Belmond Orient Express
The Venice Simplon Orient Express is an exacting recreation of a bygone era in rail travel. This recreation began in 1977 when American businessman James Sherwood purchased original 1920s Wagon Lits carriages, over the next 5 years these carriages were restored and in 1982 the first London to Venice trip was run. This was in fact the beginning of the Belmond brand, which today has expanded to luxury hotels and trains around the world. In 2020 the train was renovated to add Grand Suites which are more like luxury hotel rooms than train compartments. These grand suites include ensuite toilets and showers. The routes have also expanded since Brexit and there are mores journeys across Europe than ever before. There is also the annual heritage journey from Paris to Istanbul celebrating the original route of the carriages on the train.
One of my fondest travel memories was travelling on the Orient Express from London to Venice. The service and amenities are spectacular. You arrive at Victoria Station in London to be transported on vintage British Pullman carriages to Dover. During this journey you are served a wonderful 4 course lunch with a spectacular wine pairing. You are shuttled through the English channel in luxury coaches on the auto train where you join the main train once in France. The continental train is one of the most iconic and luxurious trains in the world. On board you are welcomed by your cabin porter and shown to you room where welcome champagne and snacks await, you never go hungry on this train.
Once on the move heading towards Paris it is soon time for dinner, an elegant affair in one of three dining cars, thoughtfully restored to their original splendor. Here you will enjoy an incredible multi course dinner with fine wines and cocktails should you choose. After dinner be sure to head to the bar car to revel in the evening over cocktails and conversation with fellow passengers while enjoying live music from the piano player. When you are ready to return to the comfort of your compartment you will find it has been converted into a bedroom with the beds made up for sleeping.
The next morning breakfast is served in the comfort of your compartment, a full continental spread with the beverages of your choice, a wonderful way to start the day. Enjoy the morning watching the scenery roll by before it is time to head back to the dining car for an elegant 3 course lunch. Enjoy the rest of the day speaking with other travelers or relax in the comfort of your compartment. Afternoon tea is served and all too soon the trains rolls into Santa Lucia station in the heart of Venice. From there you can be whisked away by private water taxi to the Cipriani Hotel to continue your adventure.
Lux Jet Set can create a memorable trip on the Orient Express for you, we can create the perfect pre and post train itinerary for you. Contact us today to explore Orient Express journeys.