How to Book Train Travel From Victoria to Queensland

Queensland, also known as Australia's "Sunshine State" due to its tropical weather, is bounded by the Coral Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The miles of coastline beaches, pristine forests and waterfalls found in the mountainous Great Dividing Range make Queensland a popular tourist destination.

Things You'll Need

• Phone
• Computer with Internet access

Instructions

Book Your Train Travel From Victoria to Queensland

1. Call 011 ([phone] to reach the CountryLink reservations line. Keep in mind the huge time difference between the U.S. and Australia. You can also book tickets online at the CountryLink Web site (see Resources below).

2. Review the available trains from Victoria to Queensland online. The 622 and 624 services depart from Melbourne Southern Cross Station in Victoria and connect with the Brisbane Transit Centre in Queensland. Note, however, that a connection is required at Sydney Central Station. Also, the 624 sometimes stops at the Casino Station.

3. Select an available train from the list, along with your preference for class of accommodations for each connecting train. If you want to compare fares, click "Fare Search" before proceeding. If you want to continue with your reservation based on your selections, then click "Price My Trip." If you need to make changes, click "Start Over."

4. Continue to the next screen by clicking "Passenger Information." Here you will enter the names of all passengers in your party and any special needs, such as dietary requirements.

5. Enter your payment and contact information on the next screen. Make sure to include a working email address, since your ticket(s) will be sent to you electronically.

6. Book your reservations by verifying that all your travel details are correct and clicking "Buy Now." Expect train travel to be reasonably priced.

7. Check your email for a confirmation message. Print this document and bring it with you to the train station in Victoria. You will need it to board the train.

Find Your Way Around Queensland

1. Take the overhead pedestrian walkway from the Brisbane Station (also known as the Roma Street Station) to the Brisbane Transit Centre. Here you'll find a taxi stand and the entrance to George Street, which opens to the Central Business District. You'll also find a major hotel on-site.

2. Catch one of the CityTrains (sometimes still called Queensland Rail Services) from Roma Street outside the station to get around the city.

Tips & Warnings

• All phone numbers include the United States international prefix "011." When calling internationally from outside the United States, check which prefix to use. All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.

• Book tickets online to find package deals and Internet-only discounts.

• Economy fares are considerably cheaper than first class, but you won't be able to reserve a sleeping compartment and you'll pay extra for meals.

• Make sure to check the CountryLink Web site for any alerts about schedule changes or track construction that may cause delays in your travel.