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Sunday, 20 May 2012
 
 

    

Orient Express Trains

Tales of Laos

Code: OE-BSTOL

Tales of Laos

Discover the hidden beauty of Thailand and Laos as you travel through verdant jungles for three nights and four days, including Phimai, Khao Yai National Park, and the Friendship Bridge over the Mekong.

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Departure Dates
2012: January 22

Prices:                                Valid Jan – Dec 2012

Pullman Superior/Single      -
State Cabin                         US$ 3,780
Presidential Suite                US$ 5,009

Prices are per person based on sharing accommodation (except for single cabin) and include all table d'hôte meals and drinks on board with complimentary tea and coffee in your cabin, and all sightseeing and excursion as described in the itinerary.

Special Offer

To celebrate the launch of the Chronicles of South East Asia, all passengers who travel on our Tales of Laos journey receive a complimentary one night stay at the 5 star Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok before and after their journey, including breakfast and transfers to and from hotel/station.

This offer will be added to your itinerary automatically on reservation and is subject to hotel availability.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Bangkok

Your journey begins with an afternoon departure from Bangkok and a warm welcome by your steward. As you settle into the privacy of your well-appointed cabin, indulge in afternoon tea and pastries served by the attentive steward. View the changing vista and the sunset from the unique observation car as the train journeys into northerneastern Thailand. Later that evening, enjoy an aperitif accompanied by live piano music in the sumptuous bar car before you savour your first dinner onboard amid the elegant setting of the beautiful restaurant cars. Retire to your cabin which has been transformed into a cozy bedroom.

Day 2 – Phimai, Khao Yai

Breakfast is served in your cabin before the train arrives in Hin Dat where you disembark for an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Phimai, one of the most important Khmer ruins complex in Thailand. Return to the train for lunch as the journey continues to picturesque Khao Yai, where you will spend a delightful afternoon touring the vineyards and an opportunity to sample the wines. Rejoin the train in early evening to prepare for dinner and exchange stories of the day's experiences with fellow guests. Afterwards, spend an enjoyable evening in the bar car and be entertained by the pianist. Overnight on board.

Day 3 – Vientiane

After breakfast, the Eastern & Oriental Express will cross the Mekong River via the Friendship Bridge linking Thailand to Laos. Passengers will disembark for a full day's excursion of the capital city of Vientiane, including lunch at the historic Settha Palace Hotel. View the contrasts of gilded Buddhist temples alongside French colonial architecture in the timeless and relaxed atmosphere of the city. Reboard the train late afternoon and depart for the return journey to Thailand, relaxing in the observation car or saloon lounge. As night descends, enjoy cocktails and another delightful dinner. Overnight on board.

Day 4 – Bangkok

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast as the train proceeds to Bangkok, arriving mid-morning.


Timetable                                                           Arrive                                                      Depart
=======================================================================

Day 1 Bangkok (Hualampong Station)              -                                                              14:00

Day 2 Hin Dat                                                   08:30                                                       11:20

Tour To Khmer Ruins at Phimai Khao Yai        15:00                                                        18:20

Visit a Vineyard & Wine Tasting of "New Latitude Wines"

Day 3 Vientiane                                                09:30                                                       16:00

E&O crosses the Friendship Bridge into Laos. Full Day Tour Including Lunch

Day 4 Bangkok (Hualampong Station)              -                                                               - =======================================================================

Please note: All times shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed times will be supplied with your travel documents.



Singapore-Bangkok

Code: OE-SIBKK

Singapore-Bangkok

Journey on board the Eastern & Oriental Express from the elegance of Singapore to the excitement of Bangkok, Journey through the heart of South-East Asia on board the Eastern & Oriental Express, visiting colonial Georgetown, Fort Cornwallis and the infamous River Kwai.

Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

Departure Dates
2011:                        2012:
August 7                  January 19
September 8            February 9, 16, 23
October 20, 27         March 8, 15
November 17, 24     April 21
December 20, 27     May 2
                                 June 19
                                 July 17
                                 August 21
                                 October 3, 11, 26
                                 November 11, 23
                                 December 19

Prices                                                                                                              Single supplement:

                                          Valid Aug – Dec 2011     Valid Jan – Dec 2012     2011:              2012:

Pullman Superior/Single   US$ 2,192                       US$ 2,306                      US$ 1,096     US$1,153

State Cabin                       US$ 3,119                       US$ 3,364                      US$ 1,559     US$1,682
Presidential Suite              US$ 4,508                       US$ 4,867                      US$ 2,259     US$2,438

Prices are per person based on sharing accommodation and include: All table d'hôte meals on board, with complimentary tea and coffee in your cabin, and sightseeing tours as described.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Singapore

The Eastern & Oriental Express departs Singapore’s Woodland Railway station mid-day. Having been welcomed onboard the gleaming carriages, settle into your cabin. Enjoy the passing scenery as the train crosses to Malaysia via the causeway of the Straits of Johor. Lunch is served in one of the opulent dining cars. Dress for dinner and then spend a relaxing evening in the Bar Car in the company of our resident pianist. During the evening, the E&O pauses at Kuala Lumpur’s magnificent Moorish-style station where you may disembark for a stroll. Retire to your cabin which has been transformed into a cozy bedroom.

Day 2 - Penang

Breakfast is served in your cabin before arriving in Butterworth. Here coaches take you across to colonial Georgetown, capital of Penang, on the local ferry. Enjoy a guided introductory tour with pre-World War II mosques, elaborately-roofed temples, churches, bazaars and colourful shophouses. Reboard the waiting coaches for the short ferry ride back to Butterworth and the Eastern & Oriental Express for lunch. As the train crosses into Thailand spend the afternoon watching the changing scenery from the open deck of the Observation Car or relax in the comfort of the Saloon Car. Dinner is served in the sumptuous dining car.

Day 3 - River Kwai & Bangkok

After breakfast E&O arrives at the River Kwai Bridge station where the train stops to allow you to disembark. Guides escort you on the short walk down to the jetty to board a local craft for a cruise along the lush greenery of the picturesque Kwai Yai river, passing under the Bridge. On board, a local historian provides a brief overview of the history of the Thailand-Burma railway and the bridge. At the E&O landing point board a motor coach for a brief trip past the North Temple and Chinese Cemetery to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. As you explore the informative museum, the historian is available to answer questions. There is time to visit the Don Rak War Cemetery adjacent to the museum if you wish.

Rejoin the coach for the transfer to Kanchanaburi railway station from where your E&O journey continues with lunch. Arrive into Bangkok in the afternoon.


Timetable                                                           Arrive                                                      Depart =======================================================================

Day 1 Singapore                                                -                                                              12:15

Check in at The Regent Hotel between 09.00 - 10.00

Kuala Lumpur                                                     19:57                                                      21:27

Day 2 Butterworth (for Penang)                          08:34                                                     10:40

Guided tour of Georgetown

Day 3 Kanchanaburi                                           09:20                                                     11:25

Guided tour of River Kwai

Bangkok                                                              14:45                                                      -

======================================================================

Please note: All times shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed times will be supplied with your travel documents.


Legends of the Peninsula

Code: OE-BSLGP

Legends of the Peninsula

An exceptional journey where guests gain unique insights from local people, including visits to the Tham Kasae Viaduct, River Kwai, Trang (overnight), Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Departure Dates:
2012:
November 27

Prices:                                       Valid Jan – Dec 2012

Pullman Superior/Single            -

State Cabin                               US$ 8,694
Presidential Suite                      US$ 11,151

Prices are per person based on sharing accommodation (except for single cabin) and include all table d'hôte meals and drinks on board, complimentary tea and coffee in your cabin, as well as all sightseeing and excursions as described in the itinerary.

Special Offer

To celebrate the launch of the Chronicles of South East Asia, all passengers who travel on our six night journeys receive a complimentary one night stay at the 5 star Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok and the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore, including breakfast and transfers to and from hotel/station.

This offer will be added to your itinerary automatically on reservation and is subject to hotel availability.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Bangkok

The gleaming green carriages of the Eastern & Oriental Express await you at Bangkok's central station. As you arrive and step on board you are welcomed by stewards in their beautiful Thai uniforms, hands pressed together in a gracious “wai”.

