The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The moment you set foot into your carriage, you know you embark on a journey like no other. Every nook and cranny of this train has been artfully and expertly restored to its original glory. Every finish and fabric is identical to what it would have been the day the car was introduced to the rails in the 1920s. Each car has its history and story to tell. Your cabin is comfortable but not roomy by any standards. But you don’t care, and neither do its original passengers. As you take in the beautiful woodwork and creative layout, your steward will stop by to make an introduction and pour a glass of celebratory champagne. The train pulls out of the station, and the outside world flies as you transport deeper into your Art Deco world.

Getting dressed in the small cabin presents some challenges, but you start to learn your way around the small space, and the effort is well worth it. This trip wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t fully commit and dress to the nines for dinner. Once you’ve donned your uniform for the evening, head to the bar car, where the trained pianist is tinkling out a tune on the baby grand, and an aperitif is waiting for your enjoyment. As you meet your fellow passengers, you realize everybody is here for a special occasion. Someone is celebrating a birthday or an anniversary; another has been saving for years for this experience. Everyone is elated to live in this moment, and there is a mutual camaraderie.

After a drink or two, you will be called to dinner. Typically, there will be two seats each night, so there is always a crowd in the bar car for the hour in between. Don’t fret; it will quickly sort out as people head to dinner or back to their cabins. The dinner is a top highlight during your journey. Take your time; savor every bite of the four-course chef’s menu. What the kitchen staff can accomplish in such a small kitchen is a marvel. The chef has been on the train for over 30 years and has many tricks up his sleeve! My favorite dish was the pomme de terre Anna; my husband was giddy over the cheese selection. And I can’t forget to mention the perfectly selected wine pairings!

While you enjoy your dinner, your steward transforms your cabin from a living room to a sleeping quarters. I got to sleep on the top bunk, and it felt like I was at the fanciest summer camp I had ever imagined!

Heading back to the bar car after dinner for a nightcap is tempting, so try not to stay too long. Remember that the best sights will pass your window in the early morning. On this trip, the early bird is rewarded with spectacular views of the Swiss Alps! The Venice Simplon has many routes to choose from. I got to experience the newest option: Brussels to Venice. Other routes will vary in time and scenery, but they all have something unique to offer!

The morning goes by leisurely while you enjoy a beautiful breakfast in bed and watch the scenery or catch up on some reading. As you cross the border from Switzerland to Italy, the train will have to stop to change engines, and you will have a chance to stretch your legs on the platform. After that, you will have another delicious meal and an excuse to catch up with your new friends in the bar car. When you approach the bridge to Venice, you mourn the end of the trip. But then, your heart skips a beat as you remember your final destination and realize the journey is only half over. You’re in Venice! As you arrive in the city in style, all heads turn to admire the beautiful train. You are coming in style, and you realize they had it right all those years ago: the train is the only civilized way to travel.

Contact us to learn more about the exclusive benefits we can add to your next journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.