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Interview
46 | FireFlyz
What is it really like to be
responsible for one of
themost luxurious train
journeys in theworld?
SarahRees
meets theman
who keeps the Eastern&
Oriental Express running
to time.
N
icolas
Pillet is the
gene ra l manage r
of the Eas tern &
Oriental Express, a
luxurious train that
transports passengers
in five-star style from
Singapore to Bangkok via Malaysia – the
first train ever to carry passengers on
this 1,272 mile route.
The train took its inaugural journey
in September 1993 and has been in
demand with passengers from all over
the world ever since, combining as
it does spectacular sights, luxurious
accommodation and an experience that
harks back to the golden days of travel.
Pillet, who has spent a lifetime in
the hospitality industry, is responsible
for the management of the train and
All Aboard!
the passenger experience on board, as
well as overseeing the marketing and
various campaigns and special events
that are run throughout the year. With
all his previous experience being of
the more static kind, the adjustment
to managing a train was not without
its challenges – but there are plenty of
rewards to be had.
What is the biggest difference between
managing a train rather than a hotel?
Well, the main difference is that we are
constantly on the move! The Eastern &
Oriental Express operates on a seasonal
basis from September to April, which
gives us time to carry out essential
maintenance work and develop new and
diverse on and off board experiences for
our guests.
How much time do you spend on the
train itself?
I travel at least once a month, either
Bangkok to Singapore or vice versa,
to spend time with the team and meet
guests. I visit the station ahead of each
Bangkok departure, meeting guests
before they board the train, and make
sure all runs smoothly with the check-in
and boarding process.
What is the biggest challenge?
Like other Belmond trains, the on-board
team need to be incredibly organised
ahead and during each departure as
space on board is quite limited. We have
an expert team on board, including train
managers, chefs, bar staff and cabin
stewards, and the key to success is be
well prepared.
What has been a highlight of your time
in the role so far?
In 2014, we collaborated with Save
Wild Tigers charity to host a special
fundraising event from Singapore to
Bangkok. The journey was attended by
various celebrities and supporters of
the charity to raise funds for the very
important cause. Guests travelled from
Singapore to Bangkok on a two-night
journey, which included a fundraising
event in Kuala Lumpur and special
entertainment on board. It was an
incredibly successful event and we were
delighted to help such an important
cause.
Nicolas Pillet is the general
manager of the train, having
previously worked for various
hotels and as a sommelier
The observation car allows
passengers to enjoy the views as
the train moves through Malaysia
to Thailand