A cool drink is served as you settle into your luxurious cabin. The whistle blows and the train sets off through the city and out into the glorious countryside beyond. Make your way to the Bar Car for a cocktail reception hosted by the Train Manager and the chance to meet the other guests. After a gastronomic dinner in one of the opulent dining cars, enjoy the on board entertainment: you might have your fortune told by the astrologer and listen to the resident pianist playing nostalgic melodies as the train rolls along.

Day 2 - Tham Kasae Viaduct & River Kwai

Why not take your early morning coffee in the open air Observation Car while the E&O crosses the famous trestles at the Tham Kasae viaduct - one of the most scenic stretches of the railway - to arrive at Wang Po. After breakfast, choose from a variety of tours such as a visit to the elephant camp or an excursion to the memorial at the Hell Fire Pass Museum, a moving testament to this region's turbulent history.

Return to the train and depart from Wang Po at noon. Lunch is served on board as you travel towards the River Kwai Bridge, where you disembark for a leisurely cruise along the scenic gorge of the River Kwai aboard a local barge. This afternoon you will also have the opportunity to visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum and Don Rak War Cemetery.

The train will depart from Kanchanaburi station in the late afternoon. Enjoy an aperitif and then move on to a memorable dinner based on the region's produce. You might choose to have a foot massage by the E&O reflexologist to relax after this action-packed day.

Day 3 - Trang and Anantara Si Kao Resort

After a relaxing morning enjoying scenic views of southern Thailand, a sumptuous brunch will be served on board. The E&O pulls in to Trang mid-afternoon. Situated beside the Andaman Sea, Trang boasts some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches and crystalline waters. Disembark for your transfer to the deluxe Anantara Si Kao Resort.

Setting off from the station, enjoy a brief tour en route to the resort. Relax and watch the sun setting over the Andaman Sea while sipping cocktails on the beach. Dinner will provide an opportunity to taste a selection of regional specialties, while enjoying local entertainment. You may wish to stroll beside the sea before retiring to your room in this delightful hotel.

Day 4 -  Trang

After a leisurely breakfast in the hotel, choose from a wide variety of excursions for your day in Trang. You may want to relax at the resort’s private Beach Club on the shores of Koh Kradan, a picturesque island just a 45 minutes boat ride away.

You can also choose a truly memorable activity such as dugong trekking on a boat trip to Libong Island. Other options that make the most of the tropical scenery and its flora and fauna include sea-kayaking, bird watching and bicycling, as well as taking a tour of Trang with a visit to the Raindrop Foundation to learn of its work to protect the fascinating mangrove swamps nearby.

If you prefer to stay within the resort, you may enjoy being pampered at the spa, discover a new world of taste sensations at a beach-side Thai cooking class or just enjoy the cooling breeze by the pool with your favourite book.

Check out of this luxurious resort in the late afternoon and return to the E&O for a casual dinner on board. This evening, we will see the train cross the border into Malaysia where the rice paddies are gradually replaced by jungle and rubber plantations.

Day 5 - Penang

After breakfast you are invited to disembark for a morning in bustling Penang. Several excursion options are available including a tour of colonial Georgetown with its rich blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures. Alternatively, you may choose to visit the Peranakan Heritage Museum or the Tropical Spice Garden Gallery which hosts a display on the origins of the spice trade, historical spice routes and how spices are processed and produced.

Lunch brings the opportunity for you to dine at one of several specially-selected restaurants which offer some of the best dining experiences available in Penang, and discover why the island is renowned for its distinctive cuisine.

After lunch, return to the E&O and continue your journey south. The route travels across exquisite Bukit Merah Lake before climbing into the lush highlands of Malaysia. Enjoy an aperitif while looking out at this dramatic scenery. Dinner will be served on board and there will be plenty of opportunity to chat with the other guests in the Bar Car.

Day 6 - Kuala Lumpur

Following breakfast, the E&O arrives at the impressive Mughal-style Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, built in 1885. Immerse yourself in the bustling capital of Malaysia through a choice of activities such as a city tour, a heritage walking tour or a visit to the National Museum. Full details of available options are provided on board.

