Chef André Chiang appointed culinary curator
The Eastern & Oriental Express is proud to announce the appointment of Chef André Chiang as its new Culinary Curator. With two Michelin stars and a placement in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants under his belt, Chef Chiang will bring his innovative touch and expertise to curate a dining experience that captures the diverse terroir of Southeast Asia. Remaining true to the region’s biodiversity and the kaleidoscope of cultures, Chiang’s menu will feature dishes like Laksa Bouillabaisse, Black-bone Chicken Consommé and Jungle Spices Cacao Ganache. At the Piano Bar Carriage and Observation Car, guests can sip on botanical-inspired libations and vintage cocktails conceptualised by global creative hospitality consultancy, The Cocktail Professor, as well as non-alcoholic drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, local craft beers and artisanal Malaysian coffees.
Veuve Clicquot Solaire Journey on board the Eastern & Oriental Express
The Eastern & Oriental Express and leading Champagne Maison, Veuve Clicquot invite travellers on a bespoke Solaire Journey inspired by the pioneering spirit of Madame Clicquot and the joie de vivre embodied by the champagne’s yellow label. This railway experience blends champagne and culinary excellences with a dash of adventure as guests whiz through the wonders of Malaysia and explore the 130-million-year-old Taman Negara National Park. Only on this trip, guests will have access to Veuve Clicquot’s Cellar Master, Didier Mariotti, who will lead champagne tastings, as well as the train’s Culinary Curator, André Chiang, who will design bespoke dishes to be paired with the maison’s most prestigious vintages, including La Grande Dame series.
Routes of change
Launching in March, the Eastern and Oriental Express’ new Wild Malaysia itinerary, includes an excursion into the Taman Negara National Park, where guests can choose between three activities: an educational tour of the park to learn about the endangered Malayan Tigers, a wildlife photography class or an exploration of the rainforest’s ancient caves. This May, a special Tiger Express journey designed with the train’s partner, Save Wild Tigers, aims to raise awareness of the conservation efforts to save the Malay Tiger from extinction. This unique journey incorporates the Wild Malaysia itinerary, concluding with two nights at The Datai in Langkawi.
New design and elevated onboard experiences
The revamped Eastern & Oriental Express boasts eight sleeping carriages, two restaurants, a Piano Bar, and the open-air Observation Car. The cabins Pullman, State, and Presidential are airconditioned, cherry-wood panelled sanctuaries whose designs reflect the different landscapes the train travels through. The Pullman cabins draw inspiration from Kuala Lumpur, featuring red and blue accents resembling the city’s skyline, the State cabins reflect Penang’s marine locale with a blue and green palette, and the Presidential Suites exude opulence with hues of gold and embroidered elements. The new in-cabin experience stimulates all senses with customisable elements, offering guests a sensory journey through scents, lights, playlists, teas, and premium bedding. Daytime encounters with locals are complemented by nightly entertainment featuring resident musicians and special acts, like the Shang Sisters, a trio known for blending Jazz tunes with Nanyang flair.
Photo credit to Ludovic Balay