Rail Europe

Immerse into European culture with Rail Europe and Zuza!

Rail Europe, the world leader in European Rail distribution, partnered with Zuza, a culture, lifestyle and fashion Israeli magazine, for a one-of-a-kind-project: discovering Europe and Europeans through train travel. The result is a fascinating photo exhibition, showcased on www.zuza.co.il.

“The idea of this project” explains Yuri Digilov editor of Zuza magazine, “is to show train travel not only as the most comfortable way of transportation within Europe but also as a way of interpersonal communication. Photographers have worked on expressing some of the emotions experienced while travelling by train, either for personal or business reasons”.

The journey started in June and lasted 2 weeks. During these 2 weeks, Zuza correspondents travelled by train between 15 cities, from London to Madrid passing through Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Praha, Wien and Milan to name but a few. They took photos of people they met in and around trains, thus expressing their perception of train travel through their non European eyes.

Their work is now accessible on a dedicated website, www.zuza.co.il, available in English, Hebrew and Russian. The photo exhibition starts with London on the 1st of August, photos of other cities being revealed every two days until the 29th of August, with Madrid pictures. An amateur photo contest will even be proposed at the end of this unusual tour, with a train trip around Europe for 2 for the winner!

This project was a great opportunity for Rail Europe to complement their trade initiatives in a beautiful, artistic way. “Train being one of the favourite means of transportation in Europe, there is no better place than train stations to dress a picture of the European society" said Xavier Theret, Sales Director for Rail Europe, "and we are very glad that a magazine such as Zuza decided to take train travel as the subject of their work."

Zuza benefited from Rail Europe expertise and professionalism for train travel arrangements, like all Rail Europe travellers. Present in more than 45 countries through both General Sales Agents and direct websites, Rail Europe is committed to help non European travellers to get the best out of their train trip in Europe.

To learn more about Rail Europe, its products and distribution network, or to purchase a rail pass/ticket, contact your Rail Europe travel agent or log on to your local Rail Europe website. Contacts to be found on http://www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

Travelling with a France Rail Pass has never been so easy…

Rail Europe is delighted to announce the launch of a new product, specifically tailored for non-European travelers, which will make travel in France even easier: the France Rail Pass "Easy Access" Passholder fare. This new kind of reservation is available as of today for France Rail Pass Holders.
As a reminder, the France Rail Pass is the best rail pass to travel in France. Holders of this pass can enjoy unlimited travel on the 31 000 km of the French Rail network aboard some of the most modern and comfortable trains in the world, including the famous TGV (the French high speed train, running at up to 320 km/h) as well as scenic and regional trains.

France Rail Pass offers great value for money and comes in different validities, to match everyone's need. As reservation is compulsory in France on most trains, travelers just need to purchase in complement to their pass, the reservation corresponding to the train they want to board, as much in advance as possible in order to ensure availability.

That’s where the “Easy Access” Passholder fare is so interesting: not only because it only costs 12€, but above all, unlike a regular Passholder Fare, it is not subject to availability… In other words, France Rail Pass holders always have the possibility to book a reservation on a train, even 1 hour before train departure (provided there are still seats available on the train!).  This fare is a France Rail Pass exclusive only offer.

This new benefit adds to the impressive list of special prices and bonuses already offered by premium partners, and makes the France Rail Pass the best companion to discover France. Visit the France Rail Pass official website www.francerailpass.com to build your perfect itinerary thanks to relevant tips and original suggestions.

The France Rail Pass Easy Access Passholder fare is only sold by Rail Europe accredited agents and direct websites, and in France by SNCF ticket desks.
Rail Europe is the world's largest distribution network of European Railways' products and the official distributor of the France Rail Pass. Through its distribution network and websites, Rail Europe allows travellers from all over the world to easily, smoothly and securely book all their rail journeys in Europe
For more information about the France Rail Pass, to purchase your Pass and book your seat on French trains, please contact your Rail Europe travel agent. Contact details to be found on www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

Rail Europe introduces “Rail Racer”, an addictive worldwide interactive game

Rail Europe, the leader of European rail passes and tickets distribution worldwide celebrates its web expansion with a unique online game. Rail Racer aims at making European Rail travel more visible for overseas travelers, and to incite them to play and compete with other web surfers from many countries such as Australia, Japan, Brazil to quote but a few. Winners can win up to 1 month of free travel in Europe (transport by rail + hotel)!

Very recreational and interactive, this game has been launched on the 5th May. As easy as 1-2-3, players just have to direct a train through picturesque landscapes and avoid funny obstacles to reach its destination. The more smoothly you drive, the more points you collect and the more chances you get to win the 1st prize. On the 31st of December 2009, a lucky draw will designate, amongst the best drivers, the happy winner of one month of unlimited travel in Europe for 2 people. The first prize includes unlimited train travel in 1st class as well as accommodations in 3-star Accor hotels.

Want to see more? Just log on to raileurope-worldgame.com to enjoy the thrill of this unique train driver experience!

Available in 4 languages -English, Japanese, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese- Rail Europe's Rail Racer is a world premiere. Not only because people all across the globe will be able to play the same game, at the same time and in different countries and languages, but also because of its conception: numerous preferred partners have indeed been associated to make Rail Europe's Rail Racer a reality, such as TGV, the French world famous high speed train, the Burgundy Region and Accor Hospitality, the world class hotel group.

