In its first major refurbishment since operations began in 1995, the lower deck’s 24 superior and 4 single cabins along with public corridors and reception area have all been refreshed, as well as extensive refurbishment of the main restaurant. A new health suite with exercise machines, floor workout area and changing facilities has also been created next to the La Source Beauty Rooms. With these enhancements the ship can now carry up to 108 passengers.
The refurbishment was lead by French architect, Francois Greck who worked with a local Burmese team of craftsmen to create a look that would complement the colours and atmosphere of Upper Myanmar, whilst maintaining the ships relaxed and comfortable feeling.
The restaurants colour scheme of soft yellows, greens and brocade red now reflects the riverbanks seen through its picture windows. Traditional Burmese natural matting on pillars and ceilings, hand woven by local village craftsmen, is complemented by detailed local wood finishing and natural vegetable dye, muted gold and gold shot paper from Elitis, France. Carved wood hangings by Burmese artisans from Amarapura, adorn the recesses and the new ambient recess lighting gives the whole room a more intimate feel. Jim Thompson fabric from Bangkok has been used for upholstery and furnishings.
New menus have been developed for the re-opening of the restaurant which will include new Asian inspired ‘Signature Salad’ dishes created daily for lunch by head chef Yannis Martineau. For dinner, guests will be able to mix and match courses from the Asian and European style menus that change daily.
The lower ‘B’ deck cabins have had new parquet floors laid at the entrance with 100% wool stippled soft beige and green carpet throughout the main cabin area. Each cabin has been re-decorated with soft yellow linen look wallpaper from Elitis, France with Jim Thompson cottons and silks used for upholstery, curtains and bed linens.
Other additional in-cabin amenities include Bulgari toiletries in all cabins and enhanced TV coverage to include BBC, ESPN and HBO channels (whilst the ship is moored).
Originally a traditional Rhine river cruiser, this deluxe ship can accommodate 108 guests in Superior and State cabins, is air-conditioned throughout and has accommodation across 4 decks including a restaurant, bar, lounge, sundeck with pool, boutique and health suite/beauty centre.
‘Road To Mandalay’ offers 3, 4 and 7 night cruise itineraries on the Ayeyarwady River between Bagan and Mandalay in Myanmar (Burma), as well as three special departures each year to Bhamo, in the remote northern area of the country. All itineraries can be combined with stays in Yangon, Lake Inle or Sandoway Beach on the Indian Ocean. Cruise only prices start from £1,110 per person.
For further information on cruise only or fully inclusive packages call Orient-Express on 0845 077 2222 or visit www.orient-express.com
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For further press information call Kathryn Malone (kathryn.malone@orient-express.com) 020 7921 4064 or Anna Nash (anna.nash@orient-express.com) 020 7921 4050. Images are available on request or visit www.orient-expressimages.com
Language: English 
