Why we bought a cabin on the Orient.

Three friends, one Venice-Simplon compartment, a conversation that lasted four countries.

Four countries in thirty-six hours is an unusual pace for a luxury train, but the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express is an unusual train. We booked the Grand Suite — the one with the double bed and the marble bathroom — and then, because this was already going to be a ridiculous trip, we booked two more cabins for friends.