Rail Europe wanted to work with another leading company to build its game and chose 1000mercis, a France-based agency, renowned as a pioneer in interactive advertising and marketing, with an unmatched expertise in recruiting and increasing the customers’ loyalty. Yseulys Costes, CEO and cofounder of 1000mercis Group said: “For 1000mercis, this campaign represents a new challenge: to create and launch an effective worldwide game. The game enabled us to apply our models of interactive advertising and marketing to other cultures and different populations, in order to understand and analyze the differences and eventually increase our operations performances”.

“This worldwide operation will be instrumental in further developing Rail Europe's already strong presence on the web. It is the opportunity to create buzz around our company, our products and our partners and represents a major stake in the implementation of our CRM strategy” said Pierre-Stéphane Austi, Rail Europe's CEO.

So don't wait anymore, and go to www.raileurope-worldgame.com to get a chance to win one month of unlimited travel in Europe for 2 people, with Rail Europe's Rail Racer.

To learn more about Rail Europe, its products and its distribution network, click on www.raileurope.fr

Rail Europe is the worldwide leader in European rail distribution, and the primary distributor of TGV. Through its distribution network and websites, Rail Europe allows travellers from all over the world to easily, smoothly and securely book all their rail journeys in Europe.

Rail Europe announces a premiere in youth travel: Book a Eurail Select Pass 8 days and get 2 extra days for free with the ISIC Card!!!

Eurail and ISIC have engaged a strategic partnership where special offers on Eurail Passes will be offered to ISIC card holders. ISIC stands for International Student Identity Card, and is one of the most popular student cards in the world. These passes will be available through Rail Europe, the worldwide leader in European Rail passes and tickets and a main distributor of Eurail.
The special offer consists in 2 free days of travel on the Eurail Select Pass Youth -which already offers great value for money- when buying a "8 days within 2 months" pass. It is only offered to ISIC card holders and for sale between 1st June and 31st July. In other words, people under 26 can travel in 2nd class for 10 days during a 2-months period in any 3 bordering European countries for as low as 275*€!
The promotion is part of a complete animation program planned around Eurail's 50th anniversary, celebrating 50 years of successful European Rail Travel. Who would have thought that in 1959, when the European Railways combined their forces for the first time ever and introduced the Eurail Pass, that it would become such a success? It became “ritual of passage” for generations of international travelers, keen to explore the European continent with maximum freedom and flexibility.
50 years after its creation, the Eurail pass range has greatly expanded to offer a pass suited to any need. From the Eurail Global Pass, offering unlimited travel in 21 countries to the Select, Regional and National passes, covering between 1 and 5 countries, all passes offer ultimate liberty and great value for money!
All Eurail passes are sold by Rail Europe websites and travel agents' network, where customers will also find all necessary advice and complementary products to plan their trip to Europe, such as "city-to-city tickets", other rail passes and reservations (for panoramic trains in Switzerland or onboard the famous European high speed and night trains such as TGV, Eurostar, Lyria, Thalys, City Night Line, Elipsos, and many others).
In a nutshell… there is no better timing than this summer to discover the marvellous Europe by rail with a Eurail Select Pass from Rail Europe. Enjoy, Europe is your oyster!

Rail Europe is the World leader in European rail distribution. For more information about Eurail passes, travel in Europe, or to purchase your Eurail Select Pass, consult your Rail Europe travel agent. List to be found on www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Travel like it’s meant to be between London, Paris and Brussels

In such an economic environment, it is nice to know that Rail Europe and Eurostar are committed to always make train travel between UK and the continent more affordable… Indeed, following the success of the Eurostar Promotion in the beginning of the year, Rail Europe and Eurostar launch a new promotion this summer, the "Eurostar Summer Promotion".
Travel in style between the 3 most vibrant European capitals, and save money at the same time! Between the 3rd of June and the 27th of July, for travel between June 10th and August 31st, the "Leisure Select promotion" costs only 83€ for a one-way trip or 128€ for a return (subject to availability).
Leisure Select is the name of the 1st class accommodation for leisure travelers, offering style, quality and value, with a seat service designed to maximize the enjoyment of the journey: Champagne welcome drink, choice of meal, power plugs, large, reclinable seat, and more. On-board imagery even feature pictures of cultural hotspots - particularly cafes, bars and restaurants - in London, Paris and Brussels that have been selected as offering great value for money!
Whether it is to enjoy the thrill of a 20 minutes ride under the Channel, to make the most of the British pound at its lowest (ie get great deals in hotels and restaurants as well as opportunity to snap up bargains in the shops), or to treat yourself with the high level of comfort of the Eurostar's Leisure Select class at a great price, there are plenty of reasons to benefit from this promotion from Eurostar and Rail Europe!

Eurostar is the high-speed rail link between UK and the continent. This state-of-the-art train joins London and Paris in only 2h15 and London and Brussels in 1h50.
Rail Europe is the worldwide leader in European rail distribution, and a major distributor of Eurostar. Through its distribution network and websites, Rail Europe allows travellers from all over the world to easily, smoothly and securely book all their rail journeys in Europe.
For more information or to purchase your Eurostar ticket, please consult your Rail Europe travel agent. Contact details can be found on www.raileurope.fr

Don’t miss the Thalys Summer promotion and get a cultural boost!

