AMERICAN ORIENT EXPRESS COLLABORATES WITH SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS TO OFFER
SIX SPECIALTY ITINERARIES

AOE is North America's premier private train, providing deluxe rail vacations across the North American landscape. Noted for its exceptional service, fine dining and elegant furnishings 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 study leaders, and off-train tours and excursions that complement the theme of each carefully planned itinerary.

With over 30 years of planning experience, Smithsonian Journeys are custom-crafted by a creative staff and led by inspired Study Leaders who infuse each itinerary with one-of-a-kind special features made possible by Smithsonian's unparalleled network of resources.

The following rail journeys are being offered by AOE in conjunction with Smithsonian Journeys. Book 180 days prior to departure and receive a savings of $500 per person.

The Southwest and Mexico's Copper Canyon – (February 17 - 24 and February 14 - March 2, 2004) Geologist Wayne Ranney will guide passengers on a journey from Tucson, Arizona into Mexico's famous Copper Canyon and beyond. Learn about the ancient cultures of the Tarahumara Indians, visit Pancho Villa's home of Chihuahua, climb 8,000 feet in the Copper Canyon, and explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson. Prices range from $3,290 to $5,690.

Southern Culture & Music: New Orleans to Washington, DC – (March 30 – April 6, 2004) Traditional jazz melodies fill the air on this journey through America's Southern countryside. Historian Mary DeCredico will provide lectures on-board the train, while passengers also experience live jazz in New Orleans, Savannah, Charleston and Richmond. Prices range from $2,890 to $4,990.

Lewis and Clark's Epic Journey: Celebrating the Bicentennial (June 30 – July 7, 2004) Journey into the Great Northwest that Lewis and Clark first explored in 1803. In 1900, the Great Northern Railroad laid the rail lines that now take passengers along glacier fed rivers and snow-capped mountains once explored by foot, canoe and horseback. Now, passengers are given the opportunity to enjoy the comfort and style of traditional rail while experiencing this historical route. Prices range from $3,790 to $6,190.

British Columbia & the Rockies (August 4 - 10, 2004) Experience one of the world's classic rail journeys from Vancouver to Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff Observe majestic mountain peaks, glacial lakes and wildlife from the comfort of the dome car. Prices range from $3,190 to $5,290.

National Parks of the West (September 2 – 9, 2004) Study Leader Jim Garry guides passengers on a tour of some of America's most stunning national parks. Traveling from Salt Lake City to Albuquerque, guests will discover the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Teton and Zion National Parks. Garry will lead nature walks and share his knowledge of the natural and pioneer history of the area. Prices range from $3,490 to $5,890.

New England and Quebec (September 15 – 22, 2004) Enjoy the cosmopolitan cities of Montreal and Quebec before journeying along less-traveled routes through Vermont's mountain passes and river valleys to Saratoga and the Berkshire Mountains. Prices range from $3,790 to $6,190.

For additional information on AOE, please call 800-320-4206 or visit their website at www.AmericanOrientExpress.com. For information on, or to register with Smithsonian Journeys, call 1-877-EDU-TOUR, or visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org.

CLICK HERE for our reviews on AOE luxury train trips.