The name Orient Express conjures visions of mysterious, exotic locations, sumptuous luxury and intrigue, adventure and elegance. It is a name that resides in our minds as though something magical, a deceit of literature or cinema, yet the Orient Express was very real and it’s contemporary counterpart maintains all the attraction of it’s historical ancestor. No longer simply a train line, the Orient express is a way to see five different continents on packages that include hotels, river cruises, and more. Looking for reasons as to why you should do it? Here are five that will have you shouting all aboard!
Why You Should Travel on The Orient Express: To Be Part of the History of the Orient-Express
The original Orient Express ran from 1883 to 2009 and the two cities most often associated with it were Paris and Istanbul. This historic voyage has been referenced in countless films and books and encapsulates the mystique of the Orient Express. This journey is still offered once a year, sweeping you through seven countries and cultures on a six day journey in glamorous style. Enjoy the vintage restored carriages, delicate cuisine of the on-board chef as you pass France to Germany to Austria and on to Hungary, taking in fairytale castles, breathtaking landscapes and fascinating cultures. Next you pass through Romania, Bulgaria and finally arrive in Istanbul to be greeted at the station by a welcoming ceremony with folk dancing, traditional food and Turkish tea.
Why You Should Travel on The Orient Express: London to Venice in Vintage 1920’s and 1930’s Train Cars
The Venice-Simplon Orient Express runs restored 1920’s and 1930’s carriages from London to Venice and is the signature voyage of the company, running since 1982. This package has you staying in two of the world’s finest hotels; The Ritz in London, and Hotel Cipriani in Venice. Beginning in the fashionable west end of London you depart for Venice from Victoria Station on the second day of this six day voyage. Relax in beautiful vintage train cars with modern comforts, enjoying fine cuisine and aperitifs as France drifts past your window. In the morning you will wake to the Swiss Alps and continental breakfast, perhaps get lost in a book before lunch is served and you soon pass idyllic Italian villages and arrive in Venice for a 3 night stay in one of the most romantic cities in the world. A private guide will accompany you for a half day and then you are left to explore the secrets of this infamously beautiful city.
Why You Should Travel on The Orient Express: An Insider’s View of Peru
Departing from the historic Orient Express routes, this six day package offers a unique vantage point of the fascinating country Peru, rarely witnessed by tourists. Beginning in culturally vibrant Lima you next fly to Cuzco to experience a rare tour with Jorge Escobar Medrano, Cuzco Cathedral Curator and Chair Professor of History at the local university. After you will explore mysterious Inca ruins, labyrinths of stone carved into the hilltops, set against panoramic views. As you move through the area you will experience local traditions in ceramics and textiles as well as shamanic and ceremonial. Next you are whisked to legendary Machu Picchu on board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to spend two days exploring, hiking or just relaxing in natural beauty and mysterious ancient culture. After Machu Picchu you will return to Cuzco by train and then to Lima to fly home or continue your adventure elsewhere.
Why You Should Travel on The Orient Express: The Best of Botswana
This four day safari will see you exploring the waterways of the Okavango Delta by helicopter and boat, exploring Moremi wildlife reserve and Chobe National Park. You will witness the remarkable biodiveristy of Africa, elephants, rhinos, hippos, lions, giraffes, and so much more.
Why You Should Travel on The Orient Express: Discover Bali
Spend six nights in Jimbaran and Ubud, Bali, Indonesia by turqouise waters, thrilling volcanoes and stunning emerald gorges. Staying in luxury resorts complete with spas, feasting on fresh seafood. Wander through temples and shrines, small towns and villages, enjoy catamaran cruises and snorkling, moonlit dinners and perfect sunrises. Spend a full day in a private Land Rover tour through the Ubud Hanging Gardens, dense hearts of bamboo and fern, sweeping views of Mount Batukaru. Relax in the natural hot springs after an exquisite Balinese lunch in the rainforest. Don’t forget to take advantage of the famous Balinese massages!