For your final night aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, the train manager hosts a farewell cocktail reception followed by dinner. This is a good opportunity to exchange travelers’ tales (and addresses, perhaps) with fellow guests and then get together in the warm night air of the Observation Car for a last glimpse of Malaysia’s star-studded sky.

Day 7 - Singapore

The train leaves Malaysia to travel into the dazzling heart of Singapore. Arrive mid-morning and disembark as the onboard team wave goodbye and wish you a pleasant onward journey.


Timetable                                                           Arrive                                                      Depart =======================================================================

Day 1 Bangkok                                                   -                                                              16:00

Check-in at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel for transfer to Hualampong Station

Welcome cocktails reception                            08:00                                                       11:30

Day 2 Wang Po

Choice of optional tours

River Kwai

Local Barge Cruise on River Kwai                      14:30                                                       17:30

Thai-Burma Railway Museum, Don Rak War Cemetary

Day 3 Trang                                                        14:30                                                       -

Overnight at Anantara Si Kao Resort with a sunset dinner on the beach

Day 4 Trang                                                        -                                                               16:00

Day at Leisure with choice of activities

Depart Trang late afternoon

Day 5 Penang                                                    08:30                                                        14:00

Choice of local excursions

Bukit Merah Lake (photo stop)

Day 6 Kuala Lumpur                                          08:30                                                        17:00

Choice of full day excursions

Farewell cocktails & dinner

Day 7 Singapore                                                10:00                                                         -

=======================================================================

Please note: All times shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed times will be supplied with your travel documents.


Fables of the Hills

Code: OE-BSFOH

Fables of the Hills

An extended journey through the delights of Asia from Singapore to Bangkok, including visits to Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Tham Kasae Viaduct, and River Kwai.

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Departure Dates:
2011:                                 2012:
October 2                          March 25
                                          September 16

Prices:

                                                      Valid Aug - Dec 2011                        Valid Jan – Dec 2012

Pullman Superior/Single                -                                                        -

State Cabin                                   US$ 8,411                                         US$ 8,694
Presidential Suite                          US$ 10,868                                       US$ 11,151

Prices are per person based on sharing accommodation (except for single cabin) and include all table d'hôte meals and drinks on board, complimentary tea and coffee in your cabin, as well as all sightseeing and excursions as described in the itinerary.

Special Offer

To celebrate the launch of the Chronicles of South East Asia, all passengers who travel on our six night journeys receive a complimentary one night stay at the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore and the 5 star Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, including breakfast and transfers to and from hotel/station.

This offer will be added to your itinerary automatically on reservation and is subject to hotel availability.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Singapore

The gleaming green carriages of the Eastern & Oriental Express await you at Singapore’s Woodland Railway Station. As you arrive you are welcomed by stewards in exquisite Thai uniforms with their hands pressed together in a gracious “wai”—a promise of the journey to come.

A cool drink is served as you settle into your luxurious cabin. The whistle blows and the train sets off through the city, over the causeway into Malaysia and out into the countryside beyond. Make your way to the Bar Car for a cocktail reception hosted by the Train Manager and the chance to meet the other guests. Enjoy dinner in one of the opulent dining cars and listen to the resident pianist playing nostalgic melodies in the Bar Car.

Day 2 - Kuala Lumpur & Overnight at Cameron Highlands

After breakfast, the E&O arrives at the impressive Mughal-style Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, built in 1885. Immerse yourself in the bustling capital of Malaysia through a choice of activities such as a city tour, heritage walking tour or a visit to the National Museum. Full details of available options are provided on board.

Return to the E&O at noon and depart Kuala Lumpur. Lunch will be served on board as the E&O climbs past rubber plantations towards Malaysia’s verdant uplands. After arriving at Tapah Station, disembark the train for the coach transfer to the luxurious Cameron Highlands Resort.

Relax and enjoy the two hour scenic drive over the rolling hills and pass through dense jungle where you may spot settlements of the Orang Asli (indigenous people). Along the way, enjoy photo stops at tea plantations, strawberry farms and flower galleries.

