The famed train began its first route in 1883 from Europe into Asia, and its name was forever secured in history by mystery writer Agatha Christie. But you can still ride on the Orient Express today. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operating under the LVMH-owned Belmond travel brand, is a historic luxury train company with journeys throughout Europe. While it is not being handled by its original operator, parts of the original trip will still be experienced. In the 1970s, James Sherwood, the founder of Belmond, purchased several carriages from the original Orient Express, CNBC reports. The American businessman continued to buy and restore the carriages, bringing them back to their former glory. Once he had acquired enough carriages to operate, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express was created and still works today. With so many other methods of travel available, it seems hard to believe that people would choose to travel by railway, yet the company has seen an increase in bookings.
Gary Franklin, the vice president of Belmond’s trains and cruises, told CNBC, “We are certainly seeing a revival of rail travel post-pandemic. With more and more travelers discovering… slow travel, we anticipate that this rise in demand and interest will continue.” The company offers trips that are one night to five nights total, expanding over several European cities. Passengers can choose to stay in one of the historic twin cabins or a grand suite with 24-hour butler service. They will also have the choice to have breakfast in bed or dine in one of the restored restaurant carriages to experience the history this trip has to offer. Drink and dance to the music of the resident pianist for an evening to never forget. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is made up of 11 sleeping cars, 3 restaurant cars, 1 bar car, and 2 staff cars, with all of the 17 carts coming from the original Orient Express.
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Buy a ticket for a timeless experience and a historical journey. Get ready to travel in ultimate luxury and see Europe in an entirely different way. The Orient Express offers it all - and in 2023, they will be adding Istanbul as a stop. Will you be stepping aboard?
