Ballantine, most noted for his role as president of Abercrombie & Kent for 25 years, will be primarily responsible for strengthening Orient-Express� relationship with top US travel agents, tour operators and consortia.  He will work with the existing Orient-Express team to develop and grow the company�s marketing presence and initiatives in the Americas while, at the same time, strengthening the industry�s knowledge of the unique breadth and depth of the Orient-Express collection. Prior to joining Orient-Express, Ballantine used his extensive experience to merge Shackleton International, a UK company, with Frontiers Travels headquartered in Pennsylvania to create the largest elite fly fishing travel and lodge business in the world. 

�We are delighted to have someone of Alistair�s caliber and reputation join the Orient-Express family,� said David Williams, vice president - sales and marketing, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Inc.  � His global experience, combined with his knowledge of the US travel industry, is an ideal fit for us as we continue to grow the company�s portfolio and look to maximize our relationship with our travel partners,� added Williams. 

British born Ballantine is a graduate of Cambridge University in the United Kingdom and now lives in Connecticut.  He will split his time between the company�s offices in Providence, RI, and New York City. 

Orient-Express Hotels, Trains and Cruises (www.orient-express.com) is a hotel and leisure company providing luxury travel experiences for discerning travelers in areas of outstanding cultural, historic or recreational interest.  Founded in 1976 when the company acquired Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Orient-Express owns or has investments in 49 businesses: 38 highly individual hotels, three restaurants, six tourist trains and two river cruise operations, located in 22 countries worldwide. 

Orient-Express Hotels, Trains and Cruises www.orient-express.com