Press Releases
ORIENT-EXPRESS HOTELS INTRODUCES NEW CULTURAL EXPERIENCES AS ITALIAN HOTELS OPEN FOR THE SUMMER SEASON
2 May 2013..../Pack your designer sunglasses and this year’s must have swimwear, as some of Italy’s finest hotels have thrown open their doors for the summer season with a host of new cultural experiences. Set in the beautiful towns and cities of Venice, Portofino, Ravello, Taormina and Florence, Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. has launched a series of experiences aimed at showing a different side to these much loved destinations. From exploring Amalfi by night, to driving through the wine regions around Venice in a motorbike sidecar or rafting on the Arno River in Florence, each hotel is offering guests new tailored ways to discover Italian classics.
‘21’ CLUB CREATES BESPOKE COCKTAILS IN A NOD TO THE GREAT GATSBY
29th April 2013 – To celebrate the upcoming film release of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s master piece, The Great Gatsby, 21 Club in New York, part of the Orient-Express Hotel Ltd collection, is adding a selection of bespoke cocktails inspired by this American classic to its menu. The iconic Manhattan restaurant and bar will be serving up delicious cocktails as a nod to the roaring twenties and prohibition era within which it was founded.ORIENT-EXPRESS HOTELS INTRODUCES A MODERN-DAY CALIFORNIA CLASSIC AS EL ENCANTO OPENS IN SANTA BARBARA
18th March 2013 – It is a recipe for a California Classic: Take one hotel with a star-studded Hollywood past, add stylish American Riviera décor with one knock-out ocean view, and combine with a sprinkling of art created with diamond dust, California coastal dining at its very best (with the help from one very pampered cow) and seven years dedicated restoration. The result? Orient-Express’ latest creation, and first hotel on the US West Coast, El Encanto which opens today in Santa Barbara.WHISKY AND TEE TIME ABOARD THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN
15 March, 2013 - Don a kilt, pour a wee dram of whisky, and hit the rails aboard The Royal Scotsman, the UK’s only luxury sleeper train. This April, the train kicks off its 2013 season of rail journeys and introduces two NEW itineraries: Classic Whisky and Classic Golf, and back by popular demand reintroduces the Country Homes & Gardens itinerary.THE VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS STARTS ITS 2013 SEASON WITH A BRAND NEW ROUTE AND LOVINGLY RESTORED CARRIAGES
13 March 2013 – The crystal glasses are gleaming, the silver is polished, marquetry panels varnished and cabins prepared; arrangements are complete for the start of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’ (VSOE) 2013 season. This year sees the train head to Scandinavia on a new and exciting itinerary from Venice to Stockholm via Copenhagen and the restoration of two of the 17 iconic carriages, keeping the romance of train travel alive.
THE NORTHERN BELLE SPREADS A LITTLE MAGIC IN AID OF ‘WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR’ CHILDREN’S CHARITY
13 March 2013 – In April 2013, the Northern Belle will contribute to making many deserving families’ dreams come true when it donates the entire train and services for a night to raise money for the ‘When You Wish Upon A Star’ children’s charity.
The Northern Belle will depart from Manchester Victoria on 13th April taking a host of celebrities, parents and supporters of the charity on a journey like no other. Music mogul and railway enthusiast, Pete Waterman, will be at the helm in the engine cab hauling the seven gleaming carriages of the Northern Belle as the train approaches Manchester Victoria station, kicking off an evening to remember, supporting a truly fantastic cause.
