The golden age of train travel is behind us and the services have become functional and utilitarian. It is no more the preferred mode of travel and that has had an adverse impact on the economics of the business. But Orient Express, a name synonymous with luxury train travel has decided to reverse the trend. It is launching a series of day trips around the English countryside. The current generation of travelers is not even aware of the heady days of train travel in the 1920s and 1930s. The trains, in those days were immaculately done up and the travelers used to be immaculately turned out and were served like royals while traveling from London to the seaside.
25 Pullman Carriages Have Been Rescued and Restored
Orient Express provides their signature day trip from London’s Victoria Station through the Kent countryside. The 275 km trip is neither too short nor too long to enjoy the luxuries of train travel. Orient Express have their own private waiting lounge at the Victoria station and in case you arrive early to the station you can wait in comfort. The train has been recreated by rescuing and restoring 25 Pullman carriages from the scrapheap in the 1960s. The carriages have been restored to their former glory with art deco marquetry, brass and gloriously comfortable velvet armchairs. The trains are staffed by well trained staff who take very good care of the passengers on the train.
A Signature Day Trip Will Cost You $560
The stewards offer glasses of champagne almost immediately after the train leaves the station. Immaculately dressed with a gold buttoned white waistcoat, the stewards are very efficient and friendly. After the welcome drink the guests are treated to a magnificent five course lunch prepared in the train itself. There is yellow fin tuna followed by a hearty leek and asparagus soup. The main course consists of succulent organic pork wrapped in Parma ham. It is followed up by a selection of British cheeses and finally the guests are served a delicious elderflower and strawberry trifle. On a stop on the way the guests are greeted with lavish platters of the local oysters and champagne before making its way back to London. The trip costs £310 which is equivalent to $560 and people who have undertaken the trip vouch that it is worth every penny.
Via: smh, visitlondon