Upon your arrival at the Cameron Highlands Resort, sip cocktails and savour dinner while enjoying the fabulous views from Malaysia’s most celebrated hill retreat.

Day 3 - Cameron Highlands

After a leisurely breakfast at the resort, choose from a wide variety of tours and activities available (full details will be provided). Spend the morning being pampered at the famed Spa Village or visit the Best of Highlands tea plantation for a guided walk through the fragrant tea gardens and a tour of the factory with the chance to sample a variety of aromatic brews. Other options include a trip to the Mardi Agro-technology Park to discover the array of fruits, vegetables and flowers grown in the Highlands and to sample an amazing ten different varieties of strawberries.

A lunch based on this wonderful produce will be served at the resort. You then travel to Ipoh to once again board the gleaming Eastern & Oriental Express. Relax with an aperitif in the Bar Car before enjoying a fabulous dinner as the train glides on through the night.

Day 4 - Kuala Kangsar & Penang

This morning brings a leisurely tour through the royal city of Kuala Kangsar, home to the Sultan of Perak. Cradled in a bend of the Perak River, this historic city is charming, serene and full of interest. Visit the Victorian-era Royal Museum (the former Royal Palaces) and the impressive Ubudiah Mosque.

Return to the train for lunch as you travel across exquisite Bukit Merah Lake before heading to the western coast of Malaysia. Upon your arrival at Butterworth Station you will be transferred to the island of Penang where several excursions are available. Options include a tour of colonial Georgetown with its rich blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures, or you may choose to visit the Peranakan Heritage Museum or the Tropical Spice Garden Gallery which showcases excellent displays on the origins of the spice trade and how spices are used today.

At sunset, gather at the E&O Hotel and sip cocktails on the seafront terrace before heading to your choice of specially-selected venues to experience some of the best dining in Penang, an island known for its exceptional regional cooking. A selection of local and international cuisines is available, including a Malaysian "hawker center" experience. After dinner, return to the train to continue your journey.

Day 5 - Monkey Training College at Surat Thani

During the early hours of the morning, the train crosses into Thailand at Padang Besar. Relax and enjoy scenic views of southern Thailand as the train passes paddy fields and golden temples. A sumptuous lunch will be served on board before the E&O arrives at Surat Thani.

This agricultural town is known for its many types of fruit and oysters. However, the highlight of this stop is a private tour of the Monkey Training College. Its skillful ‘students’ have traditionally been used in this region to help harvest coconuts. At this college they learn how to choose only ripe coconuts and to bring them down without damaging them.

Following the tour, return to the train to depart from Surat Thani. Dinner tonight is served on board as the train continues its journey through the Thai countryside towards Bangkok.

Day 6 - River Kwai & the Tham Kasae Viaduct

This morning the train arrives at the River Kwai Bridge where you disembark for a leisurely cruise along the dramatic gorge on a local river barge. You then have time to visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum and Don Rak War Cemetery.

After returning to the train in the late morning, lunch will be served as you depart from Kanchanaburi Station. The train crosses the historic bridge at the River Kwai Bridge and travels towards Wang Po, where you continue along the famous trestles at the Tham Kasae viaduct - one of the railway’s most scenic stretches.

After lunch, choose from a variety of tours including a visit to an elephant camp, where you will see the animals at work and even ride one. Or, join an excursion to the memorial at the Hell Fire Pass Museum, a moving tribute to this region’s turbulent history.

For your final night aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, join the Train Manager for a farewell cocktail reception followed by a glamorous dinner on board. You may wish to exchange addresses with fellow guests over a drink in the open air Observation Car, while admiring the star-studded sky overhead.

Day 7 – Bangkok

Arrive at 09:30am and disembark in Bangkok as the on board team waves you goodbye and wish you a pleasant onward journey.