VILLA SAN MICHELE LAUNCHES FLORENCE’S MOST EXTENSIVE FAMILY FACILITIES WITH INAUGURATION OF SMILE CLUB
7th February 2013 - Set to position Villa San Michele as one of the very best hotels for families in and around Florence, this May will see the launch of the ‘Smile Club’, a boutique and tailored facility for children at the property. The children’s club will be a first for the hotel, an already a popular retreat for families, who are attracted by the extensive gardens offering unparalleled views over Florence, swimming pool, delicious cuisine and proximity to the city.TAKING TRAINING TO ANOTHER LEVEL
21st January, 2013 - This week sees the Company steaming ahead with the launch of a series of brand new product training films. The films, a creative educational tool for travel agents and tour operators worldwide, are intended to provide a 360-degree insight into the Company’s intricate rail and cruise experiences from check-in, the journey on-board, through to disembarkation.EL ENCANTO NAMES EXECUTIVE CHEF PATRICE MARTINEAU - Highly Anticipated Opening Will Unveil a Culinary Icon on America’s Riviera
January 17th, 2013 – Orient-Express is delighted to announce the appointment of Patrice Martineau as Executive Chef for El Encanto, the iconic Santa Barbara property scheduled to re-open in March 2013 on the west coast of America. Originally from Troyes, France, Martineau brings international and national award-winning experience to the only West Coast hotel under the luxurious Orient-Express portfolio. Set to become a culinary destination, El Encanto will incorporate the produce and seafood of the Santa Barbara region into the wonderfully inventive French and Asian inspired “California Coastal Cuisine,” highlighting Chef Martineau’s experience in Tokyo, London and New York City and placing the hotel firmly on the gastronomic map of America’s Riviera.THE LAUNCH OF THE ASSOCIATE HOTEL PROGRAMME FIRST MEMBER HOTEL ANNOUNCED
January 8, 2013 – Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. www.orient-express.com, owners or part-owners and managers of 45 luxury hotel, restaurant, tourist train and river cruise properties operating in 22 countries, today launched the Orient-Express Associate Hotels programme. At the same time, Orient-Express announced that the founding member of the new programme is the iconic Hôtel du Palais, Biarritz, France, effective January 7, 2013.
AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY ABOARD A VINTAGE TRAIN THIS VALENTINE’S DAY
7th January 2013 - This February, The British Pullman and Northern Belle trains have a selection of romantic rail experiences to share with a loved one. The 1920’s and 30’s carriages are the perfect setting for a steamy Art Deco journey, don the most glamorous outfit and let cupid take care of the rest.CELEBRATE THE BEGINNING OF THE 2013 SEASON WITH LOVE FROM LA RESIDENCIA
4th January 2013 - Our historic manor house hotel in the bohemian village of Deia, Mallorca is celebrating the beginning of their 2013 season on February 14th with a special offering for guests who want to book a Valentine’s treat for their loved one. The Valentine’s Experience at La Residencia includes luxury accommodation for two people, a £40 spa credit per person, and a romantic four-course candle-lit gourmet dinner, sure to set the scene for a heady fairy-tale weekend away.NEW YEAR AND A NEW LOOK FOR ICONIC COPACABANA PALACE, RIO DE JANEIRO
18th December 2012 – Orient-Express is pleased to announce that it has completed a substantial $20 million refurbishment of the main building of the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in time to see the New Year in with style. This phased programme commenced in 2011 and has seen meticulous enhancements made to the lobby, all 145 rooms and suites in the main building, and the Cipriani restaurant in preparation for what is set to be a very exciting few years for Rio. Careful attention was paid to maintain the hotel’s 90 year heritage and history, whilst infusing the décor with a contemporary style and design.ORIENT-EXPRESS ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF EL ENCANTO, SANTA BARBARA, USA, IN MARCH 2013
14 December 2012 – Located 90 minutes from Los Angeles on California’s American Riviera, the meticulously restored El Encanto will reopen in Santa Barbara in March 2013 as part of the luxurious and iconic Orient-Express portfolio. The early 20th-century property will recapture all the romance and glamour that made it the favoured getaway of Hollywood’s elite.ENJOY A RAIL-Y DIFFERENT DAY OUT IN 2013 ABOARD THE BRITISH PULLMAN AND NORTHERN BELLE UK DAY TRAINS
11 December, 2012 - In 2013, the British Pullman and Northern Belle, sister trains to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will be taking guests in style and comfort on a number of new exciting and interesting day trips across Great Britain, departing from a host of regional stations year-round.LA SAMANNA REOPENS IN ST.MARTIN WITH THE COMPLETION OF AN EXTENSIVE RENOVATION PROJECT
5th December 2012 – Located on the French side of St. Martin, La Samanna has completed the second phase of an extensive renovation project. Revitalising its long-standing reputation as the ultimate luxury Caribbean destination, the Orient-Express property now features two new restaurants and a revamped lobby with sea views as part of the redesigned main building, as well as refurbished suites and rooms.
