Embodying the pioneering spirit of Madame Clicquot and the joie de vivre symbolised by the champagne’s yellow label, The Eastern & Oriental Express—A Belmond Train—in Southeast Asia and the world-renowned Champagne Maison, Veuve Clicquot, is inviting guests on a personalised Solaire Journey with them.
Speeding through Malaysia’s marvels and tour the 130-million-year-old Taman Negara National Park, this railway experience combines gastronomic quality with a splash of adventure and champagne.
There will be champagne tastings led by Didier Mariotti, Cellar Master of Veuve Clicquot. Guests will also have the opportunity to work with André Chiang, Culinary Curator of the train, to create unique dishes that complement the maison’s most esteemed vintages, such as the La Grande Dame series, and other rare vintages. Between April 22 and 25, 2024, Veuve Clicquot will host its Solaire Journey.
Leaving from Singapore’s Woodlands station, the 15 dark green carriages of the renowned train will make stops at places like Penang and Langkawi before returning to Singapore. Renovated cabins, upgraded on-board experiences and captivating itineraries that include art, architecture, cuisine, and culture keep the Eastern & Oriental Express in the forefront of Southeast Asian rail travel.
Chef André Chiang, the Newly-Appointed Culinary Curator
The esteemed Chef André Chiang is appointed as its new Culinary Curator. Chef Chiang, who has two Michelin stars and whose restaurant was named among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, will use his creative flair and extensive knowledge of Southeast Asian cuisine to create a menu that showcases the region’s varied landscapes.
Thai specialties such as Laksa Bouillabaisse, Black-bone Chicken Consommé, and Jungle Spices Cacao Ganache will be available at Chiang, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the area. The Cocktail Professor, a global creative hospitality consultancy, creates botanically inspired cocktails and vintage drinks at the Piano Bar Carriage and Observation Car. Guests can also enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, wines, champagne, spirits, local craft beers, and artisanal coffees from Malaysia.
The Amazing Route
An excursion into Taman Negara National Park is part of the new Wild Malaysia itinerary, which will debut in March 2024 on the Eastern and Oriental Express. Guests have the option of three activities there. These includes a wildlife photography class, an educational tour about the endangered Malayan Tigers, or an exploration of the ancient caves in the rainforest. The Malay Tiger is in danger of extinction due to human activities such as illegal poaching and the destruction of its natural habitat.
In May, an exclusive Tiger Express will embark on a unique journey in collaboration with Save Wild Tigers to bring attention to this issue. Ending with a two-night stay at The Datai on Langkawi, this one-of-a-kind adventure comprises the Wild Malaysia itinerary.
Experience a Memorable Onboard Journey
There are eight sleeper carriages, two restaurants, a Piano Bar, and an open-air observation car on the renovated Eastern & Oriental Express. The Pullman, State, and Presidential cabins are air-conditioned havens with cherry-wood paneling that mirror the varied landscapes traversed by the train.
The State cabins showcase Penang’s maritime setting with a blue and green colour scheme, the Pullman cabins take design cues from Kuala Lumpur’s skyline with red and blue highlights, and the Presidential Suites radiate richness with golden hues and embroidered details.
Guests can have a sensory voyage with lights, scents, songs, teas, and premium bedding as part of the new in-cabin experience, which stimulates all senses with customisable features. Nightly performances by resident musicians and special artists, such as the Shang Sisters, a duo renowned for fusing jazz with a Nanyang flair, augment daytime meetings with residents.
Explore the wild beauty of Malaysia on board the Eastern & Oriental Express — this time, with a touch of French flair. Visit the website here to book.