Timetable                                                           Arrive                                                      Depart =======================================================================

Day 1 Singapore                                                -                                                              16:00

Check-In at Raffles Hotel for transfer to Woodlands Railway Station

Welcome cocktails reception

Day 2 Kuala Lumpur                                         08:30                                                       12:00

Choice of local excursions

Tapah Road                                                      14:30                                                         -

Transfer to Cameron Highlands Resort for entertainment and overnight stay

Day 3 Cameron Highlands Resort                     -                                                               -

choice of morning tours & activities

Transfer to Ipoh & reboard train                       -                                                               -

Day 4 Kuala Kangsar                                         -                                                               -

Penang                                                               -                                                               -

Choice of tours with sunset cocktails
at E&O Hotel                                                     14:00                                                       22:30

Dinner in Penang

Day 5 Surat Thani                                             14:00                                                       17:00

Visit to a Monkey Training College

Day 6 River Kwai                                               08:30                                                       -

Local barge cruise on River Kwai

Thai-Burma Railway Museum, Don Rak War Cemetery

Wang Po                                                            14:30                                                       17:30

Choice of optional tours

Farewell cocktails & dinner onboard

Day 7 Bangkok                                                  09:30                                                        -

=======================================================================

Please note: All times shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed times will be supplied with your travel documents.


Epic Thailand

Code: OE-BSEPI

Epic Thailand

An exclusive luxury train journey through Thailand, including visits to Isan Village Life, Prasat Sikhoraphum, Phanom Rung, Chiang Mai and Khao Yai National Park.

Duration : 7 Days / 6 Nights

Departure Dates
2011:                                     2012:
October 3                              February 26
                                              October 30

Prices:

                                              Valid Aug – Dec 2011              Valid Jan – Dec 2012
Pullman Superior/Single        -                                               -
State Cabin                           US$ 8,411                                US$ 8,694
Presidential Suite                  US$ 10,868                              US$ 11,151

Prices are per person based on sharing accommodation (except for single cabin) and include all table d'hôte meals and drinks on board, complimentary tea and coffee in your cabin, as well as all sightseeing and excursions as described in the itinerary.

Special Offer

To celebrate the launch of the Chronicles of South East Asia all passengers who travel on our Epic Thailand journey receive a complimentary one night stay at the 5 star Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok before and after their journey, including breakfast and transfers to and from hotel/station.

This offer will be added to your itinerary automatically on reservation and is subject to hotel availability.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Bangkok

The gleaming green carriages of the Eastern & Oriental Express await you at Bangkok's central station. As you arrive you will be welcomed by stewards in exquisite Thai uniforms with their hands pressed together in a gracious “wai”.

A cool drink is served as you settle into your luxurious cabin. The whistle blows and the train sets off through the city and out into the glorious countryside beyond. Make your way to the Bar Car for a "welcome" cocktail reception hosted by the Train Manager and the chance to meet the other guests. Enjoy dinner in one of the opulent dining cars. Afterwards, you have the opportunity to have your fortune told by the on board astrologer and listen to the resident pianist playing nostalgic melodies in the Bar Car.

Day 2 - Isan - Village Life & Prasat Sikhoraphum

Following breakfast, you will be escorted to a traditional Isan village where you will take a walking tour and meet the residents. Our expert guides will explain the Isan customs and how to show respect. Walking through the village, you will visit the local temple and school and see women weaving "matmee" cloth (silk or cotton) or bamboo mats on home looms. Explore and learn about the complex system of rice cultivation and enjoy a walk through the verdant rice paddies.

During your time in the village you will be invited to participate in the bai sii (sacred thread) ceremony performed by the village elders, where sacred threads are tied around the wrist to offer protection for a journey. This ritual also symbolizes a renewal of friendship. It is a very moving experience and one of the most memorable Thai rituals. Following the ceremony guests return to the E&O. Lunch is served on board as the train continues its journey through rural landscapes.

In the late afternoon the E&O arrives at the small town of Sikhoraphum.  Here you disembark for a visit to Prasat Sikhoraphum, a beautifully-restored 12th century Khmer temple. Situated off the beaten track, Prasat Sikhoraphum rarely receives international visitors. Lovely views can be enjoyed across the countryside surrounding this tranquil place—the perfect setting for a sunset cocktail reception.

After this exhilarating day, it is time to return to the train and relax in one’s cabin before moving to the dining car for a casual dinner.

