What was the American Orient Express and when did it cease operations?
The American Orient Express was kind of a five-star hotel on wheels. It operated in United States and some parts of Canada and Mexico. A ride in American express was no usual train journey; you would experience an once-in-a-lifetime journey if you were on that train. After several years of operation it was sold in 2007 to new owners and its name was changed to grand luxe Rail Journeys. The grand luxe Rail Journeys offered various packages in the comfy trains like: one night or two nights trips, honeymoon packages for couples etc. The premier railway line offered a package of about 90 trains and special rates were available per person over the premier rail rides, which were offered on particular train rides beyond the American boundaries. Sources: http://www.newspostonline.
The American Orient Express History Started in November of 1989 by a Florida entrepreneur, William F. Spann, and backed by the operators of the Nostalgie Istanbul Orient Express, the American Orient Express was originally named the American European Express. It started as four vintage rail coaches rebuilt by hand and coupled to the rear of Amtrak’s Capitol Limited train. The operation closed after one year. In 1991 the train began operating as a passenger train offering a deluxe journey from Chicago to New York via New River Gorge with optional overnight stays at the Green Brier. Although ridership increased over its past venture the train was again taken out of service in less than a years time. A train derailment on June 21, 1991, which shattered nearly half of its eleven car-fleet, caused the American European Express to cease operations. The renamed American Orient Express was leased to TCS Expeditions of Seattle and marketed as a unique alternative to ship cruising. TSC operated s
The American Orient Express operated across the United States as well as parts of Canada and Mexico. It was advertised as a sort of combination of a cruise ship and a five-star hotel. After several years of operation it was sold in 2007 to new owners and its name was changed to GrandLuxe Rail Journeys. In late August 2008, GrandLuxe Rail Journeys abruptly ceased operations. The entire set of luxury train cars was put up for sale in September 2008. In June 2009, it was reported that 25 trains cars had been purchased by Xanterra Parks and Resorts, and would be used to “enhance the national parks experience”. Sources: http://en.wikipedia.
