Of all the luxury train routes, the Orient Silk Road Express has to be the most iconic, which follows a route used as far back as the second century BCE. The route spans an incredible 6,300km and it connects the east and west. Traditionally, this was the route for Chinese silk to be imported into Europe and it is no surprise that a luxury locomotive such as the Orient Silk Road Express travels along this route.
In this short article, you get to take an in-depth look at the train and amenities onboard.
Various Classes
There are 5 different cabin classes on the Orient Silk Road Express, which are as follows:
- Kalif Class – The ultimate in luxury, this class has an upper and lower bed; every compartment has a safe and private bathroom with a separate shower. There are 4 cabins in each carriage and if you love to travel in luxury, this is the class for you!
- Sultan Class – An upper and lower bed, this sumptuously decorated cabin, each with a private bathroom and separate shower. There are 6 cabins per carriage and this is the most booked class, so if you are planning a Silk Road train tour, make sure you book as soon as you know your travel dates.
- Aladdin Class – There are two lower beds in this cabin, with small tables and secure storage space, while there are two bathrooms, one at each end of the carriage. This is ideal for those who spend most of their time in the communal carriages.
- Ali Baba Class – This class cabin has two lower beds, with a sink and toilet at each end of the carriage, with a total of 9 cabins per carriage. There are tables and storage space, which is ample for a couple.
- Habibi Class – A special cabin that sleeps 4, 2 up and 2 down, with washroom facilities at both ends of the carriage. Ideal for a group of 4 or a family. There is hot water at all times for beverages.
Life On Board The Orient Silk Road Express
This train is regarded as the best way to experience Central Asia. If you want the pinnacle of luxury, the Golden Eagle is recommended, whereas the Orient Silk Road Express offers great value and a range of cabin classes. Every carriage has two porters on duty around the clock, ready to tend to your needs. While the climate control system is either centrally controlled or in the higher-class cabins, you have control over the temperature. The route follows the original Silk Road for most of the journey, with the odd detour.
Locked Carriages
When you leave the train, your conductor locks your cabin as a matter of course; the upper classes have a safe in the cabin, while other cabins have secure storage. There are many day trips where you will leave the train and you don’t have to worry about your personal possessions, as the conductor remains on the train.
Dining Car & Drinks
Of course, the dining cars are always open and you can enjoy a drink while socialising with other passengers, plus the conductor can bring drinks to your cabin; simply ring the bell and the conductor will arrive to take your order.
The best currencies to bring are U$ and Euro, which can easily be changed at any stop. Wear a money belt when out and about, one that is worn under the shirt that is not visible. While Central Asia is very safe, you should use your common sense when visiting places.