Rail Europe announced that, for the 3rd consecutive year, they will offer the now famous "Thalys Summer Promo", which translates into great prices to travel between Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Cologne on board Thalys, the state-of-the-art high speed train.
The promotion consists in significant discounts (up to 55% discount on the full fare in 2nd class and 50% in 1st class) for journeys between 10th June and 29th August, when booking between 27th May and 15th August. Prices start as low as 23€ for Brussels-Amsterdam, 38,5€ for Paris-Brussels and 49,5€ for Paris-Amsterdam!
This promotion is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the intense cultural calendar this summer in Europe… Among others, the inauguration of the Magritte Museum in Brussels on the 2nd of June is not to be missed! It will be the World’s largest museum devoted to the work of René Magritte, the famous Belgian 20th-century painter and eminent member of the surrealist movement.
Thanks to their Thalys ticket, travelers will also be entitled to exclusive advantages and discounts in other museums/exhibitions, such as
• free and immediate entry (no-queue) to the “Filippo and Filippino Lippi. The Renaissance in Prato” exhibition at the Musée du Luxembourg (Paris)
• reduced admission fare at the Musée Maillol in Paris, for the Condo exhibition
• reduced admission fare at the comprehensive Modigliani exhibition in Bonn and 5% discount in the museum bookshop
• and more…

So do not wait anymore and book your ride on one of the most modern train in Europe. Thalys offers not only safe, high speed, city centre to city centre travel between Europe's capital cities, but great service, comfortable seats and even high speed internet on-board (for free in 1st class)!
This promotion is only available through Rail Europe, the world's largest distribution network of European Railways' products.
For more information about this promotion or to purchase your Thalys ticket, consult your Rail Europe travel agent. List to be found on www.raileurope.fr

Rail Europe presents the new Eurostar’s interior designer, Pininfarina

Eurostar, the high-speed rail passenger service that links London to Paris and Brussels announced that they have awarded the design contract for the interior refurbishment of its fleet to the Italian design consultancy Pininfarina. Rail Europe, Eurostar's primary distributor on non-European markets, welcomes this news which will contribute to making travel by train even more comfortable and popular.
Eurostar is already the #1 transportation mode between London and Paris/Brussels. Their goal with this refurbishment is to anticipate the 21st century travelers' expectations and to offer the highest standards in comfort, style and innovation. Pininfarina's design will focus on a great travel experience, thus mixing their style and outstanding functionality with a clear vision of future train travel.
Pininfarina is a world-class design house that is best known for its work in the car industry (with prestige brands such as Ferrari and Maserati) but has also extensive experience in the rail industry, having designed the interiors and exteriors of Italy’s high-speed trains, rolling stock for Swiss, Danish and Norwegian Railways, automated light rail cars in Lille (France) and trams for cities in Italy, Greece, Sweden and Turkey
The first renovated Eurostar trains (out of the 28 in the fleet) are due in service in 2012. This refurbishment follows that of numerous high speed trains in Europe: TGVs in France in 2007 (new design by French designer Christian Lacroix), Italian high speed trains in 2008 (by Pininfarina) as well as Thalys, between France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany, in 2009 (new interiors by Ethoven Associates Design Consultants & Première Design Graphique).
"We're thrilled about this great news, says Laurent Bijaoui, Marketing Director for Rail Europe. As the worldwide leading distributors of European rail products, we are happy have the European railways for partners -and Eurostar in particular - as such initiatives clearly illustrate their sincere and entire commitment to making our customers journeys a safe, comfortable and memorable European experience".

For more information about Eurostar, to purchase your Rail Pass or ticket, please consult your Rail Europe travel agent. Contact details to be found on www.raileurope.fr.

Rail Europe introduces Thalys’ new wardrobe…

The end of 2008 is full of good tidings for Thalys, the famous red train distributed by Rail Europe.  Thalys, which links Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Cologne at high speed, is getting a makeover. Many improvements of this “new Thalys" will be unveiled before the end of the year ensuring an even higher level of comfort on-board. 

In addition, with the opening of the high speed lines to Cologne and Amsterdam in mid 2009, Thalys plans to offer new services while bringing these 2 destinations closer than ever to Brussels and Paris (1h46 Brussels/Cologne, 1h47 Brussels/Amsterdam, 3h13 Paris/Cologne, 3h14 Paris/Amsterdam).

Thalys already offers a great travel experience to its customers - comfort, multilingual staff, and conscientious service. Thanks to a satellite broadband wireless connection, Thalys is also one of the few train operators in the world capable of offering Wi-Fi onboard so travellers can surf on the Web while travelling at 300 km/h (cf. Rail Europe's Press Release #13)!!!

In the coming months, Thalys will introduce more of its plans for renovation and expansion, further reinforcing its leadership among train operating companies. Its ambitious internal carriage renovation programme as well as its onboard services underscore Thalys’ commitment to deliver more to its travellers, thus making a Thalys journey a truly unforgettable experience.

Thalys’ latest renovation plans begin in December 2008, with train managers and attendants sporting new uniforms designed by German designer Eva Gronbach. Her elegant and sophisticated collection reflects the modernity and dynamism of the new Thalys.

