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Hey LEGO enthusiasts and history buffs! Today, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news that’s bound to spark joy and nostalgia. The LEGO Group has just unveiled an extraordinary new set that’s a tribute to one of the world’s most luxurious and legendary forms of travel – the LEGO® Ideas The Orient Express Train. This isn’t just any train model; it’s a beautiful brick recreation of the Orient Express, fondly remembered as the ‘rolling palace’ and a symbol of opulent travel from a bygone era.
The Orient Express, for those who might not know, wasn’t just a train; it was an experience. From 1883 to 2009, this international luxury train whisked thousands of passengers across Europe to Istanbul, marking the start of an era of international travel and cross-cultural connections. Fast forward to 2023, and we’re celebrating the train’s 140th anniversary in the most LEGO way possible!
This new LEGO set is a nostalgic trip back to the Golden Age of travel, crafted with an impressive 2,540 pieces. It’s not just about the quantity of pieces but the sheer attention to detail that makes this set a masterpiece. The set features the main locomotive, tender, dining, and sleeping cars – each element reflecting the grandeur of the original Orient Express.
But what’s a LEGO set without some interactive elements, right? This set takes it a step further with removable roofs, allowing builders to access the detailed interiors – a dream for both collectors and builders. Imagine setting up the scene with 8 LEGO minifigures, including the conductor, chef, staff, and a variety of passengers, each representing the diverse clientele that the Orient Express was known for. And let’s not forget the decorations that highlight the destinations the train visited on its original route, adding an educational twist to your building experience.
The brains behind this magnificent set is none other than 27-year-old Thomas Lajon, a Paris-based LEGO enthusiast. His journey with this set is a story of passion and persistence. Thomas, who has been a lifelong fan of locomotives, sailing ships, and ocean liners, was encouraged by his girlfriend to reconnect with his love for LEGO. And what better way to do that than by recreating the Orient Express, a train that’s as much a part of French heritage as it is a global icon. His design, which began as a personal project, received overwhelming support from the LEGO community, with over 10,000 people voting to bring it to life.
Thomas shares his excitement, saying, “I have always been a great fan of locomotives, sailing ships and ocean liners. As a child, I collected everything related to them. Years later, my girlfriend encouraged me to get back in touch with LEGO bricks and knowing my love for trains, she encouraged me to make one. Obviously, I chose to make the Orient Express. A sumptuous French train, at the heart of many stories.”
So, when can you get your hands on this piece of history? LEGO Ideas The Orient Express Train will be available starting December 1st via LEGO Stores and their website. Priced at $299.99/€299.99/£259.99, it’s not just a set; it’s an investment in a piece of history and a testament to the timeless charm of the LEGO building experience.
As we gear up for the holiday season, this set could be the perfect gift for LEGO lovers or anyone fascinated by the romance of historical travel. So, let’s get ready to embark on a brick-built journey that revives the splendor of the Orient Express, one piece at a time! 🚂🧱✨
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