In the world of luxury travel few names inspire as much awe and nostalgia as the Orient Express. Often considered the pinnacle of opulent train journeys, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operated by Belmond, today represents not just a mode of luxury train travel but also a full immersion into a bygone era of elegance, refinement and grandeur. Among all of the first class experiences to be had by land, sea and air, this unique adventure offers something truly unique: a step back in time into the heart of 1930s sophistication.
From the moment you board the train, you immediately appreciate that you’re stepping into a one of a kind world, where time slows down, elegance matters as you are transported back in time. The grand suites in particular, are things of beauty and the ultimate in hospitality. With its attention to detail, the train’s carriages are more akin to boutique resort rooms than train cabins. Lavishly decorated with Art Deco touches, exceptional fabrics and gleaming crystal fittings, every suite tells a story. They aren’t simply places to sleep but a unique part of history.
But what certainly elevates the Orient Express first class experience above other luxurious journey options is the provider. It is, in a word, flawless. Every member of the extremely well trained team on board has been schooled in etiquette that no longer exists outside of royal households. From the moment you’re first greeted, to each choice, every need on your journey is met with discretion and poise. You are transported back to a time when excellent service was much more than just plush seating. It was a time of precision, polish and people who cared deeply about the art of true hospitality.
As a person who considers themselves not easily impressed, I can say with absolute certainty that the Belmond Orient Express shattered even my expectations. It turned out to be a far cry from some other so-called five-star experiences, including my rather disappointing stay at the Ritz in Paris. The Orient Express was an experience like no other and one that will be hard to beat.
A journey through time: 1930s elegance reborn
There’s a unique magic to the dress code and evening rituals aboard the train. While modern life has become more and more informal, the Orient Express upholds an older, greater dignity. Formal wear isn’t just endorsed, it is celebrated. Gentlemen in tailored jackets, ladies in evening dresses, taking passengers back to the golden age of train travel.
Personally, I prefer traditional values, in particular those requiring a degree of etiquette, presentation and way of life. There is a special pleasure in having a fixed time for dinner, dressing correctly and dining in an environment where the waiter is familiar with the significance of cutlery placement or simply taking away a redundant wine glass. These subtleties are uncommon these days but aboard the Orient Express, they’re every day norms.
Stepping into the dining carriage is an event in itself. The polished silver, glowing glassware and crisp white linens set the tone for what’s to come: a thoroughly enjoyable culinary experience. Each dish is created with the best ingredients and paired impeccably from an expertly curated wine list. The meal is more than sustenance; it’s pure theatre and culturally enlightening.
The Grand Suites: Your private palace on rails
Those lucky enough to stay in the grand suites will appreciate their luxurious surroundings. Each suite boasts a private toilet with mosaic-tiled showers, a lounge area and personal steward service, attending to your every whim. And then there are the small yet important details, such as the antique luggage racks, velvet armchairs, embroidered linens, that all add to the beauty and authenticity of the journey. It is, let’s be honest, pure luxury in motion.
Unlike modern day luxury that frequently emphasises minimalism, the Orient Express goes to the other extreme, maximising the textures, colours and visual impact of the suites. The suites are an everyday living museum of romance, decadence and appeal.
Final thoughts
To enjoy the elegance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express isn’t simply to travel from one city to another, it is to take a journey through history in style with impeccable service. It pays homage to a time when travel was a privilege and comfort the norm for those who could afford it.
So, if you are looking for a unique and memorable experience where elegance meets romance and true hospitality, then a journey on the Orient Express is an education in history that will remain with you for many years to come.
Photo by Elimende Inagella on Unsplash
Be the first to comment