Ellen Attends the Orient Express “Barging Think Tank” in Charleston, South Carolina

I was thrilled to attend a brand new industry event,  the recent  “Think Tank” organized by Orient Express – a company well known for its top- of- the- line hotels, resorts, trains, and, yes, barges.  Among their fleet is the Fleur de Lys, France’s original Ultra-Deluxe barge (pictured below) and the Napoleon, another Ultra-Deluxe rated vessel and the only barge that cruises the length of the River Rhone in Provence.

Ultra-Deluxe Barge Fleur de Lys cruising the canals in Burgundy France.

Asked to this elite meeting of the minds were representatives from the top four barge booking companies worldwide.  Orient Express then brought to us virtually everyone in the company whose portfolio touches the barging product: From on-site operations in France, booking and sales in the U.S. and revenue management in the U.K.  Among this group were many old and dear friends, people with whom I have enjoyed working for decades.

The fabulous Charleston Place Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina

The U.S. offices of Orient Express are now based in Charleston, and of course, we stayed at their hotel there, Charleston Place (pictured above). Travelers to Charleston should think of checking in nowhere else!  Guests will stay in  the absolute top location in town on King Street, which is lined with elegant fashion, antiques and jewelry boutique; also within walking distance to all the top sights and neighborhoods.  We were lucky enough to stay on the Club Floors where the petite buffets laid out for breakfast, late afternoon tea and light dinner were amazing. Cuisine in the hotel restaurant, Charleston Grill, was original and delicious.

Our all day meeting touched on many topics. This is a company totally devoted to quality in every aspect and for 2011, there have been a number of major upgrades  - such as chauffeured transfers to several of the barges. Smaller, but no less important thoughtful touches to be implemented in 2011 include brand new custom-made VTC bicycles across the fleet, embroidered bedroom slippers, and a wider choice of excursions.  We were briefed by Rory and Caroline Macrae, who operate the barges in France, and who have done such a great job for our guests.

Ellen,(center) with Rory and Caroline Macrae of Orient Express

When not in serious meetings, we were eating, drinking, reminiscing  and laughing at lovely venues all over Charleston, including drinks on an elegant terrace where we watched the sun set. We in barging often refer to ourselves as a family and this feeling was alive and well in Charleston.