Life on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express...
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Passports & Visas
For all journeys requiring a passport, we recommend the following:
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity remaining from your arrival date. This applies to both adult and child passports.
- Renewed Passports: If you renewed your passport before its expiry, extra months may have been added to the expiry date. Be aware that for most European countries, any additional months beyond 10 years may not count towards the required 6 months’ validity.
While potential changes to travel laws primarily affect UK and EU passport holders, we strongly advise all travellers to check with their national government agency for the latest passport and travel information.
Additionally, security and immigration checks are expected to become more thorough, which could result in longer processing times at entry and exit points in Europe and the UK. We recommend allowing extra time in your travel schedule to accommodate these checks.
Is there Wi-Fi available on the train?
Wi-Fi is available throughout the train, including in all guest cabins. However, as the service is provided via a mobile network, the signal may be intermittent, particularly when travelling through rural areas.
To preserve the elegant and tranquil ambience of the train for all passengers, we kindly request that mobile phones and electronic devices be used only within the privacy of your cabin.
Is there air-conditioning on the train?
The train has a centrally controlled cooling system, but individual cabins do not have separate temperature controls. Guests can adjust the flow and volume of cooled air in their cabins by opening or closing a vent.
Is there a laundry service on board?
There is no laundry service or ironing facilities available on board. To keep your clothes in the best condition, we recommend guests use hanging garment bags in their cabin.
What currency do I need on board?
Prices on board are quoted in Euros, and we recommend carrying a small amount of Euros for any onboard purchases. However, most major currencies are accepted, alongside major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club, and JCB.
The onboard exchange rate is displayed in the Bar Car for your convenience.
What should I pack?
- Hand Luggage
Passengers should keep essential items, such as purses, passports, tickets, cameras, medication, and jewellery, with them at all times. Hand luggage cannot be checked in. For passengers travelling to or from London, hand luggage must be carried on and off the cross-Channel transport, as porter services are unavailable at the Channel ports. - Cabin Luggage
We recommend packing items needed during the journey in an overnight bag or suit carrier. This cabin luggage will be collected at check-in and delivered to your cabin on the continental train by our staff. - Through Luggage
Items not required during the journey should be packed in sturdy luggage. This will be labelled at check-in, stored in the baggage van, and will not be accessible until you reach your destination.
Special Items (Skis/Golf Clubs/Bikes)
These should be packed in appropriate covers and checked in with through luggage. Such items must be advised in advance and are subject to approval. Only foldable bikes in protective cases can be stored on board.
Should I tip the staff on board?
Gratuities are entirely at your discretion and are not required or expected.
What is the dress code?
On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, you can never be overdressed! For dinner, formal evening attire is requested, with many guests opting for black tie and their most glamorous ensembles.
During the day, smart daywear is appropriate. For lunch, a jacket and tie or equivalent is suitable. Please note that jeans are not permitted at any time.
Will there be space in my cabin for my luggage?
While luggage racks are provided in the cabins, space is limited. Each passenger is allowed:
- One piece of hand luggage (to be kept with you at all times).
- One suit carrier or overnight bag (to be placed in your cabin).
- One suitcase (to be stored in the baggage car, which will not be accessible during the journey).
We recommend packing thoughtfully to ensure a comfortable and organised experience.
Can I smoke on board?
Smoking is not permitted on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, including the British Pullman and the continental train. This policy is in compliance with Italian and other European regulations and applies to electronic cigarettes and vaping as well.
Are children allowed on board?
Children are warmly welcomed on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Infants under the age of two at the time of departure can travel free of charge; however, parents must bring their own food and a bassinet for sleeping.
Due to the limited space in Twin Cabins, we highly recommend booking an interconnecting cabin (suitable for up to two adults) or a Grand Suite to ensure comfort when travelling with a baby. Please inform us at the time of booking if you will be travelling with an infant so we can provide tailored advice and assistance.
While the train's ambience is designed for adult passengers, children may join their parents in the bar and restaurant cars at the discretion of the Train Manager.
Are pets allowed on board?
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on board Belmond's trains. The limited space within the carriages and infrequent stops make it challenging to provide adequate exercise and care for pets during the journey. This policy ensures their comfort and well-being.
What if I require special assistance?
Due to the antique nature of the carriages, they cannot be boarded in a wheelchair. Staff can assist passengers to their seats and folding wheelchairs or walkers can be stored during the journey. The corridors are too narrow to allow for a wheelchair to pass through.
The Belmond team will do all they can to accommodate everyone. If you have limited availability or will require extra assistance, you can contact us at info@luxurytraintickets.com. Upon booking, we will be in touch to collect all the necessary information which will then be passed to the operations team at Belmond.
Can my dietary requirements be catered for?
Belmond is happy to cater for special dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, provided detailed requests are made at the time of booking. If no prior request is made, the chefs will do their best to prepare a suitable dish using the ingredients available on board.
Please note, however, that they are unable to accommodate meals requiring strict religious observance in their preparation.
Can I reserve a table in the restaurant in advance?
To ensure the comfort of all passengers, meals are served across multiple seating times. While you can indicate your preferred seating time in advance, final reservations will be confirmed once you are on board.
Do I need insurance?
We strongly recommend securing travel insurance for your trip, as with any holiday or journey abroad. Please arrange this through a third-party provider to ensure you are fully covered.
What languages do the staff on board speak?
French, English and Italian are spoken by most of the stewards on the train.
If you still have questions about this train, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our dedicated concierge team at 0203 640 8887 or info@luxurytraintickets.com