Day 3 - Phanom Rung

This morning brings a visit to Phanom Rung, another majestic and highly revered 12th century Khmer temple, which has been nominated for World Heritage status.

After exploring this magnificent complex, with its intricate stone carvings of ancient legends, visit a nearby village famous for its silk weavers and observe them at their work. Return to the E&O late morning where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, watching the scenes of rural Thailand pass by as the train travels towards Chiang Mai. Lunch is served as the train traverses the vast, open plains. Enjoy on board entertainment and glimpse scenes of rural life through the windows. As afternoon turns into evening, a delightful dinner based on the produce of this region will be served in the restaurant cars.

Day 4 - Chiang Mai

Today you discover the northern province of Chiang Mai, the ancient Lanna Kingdom. This fascinating region pre-dates the Siamese settlements further south, such as Sukhothai and Bangkok, by several hundred years.

Here you have a choice of excursions. You may decide to visit to an elephant camp, where you see the animals at work and may even have the chance to ride them. Or take a tour of one of Chiang Mai's most revered Buddhist temples. Alternatively, spend a relaxing afternoon shopping at some of the city's best boutiques: Chiang Mai is renowned for its crafts, which range from the traditional to the cutting-edge. All excursions include a memorable Lanna-style lunch. Further information on the available excursions is provided on board. Return to the train in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner as the train glides along.

Day 5 - Lampang

After breakfast you arrive in Lampang, another northern Thai city rich in history and culture.

You will have the opportunity to explore the city in its trademark pony carriages. These delightful carts were originally imported from England for use by Thai nobility in Bangkok, but with the introduction of the automobile, they were in stead sent to the provinces. The leisurely carriage ride concludes at Ban Sao Nak (House of Many Pillars). The house, which is now a museum, was built in 1895 on 116 pillars by a local resident. In the front garden stands a huge 133-year-old Sarapee tree (Ochocarpus Siamensis).

Take a tour of the house and garden and enjoy morning tea on the lawn before returning to E&O. Lunch is served on board, as you travel through the breathtaking countryside. Enjoy the vistas from the open air Observation Car, order a sunset cocktail and move on to the restaurant car for dinner on board.

Day 6 - Khao Yai National Park

Today begins with an early morning visit to Khao Yai National Park, the oldest reserve in Thailand.

With an expert naturalist to guide you, explore the park and - with luck - observe wildlife such as elephants, deer, and gibbons, birds and lizards in their natural habitat. This excursion includes a comfortable hike along one of the park's leafy walking trails for a close up view of unique plants and flowers.

After enjoying the morning in the park, you will travel by coach to Gran Monte - one of the country's most celebrated vineyards. Gran Monte bottles its own wine under the direction of Thailand’s first female oenologist, Ms. Nikki Visootha Lohitnavy. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the vineyard's renowned restaurant and sample a selection of wines, followed by a walking tour among the vines.

Return to E&O in the late afternoon and mark the end of an unforgettable journey around Thailand’s lesser-known destinations by joining new-found friends at our “farewell” cocktail party.

Day 7 – Bangkok

Arrive at 09:30am and disembark in Bangkok as the on board team waves goodbye and wish you a pleasant onward journey.


Timetable                                                           Arrive                                                      Depart =======================================================================

Day 1 Bangkok                                                  -                                                              16:00

Check-In at Mandarin Oriental Hotel for transfer to Hualampong Station

Welcome cocktails reception

Day 2 Isan Village                                             07:30                                                      11:00

Guided walking tour of the village

Bai Sii Ceremony at local temple

Prasat Sikhoraphum                                         18:00                                                      19:30

Cocktails with Thai dance performance

Day 3 Buri Ram                                                08:30                                                      11:30

Tour of Phanom Rung & silk workshop

Afternoon at leisure onboard

Day 4 Chiang Mai                                             08:30                                                      17:30

Choice of tours with lunch

Day 5 Lampang                                                08:30                                                      10:30

Pony carriage ride & morning tea at Baan Sao Nok

Afternoon at leisure onboard

Day 6 Pak Chong                                              07:30                                                     15:00

Khao Yai National Park tour

Lunch at Gran Monte Vineyard with wine tasting

Farewell cocktail reception

Day 7 Bangkok                                                  09:00                                                     -

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Please note: All timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel documents.


