The train fascination has always been apparent for Wes Anderson
movies, and now the filmmaker has brought his cinematic design into one
of Belmond's luxury carriages — starting at US$675 per ticket.
The redesigned 1950s Cygnus is part of 11 carriages in Belmond's
London-based British Pullman train. Guests on the Anderson-designed
journey can choose to sit in the main carriage, or book the private
seating which takes up to four guests.
On top of the Pullman's existing Art Deco-esque design, crafters
built from scratch train elements carrying Anderson's signature:
symmetrical lines, favoured art nouveau style, and distinct colour
schemes.
"I have often had the chance to invent train compartments and
carriages in my movies, so I was immediately pleased to say 'yes' to
this real-life opportunity," said Anderson in the press release.
The journey includes free-flow champagne, exclusive menus, upgraded
wine package, gift box and bouquet, private boarding, as well as
crockery and glassware selected by Anderson himself.
The entire carriage, which takes up to 26 passengers, can also be booked out for groups.
Luxury train travels have risen in popularity, while European
governments are embracing the new policy to 'ditch the plane, take the
train' — and Belmond has certainly benefited from this "huge pent-up
demand".
So
far, only two dates have been released for the approximately five-hour
journey on 29 October and 30 October, with all tickets sold out within
days.
Predictions are for an "extremely busy" 2022, according to Gary
Franklin, Belmond's vice president of trains and cruises in an Insider
article.
"A luxury train offers an excellent solution for guests wishing
to travel between cities and countries without having to fly or rent a
car," he added.
Watch some of the behind-the-scenes moments behind building the Cygnus here.