American Orient Express Adds Second Itinerary in 2005

December 2004 – Thanks to the addition of a second itinerary in 2005, more travelers now have a chance to take a journey aboard American Orient Express' (AOE) Great Transcontinental Rail Journey across the United States. Due to the itinerary's popularity, this excursion has traditionally been sold out a year in advance. However, the addition of a March itinerary has opened the door to those hoping to experience this remarkable journey from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C.

The Great Transcontinental Rail Journey is a 10-day/nine-night expedition that features stops with guided tours through Charleston, Savannah, New Orleans, San Antonio, Santa Fe, and Grand Canyon National Park. Passengers are transported in deluxe comfort aboard AOE's fully refurbished vintage rail cars. Prices for the March 19-28 departure begin at $4,290 per person, based on double occupancy in a Vintage Pullman cabin and include overnight accommodations, fine dining, daily tours and nightly entertainment.

While enjoying this coast-to-coast journey, passengers will have the opportunity to visit many points of interest, including Magnolia Plantation in Charleston, Savannah's historic district, the Garden District and French Quarter in New Orleans, the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, and Santa Fe's Old Plaza.

Noted for its exceptional service, fine dining and period décor and appointments, AOE has brought a return to the unhurried and graceful Golden Age of rail travel. In addition to offering passengers a vintage rail experience, AOE programs include in-depth exploration of North America's natural and cultural treasures with insight from onboard lecturers/historians, and off-train tours and excursions, which complement the theme of each carefully planned itinerary.

In operation since 1995, AOE offers ten regional itineraries and four themed tours in 2005 throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada. For information and reservations call 800-320-4206, or book online – a new feature this year – on AOE's website at www.AmericanOrientExpress.com.

SOURCE American Orient Express