The Eastern & Oriental Express Train Returns To Asia

28.11.2023 - 00:59 / forbes.com / Express

In the 1990s, The Eastern & Oriental Express, a modern version of the vintage luxury trains that once snaked through Southeast Asia, took to the rails. It recreated a decidedly romantic way to travel through the jungles, cities, and riverfront towns of Singapore and Malaysia, which its sister train, the Venice Simplon Orient Express, offered in Europe.

The train stopped running during the pandemic, but now, after a four-year pause, it will return to service in February 2024. The Eastern & Oriental Express is a Belmond Train, from the company behind such luxury trains as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the Andean Explorer in Peru, the Royal Scotsman in Scotland, and the British Pullman in the U.K. Belmond does luxury trains like no one else on the planet. Scenery aside, these journeys are about diving into the region's culture, gastronomy, architecture, and art.

Belmond will launch two new seasonal journeys, departing from Singapore's Woodlands station and traveling through Malaysia's intoxicating landscapes and cities. The Essence of Malaysia will run from November to February. Wild Malaysia will offer departures from March to October.

The Train

The reborn Eastern & Oriental will return with 15 restyled carriages, including eight sleeping cars, two restaurant cars, a Piano Bar Car, and the famous open-air Observation Car. Materials include handsome marquetry, Malaysian embroidery, and oriental silks. The design is all about grandeur, colors, and curated design details.

The cabins have cherry wood paneling and are offered in three luxury categories: Pullman, State, and Presidential. All of them have air-conditioning and private bathrooms. The Pullman cabins have red sofas, blue cushions, and drapery and pelmets that reflect the area’s dramatic skies. State cabins reflect the marine locale of the city of Penang with a bright blue and green color palette. The Presidential cabins are opulent, with touches of gold and embroidered décor elements. The Piano Bar Car features a green carpet depicting a Tiger Orchid. The Malay restaurant uses traditional Malay batik, while the Observation Car has wicker details, brightly colored cushions, and hand-painted pots.

The Essence of Malaysia

The Essence of Malaysia is a three-night journey from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and the island of Penang. On day two, guests can disembark in Alor Setar and join a private cruise to Langkawi. For the first time, the Eastern & Oriental Express will offer guests the chance to snorkel at the Pulau Payar Marine Park. The third day is dedicated to Penang, a multicultural island whose capital, George Town, has century-old UNESCO World Heritage sites, colorful street art, and a delcious food scene. Highlights