After a long hiatus, the Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia will be back on the tracks in February 2024. The train will return to the rails with 15 restyled carriages including eight sleeping cars, two restaurant cars, a Piano Bar Car, and an open-air Observation Car. Additionally, two new seasonal journeys: Essence of Malaysia (November to February) and Wild Malaysia (March to October) will also be launched. The Essence of Malaysia is a three-night journey from Singapore through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and finally to the island of Penang. After spending the first day onboard, guests will disembark and join a private cruise to Langkawi and, for the first time, will have the chance to go on a snorkelling excursion.
Day three is dedicated to discovering Penang’s century-old UNESCO World Heritage Sites, street art and a vibrant food scene. The Wild Malaysia itinerary covers the areas surrounding the ‘Jungle Railway’. The three-night journey offers the chance to visit the Taman Negara National Park in collaboration with Save Wild Tigers. Guests can embark on a range of excursions, such as a photography masterclass, a foraging experience in the jungle, and learning about the safeguarding of the Malayan tiger. On the third day, guests can choose to explore Penang’s artistic, culinary and historic heritage before getting back on the train for their last night riding the rails.