Simultaneously, the first Thalys train featuring a new design and colour palette will be readied to greet passengers by the end of 2008… Created by a consortium of Belgian and French designers, the new interiors will combine modern comfort with quality service while promoting the multicultural identity of Thalys. A new seat design will offer more leg room without reducing the number of passengers, and train sets will offer more storage space, individual lights and individual electric power outlets in first class…

Train exteriors are not left behind and will receive a new red coat, underlined by a chrome line running along the train’s length. Thalys trains will continue to be easily identifiable in the stations as well as stand out as they zoom through the Northern European landscape!

More than ever, Thalys offers the best solution in comfort, service and security when travelling between France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany at high speed.

Rail Europe is the worldwide leader in European rail distribution, and a major distributor of Thalys. For more information or to purchase your Thalys ticket, please consult your Rail Europe travel agent. Contact details can be found on www.raileurope.fr

The famous France Railpass is getting a makeover

Thanks to an expanded “bonus program” and a new information website, the France Railpass, already the best way to travel in France, is now better than ever!

Offering unlimited travel on the French national rail network, the France Railpass enables travellers to go virtually anywhere.  Travel on this special pass includes some of the most comfortable trains in the world such as the TGV, the French high speed train, as well as scenic and regional trains. The France Railpass is also available in a variety of durations (validities from 3 up to 10 days of travel) and formulas (child, youth, senior and "saver" for 2 persons or more), to match anyone’s travel needs. Simply put, the France Railpass is the perfect travel mate to explore France’s nooks and crannies!

To make the most of one's trip in France, the France Railpass always has offered special prices and bonuses from handpicked partners. The good news is that these benefits are now even more numerous than before! From restaurants to hotels, spas, museums, outdoor activities etc., anyone can find a treat that will make them feel special while travelling in France!

To know more about the France Railpass, travellers can go to www.francerailpass.com, the new France Railpass's show window. Full of travel tips and ideas, this site has been designed to help travellers plan their trip in France with relevant and practical information. The thematic itineraries are a great tool, helping plan one's itinerary according to particular interests: "Heritage", "Family", "Young Rider", "Gastronomy & Wine", "Well Being" and "Urban Clubber". Everyone can find something of interest here!

Rail Europe is the exclusive distributor of the France Railpass. For more information about travel in France or to purchase a France Railpass, please contact one of Rail Europe's travel agents. Contacts can be found on www.raileurope.fr.

Rail Europe, a company at the forefront of online rail distribution

Rail Europe is the worldwide leader in European Rail distribution. Thanks to its vast and rich network of General Sales Agents and Travel Agents, its representative offices all over the world and Euronet, its proprietary distribution system, Rail Europe already offers an unmatched international presence and professionalism in the "brick and mortar" world.

In December 2006, with the launch of its first consumer website (B2C) in Australia, Rail Europe branched into the on-line world and, for the past 2 years, Rail Europe has been rapidly growing its on-line presence. “Being active on the web is a very logical step in Rail Europe’s development. This powerful distribution channel becomes a must and its potential seems endless. Our first sites are already a big success, with increasing visitors and sales every month. In Australia, Internet already represents 12% of the distribution mix!” says Pierre-Stephane Austi, CEO of Rail Europe. 

After Rail Europe’s Australian public website, other public sites, launched under the same concept, have quickly followed in Japan, South Africa, India and 9 South American countries. Since summer 2008, 3 additional consumer sites were launched in Singapore, Hong Kong and Israel.  Today, Rail Europe proudly announces its latest site in Brazil: www.raileurope.com.br

Rail Europe continues to expand its public websites, but is also committed to serving more travel trade professionals with travel trade sites (B2B) such as its site in India. Other B2B websites are being planned for fall 2008 and, by the end of 2009, no fewer than 40 websites, both B2C and B2B, will be up and running!

Rail Europe’s websites offer all intuitive navigation, rich content, the largest range of products with real time availability, and a simple booking process. In addition, with all transactions managed locally (local language, local currency, local service), Rail Europe guarantees the web shopper a hassle-free booking experience. Ticket delivery is assured in the next 24 working hours and local support is available – both examples of Rail Europe’s added value in the online world.

In a nutshell, these web sites offer all travellers, wherever they are, whatever they need, to enjoy planning, booking and travelling by train in Europe with Rail Europe!

For the complete list of Rail Europe’s public websites, please consult www.raileurope.fr

Looking for a glamourous-exciting-cultural-beautiful holiday destination? Enjoy Europe with Rail Europe… at great prices!

Europe has so much to offer… Wherever you go, you'll always find new, exciting things to discover and cultures to get to know.
And this fall, with the special promotions put together by Rail Europe, Europe will be your Oyster!

Travel in total freedom and comfort in the UK, when you want and where you want, with BritRail's Low Season promotion. The promotion is available right now for travel as of November 1st, 2008 and entitles you to a 20% discount off the regular price of the BritRail pass. Prices start from 207 USD.

You can also discover Europe in depth thanks to the legendary Eurail Global Pass. This railpass, one of the most famous ones in the world, offers unlimited rail travel in not less than 20 European countries, from France to Italy, Switzerland, Spain or Germany! And if you book between the 1st of October and the 30th of November 2008, your one month pass will be at the price of the 21 days!!! You could also go for the 21days pass, for the price of the 15 days. Prices start at 503€.

During the same period, Rail Europe proposes also a special price on another Eurail pass: the Eurail Select Pass. Select the 3 countries you'd like to travel in, choose your comfort… and get 2 free days of travel (on the top of your 6 and 8 days Select Pass). It is as easy as that! Prices start at 352€.

