Belmond
The pioneer of international travel, the Orient Express has evoked excitement and adventure amongst travellers since it first set off in 1883. And now, over 130 years later, the world’s most glamorous train continues to intrigue and inspire. Tales of the Orient Express have been penned and filmed into classics and its iconic statue has ensured its place on many a bucket list. Shrouded in mystery and nostalgia, a journey on The Venice Simplon-Orient Express will whisk you off into a world of timeless elegance, leaving the 21st Century well behind.
It’s the exquisitely restored vintage carriages that really set the scene; with inlaid wood marquetry, beautifully upholstered sofas, brass details and soft lighting all paying the utmost respect to a bygone era with dramatic flair. Travellers are well advised to dress the part, leaving jeans at home and opting for black tie at dinner and dressing smartly during the day. You simply can’t be overdressed aboard The Venice Simplon-Orient Express! Dinner is quite an affair with Michelin star standard restaurants, silverware and crystal glassware and breakfast is no less luxurious – truffles and caviar, anyone? In the evening, the bar carriage comes to life as travellers, dressed in their best, gather in the cocktail bar around the piano for nightcaps and socialising.
The Venice Simplon-Orient Express has taken this luxurious travel experience to a whole new level by introducing three new private ‘Grand Suites’ that are launching in March 2018. Very much reminiscent of the golden era of the 1920s, the suites have been created in true art deco design and have been named, and styled, after the romantic cities the train travels to, Paris, Venice and Istanbul; think hand-carved timber, embossed leather and hand-crafted Venetian glass! Elegant and opulent, the suites embrace the sophisticated heritage of the Orient Express while offering travellers the ultimate in comfort with private bathrooms with showers, double beds, a living area and a personal steward.
Since inception, the Orient Express has travelled far and wide taking various routes across Europe. In its current incarnation, The Venice Simplon-Orient Express journeys from London to Venice via Paris, Paris to Istanbul, and Istanbul to Venice. Belmond’s website details the journeys, dates of travel, and all information about getting on board this iconic adventure.
This article originally appeared on marie claire.
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