Month: March 2010

Orient Express TripsRiding The Living Legend

Who would ever miss on the fact that the Orient Express trips are not only legendary but also very extravagant? Yes, you have read it right. It is the train that passes on the world-renowned railway and provides a luxurious trip for those who come to Europe for a visit. Back in the past, the train was deemed to be an international means of transportation that provided transport service starting off from Paris then towards Istanbul.

It was launched in October 1883 under the governance of Compagnie International des Wagons-Lits. The latter was no other than a French railway company. Through the years, the train has opened more routes and had then long been intrigued to be filled with mystery apart from an elegant and captivating travel.

An Intriguing TripHow True is it?

It is quite possible that intrigue and mystery envelop the reputation of this world renowned rail line. First and foremost, the train passes across the borders of Germany, France, and several other Eastern countries which normally had existing conflicts against each other. This mode of transportation boasts of having survived both World War I and World War II wherein its service was temporarily suspended. Also, due to many resistance groups that tried to attack peace by means of sabotaging the Orient Express trips which cut through several European borders that were not in good terms, the air of mystery and intrigue continue to linger on.

The Fastest Train Ever

Orient Express was for many years labeled to be the fastest train; numerous travelers who wanted to get a feel of the wonders of the heart of Europe boarded it. Apart from enjoying a fast travel, the passengers likewise had the chance to marvel at the captivating scenery of the countryside. The train cut through several European borders that showcased nature at its best.

What Makes Up the Entire Train?

In the past, it was only the distinguished people, well-off personalities, and powerful politicians were wealthy enough to afford the ride. Business leaders, heads of the states, and even the royalties rode the train to get to their destinations. It was because of these bunches of people that the company decided to install the gourmet restaurants as well as the luxurious sleeping cars to ensure the privacy of the important individuals who took the trip. The very first menu to be offered on board were soup with Italian pasta, oysters, chicken, turbot with green sauce, fillet of beef with chateau potatoes, lettuce, buffet of desserts, chocolate pudding, and chaud-froid of Game animals.

To further elaborate on the luxurious feel that the Orient Express trips provided, the train was then made up of the baggage car, the sleeping coach with 16 beds and bogies in it, another sleeping coach with 14 beds, and the restaurant coach.

Right there and then, the Orient Express trips became popularly known all over the world. The train had the best of everything in furnishing its clienteles an exceptional kind of luxurious ride.

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What Travel Requirements To Mexico Should You Know

Traveling into and throughout Mexico is still very simple, even in this day and age of heightened sensitivities about border control and enforcement. However, there are several key requirements that you should know about concerning travel in Mexico. These include knowing about documents that you should always carry with you, what type of items that you can and can’t take from one country into another, and finally, the certain situations that are best avoided while vacationing in Mexico.

One of the most recent developments concerning international travel to and from the United States is the necessity of having a valid passport. As of January 23, 2007 United States citizens are required to show a valid passport if traveling by air outside of the country, that includes even to Mexico or Canada. By January 1, 2008 that requirement will also include any travels by sea or land outside of the country. To obtain a passport or to register a lapsed one all you need to do is visit one of the over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States. It is recommended that you allow 10-12 weeks time before your intended travel, as it could take that long before your passport documentation is completed.

The Mexican government will issue an official travel card to you. This travel card is usually included in the cost of your airline ticket, and it should be kept with your passport in a secure place while you are visiting the country. Always, keep your travel documents in a secure location that is not on your person. Writing down your travel card number and having it handy can be helpful in certain situations. It would also be prudent to have your driver’s license and a copy of your birth certificate with you, although these are not required, they are always good to have – just in case.

When you arrive in Mexico and again, when your return to the United States you will have to go through customs and fill out a form either declaring items that are above the allowance for an individual or choosing not to declare. Be aware that if you declare items your baggage will be searched and duty will be collected. Even if you don’t declare anything, there is still the chance that you will be searched and any undeclared items found can result in heavy fines and penalties. While staying in Mexico be aware of purchasing items that may not be able to be brought home without paying a duty tax. A list of items allowed can be found on the Internet or by contacting your travel agent or airline.

Whether you are in any area or for that matter, any city that you are not familiar with, practice common sense in order to remain safe. If you are out at night enjoying the abundant nightclubs, always keep your money and valuables in a safe place. Never walk anywhere alone and avoid dark corners or dead ends. If you become “a little worse for wear” due to over-participation in adult beverages, do not drive and never walk alone back to your hotel. Even if it is only a couple of blocks, take a taxi.

These are very simple requirements that you should adhere to when you vacation in Mexico. Following them and using common sense will ensure that you enjoy the safest vacation and one that is hassle free.

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Orient Express TripsReliving The Legendary Ride

For those who have already read about the murder mystery novel written by Agatha Christie, there is no doubt that you will obviously associate the Orient Express trips with it. Imagine being on board that famous train at the turn of the century. You will be wearing the same European clothes while traveling along with the political heads of the state, aristocrats, and even the royalties. These people were the ones who were able to afford the train tickets at that time.

Alright so the Orient Express train has been an integral part of the European life which up to now continues to boost the continent’s tourism. And yes, only a few people are aware that the same train continually operates up to these days. Well, to make things clear, the authentic rail cars managed by the Wagons-Lits have been auctioned but someone took over and restored many of the original trains. To date, a lot other privately owned companies run the trains that capitalize on the popular name of the Orient Express.

A Quick Look Back to its Past

It has been 120 years back to history when the luxurious train line first maid its maiden voyage from its original end points, Paris to Istanbul. The very first train service got inaugurated in the year 1883 with the initial routes namely from Paris towards Giurgi which was situated on the Danube, Romania, then through Strasbourg, Vienna, Budapest, then finally to Bucharest.

The Orient Express trains maintained its operation until May 1977. Sad to say, the train’s final run was only made up of a scruffy sleeping coach plus the three day cars.

New Owner and New Look

There was one rail aficionado and businessman who thought of saving the business. He was James B. Sherwood who took the initiative to buy two train carriages during the auction held in Monte Carlo. Through the years, Sherwood shelled out cash amounting to more than $16 million or so for the purchases, locating, as well as restoring about 35 vintage sleepers, restaurant cars, and the likes.

It was on the 25th of May when finally a new look of the Orient Express train was embodied via the Venice Simplon Orient Express. Thus, the journey of another promising long running Orient Express trip was revived. Its maiden voyage ran from London to Venice.

These days, the Venice Simplon Orient Express provides another exhilarating ride to those who pay a visit to the European countries. It runs on several routes that never fail to amaze and excite travelers of all ages. The trips are nonetheless the reflections of the conventional bygone era.

A visit to the most exciting European cities such as Budapest, Paris, Istanbul, London, Prague, Venice, Rome, and Vienna will be incomplete without trying the legendary train ride. In fact, tour packages are likewise provided by the company.

Nevertheless, the Orient Express trips perfectly suit travelers who are on their way to Europe in search for adventures. So, what are you waiting for?

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