So, don't miss out these golden opportunities to make the most of your next holidays… Buy your passes at great prices with Rail Europe and just relax, travel in style, comfortably ensconced in your seat, and make the most of your travel time!

Don't hesitate to ask more details about these special promotions or about Rail Europe's rail passes and tickets to your local travel agent. Contact details are available on www.raileurope.fr

With Internet on board, make your Thalys journey an unforgettable experience!

Rail Europe is glad to announce that Thalys, the high speed train between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany proposes broadband Internet access on board.
WIFI is today available when travelling at 300 km/h on a few trains but will be extended to all Thalys trains before the end of 2008.
The system consists in a tracking antenna on the roof of the train that ensures Internet connection by bi-directional satellite link. In covered areas as tunnels, the satellite link is cut off but the Internet connection is maintained by switching to land relays (networks such as GPRS, UMTS, GSM, …).

The ThalysNet portal (only accessible on board trains equipped with WIFI) enables travellers to benefit, free of charge, from differerent services such as the position of the train in real time, access to the latest headlines, etc.

The ThalysNet portal and Internet are free of charge during the whole journey in 1st class as well as the traditional meal served at the seat, complimentary newspapers, etc.
In 2nd class, access to the ThalysNet portal is free of charge but there’s a charge for Internet access.
Two options are available:
- Unlimited surfing for 13 €
- “60 minutes” surfing for 6,5 €
Two means of payment are offered to travellers:
- By credit card (Visa, American Express, Mastercard) directly on the ThalysNet website
- By purchasing a pre-paid card on sale only at  the Thalys Bar

For more information about Thalys or to purchase your ticket, please consult your Rail Europe travel agent. Contact details to be found on www.raileurope.fr

Rail Europe drives you to the International Exhibition of Zaragoza.

Spain hosts this year the International Exhibition in Zaragoza until September 14th. Held every 5 years, the International exhibition is aimed to present to the public the Human activities’ realized or planned improvements.

2 000 experts and 140 pavilions welcome you around the theme of “Water and Sustainable Development”. Exhibitions, conferences and 5 000 spectacles are scheduled during the whole summer, making this exhibition a must for all. Already many visitors are expected to experience what is going to be the biggest water festival on earth.

Zaragoza has, besides the International exhibition, a lot to offer… Take the time to discover the capital of Aragon and its rich history. During more than 2 000 years , cultures such as the Roman, the Christian, the Arabic, the Jewish or Mozarabic have cohabited, leaving great remnants. Do not miss the square of el Pilar, with the Gothic Cathedral of La Seo and the Basilica del Pilar, one of the main places of worship to Virgin Mary of the Christianity, with frescoes by Francisco de Goya. Or the Arab palace of the Aljaferia, current headquarters of Aragon's Parliament, which is one of the best exponents of the Muslim art outside Andalusia…

Zaragoza can be very easily reached by train. It takes only 1h20 from Madrid and 1h35 from Barcelona by AVE, the Spanish high speed train. And while in Europe, why not heading to Zaragoza thanks to the Hotel Train Elipsos? It runs everyday from Paris to Madrid and Barcelona and there are also regular departures from Zurich and Milan. Save one hotel night, travel in style, and arrive in Spain fresh and ready to explore!

For more information about Elipsos and Spanish trains, to purchase a pass or a ticket, contact your Rail Europe travel agent. All contact details are on www.raileurope.fr

Two more amazing promotions with Rail Europe!

Rail Europe, thanks to its great cooperation with Britrail and Thalys (the high speed train between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany), offers this spring two more great promotions, to enable travelers to enjoy even more their stay in Europe.

Britrail “Free Day” promotion
Get a free day for the purchase of a Britrail Pass before June, 30th 2008 and benefit from this extra day to discover (or re-discover) Liverpool, the versatile 2008’s European Capital of Culture.
From the captivating Merseyside Maritime Museum, to the World famous Albert Dock, renovated in the 1980’s, and the largest cathedral of the UK, Liverpool as plenty to offer.

Thalys Summer promotion
Following last year’s success, Rail Europe and Thalys decided to offer this year again the Thalys Summer promotion on all Thalys international routes between France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany.
Book your ticket before September, 17th 2008, travel before September, 30th 2008 and get a 50% discount on the regular fares in 1st or 2nd class.
In the same day, you can visit the Aachen cathedral founded by Charlemagne, king of the Franks and in a certain way, founder of the modern Europe, and ride a bike among the windmills in Amsterdam surroundings. Or stroll in the charming city centre of Gent and discover the beautiful Art Deco buildings in Brussels… With Thalys, France, Benelux and Germany are your oyster… at high speed!

For more information about these products, to purchase your Britrail Pass or Thalys ticket, consult your Rail Europe travel agent. List to be found on www.raileurope.fr.

Travel in style with Eurostar

Looking for travel between London, Paris and Brussels?
Take the golden opportunity to treat yourself to the high level of comfort of the Eurostar Leisure Select class with the exceptional Eurostar Summer promotion.
Book you ticket from May, 15th to July, 15th and travel from July, 1st to August, 31st 2008 in Leisure Select class, for only 83€* for a one way trip or 128€* for a return.

The Leisure Select class is the ultimate in onboard indulgence, with a three-course meal, roomy seats and attentive service, offering the perfect start to your city break.