ORIENT-EXPRESS HOTELS APPOINTS JOHN M. SCOTT AS PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
8th November 2012 – Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. www.orient-express.com today announced that it has appointed John M. Scott III as President and Chief Executive Officer and a Director. Mr. Scott, 47, is an experienced operator of luxury hotels who previously served as President and CEO of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, where he oversaw a portfolio of 17 ultra-luxury hotels located in seven countries with combined revenues of more than US$500 million.NEW AND INSIGHTFUL JOURNEYS ABOARD ORIENT-EXPRESS’ TRAINS & CRUISES IN 2013
31st October 2012 – Those looking for the ultimate journey of a lifetime will find inspiration from Orient-Express, as it reveals new and exciting trips across its trains and cruises for 2013. New fascinating voyages and detailed itineraries are on offer aboard each train and cruise, from cruising along the stunning rivers in France and Myanmar, to travelling through the picturesque and lush scenery of South-East Asia or wending through the Alps to one of Europe’s great cities.'21' CLUB UNVEILS REMODELED PRIVATE EVENT ROOMS
4th October 2012 – The iconic 21 Club has recently unveiled a brand new look in two of the private dining rooms in this former speak easy in the heart of Manhatten, making it the perfect choice for brides searching for their chic city wedding venue or families looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion in the Big Apple.ORIENT-EXPRESS ANNOUNCES NEW RIVER CRUISER IN MYANMAR
4th September, 2012 – Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. owners or part-owners and managers of 45 hotel, restaurant, cruise and luxury rail businesses in 22 countries, has announced that it will launch a new river cruiser in Myanmar, to commence cruising in July 2013.FESTIVE FLAIR WITH ORIENT-EXPRESS THIS CHRISTMAS
4th September 2012 – Throughout December, the British Pullman and Northern Belle trains offer a host of seasonal journeys that include trips to some of Britain’s finest Christmas markets, carols at historic cathedrals, unique and exclusive shopping events and delicious festive fare.A TASTE OF SCOTLAND ABOARD THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN
15th August, 2012 - The Royal Scotsman, the UK’s only luxury sleeper train, offers unique and explorative rail voyages right through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, bringing to life its magical and rugged landscape; a reminder that there is no need to travel across the world to find spectacular scenery, cultural inspiration and moments of tranquillity.ON YOUR MARKS, GET SET…TRAVEL!
01 August 2012 – Feeling inspired by the sporty fever that has gripped the nation? From cycling through French vineyards to playing football on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, Orient-Express’ hotels and luxury river cruises offer guests a selection of ideal escapes to improve their game and explore a new destination.ORIENT-EXPRESS APPOINTS LAURA MCIVER AS GENERAL MANAGER FOR EL ENCANTO
London (31 July 2012) - Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. announces the appointment of Laura McIver as General Manager, El Encanto, the iconic Santa Barbara luxury hotel due to reopen in March 2013. Beginning on August 6 as General Manager, McIver will oversee all day-to-day operations, ensuring optimal product quality and service standards.ORIENT-EXPRESS’ NORTHERN BELLE TRAIN WELCOMES A NEW CARRIAGE
10th July, 2012 - After a meticulous restoration, Orient-Express’ luxurious Northern Belle train has welcomed a new carriage to the rake, taking the total number of carriages to seven. Duart, named after the Scottish castle on the Isle of Mull, is a testament to skilled British craftsmanship and will be officially launched in August.
GRAND HOTEL TIMEO AND VILLA SANT’ANDREA IN TAORMINA WELCOME LITTLE GUESTS FOR THE SUMMER 2012 SEASON
19th July 2012 – Younger guests are now made to feel even more welcome at Orient-Express’ Sicilian properties Villa Sant’Andrea and Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina as the hotels launch their first ever children’s club. In time for the summer holidays, a jam packed summer programme and host of cultural activities awaits little ones to keep them entertained at the beautiful seaside town.EATING GREEN AT MOUNT NELSON'S PLANET RESTAURANT, CAPE TOWN
26th June 2012 – Fine dining at Orient-Express’ Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town has long been an event to remember. Now under the dedicated supervision of acclaimed Chef Rudi Liebenberg, the hotel’s award winning Planet Restaurant is strengthening its reputation for serving delicious high-end ‘green cuisine’ with the establishment of an extensive vegetable farm intended to provide the kitchen with over 40% of its vegetable ingredients.WINDOWS ON THE WILD - NEW GLASS FRONTED TENTS AT ORIENT-EXPRESS SAFARIS IN BOTSWANA
