Eastern & Oriental Express
Book Journey
The Train
Cabins
Dining
Observation & Bar Cars
FAQs
Booking Terms
Eastern & Oriental Express - Travel in style to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Laos
Experience a panoramic view of the mystical landscapes of Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Laos. The majesty and splendour of the Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Express, with its comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, combined with the adventure of a journey through the heart of Asia, is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region.
About the Eastern & Oriental Express
Following the success of the famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the Eastern & Oriental Express made history as the first ever train to transport passengers directly from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.
Malaysia and Thailand built and maintained separate railway networks and passengers have always had to change trains from Malaysian railways to Thai railways at Butterworth (Penang). It was therefore an historic occasion when in Summer 1991 the haulage contracts were signed between E&O and the two operators. These agreements allow a single luxury train to travel the whole length of the 1,262 mile (2,030km) journey.
This luxury train was first built in Japan in 1972 and operated as the Silver Star train in New Zealand. Its carriages were then remodelled and designed by Gérard Gallet, the man behind much of the design and refurbishment of both the British Pullman and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
An enormous amount of work went on behind the scenes to put the E&O on the rails. The inspiration for the interiors is derived from the East. The carriage walls are decorated with veneers of wooden marquetry with Eastern designs, while the bar and restaurant cars are decorated in Chinese and Thai lacquer using Malaysian motifs with Thai wall carvings and engraved mirrors. The open-deck of the Observation Car also has an Oriental theme, and for much of the train local materials have been used.
On board the Eastern & Oriental Express, the atmosphere harks back to a 'Colonial' age of rattan chairs on the verandah, linen suits and tea dances.
The inaugural journey departed in September 1993 and the Eastern & Oriental Express quickly built for itself a highly regarded reputation as providing one of the most adventurous and exciting rail journeys in the world. In addition to the two night journey between Singapore and Bangkok, the E&O also travels overnight to Chiang Mai from Bangkok.
Life On Board
Friendly and courteous service is the hallmark of a journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express, from the moment you are welcomed aboard.
Time aboard the train is full of diversions. In the Dining Cars, waiters present gourmet Asian and European dishes and fine wines in gleaming crystal and silverware. The Bar Car with its resident pianist and variety of local entertainment provides a special opportunity to meet fellow travellers.
In the Saloon Car, the Boutique sells a range of exclusive Collection Eastern & Oriental Express merchandise, and there is also a reading room with a varied library. The most popular place on board however, is the open decked Observation Car, which provides an unbeatable opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The E&O accommodates 132 passengers in 66 air-conditioned cabins, all furnished with beautiful fabrics, fine linens and soft towels, and a friendly room service is available 24 hours a day.
Back to Luxury Travel In Asia
|
Send Enquiry
