On and off the rails

The Orient-Express, one of the most famous trains in Europe, began operation in 1883. After a few years, the luxury train service became extremely popular among the rich and famous.

Although it survived two world wars, the Orient-Express faced her biggest challenge when air travel became popular. The luxury train service came to a halt in 1977. It was James Sherwood, an entrepreneur and rail enthusiast, who located, purchased and restored a total of 35 carriages from all across Europe to revive the Orient-Express in 1982.

The trip from London to Venice takes about 30 hours, while the journey from Paris to Istanbul takes about five days, including a one-day guided tour in Budapest of Hungary, half day guided tour in Bucharest of Romania, and two overnight stays in hotels.

For reservation information, go to www.orient-express.com

(China Daily 10/25/2007 page19)