Explore the three most vibrant Europe capitals, experience the state-of-the-art Eurostar train, join London and Paris in only 2h15 or London and Brussels in 1h50 and enjoy the thrill of a 20 minutes ride under the Channel.

* Fares valid to any itinerary, non exchangeable, non refundable and subject to availability

Discover the Mont Saint Michel, « Wonder of the western world », with Rail Europe

Rail Europe and SNCF (French National Railways) celebrate their way the 13th centenary anniversary of the Mont Saint Michel by offering easier booking and shorter journeys to this outstanding monument classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. The trip to the
Mont Saint Michel consists in a TGV trip between Paris and Rennes and a bus section between Rennes and the Mont Saint Michel. When booking with Rail Europe, travellers arrive at the feet of this impressive landmark after a fast, comfortable and scenic trip. And as of July, 5th, the journey time is reduced to 3h30 from Paris!

During its long history, the Mont Saint Michel has been renowned both for its spiritual and religious significance as well as its historical and architectural interest. With more than 3 million visitors each year, the Mont Saint Michel is one of the 3 most visited places in France. The abbey and its surroundings will be alive with cultural events to celebrate its foundation, including exhibitions, concerts and pilgrimages throughout 2008 and 2009. So don’t miss this commemoration while in Europe and jump at the chance of the Paris – Mont Saint Michel connection.

Be sure to get your ticket during this busy period by booking it now through the wide Rail Europe network. List of Rail Europe’s travel agents in your country is to be found on www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Rail Europe achieves record results in 2007

Rail Europe published their 2007 results, and it appeared to be another excellent year... Numbers speak for themselves: with sales of 120 millions € up by 14% vs 2006, Rail Europe realized its best year ever. In other terms, more than 1,4 million travellers experienced Rail Europe’s services and expertise!!!

“We are very proud of these excellent results which reinforce Rail Europe’s position as the leader of European Rail distribution worldwide” says Pierre-Stéphane Austi, CEO of Rail Europe. “2007 was a strategic year for us, we implemented a lot of new, technical innovations and the numerous improvements of the European Rail network as well as the emergence of rail as an eco-friendly option of travel created a lot of interest for our products. The commitment of our teams and partners worldwide was of course instrumental in transforming these elements into success”.

2007 was indeed an intense year for Rail Europe with, to quote but a few
• Web services implementation in Korea, Australia, Japan, India, Brazil, China, Taiwan and many other markets, enabling now more than 18 000 additional travel agents to access Euronet, Rail Europe’s unique online reservation system, with direct connection to the European rail carrier’s inventories
• Rail Europe's further geographic expansion, with the accreditation of 20 new General Sales Agents, on traditional as well as on new territories. Rail Europe is now present in 46 countries
• The launch on 2 new consumer web sites in Japan (www.raileurope.jp, in Japanese) and in South Africa (www.raileurope.co.za), which follow the successful launch of Rail Europe’s consumer website in Australia, www.raileurope.com.au, in 2006. These sites are a prelude to several new ones, planned in 2008, for India, South America, Israel and South East Asia.
• The opening of Rail Europe’s Australian representative office in Sydney, in December 2007. With this opening, Rail Europe has now its ownoffices in its 5 biggest markets (Japan, South Korea, India, South America and Australia), with industry professionals, able to both animate the market and the distribution network, with a local touch.

The launch of the French High Speed Line in the East of France ("TGV East") on 10th June, the Rugby World Cup in France, the opening of the first High Speed Line in the UK ("HS1") and Eurostar’s move from Waterloo International to the beautiful St Pancras International station were emblematic European happenings in 2007 reminding, if need be, that train travel is definitely the best way to travel in Europe!

To learn more about Rail Europe, its products and its distribution network, click on www.raileurope.fr

The new high speed line between Madrid and Barcelona opens tomorrow, the 20th of February: book your tickets with Rail Europe!

Rail Europe, the World leading distributor of European rail is delighted to announce that the high speed line between Madrid and Barcelona will finally open on February, 20th!

The two vibrant capitals, Madrid and Barcelona, are now connected with 17 daily services, in 2h38 instead of 3h55 today. Thanks to this new line, it will also take only 1h51 to go from Saragossa to Barcelona (39 minutes saved) and 1h03 from Lerida to Barcelona (27 minutes saved).

Enjoy this new European High Speed experience in total comfort, aboard the AVE trains, some of the most technically advanced trains of the Spanish Railways… and in the world!

Between Madrid and Barcelona, you will enjoy at high speed (300 km/h – 186 mph) the high quality services usually proposed onboard AVE trains such as individual sockets, reclining seats, movie screenings, etc. And if you travel in “Club” or “Preferente” class, you’ll even benefit from a new catering offer at your seat.

Just contact your Rail Europe travel agent to book your rail trip in Spain or just to get more information about Spanish trains and destinations.
Contact details to be found on www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Rail Europe Thalys Winter promo

Rail Europe, the world leader in European Rail Distribution, is glad to announce the launch of the Thalys Winter Promo.

Enjoy a journey on the “red train” with a 50% discount on the regular price!!! Purchase your ticket before March 2nd and travel between January 30th and March 22nd to get this unique fare either in 1st or 2nd class, on all Thalys routes, between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany! Travel from Paris to Brussels for only 41€ or to Cologne for 45,50€*.

