charlie. Travelling from Mumbai to Goa, he was thoroughly impressed by the train’s cleanliness, spacious seating, large glass windows, and the inclusion of amenities like breakfast, coffee, and newspapers. He described the 8-hour journey as an experience that “exceeded his expectations.”
Adding to the chorus of approval, Canadian blogger Roychel Reimer highlighted the courteous behaviour of railway staff and the availability of hot snacks like samosas on her early morning journey. She concluded that travel on Indian Railways is not only cost-effective but also deeply satisfying and safe, solidifying the message that India’s rail network is ready to welcome the world.
