Dannette Hunnel
For many, the favorite method of travel while in Europe, the British Isles, the USA, or Canada is by train.
It is affordable, reliable, comfortable, and most generally on-time, with little chance for lost luggage. An excellent way to see the countryside, bodies of water, tiny towns, villages and beaches. Afraid you’ll get bored? Often other travelers will talk to you; but there’s also opportunity to read, write, color, paint, walk about, nap, use wi-fi, and have a snack or beverage. Most of the time you can go get your own drinks without waiting for the beverage cart. The plus side is the ability to walk around and the bathrooms are much larger than on an airplane, there’s no turbulence or elbow rubbing.
When at all possible, try to use first class. It’s not that much more in cost and it’s worth it. First class cars typically offer wider, plusher seats, more legroom with less cramped seating arrangements, power outlets at every seat, free wi-fi with complimentary snacks, drinks, or maybe even full meal service. There is often more luggage storage space in first class and compartments are designated as quiet zones, providing a calmer environment. On some routes, first-class tickets grant access to private lounges at the major stations.
Old train stations are beautiful and bring back memories of yesteryear; offering restaurants, shopping, even drugstores. Train stations are phenomenal for ‘people watching’ and assists in understanding the culture and fashion of the area you’re visiting. I see a lot of people with dogs in train stations. While I don’t travel with a dog myself, apparently there are pet friendly options.
Examples of First Class Services
* Deutsche Bahn (Germany): Offers more legroom, privacy, power sockets, and at-seat meal service.
* Eurostar (London-Paris/Amsterdam): Provides larger seats, a free meal and drinks, and access to exclusive lounges.
* Trenitalia (Italy): Offers more spacious seating, enhanced service, and sometimes complimentary drinks and snacks.
* Amtrak (USA): Offers 15 interesting routes. www.Amtrak.com.
* The Canadian Via Rail (Canada): Canada’s national rail service, runs an epic four-day trip across the top of the continent.
* Eurail (Europe) wonderful plans and service when visiting multiple countries, train schedules, amenities and cost.
How to Find and Identify First Class Cars When Ready for Boarding
* Train operator websites: Consult the websites of national railway companies (like Deutsche Bahn (DB) in Germany) or use sites like Trainline to identify first-class options for your route.
* Yellow stripes: Many European first-class cars feature a yellow stripe on the carriage.
* Departure boards and platform signs: Check the departure boards and platform signs for information on first-class car locations.
* Look for fewer seats: A common indicator is fewer seats per row compared to second class, such as three seats in a row rather than four.
Do your research or seek a knowledgeable travel agent.