Consider what most people think of when they think of train travel – the Orient Express. By far, this is one of the most famous and luxurious trains in the world, synonymous with opulence and mystery. Let’s head down the tracks and take a detailed look at its history and significance.
It All Began 142 Years Ago
Yes, the Orient Express has been around that long, launching in 1883 initially connecting Paris and Istanbul and traveling through such cities as Paris, Bucharest, and Budapest. The train began operation by Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, a Belgian company.
The train became a symbol of luxury travel in the early 20th century, attracting the likes of royalty, diplomats, and wealthy travelers. The carriages were lavishly decorated and guests were treated to gourmet dining and the exceptional service they were accustomed to.
Then as soon as author Agatha Christie released her 1934 novel, Murder on the Orient Express, the train became even more well known and popular, “making appearances” in films as well as television shows.
Oh the Luxury
Known for its elegant design, the Orient Express features Art Deco details expressed through plush fabrics and polished wood. Imagine having your own private compartment with an en suite bathroom.
In the dining car guests will find Chef Yannick Alléno, one of the most innovative and prestigious chefs on the international culinary scene. He is the Executive Chef of the legendary Orient Express Train as well as the world’s largest sailing yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian. On the train, he prepares gourmet meals with fresh local ingredients to be savored as amazing views of Europe’s countryside, mountains, and cities pass right outside your window. This is what makes the journey the very destination itself.
Fine Tuned for Today
Have no fear that your travel expectations must travel back in time, as you now have a smart phone and need a charging station and Internet access. Luxury travel company Venice Simplon Orient Express revived the train in the 1980s while keeping its original charm and added routes to include London to Venice. How bad could that trip be, by the way? Along with exclusive Journeys are themed journeys, special events, and even private charters.
In the Future
Plans are underway to further expand and innovate the Orient Express brand, with new trains and routes being considered, all the while ensuring that the legacy of luxury train travel continues.The Orient Express today still remains a symbol of timeless elegance, offering travelers a chance to step back in time and experience the grandeur of early 20th-century rail travel.
When You Take a Moment to Stop and Think
Consider this – train journeys are simply more relaxing not only for leisure travelers but for business travelers as well. With train stations usually located in central parts of cities, the benefits of trains versus other modes of transportation include:
- Less hassle than going through airport security checkpoints.
- Trains have a better track record for being on time and reliable.
- Trains are more eco-friendly than planes and automobiles, with a lower carbon footprint per passenger.
- Seating is spacious, you can comfortably walk around, and we love to keep mentioning amenities like a luxury dining car.
So with or without a murder mystery, which if you want that kind of excitement you can find in theaters and on stages around the globe, train travel is a mode of transportation that is well worth considering. On a train, the phrase “cool your jets” takes on a wonderfully literal enjoyable meaning.
So get the spiffiest looking piece of luggage you can find and start filling it with dressy clothes and accessories for your trip into the world of luxury, where overdressing is never a concern. You can save the satin pajamas for when you’re in your own train suite.
