With the release of the recent film Murder On The Orient Express have you ever thought about travelling on this iconic service? Synonymous with intrigue and luxury it may just find its way onto your bucket list.
On June 5th, 1883 the Express d’Orient (it was actually renamed the Orient Express some 8 years later) train left Paris, France with a destination of Vienna, Austria, and with it a piece of history was created that still lives on today.
The routes and destinations may have changed several times, as have the trains involved, but the vision and ethos remains the same, and that is to travel between some of Europe’s most captivating cities in style, comfort and luxury.
Hercule Poirot solved his most famous case on it, Alfred Hitchcok’s lady vanished from it, and James Bond rode it from Istanbul to London. It has almost been bigger in fantasy than real life, but you can still travel on a concept of iconic service.
Established as a private venture in 1982 The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is the most storied set of carriages in the world. It promises to take you not just across Europe, but to transport you back in time. With its polished wood, sumptuous upholstery and antique fixtures, the train epitomises the glamour and elegance of the Golden Age of travel.
From London you can choose the destinations of Paris, Venice or Verona.
The elegant carefully restored 1920’s cabins have perfected the art of travel. Rich details including fine fabrics and glossy wood paneling whisk you back in time.
By day, twin cabins let you admire the passing scenery from plush banquette seating, and at night they are transformed into inviting bedrooms with soft lighting and crisp sheets. The ultimate in luxury, cabin suites offer extra space to unwind, and there are also single cabins should you want to opt for total seclusion and relaxation.
The first menu on board dated October 10, 1882 offered: oysters, soup with Italian pasta, turbot with green sauce, chicken ‘à la chasseur’, fillet of beef with ‘château’ potatoes, ‘chaud-froid’ of game animals, lettuce, chocolate pudding, and a buffet of desserts.
Today local, seasonal produce stars as they take fresh ingredients on board at stops along the route. Glance through the window and you may spot Executive Chef Christian Bodiguel and his skilled team inspecting lobsters from Brittany or salt marsh lamb from Mont St Michel.
And when you’re done you can sample some of the finest champagnes in the exclusive bar which offers art deco interiors and Lalique glassware that conjure up the romance and glamour of the Roaring Twenties.
For more information about The Venice Simplon-Orient Express, or to book a journey please head to the official website here.
