There is a well-deserved romance around train journeys, never failing to charm with their old-world elegance. Train journeys often take one to the uncharted expanses, where everyday roads might not lead to. Further enhancing their appeal, these journeys can be one of the most rewarding experiences, especially when travelling aboard a luxury train that comes in the form of extravagant opulence on wheels. From personal valets to magnificent suites, gourmet services, spas and gyms and even more, one can have it all onboard these trains.
Europe: Orient-Express
By far the most famous train in the world, the Orient Express, which was also the first luxury train, is nothing short of a legend on wheels. It has been featured as prominently as a star in over a dozen well-known films, most notably in the numerous adaptations of Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express.
The train which began in 1883 is now set to undergo an overhaul that will especially please those nostalgic about the good old days as it will wear the same look as it did in the 1920s.
According to the website of the company, from 2025, travellers can relive the legend aboard the 17 original cars, called Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express, that date back to over a century. The redesign, which blends nostalgia with contemporary luxury standards, has been executed by French architect Maxime d'Angeac.
These cabins feature ensuite bathroom and shower, small sitting area and fixed double or twin beds. Grand Suite guests also get free-flowing champagne in their cabins. Commencing the journey from Paris to Istanbul, it heads south through Lausanne, Simplon, Milan, Venice, Belgrade and Sofia before arriving in Istanbul. The European Grand Tours evoke nostalgia, reinstating legendary journeys of the golden age of travel and providing slow, meaningful travel experiences.
This story is from the November - December 2023 edition of India Outbound.
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This story is from the November - December 2023 edition of India Outbound.
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