7 Experiences Onboard The Eastern And Oriental Express

Travelling by train may not be a common way to explore Southeast Asia, but step aboard the Belmond Eastern and Oriental Express and you’ll be convinced that there’s no better way to do it. Filled with refined old-world grandeur, colonial influences and indigenous charm, the luxurious Eastern and Oriental Express offers unforgettable journeys from Singapore to Bangkok, with plenty of experiences in between.

A taste of the good life in another time awaits. Read on and find out more about the Eastern and Oriental Express!

Travel between Singapore, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur

There are four journeys on the Eastern & Oriental Express to choose from:

• Singapore to Bangkok (3D2N)
• Bangkok to Singapore (4D3N)
• Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok (2D1N)
• Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur (3D2N)

Each package includes accommodation, dedicated 24-hour steward service, and guided excursions at various stops along the way. There are also daily three or four-course meals as well, including a continental breakfast served to you in your cabin!

Enjoy your own private hideaway

The Eastern & Oriental Express is certainly not your average train, so don’t expect a basic cabin with flimsy sleeper beds and cheap furnishings. There are four cabin categories onboard – the Pullman Single Cabin, the Pullman Cabin, the State Cabin, and the Presidential Cabin.

The main differences are the size and bedding arrangements. The Pullman Single is made for single travellers, while the Pullman Cabin comes with a bunk bed. The State and Presidential Cabins come with twin beds arranged side by side. Presidential Cabins also get a separate seating area. 

In the day, the cabin offers plush seating to relax on and by night, your cabin steward performs a turndown service which converts the sofas into beds. Whichever cabin you choose you’re in for a very comfortable and luxe experience.

Fine dining on the go

Dining on board is a gastronomic experience as internationally renowned chefs create dishes to rival the world’s best restaurants. Expect Asian and international specialities from pan-fried scallops to Nyonya curry. Lunch and dinner are served in two fine dining restaurant cars, while breakfast is delivered to your cabin.

If you’d like to up the ante, for a top up of US$98 each you can have a Royal Celebration Breakfast on the second morning of your journey. Champagne starts off this four-course feast. Take your pick from traditional favourites, locally-inspired options, seasonal fruits and more.

Drink to your heart’s content

In case you were wondering, the train offers a complimentary selection of drinks throughout the journey, as well as a list of premium wines, spirits and cocktails at extra cost. This means that you can enjoy free-flow wine, or close the day with a signature cocktail. The signature drinks onboard the train blend vintage glamour with modern mixology to create a drinking experience that is truly unique.

Visit the observation car

The open-air observation deck seems to be the most popular place to take Instagram photos in.  Located at the rear of the train, panelled walls and teak floors evoke a colonial “veranda” ambience. It is the perfect place to capture something for the ‘gram, sit back and relax over drinks. Or, step outside to catch the breeze and revel in the ever-changing views. 

Cultural and historical immersions

A trip aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express is more than just the train. It journeys through some of the most scenic and historical parts of Southeast Asia, and guests can take part in a number of off board excursions. Meet the locals of a traditional village, cycle through rice paddies, or take a cooking class on a raft cruise. Each day brings an opportunity to step off the train, both to stretch the legs and explore the local culture.

Continue on to other Belmond experiences

When your journey comes to an end at Bangkok or Singapore, you can choose to continue on to other luxurious Belmond experiences at Bali, Laos and Cambodia.

Just a two-hour flight away from Singapore, nestle into the serenity and privacy of Belmond Jimbaran Puri, a beachside retreat in Bali. Start the day with yoga and meditation with views of the ocean, and relax by the poolside underneath the sun.

An hour’s flight away from Bangkok are Laos and Cambodia. Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao in Luang Prabang sits atop the Laotian mountains in the UNESCO Heritage region, rewarding guests with spectacular mountain views.

Belmond La Résidence D’Angkor is a blissful oasis in the heart of Siem Reap, a stone’s throw away from Angkor Wat.

The Eastern & Oriental Express runs two seasons: January to April, and September to December. Find out more here.