Winter is the perfect season to discover this part of Europe, as it gives to these northern cities a very particular atmosphere with less tourists and still many cultural events. But above all, this season is the one of the unescapable sales and the highly romantic Valentines day on February 14th. So make the most of this great offer and shop ‘til you drop in Amsterdam’s trendy shops or experience the amazing Sablon Antiques Market in Brussels! Shouldn’t you be interested in the bargain’s hunting, just stroll hand in hand with your lover along the canals of the “Venice of the North”, Brugge, or run to the World Diamond Centre in Antwerp, to get your engagement ring or celebrate your wedding anniversary!

This promotion is available only through Rail Europe’s agents. Complete list available on www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

* Fare valid for a one way ticket in 2nd class.

Rail Europe launches into new era And Opens an Australasian Office in Sydney

Rail Europe, the worldwide leader in Rail distribution, has appointed over the last 12 years more than 110 Sales Agents throughout the world, selling its products in nearly 50 countries. The Rail Europe distribution partners in Australasia include Rail Plus, Stella Group, CIT Australia, Flight Centre and Gullivers Pacific Ltd.

Rail Europe in Australia already has, in excess of one hundred Euronet terminals, implemented web services allowing Euronet access to nearly 4000 travel agents thus offering the most comprehensive ticketing online reservation system for European trains.  Rail Europe expects this number to grow as it further builds its business within Australasia exceeding its annual turnover of more than 40 million in 2007 representing nearly 20% of its total turnover worldwide.

Through these Sales Agents Rail Europe offers the most extensive range of European rail products; from the famous Eurail Global Pass that enables travellers to discover up to 18 different countries, and an extensive variety of National and Regional Passes for travellers who wish to concentrate on one or two countries; to a complete list of European city to city destinations.

“I am extremely happy to have Rich join the Rail Europe family as the Rail Europe Australia Office Manager and I am sure that he will make a fantastic contribution to our company’s success in the Australasian territory”, says CEO of Rail Europe Pierre-Stephane Austi from Paris.

Rich comes into this role with significant Marketing and Sales Experience within the Travel and Tourism sector including time with Tourism NSW, Tucan Travel and GAP Adventures. Prior to working within the Travel and Tourism sector Rich held significant sales, marketing and other management roles within the insurance, finance and sports management sectors.

Rich will be reporting directly into the Rail Europe head office in Paris. He will be in charge of promoting the Rail Europe products in Australasia and coordinating marketing activities with the local Rail Europe partners.

Contact Rail Europe on (02) 8251 0075 or email richard.leonard@raileurope.com.au
Rail Europe office is located at level 1, 299, Elizabeth Street, Sydney.

Visit the Rail Europe Website at www.raileurope.com.au

Opening of the new Lötschberg tunnel

Only 25 days to go before the new Lötschberg tunnel opens… and opens you new travel horizons!

Literally slicing through the Alps, the34,5km-long new train tunnel will be the quickest way to cross Switzerland from North to South by train, as it allows top speeds of 200Km/h (124 mph)!!!

As of the 9^th of December, it will not only significantly reduce journey times between South Switzerland and the rest of the country (making it easier to reach destinations such as Brig or Zermatt), but also speed up the trips between Italy and Switzerland! Check it out:

	Today	As of 09/12	Time savings
Zürich/Basel - Zermatt	4h 24min	3h 12min	1h 12min
Zürich/Basel - Brig	2h 42min	2h 08min	34 min
Bern - Zermatt	3h 18min	2h 08min	70 min
Bern - Brig	1h 36min	1h 04min	32 min
Milano - Bern	3h 16min	2h 44min	32 min
Milano - Basel	4h 27min	3h 55min	32 min

From 2008, there will be 6 daily services between Basel, Bern and Milano… and by 2009, Switzerland-Italy trips will be even more comfortable and faster with the new Cisalpino tilting trains, allowing an additional reduction of travel time by up to 60 minutes!!!

Tomorrow even more than today, rail will definitely be the best option to discover Switzerland, whose dense and efficient network offer the travellers a cost effective, scenic and comfortable way of travel. Make sure you make the most of it, thanks to the famous Swiss Pass, available from Rail Europe network.

For more information or to purchase your Swiss Pass, consult your Rail Europe travel agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

One week to go until launch of Eurostar services from St Pancras International

MORE THAN ONE MILLION PASSENGERS BOOK TO TRAVEL ON HIGH SPEED 1 AS HM THE QUEEN OPENS ST PANCRAS INTERNATIONAL

ONE WEEK TO GO UNTIL LAUNCH OF EUROSTAR SERVICES
Tuesday 13 November – last trains from Waterloo International
Wednesday 14 November - first trains from St Pancras International

Rail Europe is glad to announce that Eurostar, the high-speed train operator linking the UK and the Continent, (Tuesday 6 November) has today taken more than 1 million bookings for travel on High Speed 1, the UK’s first 186mph line.
The milestone was passed with just one week to go before the launch of Eurostar services from St Pancras International, and represents an 11% increase in the number of bookings at the same time last year. It is further evidence that the prospect of making international rail journeys through the superbly restored station is proving highly popular with travellers between the UK and the Continent.
To! night’s royal opening of St Pancras International by HM Queen Elizabeth II signals the final seven days of preparation to move Eurostar’s entire London operations overnight from Waterloo, and to begin commercial services from Eurostar’s new central London home on the morning of Wednesday 14 November.
London & Continental Railways has completed the £5.8 billion engineering project on time and within budget.  While St Pancras International will next week become Eurostar’s new London terminal, High Speed 1 will provide Eurostar with a dedicated, 68-mile (109 km) high-speed line between central London and the Channel Tunnel. 
The new line will enable Eurostar trains to operate at 186mph (300 km/h) across Kent - 50% faster than any other UK rail service - cutting journey times between London and the Continent by at least 20 minutes.

