When the Orient Express sets out September 5 on its annual five-day trip, taking in Istanbul, Bucharest, Budapest and Venice, the 70 travelers who have shelled out 3,575 sterling ($5,484) each for a double room will find an extra treat awaiting them: a silver pouch containing three full-size products from La Prairie's skincare range.

Over the last three years, the Swiss beauty brand -- famous for its pricey, caviar-laced creams -- has initiated a program called "The Art of Beauty," selectively distributing its products in collaboration with stringently chosen partners.

After providing miniatures and sample products for first class passengers on Swissair and Cathay Pacific flights, as well as guests at Marbella's Byblos Andaluz hotel, La Prairie Vice President Nadia Miller approached Orient Express about a possible association.

A spokesperson for La Prairie says the three products purchased by Orient Express -- an intensive cellular moisturizer, a refreshing spray/toner and a hand cream -- were selected because of their universal appeal: "There are lots of couples on board."

The offerings will certainly be an about-turn for Orient Express travelers, as regulars used to quaffing champagne with blinis and caviar will now be putting the stuff on their skin.