Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train Returns to Southeast Asia after Long Hiatus
by Dori Saltzman
Photo: Belmond
The Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train located in Southeast Asia is returning to the rails in February 2024 after a nearly four year absence. As part of its return, the train will launch two new seasonal journeys departing from Singapore and traveling through Malaysia: the Essence of Malaysia (November to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to October).
Additionally, train returns to the rails with 15 restyled carriages including eight sleeping cars in three cabin categories (Pullman, State, and Presidential), two restaurant cars, a Piano Bar car, and the iconic open-air Observation car.
Essence of Malaysia
The three-night Essence of Malaysia passes through the country’s Western region, from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi and Penang, before finishing up in Singapore.
The journey starts with a full day onboard before disembarking for a private cruise to the island of Langkawi. Here, and for the first time, the Eastern & Oriental Express will offer guests the chance to go on a snorkeling excursion at the Pulau Payar Marine Park.
Day three is dedicated to discovering Penang. Guests can visit cultural highlights such as local art galleries and ancient temples in George Town’s Old Quarter, partake in an authentic Peranankan cooking class, or hop on a traditional tri-shaw to tour surroundings in the company of a local insider.
Wild Malaysia
Wild Malaysia, curated in collaboration with global tiger conservation organization Save Wild Tigers, is perfect for wildlife-loving clients. The three-night itinerary covers the untouched areas surrounding the “Jungle Railway,” towards the Eastern side of the peninsula and gives guests the opportunity to visit the Taman Negara National Park. The national park is home to hundreds of species such as tigers, leopards, and Sumathran rhinos.
On day three of the tour, guests will travel to the west side to visit Penang.
Prices for each of the two three-night itineraries start at $3,410 per person in a Pullman cabin.
