Scenic Splendor: The Ultimate In Global Luxury Train Travel

“The magic is in the details,” says model Gabriella Brooks as she reminisces about her journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, in Southeast Asia. This iconic train, with its 16 stunning Art Deco-inspired carriages, returned to the rails this year after a four-year hiatus, offering seasonal routes that wind from Singapore through the lush, palm-filled jungles of West Malaysia. For Brooks, whose Singaporean roots stem from her mother and grandmother, and who traveled with her younger sister, the three-day journey was a deeply personal and unforgettable experience—elevated by the train’s timeless elegance and opulent atmosphere.

“Our evenings were spent in the enchanting piano bar—my favorite part of the train—where we mingled with fellow guests and marveled at the magician’s card tricks,” Brooks recalls. “The bar’s velvet chairs, soft lighting, and soothing melodies created an air of old-world charm. Dining onboard, with fine china and crystal glasses, turned every meal into a special occasion. Later, we’d return to our cabin, lulled to sleep by the gentle sway of the train.”

The Timeless Allure of Luxury Train Travel

Even in a world driven by technological advancements like planes and electric cars, the romance of slow, luxurious train journeys continues to endure. Trains like the Eastern & Oriental Express and its celebrated sister, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), offer an unrivaled blend of nostalgia and indulgence.

“These trains pioneered a glamorous way for international travelers to cross borders in style and luxury,” says Gary Franklin, Vice President of Trains & Cruises at Belmond. “Each carriage carries a unique history, having hosted aristocrats, royalty, and even spies.”

Part of the charm lies in their leisurely pace, averaging just 90 km/h. “Rather than treating travel as a task to endure, it becomes an experience to savor,” says Brooks. “We spent hours soaking in the lush jungle scenery, engaging in meaningful conversations, and cherishing every moment together. That’s the essence of true luxury—the privilege of being fully present.”

What Is Slow Luxury?

In a world that glorifies speed and efficiency, “slow luxury” is a transformative concept. Born from movements like the 1980s slow food initiative—which celebrated savoring meals made from natural ingredients—slow luxury focuses on valuing time, craftsmanship, and immersive experiences.

Belmond has embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly. In the 1970s, its founder James Sherwood began restoring vintage train carriages, bringing them back to their former glory. Their latest addition, L’Observatoire, is a Parisian art studio on wheels, designed by the renowned artist JR. Combining a lounge, library, and hidden tearoom, it features Renaissance-inspired craftsmanship. Launching in March 2025, this masterpiece, priced at £80,000 (nearly 40 million AMD) per night, is described by Franklin as an “artwork in motion,” designed to spark curiosity and introspection.

Luxury Train Journeys Around the World

Belmond’s trains redefine travel with bespoke experiences across the globe. Here are some highlights:

• Southeast Asia: The Eastern & Oriental Express offers journeys through Malaysia, featuring vintage cabins, porter service, and glamorous evening dress codes.
• Europe: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express traverses scenic European landscapes, with routes like Paris to Portofino and a relaunched Eastern & Oriental line.
• Scotland: The Royal Scotsman glides through the Highlands, offering serene views of lochs and rolling green hills.
• Africa: Rovos Rail delivers train safaris through Africa, including multi-day routes from Pretoria to Victoria Falls or Tanzania to Angola.
• Japan: The Kyushu Seven Stars, Japan’s first luxury train, boasts Japanese-inspired interiors and a piano bar, with tickets available only by lottery due to high demand.
• Italy: The La Dolce Vita Orient Express by Accor features eight itineraries, from Rome to Sicily, with luxurious yet understated cabin designs.
• India: The Maharajas’ Express captures royal opulence with routes from Mumbai to Delhi, featuring fine dining and cultural stops like the Taj Mahal.
• Great Britain: The Belmond British Pullman, with a Wes Anderson-designed carriage, offers day trips with elegant afternoon teas and multi-course meals.

Tales from the Orient Express

The Orient Express is steeped in history, with stories as captivating as its luxurious interiors:

• In 1920, French President Paul Deschanel famously fell out of a sleeping car window, later found wandering the countryside in his pajamas.
• In 1931, American entertainer Joséphine Baker survived a bombing on the train in Hungary, later aiding the wounded.

The Timeless Magic of Slow Travel

Whether sipping cocktails in a piano bar, marveling at breathtaking landscapes, or sharing stories with fellow travelers, luxury train journeys transcend mere transportation. They are celebrations of craftsmanship, nostalgia, and the art of being present. In a fast-paced world, these timeless trains invite us to slow down, immerse ourselves in beauty, and savor life’s most elegant moments.