To elevate the European travel experience the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will be premiering three ‘Grand Suites’ in March 2018. Creating new levels of luxury accommodation aboard the historic train, each suite features private bathrooms with showers, double beds and a living area, offering the ultimate in style and comfort. Named after the romantic cities to which the train travel, Paris, Venice and Istanbul; interior designs of each cabin reflect the spirit of each city whilst staying true to the original 1920s art-deco design.

The elegant new suites transport guests back to the golden era of travel, when travel by train pioneered the way for travelers to cross international borders. Authentic interior designs evoke the nostalgia and glamour of a bygone era which is complemented with spacious interiors and en-suite bathrooms. A classic one-night journey from London to Venice, in a Grand Suite is priced at $6,160 (£5,500) per person.

Gary Franklin, Managing Director of Trains & Cruises, says, “This is a one of a kind restoration project. We are going to completely transform the individual classic cabins into three exceptional suites. This is such an exciting project and one where we can offer guests spacious accommodation with private bathrooms and showers. The designs are sensitive to the original history of the carriages and each cabin is inspired by the city it represents.”

Regarding London-based Wimberly Interiors’ undertaking of this unique design project, Vice President and Studio Director Rachel Johnson says, “It was extremely important when developing the design concept, that we embraced the unique story and history of the brand. To capture the epitome of classic luxury travel that the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express exudes, we focused on moments within each city, inspiring visual cues and the overall Belmond guest experience. It was an exciting challenge to use this inspiration to recreate the essence of art deco glamour in an elegant and timeless design.”

The spirit of each city is brought to life with thoughtful design touches. The opulence and romance of Istanbul is celebrated with hand-carved timber and embossed leather, while the haute couture and gastronomic excellence of Paris is referenced with chic and elegant furnishings. The grandeur of Venice is interwoven with silk fabrics, hues of silver and grey, and hand-crafted Venetian glass that adorns the baroque-style furnishings.

Guests traveling in the Paris, Venice and Istanbul suites will enjoy private transfers to and from the train where they will be welcomed by their personal cabin steward available for all their on-board services, including free-flowing champagne and private in-suite dining. Extra touches include bespoke amenities and a complimentary art-deco bathrobe.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express travels between London, Paris and Venice from March to November. Once a year in August or September, it traverses from Paris to Istanbul on an extraordinary journey from west to east where Europe meets Asia.

For more details on Belmond visit www.belmond.com