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Identity change -

The name "Orient Express" was not officially used until 1891. Before that, the train was called Express d'Orient or Train d'Orient.

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Inventor -

The train was developed by Belgian entrepreneur Georges Nagelmackers, who founded the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits. He found his 'calling' after a visit to the United States, where he discovered railroads with the world's first sleeping cars.

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Inaugural trip -

The maiden voyage of the Orient Express took place on October 4, 1883. It traveled from Paris, France, to Istanbul, Turkey.

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Facilities -

The train had its own security system with armed guards, safes, locks, alarms, and secret compartments, a four-person fire department trained to deal with fires, and its own medical services with a doctor, nurse, and pharmacy.

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Luxury travel -

The Orient Express was known for its luxurious accommodations and service, and was used by wealthy travelers, including celebrities and royals, such as actress and Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly.

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Famous passengers -

Other famous passengers included Agatha Christie, who wrote 'Murder on the Orient Express,' and spies such as Mata Hari.

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All in one -

The train also had its own barber shop, beauty salon, library, and chapel.

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Iconic route -

The original route took passengers through cities such as Vienna, Budapest, and Bucharest, showcasing the different cultures of Europe.

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Multiple routes -

Throughout its history, the Orient Express had several routes, connecting cities such as London, Venice, and Prague.

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Art Deco design -

The interior of the train was of an exquisite Art Deco design, with lavish furnishings, a fine dining area, and elegant cabins.

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International staff -

The Orient Express employed a multilingual staff who catered to different customers, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

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Culinary -

Passengers enjoyed gourmet cuisine on board, where renowned chefs prepared exquisite meals.

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Luxury suites -

The train had various levels of accommodations, including luxurious private suites for the wealthiest travelers.

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Interruption by wars -

Both World War I and World War II interrupted the intended use of the Orient Express. The train was used for military purposes during these times.

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Famous films -

The Orient Express has been featured in numerous films, including adaptations of Agatha Christie's novel, such as the 1974 version starring Albert Finney and the more recent 2017 version starring Kenneth Branagh and Johnny Depp.

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Restoration -

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a modern luxury train, is now modeled on the original and offers travelers a taste of historic luxury.

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The iconic blue-and-gold paint scheme -

The exterior of the train kept the distinctive blue-and-gold original logo, designed by famed painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, a friend of Georges Nagelmackers.

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Cultural statement -

Did you know that the Orient Express had its own magazine, called La Revue de l'Orient Express? The train was also known for its entertainment options, which included live music performances, casino games, magic shows, lectures, and even fashion shows.

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Artistic inspiration -

The Orient Express inspired various artists, including painters, writers, and musicians. It also was the stage for famous entertainers such as Josephine Baker, Maurice Chevalier, Django Reinhardt, and Édith Piaf.

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Speed records -

The train set speed records, traveling 739 miles (some 1,189 km) in 17 hours from Munich to Bucharest in 1936.

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Limited stops -

The original Orient Express had relatively few stops, to maintain its exclusivity.

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Political significance -

The train was sometimes used for diplomatic missions and played a role in international politics.

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Endangered -

The original Orient Express ceased operation in 2009, but was later revived.

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Fictional adventures -

The train appears not only in Agatha Christie's novels, but also in James Bond stories and the animated series 'Around the World in 80 Days.'

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Historic crossing -

The Orient Express crossed the Danube over the famous Mária Valéria Bridge, which connects Hungary and Slovakia. The bridge was subsequently destroyed several times during conflicts, and the railroad line was sadly never restored.

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Preservation efforts -

Some of the original carriages of the Orient Express are preserved in museums, allowing visitors to step back in time.

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Going back in time -

With the modern revival of the Express, travelers have the opportunity to experience the romance of the original journey.

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Cultural exchange -

The Orient Express was a hub for cultural exchange, with passengers often embarking for the simple reason of sharing stories and experiences.

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Save the date -

From 2025, travelers will be able to relive the legend of the Orient Express in 17 original carriages from the 1920s and '30s, formerly known as the Nostalgia Istanbul Orient Express. These carriages have been redesigned by architect Maxime d'Angeac in the style of the 1920s, combining old-time charm with modern luxury.

Sources: (Orient Express)

See also: The most expensive travel experiences in the world

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