With just the mention of the name Orient Express your mind conjures up images of opulence, romance, and refined adventure. Since 1863 the original luxury train began its travels throughout Europe, beginning with the Paris to Istanbul route. Passengers were pampered beyond belief and this quickly became the incomparable way to travel. A little mystery was added when the Agatha Christie novel, “Murder on the Orient Express” gained popularity.

Luxury Train Travel Is Back

What started in Europe has thankfully come to the United States in the form of the American Orient Express. As a result, since 1997 rail enthusiasts have been able to recapture the hey day of the American rail experience aboard these completely restored trains, consisting of 16 cars, including Pullman coaches, dining cars, a dome car and an observation car. Each proudly displays the signature blue and gold exterior color scheme and has its own name and history. For example, in 1948 the New York Observation Car was delivered to the New York Central Railroad and became part of the 20th Century Limited. It was dedicated by former President Dwight David Eisenhower and features wrap-around windows, a bar, thick carpet and plush seating in overstuffed sofas and chairs. As with the other cars, it cost over $1-million to painstakingly restore, and is trimmed in rich woods, inlaid marble and polished brass. Even though each car has been faithfully and accurately restored, air conditioning and the latest safety features are included.

A 5-Star Dining Experience

Everything aboard the American Orient Express is a luxurious experience, starting with fine dining. No plastic here. Whether it’s in one of the dining cars or the dome car, you’ll find each table set with a crisp linen tablecloth, fine china, crystal glasses, fresh cut flowers, and gleaming silverware. Needless to say your waiter will be on hand for whatever you need. Each train has its own accomplished chef who hails from top culinary programs and leading restaurants and all the meals are created in two onboard kitchens using only the freshest ingredients. Not only is each meal superb but is a work of art as well. And if you ever want seconds, all you have to do is ask.

Rest Easy

Your private room is in the grand Pullman style. Accommodations range from a Grand Suite to a Single Sleeper, featuring comfortable sofas and chairs, beds, toilet, ample closet space, and showers. And of course your own picture window. Incidentally, motion picture producers found the train so charming that the actual guest rooms were featured in the movies Some Like It Hot and North by Northwest.

Typical Itinerary

Each year the American Orient Express offers a number of U.S. destination packages, including the National Parks of the West, the Coastal Culinary Adventure, and the Antebellum South as examples. The train makes long stops at each destination on the way so passengers have virtually an entire day for excursions. And at night the train once again becomes a 5-star hotel on wheels. Most trips are 7 days and a typical itinerary (using the Antebellum South trip as an example) would include: An afternoon departure from New Orleans and after settling in, having a delicious dinner onboard, then strolling to the observation car to hear live piano music. Day 2 features an arrival in Natchez, Mississippi. A luxury bus takes passengers on a tour, including lunch in the historic city. Then it’s on to see what the South is famous for- its cotton plantations. On day 3 the train is headed to Savannah, Georgia. In preparation for arrival the next day an onboard expert holds several lectures to explain the history of the South. Day 4 has the train arriving in Savannah and passengers can disembark for a tour, including lunch in a private mansion. Charleston, South Carolina is the destination on day 5 and extensive tours are again provided, this time in horse drawn carriages. Day 6 features an arrival in Williamsburg where passengers have a chance to experience what life was like in 18th century Virginia. A special farewell cocktail reception and banquet are held onboard as the train heads to its final destination, Washington, D.C. One thing worth noticing about all of the destination trips offered is that nothing happens early in the morning as occurs on so many travel tours. Nothing is worse than getting up at the crack of dawn, having to pack and get ready and gulp down a continental breakfast before you board a bus to the next stop. On the American Orient Express you always have a chance to sleep in.

Alas, No Television

If you’re tired of crowded places then you’ll love this train since the maximum passenger limit is 100 persons. Remember, this is your escape from the fast-paced world so don’t look for a radio or TV. Unfortunately the train can’t accommodate everyone. The rail cars were built well before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) so it does not conform to these standards. For example the walkways are narrow, and there are no provisions for wheelchairs or walkers.

Expensive But Worth It

Now the bad news. All this luxury doesn’t come cheap, and Amtrak is certainly much less expensive. Per person rates start at about $1700 and go up to $6000, depending on the trip and type of accommodations desired. On the other hand, this is an exceptional travel experience and one that is sure to be treasured for a long time to come. Yes it’s true that Amtrak is much cheaper but you get what you pay for. The golden age of train travel in the U.S. is long gone but fortunately The American Orient Express gives us a golden opportunity to once again recapture our past.

External Links:

• American Orient Express - America's private luxury train.