GALA DINNER IN SUPPORT OF UNICEF
The Journey
Exclusive Gala Dinner in support of UNICEF in Istanbul
Join us on 30 August, 2023 for an exclusive round-trip Gala Dinner journey in Istanbul. A first in the history of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, this event is a unique opportunity to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the world’s most famous train, while supporting UNICEF’s life-saving work in Türkiye.
The train departs Bakırköy station at 20:30 and returns to Halkali station at 23:00.
Tickets are priced at £1,000 each and are non-transferrable. Apply for tickets by filling in the form below or by emailing invitation@belmond.com.
Dress Code: Black Tie and evening wear
The Journey
Thank you for your interest in Belmond.
Includes
Welcome Refreshments
Before your train adventure begins, experience an elegant reception on the platform.
Exclusive Four-Course Dinner Menu designed by Jean Imbert
Feast on our delicious and seasonal French-inspired table d'hôte menu, which includes an entrée, main course, cheeseboard, dessert as well as coffee and petit fours.
Sommelier's Selection
The dinner includes our sommelier's selection of drinks served in the restaurant cars.
Live Music and Entertainment
Enjoy swing and boogie tunes from talented Italian band The Uppertones.
About
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and UNICEF
This unique Gala Dinner on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train is in support of UNICEF. 100% of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to UNICEF’s “Emergency Response Programme” for children and families affected by the earthquakes in Türkiye.
UNICEF — the United Nations Children Fund — works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfil their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.
UNICEF does not endorse any company, brand, product or service.
What to expect
The Journey
After a special welcome reception with live music and refreshments at Istanbul’s Bakırköy station, you will be accompanied on board by the train’s liveried staff. As you walk through the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’ 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages, you will be transported back in time to the golden age of travel.
Seated in plush velvet armchairs and surrounded by French craftsmen's marquetry masterpieces, diners will be invited to unwind and socialise as the train begins its journey.
Guests can expect to taste an exquisite 4-course seasonal menu designed by Michelin-starred French chef Jean Imbert while the Turkish scenery unfolds outside the train’s windows and talented musicians play swing and boogie tunes until the train makes its return to Halkali station.
The train and The City of Seven Hills
A Century Year Old Connection
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express' most popular journey, the five-night adventure retracing the transcontinental route from Paris to Istanbul, was relaunched in 1998, becoming the highlight of the train’s annual calendar with only one coveted departure a year.
The train’s connection with the Turkish city goes back much further, with some of its carriages having travelled on this same route almost a century ago. Notoriously, sleeping car 3309 was marooned in a snow drift sixty miles from Istanbul for ten days in 1929 – an incident that has inspired writers and film producers for years to come.