19th June 2012 - Orient-Express’ luxurious Savute Elephant Camp and Khwai River Lodge in Northern Botswana are now wilder than ever before. New this month, each of the camp’s thatched tented residences has been transformed with the introduction of sliding glass doors, making it even easier to spot the abundant wildlife that roams nearby.ORIENT-EXPRESS CUTS THE RIBBON ON PERU’S MOST EAGERLY ANTICIPATED HOTEL
15th June 2012 – Today at 8:00am local time, Orient-Express will open the doors to Palacio Nazarenas, one of the year’s most eagerly anticipated openings, and the latest addition to its exclusive portfolio of hotels and trains in Peru.DISCOVER ORIENT-EXPRESS FROM THE PALM OF YOUR HAND - ORIENT-EXPRESS LAUNCHES ITS FIRST IPAD APP
17th May 2012 – Luxury hotel company and sophisticated adventure travel operator, Orient-Express has launched its first app for the iPad. The brand new app, available now, complements the recent successful launch of Orient-Express' latest edition of its 'Traveller' magazine.VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS ANNOUNCES NEW RAIL VOYAGES INTO SCANDINAVIA FOR 2013
9th May 2012 – The iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) will embark on a series of exciting new scheduled rail voyages taking it up to Scandinavia in 2013 and visiting Stockholm for the first time in its history.DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF MYANMAR’S NORTHERN GORGES ABOARD ORIENT-EXPRESS’ ROAD TO MANDALAY RIVER CRUISER
17th April 2012 – The sparkling pagodas and saffron cloaked monks of Myanmar (Burma) can be viewed from the serenity of the Ayeyarwady River onboard the Road To Mandalay as it sails on a series of 12-day ‘Gorges of the Far North’ cruises in August and September this year.GRAND HOTEL EUROPE SETS A NEW BAR FOR ITS HISTORIC LOBBY BAR
3rd April 2012 - An iconic building of the St Petersburg landscape, Grand Hotel Europe and its elegant historic Lobby Bar has long been a fashionable meeting point. Now after an extensive two month renovation, the Lobby Bar has re-launched to reveal a fresh new contemporary decor, whilst retaining elements of its original historic charm that, over the years has entertained the likes of Pyotr Tchaikovsky, former US President Bill Clinton and Queen Elizabeth II.ORIENT-EXPRESS STEPS UP TO THE PLATE WITH VILLEROY & BOCH
2nd April 2012 – Renowned for its style, opulence and elegance, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a byword in luxury travel, with every detail a delight. The start of the 2012 season has unveiled a brand new bespoke range of crockery, designed exclusively by leading porcelain manufacturer Villeroy & Boch that reflects the exquisite Art Deco interiors of this magnificent train, adding to the luxurious experience of those travelling onboard.MAROMA RESORT & SPA, MEXICO INTRODUCES NEW FAMILY FRIENDLY PROGRAMME FOR CHILDREN
20th March 2012 - Situated on the soft white sandy beaches of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Maroma Resort & Spa is an idyllic retreat for both adults and children alike. With younger guests in mind, this April will see the inauguration of a new family friendly programme. Available throughout the year, families with children of all ages will be welcomed as the carefully planned programme ensures that Maroma’s young guests are both entertained and made to feel special while preserving the tranquil and sophisticated environment for which the resort is famed.CULINARY CONCEPT ANNOUNCED FOR PALACIO NAZARENAS, ORIENT-EXPRESS’ NEW PERUVIAN OPENING
14th February 2012 – At 8am on 15th June 2012, Orient-Express will open the doors to its sixth hotel in Peru, Palacio Nazarenas. A former 16th century convent, the all suite hotel will be a contemporary reflection of Cuzco’s culture, elements of which will be reflected in its restaurant. Senzo the new restaurant at Palacio Nazarenas will only serve carefully prepared locally sourced Andean cuisine, a first for the city. Orient-Express has instructed and recruited the talents of bright young Peruvian chef Virgilio Martinez to oversee all food and beverage at Senzo. Virgilio will ensure that the menu will retain its Andean authenticity whilst featuring his signature avant garde twist, allowing for a delightful journey of gastronomic discovery for all guests.CALLING ALL ART LOVERS – LA RESIDENCIA LAUNCHES BRAND NEW SCULPTURE GARDEN IN BOHEMIAN DEIA
26th January 2012 – March 8th at La Residencia, Orient-Express’ rustic manor house hotel in Deia, Mallorca, will see the inauguration of one of Spain’s largest permanent sculpture gardens. Spearheaded by the hotel’s sculptor in residence, Juan Waelder, the exhibition will display the works of many ‘up and coming’ as well as established sculptors from around the world, further cementing the hotel’s commitment to supporting the arts. The sculptures will be placed throughout the grounds of the hotel, allowing a journey of discovery for its guests.
