Backpacker and traveller, Charlie’s video from her experience aboard the Mumbai to Goa Vande Bharat went viral. She was pleasantly surprised by a clean and spacious train, when all the passengers were given a single rose on arrival, as per her video. Receiving this, she remarked that passengers “don’t get this on Thameslink”, a mainline route on the British railway network.
Surprisingly, her first shot of the video debunked the notorious image of washrooms on the Indian Railways. Her “obligatory loo check” left her impressed with the “clean western toilet”. Surprised by the legroom and aisle space, Charlie exclaimed, “How spacious!”
While getting a rose was an over-the-top experience, Charlie did not expect coffee in bone-china cups and a full meal, which included cereal, fruit, and other standard pre-packed breakfast items.
The spotlight of the video was “spinning chairs” which not all Vande Bharat trains have. However, Charlie explained the functionality and was able to rotate them with just one hand. Enjoying the view, she reached her destination in an eventful eight-hour journey from Mumbai to Goa.
Sharing this video on Instagram, she wrote that her first-class ticket in the train cost her Rs 3631. She shared that, “Breakfast, coffee, newspapers and a rose(?) was included with my ticket and it’s hands down the most space I’ve ever had on a train. The seats spin around so you can face the views of palm trees, or lock to face each other in a 4.”
Fellow travellers flocked to the comment section and praised the Vande Bharat Express from their experience. “Have always avoided the Vande Bharat because of the long hours seated, but kinda looking forward to try one now,” wrote a user under Charlie’s post.
“Finally, someone promoting a great advancement in train travel, how lovely to see this, the negative videos of smelly overpacked carriages!” was another comment in praise.
Indians were also refreshed to see a positive spin on travelling in India, thanking Charlie for her honest portrayal. Longing for the rustic charm, a user even called out the Vande Bharat for lack of character, given its minimalist and modern look. However, the travel vlogger’s praises seemed to give a positive spin on the image of Indian Railways.