They call it the ‘Moving Majesty of Southeast Asia‘, and rightfully so. The Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train, isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s a portal to a bygone era, a slow, deliberate journey through the heart of luxury. Gone are the days of rushed vacations, the frantic dash from one landmark to the next. This is slow travel, where the journey itself is the destination, a languid dance across Malaysia and Singapore.
Imagine this: rice plantations stretching out as far as the eye can see, royal towns shimmering in the distance, and railways that seem to lead to the very edge of the horizon. You’re enveloped in the charm of a time when travel was an art, not a race. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, you sip a cool drink, the warmth of the afterglow kissing your skin. Every moment is a tableau, a living painting unfolding before your eyes.
What’s On Board?
World-Class Dining on the Tracks
Step into the train’s dining carriages, where culinary magic unfolds. Chef André Chiang, a master of his craft, weaves together the flavours of Malaysia into a symphony of taste. Forget ordinary dining; this is an entire feast for your senses. “Laksa Bouillabaisse”, for example, is a delicate dance of Peranakan spices. Or indulge in the “nine pepper jus” sixteen-hour-braised beef cheek, melting in your mouth. And for a sweet finale, the “Jungle Spices Cacao Ganache” will transport you to the heart of the rainforest.
And what’s a feast without the perfect accompaniment? “Cocktails on the rails” are a vibrant celebration of flavour, each drink a masterpiece designed to complement the rich tapestry of Malaysian cuisine.
Rails of Wellness
But of course, the Eastern & Oriental Express still has more to offer. Did you know the first Dior Spa in Southeast Asia resides on a train? Yes, you read that right. Step into a sanctuary adorned with the iconic Toile de Jouy motif, a haven of tranquility amidst the rhythmic clatter of the tracks. Enjoy luxurious treatments like the “Constellation,” the “D-Tissue Massage,” or the “Kobi-Dior Facial Treatment,” and emerge rejuvenated, your spirit as refreshed as the landscapes that glide past the train’s window.
Journeys of Discovery
The Eastern & Oriental Express caters to every traveller’s desire, offering a variety of journeys that soar through the heart of Southeast Asia. The “Malaysia Celebration,” a three-night sojourn, whisks you from the bustling streets of Singapore to the serene beauty of North Malaysia. From the cosmopolitan energy of Kuala Lumpur to the tropical paradise of Langkawi, and the cultural richness of Penang, each stop is a chapter in a captivating story. Imagine celebrating New Year’s Eve on this grand train, a festive celebration unlike any other with drinks and fireworks.
For those seeking a deeper immersion, the “Tiger Express,” a six-night odyssey, is a journey with a purpose. This unique itinerary, dedicated to the conservation of wild tigers, combines luxury with a meaningful cause. It begins with a night at the iconic Raffles Hotel in Singapore, followed by two nights aboard the express, and culminates in three nights of blissful relaxation at The Datai Langkawi.
This journey is more than just a train ride. It’s an exploration of Malaysia’s soul. Picture yourself on a guided tour through the lush depths of Taman Negara National Park, a private exploration of the historic Cheah Kongsi Temple, or an intimate visit to the Cheong Fatt Tze (The Blue Mansion). You’ll witness the “Eye on the Tiger” exhibition, a cultural gem from London’s Royal Albert Hall. A boat ride to Langkawi, followed by a stay at the award-winning Datai Langkawi, completes this unforgettable adventure.
For more information on the train and the journeys, click here.
