I took my first luxury train ride, and 6 things surprised me

When boarding the train, I didn't expect a steward to roll out a red carpet for my arrival. I'd never stepped onto a red carpet before, and the unexpected detail made me feel like a VIP as soon as my trip began.

I was even more surprised when the carpet was brought out every time passengers disembarked the train, including short stops where guests could get out to stretch their legs.

According to a train steward, the red carpet is meant to make passengers feel luxurious throughout their trip, and for me, it worked.

Typically, I'm a very casual dresser — especially on travel days. In the past, I've worn the comfiest clothes I own for overnight rides, from sweatpants to pajamas.

So I was admittedly a bit surprised — and nervous — when I got an email after booking detailing a dress code for communal cars, such as the dining and bar carriages.

During the day, the train required passengers to wear smart casual clothing. T-shirts, sneakers, shorts, and jeans were not allowed in communal spaces at any time.

At night, guests were encouraged to dress in formal attire. I went with a suit, as did many other guests. I also spotted sparkling evening gowns and even a tuxedo after the sun went down.

I was expecting the dress code to feel like a drag compared to the athleisure I'm used to wearing on trains, but instead, I found that the rules made the trip feel more like a special night. And wearing my finest articles of clothing made me feel more like a VIP.

On board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, I only had to tell the stewards my name once. After that, they all referred to me as "Joey" or "Ms. Hadden" each time we crossed paths.

Like the red carpet, I hadn't experienced this level of service on a train before, and it made me feel like an important and valued passenger.

I'd traveled in private sleeper cabins before taking the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, and those accommodations typically appeared to be designed strictly for function, with plain walls and a lack of decor.

So, I was surprised by just how visually stimulating my cabin was. The 36-square-foot space had a couch, bed, vanity, wash basin, and an overall vintage feel with glossy wooden walls and old-fashioned furniture.

Each time I returned to my cabin, I noticed more details, like geometric wall patterns and a window that opened halfway for a clear view of the passing scenery — another thing I hadn't experienced on an overnight train before.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express had three dining cars, all of which served the same menu during each meal. I expected higher quality food than I've had on trains in the past, but considering the limited space on trains, I thought I'd have fewer protein and vegetable options during my ride.

I was blown away over the course of 30 hours as I ate lobster tail, caviar, scallops, and chicken — all with unique side pairings, like sweet potato gnocchi and mashed potatoes.

The train manager, Pascal Deyrolle, told Business Insider that the train picks up local ingredients before each ride, making the food both fresh and eclectic.

Before the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, I was always happy to disembark overnight train rides to relieve cramping from tight spaces and get on with my trip in my next destination.

But after the most luxurious train ride of my life, I was surprised to find I longed for more time on the train. I could have spent another night in my stunning cabin to taste more outstanding meals and feel pampered and important for a little longer.