A once-in-a-lifetime experience, journeying on the world-famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a bucket list dream come true for most people.
But what is it like to call this luxurious train your place of work?
We spoke with General Manager Pascal Deyrolle about his job and the joy of seeing passengers enjoying one of the world's greatest train journeys.
Working on the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Pascal began his career on the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) as a steward before enjoying six seasons as chief steward. Now the General Manager, it is a role that Pascal has proudly held for the past ten years.
"Being part of the original luxury train service, which we like to call 'a legend in motion', is very rewarding," says Pascal.
"I am incredibly proud to be part of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express team, creating such an iconic and legendary service. The team and I are proud custodians of the heritage of these carriages and what they represent: an enduring symbol of luxury that evolves with the time while preserving its historic grandeur and embracing the métiers d'art."
Peerless heritage of the world's most famous train
As the epitome of luxury rail travel, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is renowned around the world. The décor, route and attentive service are beloved by passengers, recalling the heyday of elegant travel.
So, what is it about the train that captivates the hearts of all who have travelled or dream about experiencing it?
"Travelling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is not just about going from A to B in one night," says Pascal. "Taking this legendary train between Paris and Venice is like entering a time capsule.
"Our guests are transported back to the golden age of travel, surrounded by 1920s and 1930s Art Deco masterpieces, impeccable but never impersonal service and the refined cuisine of one of the world's most acclaimed chefs, Jean Imbert.
"One unique highlight would be travelling in sleeping car 3309, an original carriage which is famous for being stranded in the snow in February 1929. Staying in this car feels like a step back in time and represents a true connection to the train's legendary history."
Why do passengers love the VSOE so much?
Being a special occasion for many passengers, it must be a privilege for Pascal and his colleagues to be part of such celebrations.
"It's incredibly rewarding to see that guest plan their journeys around the dates of our train, highlighting how special the journey is," continues Pascal. "Another compliment comes from our own team, many of whom recommend working onboard to friends.
"One of the most memorable comments came from guests when we launched the Grand Suites in 2018 - many remarked that they felt as though they had always been part of the train. This is a testament to the design, which remains perfectly true to the DNA and heritage of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
"We take immense pride in the impeccable condition of the train, which our guests consistently appreciate as they journey with us."
Dining experiences are "culinary perfection in motion"
An event in itself, dining aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a highly anticipated moment that sees passengers dress up for dinner to enjoy the train's gastronomic heritage.
"A highlight is dressing for dinner - you can never be too overdressed," says Pascal.
Men in black tie, women wearing evening dress and the elegant surroundings combine with exquisite food to create an unforgettable moment in one of the three historic restaurant cars.
"The dining experience on the train is a unique adventure, where the finest cuisine is served around the clock and live entertainment plays long into the night.
"Chef Jean Imbert blends the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express' rich heritage with his own passion for fresh seasonal produce to create moments of culinary perfection in motion.
"He uses existing relationships with local producers while forging new connections with specialist artisans along the route to transform the finest ingredients into original menus throughout the seasons.
"Following this is the bar car, with its lively atmosphere and entertainment which creates unforgettable moments of celebration for our guests."
What are the highlights of these iconic journeys?
Operating numerous historic routes between Paris and Venice - and further afield - there are many magnificent moments to witness, either onboard or while gazing at the passing scenery.
"My advice would be to use the opportunity to slow down whilst capturing the magic with photos and videos during your journey," says Pascal. "For something truly special, capture the train from the outside looking in when it's on a platform at night - the illuminated interiors are stunning.
"For me, travelling through the snow-covered Alps in winter on the train's classic route is truly magical."
If journeying on the Arlberg route, Pascal recommends soaking up the breathtaking scenery between the Brenner Pass and Innsbruck."
While the landscapes are astonishing, the train itself provides a number of interesting opportunities.
"I would also recommend watching your cabin steward convert the day configuration into beds in the historic cabins - it's a fascinating process highlighting the train's excellent craftsmanship. Also, take a moment to admire the original coal boiler, a testament to the train's rich heritage."
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Want to learn more about the journey? Read about the experience of
one of our directors, Julian Appleyard, as he enjoyed an overnight
trip from
Venice to Paris.