Bangkok-Singapore

Code: OE-BKKSI

Bangkok-Singapore

Travel from Bangkok across the beautiful scenery of Thailand, past the legendary River Kwai and onwards to Malaysia. Enjoy the sights of colonial Georgetown and Fort Cornwallis, before crossing the causeway over the Straits of Johor to the elegant city of Singapore.

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Departure dates:
2011:                                         2012:
August 11                                  January 26
September 11                            February 12, 19
October 16, 23                           March 4, 11, 18
November 13, 20, 27                 April 1, 24
December 23                             May 16
                                                  June 25
                                                  July 23
                                                  August 27
                                                  September 23
                                                  October 6, 21
                                                  November 6, 18
                                                  December 23

Prices:                                                                                                            Single supplement:

                                           Valid Aug – Dec 2011    Valid Jan – Dec 2012     2011:              2012:

Pullman Superior/Single    US$2,192                      US$2,306                        US$1,096      US$1,153

State Cabin                        US$3,119                      US$3,364                        US$1,559      US$1,682
Presidential Suite               US$4,508                      US$4,867                        US$2,259      US$2,438

Prices are per person based on sharing accommodation (except for single cabin) and include all table d'hôte meals and drinks on board, complimentary tea and coffee in your cabin, as well as all sightseeing and excursions as described in the itinerary.

Itinerary:

Day 1 - Bangkok

The Eastern & Oriental Express departs from Bangkok in the early evening. After being welcomed on board the gleaming carriages, there will be time to settle into your comfortable cabin. Dinner is served as the train travels from the city into the countryside with its rice fields, villages and water buffaloes. Retire to your cabin, which has been transformed into a cozy bedroom by your steward.

Day 2 - Wang Po & River Kwai

Awake early in order not to miss the excitement of the train making its way from Wang Po along the wooden trestle viaduct beside a towering cliff.

On arrival at the River Kwai Bridge station, the E&O stops to allow you to disembark. Guides escort you on the short walk down to the jetty to board a local raft for a cruise along the lush greenery of the picturesque Kwai Yai river, passing under the Bridge. On board, a local historian provides a brief overview of the history of the Thailand-Burma railway and the bridge. At the E&O landing point you board a motor coach for a brief trip past the North Temple and Chinese Cemetery to the Thailand-Burma Railway Center. As you explore the informative museum, the historian is available to answer questions. There is time to visit the Don Rak War Cemetery adjacent to the museum if you wish.

Rejoin the coach for the short ride to the Kanchanaburi railway station to board the Eastern & Oriental Express. Later reflect on the day's sights over dinner and relax with a drink in the Bar Car before retiring for the night.

Day 3 - Penang

After brunch the train arrives in Butterworth. Here coaches take you across to colonial Georgetown, the capital of Penang, on the local ferry. Enjoy a guided introductory tour with pre-World War II mosques, elaborately-roofed temples, churches, bazaars and colourful shophouses.

Take the short ride back to Butterworth and rejoin the Eastern & Oriental Express. Spend the afternoon watching the passing scenery from one of the lounge cars or from the open deck of the Observation Car. Dine again in one of the opulent dining cars and then spend a relaxing evening in the Bar Car with its resident pianist. Spend your last night on board.

Day 4 - Singapore

After breakfast, the train arrives in Singapore after having crossed the Straits of Johor.


Timetable                                                           Arrive                                                      Depart =======================================================================

Day 1 Bangkok                                                  -                                                              17:50

Check-in at Hualampong Station from 16:30

Day 2 Wang Po                                                 05:10                                                      06:30

Transverse Trestle Viaduct

Kanchanaburi                                                    08:33                                                      11:00

Guided Tour of River Kwai

Day 3 Butterworth (for Penang)                        14:52                                                      17:20

Guided tour of Georgetown

Day 4 Kuala Lumpur                                         01:08                                                      02:08

Singapore                                                         11:05                                                       -

Woodlands Rail Station

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Please note: All times shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed times will be supplied with your travel documents.