There’s a unique magic in the rhythm of a train—a slow, mesmerizing motion that softly lulls you into a dreamlike state as you journey through vistas that feel more like fantasy than reality. Stepping onto the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express goes beyond merely reaching a place—it’s about the voyage itself. A voyage where time seems to stand still, and every moment invites you to immerse yourself into a realm of luxury, history, and limitless potential.
My journey commenced in Paris, with the iconic Gare de l’Est as the scene. The blue and gold coaches of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express shimmered like a vestige from another age, inviting us to board and take part in a tale centuries in the making. As the train began to depart the station, there was no hurry to arrive at Venice, Budapest, or Prague. The journey itself was the true destination, and we were all part of an exclusive ensemble in this unfolding narrative. The train meandered through France, crossed the Swiss Alps, passed through Verona, and ultimately arrived at the City of Water—Venice. Each stop served merely as a note in a much grander story; the train itself, with its indulgence and romance, took center stage.
The Golden Era of Travel Redefined
Stepping aboard feels like entering a time machine—one that whisks you straight into the opulence of the Roaring Twenties. Each carriage has been carefully restored to reflect the essence of Art Deco sophistication, featuring rich wood paneling, plush velvet seats, gleaming brass accents, and a soft, atmospheric glow that envelops everything in warmth.
My cabin was a snug retreat filled with antique charm. The walls shimmered with polished brass, while the windows showcased stunning vistas of the European landscape. Upon entering, I was immediately impressed by how carefully every detail was crafted, from the vintage luggage perched in the corner to the brass monogrammed fittings. It felt like residing in a whimsical suite from travel’s golden age, yet equipped with all modern comforts one could desire.
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The bathrooms, adorned with polished wood and crisp white towels, featured luxurious accents like Officine Universelle Buly toiletries and glass sinks—indulgent yet never extravagant. The classic decor, combined with the train’s gentle swaying, created a sensation of traveling not only through distance but also through time.
Harmonious Elegance and Subtle Charm
One of the most remarkable features of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express experience is the exceptional service. The staff, clad in blue and gold uniforms, embody a natural elegance without being overly formal. My personal steward, Lino, was engaging and attentive, making sure my every need was fulfilled while also sharing intriguing tales about the train’s rich history. His warm service made the lavish environment feel more personal, rather than overwhelming.
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Throughout the voyage, I observed how the crew operated in perfect unison—attending to guests quietly without ever disrupting the atmosphere. Whether it was presenting a freshly brewed coffee to my cabin in the morning or offering a nightcap in the bar car, they were always in sync. There was a sense of community among the passengers too, as many connected over our shared appreciation for this rare, timeless experience.
A Culinary Voyage Within a Voyage
The dining experience aboard this moving marvel is utterly phenomenal. Breakfast, served in my cabin with flaky croissants and steaming coffee, was a soothing indulgence to begin the day. For lunch and dinner, the three exquisite dining cars—Côte d’Azur, L’Étoile du Nord, and L’Oriental—provided distinct settings, but the standard of food remained outstanding across the board.
The menu, curated by distinguished chefs and prepared fresh onboard, shifts with the seasons and the regions the train traverses. A highlight of my journey was the exceptional lobster accompanied by avocado and horseradish, followed by a lavish dessert of raspberry macarons paired with Szechuan pepper ice cream that surprised and delighted at once.
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What elevates the culinary experience is how the train itself becomes part of the dining adventure. Each dish, created from locally sourced ingredients, narrates the tale of the regions we travel through—from France’s vineyards to Switzerland’s alpine meadows. As evening fell and we glided past the sparkling lights of towns, the dining cars morphed into refined salons, illuminated by flickering candles and polished silverware.
Of course, no meal is complete without a drink, and the Bar Car ‘3674’ featuring its velvet lounges and resident pianist, offered an ideal setting for a post-dinner digestif. Whether enjoying a classic martini or a Negroni, the expertly crafted cocktails complemented the ambiance, creating a romantic atmosphere as we moved within our miniature world contrasted against the vast outside world.
An Unparalleled Journey
What distinguishes this experience from others is the profound immersion felt in the moment. It’s not merely about the luxury—though it is abundant—it’s also about the timeless quality of it all. You’re whisked into a realm where worries dissipate, and where everything, from meals to conversations, feels woven into a grand narrative.
Settled in the bar with a glass of champagne, gazing at the unfolding European scenery outside, it felt as if we were suspended in a dream. The delicate sound of crystal clinking, the soothing melodies of the piano, and the soft glow of the interiors made it evident: this was far from a normal journey. I could nearly envision the carriages filled with the distinguished figures of a past era—royalty, film stars, spies, and authors—each harboring their own tale.
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Awakening the next morning, gently rocked by the train’s movement, I could not help but feel grateful for experiencing something so extraordinary. As the day commenced with a fresh cappuccino and a selection of delightful pastries delivered to my cabin, I smiled, realizing that the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express had transformed my dreams into reality, and it did so in the most sophisticated and unforgettable manner.
A celebration of the very art of travel. From the moment you step on board, you are immersed in a world where every detail has been meticulously crafted, where history and luxury meld seamlessly, and where time eases to allow for moments of pure indulgence. Whether your focus is the cuisine, the service, or the sheer splendor of the journey, one thing is unmistakable: it’s an experience unlike any other. And when the train finally arrives at its destination—be that Venice, Budapest, or beyond—you realize the journey itself had always been the true destination. Much like life itself, if I may add.
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