Cool runnings
For the first time ever, legend of the rails Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is offering winter journeys. This December, the distinct midnight-blue carriages will glide through some of Europe’s most postcard-worthy snowscapes between Florence, Paris, Venice and Vienna. Relax in the warmth of your private cabin with a glass of champagne in hand, before stepping off to explore festive Christmas markets. From June 2023, eight suites will join the train’s two preexisting cabin categories, adding a new expression of opulence. Watch this space. belmond.com
Power of the passport
Japan has topped the list of the world’s most powerful passports. The Henley Passport Index is the original authoritative ranking of the planet’s travel documents and includes 199 passports and 227 destinations. Singapore and South Korea tied for second with hassle-free entry into 192 nations, followed by Germany and Spain in third. Australia ranked eighth, along with Canada, the Czech Republic, Greece and Malta. henleyglobal.com
