The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express not only promises to take you across Europe, but to transport you back in time to the glamourous 1920s. With polished wood, sumptuous upholstery and antique fixtures, the train epitomises the glamour and elegance of the Golden Age of travel.
Step aboard the historic and carefully restored carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to uncover a hidden jewel, glittering and timeless as your grand voyage begins.
This train journey has long captured the hearts and imaginations of guests so when I was invited to attend earlier this year and experience first-hand what many people don’t get the chance to do, I jumped at the opportunity.
I arrived into Venice airport, gathered my luggage and was then transferred by a luxury Mercedes to my very own private moored speed boat to one of the finest hotels in the World, Hotel Belmond Cipriani, famous for the Bellini cocktail. A wonderful 2-night stay was just a prelude of more amazing things to come. My room (suite) also boasted magnificent water views.
After my 2-night stay, a Venice Simplon-Orient-Express representative picked us up from the hotel and took us to the Santa Lucia train station by water taxi and this is where I boarded the Venice Simplon- Orient Express to London (Victoria Station).
As Venice faded into the distance, around noon, it was time for our first meal - which did not disappoint. The rest of the day was at leisure, so I retired back to my cabin to watch the world pass by.
The cabins are nicely appointed and comfortable for 1 or 2 people, just pack light as storage space is limited. Toiletries are supplied along with slippers and a robe. It is a 2 day (1-night journey) with no shower facilities, however there is a wash basin with hot and cold water to freshen up in the cabin.
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The journey is a feast for the senses and each meal dish is carefully inspired by what is in season and locally available, drawing on the culinary traditions of the countries the train travels through. Dressed for dinner, we walked the corridors to the bar car for a gin and tonic before heading to the dining car for a delicious four-course meal. Everyone on board was elegantly dressed, and many of our fellow passengers were celebrating milestone anniversaries or special occasions.
Upon arrival in Calais, we boarded a luxury coach for a 30-minute Eurotunnel shuttle service to London. You are then transferred to Folkestone to board The Belmond British Pullman carriages, with day car seating only, and a sumptuous high tea is then served on your journey to Victoria Station, London.
Can a 24-hour train journey be worth all that money? I thought I knew what to expect, but the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express exceeded all my expectations, with its superbly restored coaches, excellent and plentiful food, beautiful scenery and the world class and friendly service from the train's stewards and our personal steward, Oliver. This is one beautifully restored, and truly historic, classic train journey that you should not miss.
Let us at Holidays of Australia make this dream voyage a reality, contact us on 1300 854 897 or enquire at www.holidaysofaustralia.com.au.
By Cos Matteo
