DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. (August 1, 2004) - One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the western hemisphere is yours to discover in 2005; and in a most unique manner too, aboard a vintage rail car refurbished to 21st century standards of comfort. Through American Orient Express (www.AmericanOrientExpress.com), travelers traverse through 83 tunnels, crossing 35 trestles and climbing 8,000 feet as they enter into the heart of the Sierra Madre Mountains amidst the untouched beauty of Mexico's Copper Canyon. A vast network of canyons and six rivers, this region (six times larger than our own Grand Canyon) is accessible only by rail, making American Orient Express' (AOE) "Copper Canyon & Colonial Mexico" tour of particular interest to passengers since its inception in January 2002.

Departing from Tucson, Ariz., the itinerary includes near-shore explorations by boat of the Sea of Cortez, a guided home and garden tour of Alamos' haciendas, cathedrals, Spanish mansions and old plaza, a geological discussion atop Balancing Rock Overlook in Divisadero, a demonstration by Copper's Canyon's local Tarahumara Indians of their traditional dance and feats of athleticism, visits to the Museum of the Revolution - once the home of Pancho Villa - and the Quinta Gameros Museum in Chihuahua, before returning stateside to El Paso, Texas.

These 7-day/6-night excursions into a region most will never experience begin in February 2005 with six select tour dates. Passengers are transported in deluxe comfort aboard the American Orient Express featuring fully refurbished rail cars. Tour prices begin at $3,590 per person (based on Vintage Pullman category) and include overnight accommodations, fine dining, daily tours and nightly entertainment. Those passengers booking early enjoy discount incentives of $500 for bookings 180 or more days prior or $300 for tours reserved 90-179 days prior to departure. If AOE sells the vacation date at a later time with further discounts, customers are guaranteed to be offered the better price.

Noted for its exceptional service, fine dining and period décor and appointments, AOE has brought a return to the unhurried and graceful Golden Age of rail travel. In addition to offering passengers a vintage rail experience, AOE programs include in-depth exploration of North America's natural and cultural treasures with insight from onboard lecturers/historians, and off-train tours and excursions, which complement the theme of each carefully planned itinerary.

In operation since 1995, AOE offers ten regional itineraries and four themed tours in 2005 throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada. In late 2002, the American Orient Express II - was added to increase travel options for passengers. For information and reservations call 800-320-4206, or book online - a new feature this year - on AOE's website at www.AmericanOrientExpress.com.