Luxury train travel has always been a fascinating and captivating way to experience the world, evoking images of opulence, glamour, and adventure. One of the most iconic and legendary luxury train journeys is aboard the Orient Express, a name that conjures up visions of Agatha Christie mysteries, glamorous passengers, and thrilling adventures across Europe. While the Orient Express has a rich history and a storied past, it is also a brand that continues to evolve and expand, offering modern luxury experiences that blend the heritage of the past with the comforts of the present.
Accor, a leading hospitality company, is making waves in the world of luxury train travel with its La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a new addition to the Orient Express family that promises a unique and unforgettable journey through Italy. Set to open for reservations next month, with the first journeys scheduled for spring 2025, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is already generating excitement and anticipation among luxury travelers.
With 400 cabins already booked during a presale in December 2022, it is clear that there is a strong demand for this new luxury train experience. While some may be confused about which Orient Express is the “real” one, given that Belmond has been operating its Venice Simplon-Orient Express for years, Accor’s La Dolce Vita Orient Express offers a fresh and modern take on the classic train journey.
The accommodations on board the La Dolce Vita Orient Express are designed to provide a luxurious and elegant experience for passengers. With 12 deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and a La Dolce Vita suite, all equipped with en suite bathrooms, passengers can expect comfort, style, and sophistication during their journey. The train also features a restaurant, a lounge, and a bar, ensuring that passengers have plenty of options for dining and relaxation while on board.
In addition to modern luxury amenities, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express also pays homage to the golden age of travel, with a nod to 1960s and 1970s Italy. Passengers are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the era by immersing themselves in the culture, style, and sophistication of the time. From watching Federico Fellini films to packing vintage Emilio Pucci outfits, passengers can fully embrace the nostalgic charm of the journey.
Gilda Perez-Alvarado, the CEO of the Orient Express brand, describes the experience as a blend of sophistication and adventure, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the charm and splendor of Italy. The upcoming Italian train reservations are just the beginning of Accor’s ambitious plans for the Orient Express brand, with new hotels in Rome and Venice, as well as a luxury superyacht, set to launch in the coming years.
The routes offered by the La Dolce Vita Orient Express provide travelers with a range of options to explore the beauty and diversity of Italy. From coast-to-coast journeys to wine-inspired routes, passengers can choose from nine different itineraries that showcase the best of Italian culture, cuisine, and landscapes. Whether traveling from Rome to Venice, Palermo to Maratea, or exploring the sights of Sicily, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express offers a unique and immersive way to experience Italy.
Rates for the La Dolce Vita Orient Express start at 3,500 euros per person for a one-night itinerary in a deluxe cabin, with higher rates for suites. While luxury comes at a price, the experience promises to be worth every penny, with gourmet cuisine, fine wines, and unparalleled service throughout the journey. Travelers looking to book their trip can do so through the La Dolce Vita Orient Express website or by phone, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free reservation process.
As luxury train travel continues to evolve and expand, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express stands out as a shining example of modern luxury blended with timeless elegance. With its unique blend of history, culture, and sophistication, this new addition to the Orient Express family promises to offer a truly unforgettable and magical journey through Italy. Whether you’re a seasoned luxury traveler or a first-time adventurer, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is sure to enchant and delight, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever.