The Orient Express ‘La Dolce Vita’ Revives Our Agatha Christie Dreams

As the frighteningly rapid exponential growth of technology creeps into every last element of our daily lives, a trend that has been fiercely exacerbated by the rise of AI, the wistful romantics among us are slowly yearning for a simpler time that seems less and less attainable. A time of effortless elegance and refinement, one that acted as an eloquent testament to impeccable human taste, rather than a calculated example of accurate technological execution.

Aiming to revive a culture that has already met its swift end through the unyielding iron fist of modernity, The Orient Express La Dolce Vita is a lavish time capsule on wheels, transporting travellers back to a bygone age of vibrant colours, asymmetrical motifs and thrilling Agatha Christie fantasies.

Slated to launch at the end of 2024, La Dolce Vita is a contemporary reconceptualization of the original Orient Express that ceased operations back in 1977. Dipped in affluence, the train’s distinctive decor draws inspiration from the prevalent arts, design styles, and general creativity of the 1960s and 1970s, with a focus on the remarkable period of La Dolce Vita, rendering the space the perfect setting for a murder mystery party of epic proportions and unparalleled opulence.

Before embarking on a journey through the picturesque Italian countryside, travellers can choose from a selection of 12 deluxe cabins, 18 suites and, the pièce de résistance, the ‘La Dolce Vita’ suite, boasting sleek reflective finishes, elements of rich dark wood and striking hues.

After you’ve settled into your tasteful lodgings, combed your moustache or fixed up your stylish bob, and perhaps even crossed paths with a suspiciously observant Belgian detective, you can saunter over to the extravagant on-board restaurant, which promises to impress even the harshest culinary critics and sommeliers with five-star Italian delicacies, crafted by the crème de la crème of the gastronomy world, and a collection of fine Italian wines.

La Dolce Vita offers travellers a myriad of equally enticing itineraries to choose from, such as the intoxicating wine vineyards of Tuscany, the romantic coast of Sicily, the winding canals of Venice and the famed historical sites of Rome and Palermo. The Orient Express will also welcome travellers into its first two hotels: the Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice, opening their gates in 2024.

For those craving a nostalgic experience, imbued with contemporary luxuries, you will need to rush to reserve a spot on this pioneering rail tourism project, as it’s already almost out of cabins.