The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe, has unveiled its December journeys. This festive season, the distinct midnight-blue carriages will glide through Europe’s winter-scapes on one-night journeys to Florence, Paris, Venice and Vienna.

Belmond has announced the appointment of Marco Novella as managing director of Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice. He will take up the position from next week.

Set to begin his new role on March 22nd, Karl Bieberach will be responsible for the global expansion of a portfolio which spans hotels, trains, river barges and safaris.

Luxury retailer Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton has reached a deal to acquire Belmond, owners, part-owners or managers of 46 luxury hotel, restaurant, train and river cruise properties around the world.

Located within the island’s most prestigious French West Indies neighbourhood, overlooking Baie Longue’s mile-long white sands; the resort invites guests to indulge in elegant European cuisine, sip Champagne at sunset and explore the vibrant coastline’s designer boutiques and over 400 restaurants.

Full of Italian splendour blended with authentic Tuscan charm, the ‘Castello’ joins Belmond’s portfolio, which includes Belmond Villa San Michele in Florence, Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice, and Belmond Hotel Splendido in Portofino.