Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
The Eastern & Oriental Express operated by Belmond is a luxury train that takes passengers on one of the longest train rides in the world.
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
We love Singapore but sometimes it is nice to get away for a quick day out. Discover the best day trips from Singapore this season.
The Belmond Orient Express's new December routes will include longtime favourite itineraries, like from Venice to Paris, and recent additions, like between Paris and Florence.
I first spotted the Eastern & Oriental Express parked in my hometown of Johor Bahru, and I knew I had to travel on this train. The carriers painted in cream and green with gold detail fit in perfectly with its Southeast Asian surroundings. Built in the 1970’s, the wooden panel interiors
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
A legendary Belmond train returns in February with two amazing luxury journeys through Malaysia and Singapore
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
I first spotted the Eastern & Oriental Express parked in my hometown of Johor Bahru, and I knew I had to travel on this train. The carriers painted in cream and green with gold detail fit in perfectly with its Southeast Asian surroundings. Built in the 1970’s, the wooden panel interiors
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
We may have to wait until 2023, but it will be worth it: the legendary Orient Express is back on Italian railroads, with Dimorestudio behind the sumptuous new interior design
All aboard!
Belmond announced today that the Eastern & Oriental Express luxury train, which will run from Singapore to Malaysia, is restarting in February 2024.
I first spotted the Eastern & Oriental Express parked in my hometown of Johor Bahru, and I knew I had to travel on this train. The carriers painted in cream and green with gold detail fit in perfectly with its Southeast Asian surroundings. Built in the 1970’s, the wooden panel interiors
There were no low-cost airlines when poet T. S. Eliot observed that “The journey, not the arrival, matters”.
To truly take the scenic route, book passage on these trains that are as beautiful as the scenery they pass through.
Our weekly dose of interior design wanderlust
Fodor's provides expert travel content worth exploring so you can dream up your next trip. The world is a weird and wonderful place—we want to show you around.
The golden age of train travel is back, thanks to Kenneth Branagh's new hit film Murder on the Orient Express. So does the actual experience of a classic railway journey live up to the romance of the past?
I first spotted the Eastern & Oriental Express parked in my hometown of Johor Bahru, and I knew I had to travel on this train. The carriers painted in cream and green with gold detail fit in perfectly with its Southeast Asian surroundings. Built in the 1970’s, the wooden panel interiors
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
Eastern & Oriental Express launches 2 new seasonal journeys departing from Singapore and travelling through Malaysia’s cities.
The people, places, and things that inspire us to see the world, be it Alaska surf breaks with a glacier backdrop, the 16th-century stone temples in South India you’ll have (almost) all to yourself, or the teak-paneled overnight train through the jungles of Malaysia.
The luxury of the classic Orient Express can be experienced on the Bangkok to Singapore route.
The Luxury Train Club presents the Eastern & Oriental Express. "A quarter of a mile in length, the Eastern & Oriental Express luxury train recaptures the golden age of rail travel through one of the world's most beautiful and exotic regions. Gourmet cuisine, personal service and luxuriously appointed cabins come together in delightful harmony whilst the train gently travels through the sounds and sights of tropical forests close to the earth's equator. Accommodating 132 passengers in 66 air-conditioned cabins, the Eastern & Oriental Express is a truly unique way to explore South-East Asia and a remarkable celebration of any special occasion." Photo: Willy Tang
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
A new book 'Orient Express: the story of a legend' delves into the history of train travel and the enduring charm of the Orient Express, featuring some incredible heritage pictures of the train and its interiors
Eastern and Oriental Express
Eastern and Oriental Express Luxury Train Club; newsletter sign-up for discount, onboard credit, $500 gift voucher & more. Round trips Singapore - Malaysia
Last December, Dan and I had the privilege of taking a train ride of our dreams: the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Thailand. We wanted this experience to be over the festive period so it would be extra special. Day 1 | Before Boarding. We checked in at Raffles Hotel, and got our luggage sorted by the Eastern & Oriental cabin staff. They gave us our cabin numbers and escorted us to Long Bar for some refreshments before boarding the train. We were then transferred to the Woodlands checkpoint, but not before getting to try the Singapore Sling and some pastries. Once we cleared immigration, the Eastern & Oriental Express greeted us in all her glory. Dan and I walked to our car and found our way to the Pullman Twin Cabin. It was a cozy space for two with an en-suite. We had the perfect start to our journey with champagne and an afternoon tea to welcome us aboard. After settling into our cabin, we looked out of our window and got really excited when the train started to move. It was going to be a three-day journey from Singapore to Malaysia, and then Bangkok. We wandered through the narrow passageways to explore the rest of the train and found ourselves in the reading room. It was a quiet, colonial styled space filled with books of all categories. We then made our way to the observation car, and marvelled at the ever-changing views of the Southern Malaysia countryside. But our romantic moment was punctuated, albeit delightfully, by a call that dinner was being served soon. We then went back our cabin to change into our formal wear, unaware of the lavish meal that waited. We dined in Adisorn, one of the three dining cars in the Eastern & Oriental. The interior looked right out of a movie set, and no prizes for guessing which movie I’m referring to. Dinner was exceptional, and I can’t even put into words how delightful it was. It was a four-course meal with dishes of Eastern and Western flavours created by internationally renowned chefs. Still thinking about that frothy Tom Yam soup served in a teacup. After dinner was done, we headed back to our cabin which was now converted into a cosy space for sleeping. It was honestly one of the best sleeps we had. We felt like we were being cradled while the train gently rocked us from side to side till the morning. Day 2 | MALAYSIA Morning came and we had continental breakfast served in our cabin. The train pulled in Kuala Kangsar, where we alighted to board our coach to Labu Kabong for a guided hill-trek. We had local fruit and learnt about rubber trees and stingless bees from a naturalist that afternoon. We returned to the train for lunch, and had our leisure time as we continued our journey to Thailand. The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with other guests in the observation car and relaxing at the piano bar with some cocktails. Eastern & Oriental's signature drinks blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique. Needless to say, we had another exquisite dining experience that evening. DAY 3 | THAILAND We had our final breakfast served in our cabin as we arrived in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. We had one last day tour before we reached our final destination, Hua Lamphong Station. Dan and I chose the guided tour of River Kwai bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway museum. We travelled back in time to learn the history of the bridge before returning to the train for our last lunch. That meal also marked the end of our journey aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. It was a journey that left nothing but amazing memories. As we approached Hua Lamphong station, we bid our farwells to our ever-cheerful manager Pong, and took one last glance at the grand exteriors of the train. It was and has been undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and magical experiences Dan and I have shared. *Thank you Belmond for this timeless journey across Southeast Asia. Love, Amelyn
A train travel dream come true, taking the Venice Simplon Orient Express from London to Berlin is luxury travel on the rails between two cities I adore.
This is Part II of our Journey from Venice to London with Belmond. You can find Part I here and Part III here. A handful of truly miraculous experiences still exist in the world that…
