Aboard the Jean Paul Gaultier Orient Explorer.
Some journeys stay with you long after they end—and the Jean Paul Gaultier Orient Explorer is one of them. Seamlessly blending travel, fragrance, and fashion, it was an experience that captured the spirit of adventure in true Gaultier style.
Photo by Iulia Matei
Aboard the Jean Paul Gaultier Orient Explorer, where luxury travel meets the allure of the new Scandal Intense fragrance.
Our trip began in Singapore, where we checked into the elegant Capella Hotel. It was there that we reunited with Jovynn, whom we had previously travelled with to Tokyo for Jean Paul Gaultier. The atmosphere felt familiar yet exciting, as we gathered for her styling session with the Gaultier team. Racks of statement pieces were laid out for her to wear throughout the trip, each look reflecting the brand’s signature confidence. Later, she shot her first campaign around the hotel, holding the Divine Elixir fragrance—a fitting start to what would be an unforgettable few days.
That evening, we joined the rest of the group for cocktails before heading to Cassia for dinner. It was an intimate affair, bringing together creatives from Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia. Over a three-course meal, conversations flowed easily, setting a warm tone for what was to come.
The next day marked the true beginning of the Orient Explorer journey. After checking in from Capella, we made our way to Woodlands to board the Eastern & Oriental Express—transformed entirely by Jean Paul Gaultier for this exclusive experience. From the welcome mats to the menus, every detail carried the house’s signature touch.
Stepping into the train cabin for the first time felt like stepping back in time. The polished wood, brass fixtures and soft lighting created a sense of quiet grandeur. Waiting on the vanity was the new Scandal Intense fragrance, instantly recognisable with its sculptural legs in the air. The scent was rich and addictive—ylang-ylang petals wrapped in warm vanilla and cardamom, perfectly suited to the sensual glamour of the journey itself.
Photo by Iulia Matei
As the train departed Singapore, the world outside began to shift. The scenery changed from city skylines to stretches of lush greenery, punctuated by glimpses of quiet kampungs. Afternoon tea was served in the dining car, followed by a lively dinner that evening complete with live music. By night’s end, the train had turned into a moving celebration, with karaoke and laughter filling the corridors.
The following morning, we arrived at Taman Negara. I joined the Spirit of Taman Negara excursion, a conservation tour focused on the protection of the critically endangered Malayan tiger. Travelling by jeep into the rainforest, we were guided through one of the world’s oldest jungles by local experts. The treetop walk offered a breathtaking view of the forest, and conversations with conservationists shed light on the challenges of preserving Malaysia’s wildlife. Though we didn’t see any tigers, standing in their natural habitat felt remarkable—a reminder of how vital these efforts are.
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Returning to the train, we enjoyed lunch before going behind the scenes of Jovynn’s second shoot, this time centred on Scandal Intense. She brought the fragrance to life with her energy and presence, perfectly capturing its confident, magnetic essence. Amidst her shoot, we also got to catch-up with her for a short interview, watch it above.
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- Photos by Iulia Matei
That evening, the Gaultier spirit reached its peak. Guests arrived dressed in their best Jean Paul Gaultier pieces, ready for a night of dining and dancing. There was even a Gaultier-dressed Labubu making an appearance. Jovynn may have even taken over the decks for a minute or two, and the celebration continued well into the early hours as the train made its way back to Singapore.
For more information and to shop the new Scandal Intense, click here!
