On board...the Orient Express!

Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to read a book. -Author Unknown




Hello everyone,

Hope everyone is faring well on Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express".  As you may know, the Orient Express is not a fictive idea the author came up with as the perfect setting for a mystery- it is in fact an actual train. As such, this post is dedicated to this grand and historical setting.



The Orient Express was launched in 1883 and left Paris for Vienna. It continued to run until 2009, its destinations covering cities from Paris to Constantinople. The Venice Simplon-Orient Express remains very much a reflection of the original in its old-world style and charm. This luxury train travels from London to Venice but also goes as far as Istanbul. I invite you all to take a look at the website as it will provide you further information and images that will complement your read.


It's routes:


Murder on the Orient Express




Interesting fact:

From the Venice Simplon Orient Express website:


Agatha Christie was a regular passenger and the famous book was directly inspired by a real-life event, when, en route from Istanbul, the train was trapped in Turkey for six days in deep snow. On another occasion, the author herself was stuck on board for 24 hours due to floods.

For your viewing pleasure:

An interesting video that allows you to see all the works and trimmings of the Orient Express. Happy watching!



Many thanks to one of our members, Shirley, who have brought up the fact that "Murder on the Orient Express" has television and film versions, which can be a treat to look forward to after finishing the book. Masterpiece has one such series which stars David Suchet as Hercule Poirot.  As well, there is also a film starring Albert Finney as Poirot and Lauren Bacall. Those who find this aspect of high interest and wish to know further details and information, not to worry- I will dedicate this matter in the next post.


Joanne