To purchase Eurostar tickets, consult your Rail Europe travel agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Eurostar sets a new record for the journey between Brussels and London

Rail Europe is delighted to announce that last Thursday, 20th of September, Eurostar, the high-speed train operator that links the UK with the European Continent, achieved the fastest journey time ever between Brussels and London, setting a new record for the journey between the Belgian and British capitals.

It took just 1 hour and 43 minutes to cover the 373 km (232 mile) distance, travelling at 300km/h (186mph) on the UK’s new high-speed line, High Speed 1. It was also the first run from Brussels to arrive at St.Pancras International, Eurostar's new terminal in the heart of London, , which will open on 14th November 2007.

On board the inaugural run were 12 journalists from Australia, Japan, India, South Korea, Hong-Kong, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina & Malaysia, invited by Rail Europe and Eurostar to discover high-speed Europe. This journey closed the week long 2007 Rail Europe Press Trip, which this year focused on the high ! speed trains members of the rail alliance, RailTeam, of which Eurostar is a founder member.

On the 5th of September, Eurostar also broke the record between Paris and London, with a run of just 2 hours and 3 minutes and 39 seconds!) for the 492 km distance, running at speeds of up to 320km/h (200 mph) on the French and British High Speed Lines.

From 14 November, the scheduled non-stop time between St Pancras International and Brussels will be 1 hour and 51 minutes, cutting at least 20 minutes off the current journey time from Waterloo. The time savings between Paris and London will also be at least 20 minutes, and the scheduled non-stop time will be 2 hours 15 minutes. Richard Brown, Chief Executive of Eurostar, said: "Today’s journey puts London and Brussels firmly within the ‘two hour club". Eurostar is quite simply the fastest, most convenient way to travel – avoiding wasted time and money in getting to out-of-town airports, lengthy! check-in times, and baggage reclaim delays.

From 14 November, E urostar will also move to its new London terminal overnight, with services at Waterloo ending the previous evening.

Eurostar tickets are available through Rail Europe’s accredited sales agents in your country.
Just log on to www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy to find their contact details.

Eurostar is moving. 14th November 2007

Rail Europe is glad to announce that from 24th July, travellers can book their Eurostar tickets to/from Saint Pancras International for their journeys between 14th to 19th November through Rail Europe's accredited sales agents. The sales to/from the other new station, Ebbsfleet International, are also open.

Wednesday, 14th November 2007 will be a big day for Eurostar. It's the day they launch services from / to Saint Pancras International in central London and the day Eurostar starts running on High Speed 1, the UK's first high speed line.

HS1 (High Speed 1)

High Speed 1 is the biggest engineering project in the UK for over 100 years. With 109 km of high speed track (a quarter of it underground), HS1 will allow Eurostar to travel at its full speed of 300 kmh (186 mph) all the way from the centre of London to the Channel tunnel. Thanks to this new high speed line, journey times will be reduced by at least 20 minutes to offer more seamless journeys and trains will be even more punctual.
Journey times from/to Saint Pancras International will be as follows:
Paris: 2h15
Brussels: 1h51
Lille: 1h20

Saint Pancras International

On 14th November, Eurostar moves from Waterloo International Station and launches services from Saint Pancras International in central London. As of this date, all journeys will depart from/arrive to Saint Pancras International and no longer from Waterloo International.

Saint Pancras is a beautiful Victorian station, with red rubber bricks and streaky bacon stone. It is being transformed, setting new standards for a railway station in the XXIst century. Taking inspiration from New York’s Grand Central Terminal, Saint Pancras International will be “Europe’s destination station”.
The modern Saint Pancras has been designed with the customer at its heart, with a world class brasserie, arcade shopping and a daily farmers’ market selling the very best, fresh, British and Continental products. And last but not least, overlooking the platforms will be the longest Champagne Bar of Europe!

To top it off, Saint Pancras International has also the best connectivity of all the central London stations. It has 6 underground lines and is close to 7 mainline operators at Saint Pancras International, King’s Cross and Euston. Travellers can easily reach the north of England, discover the rolling countryside of the Lake District and the jewels of Scotland.

Kent stations

Ebbsfleet International
On 19th November will open a new Kent station, Ebbsfleet International.
Between Ashford and London, conveniently located close to major highways including M25, M20, M2, A2, the Dartford Crossing and Bluewater shopping centre, Ebbsfleet will offer an easy “park and ride” option to many travellers.
High speed domestic services from Ebbsfleet International will begin in 2009, taking travellers to Saint Pancras International in 17 minutes flat at speeds up to 225 kmh / 140 mph. It will become both an international and domestic rail hub with easy access by rail to all of Kent.

Ashford
Eurostar will still run services from Ashford International and its services will complement those offered at Ebbsfleet International.
Services stopping at Ashford International will be timed to suit both Leisure and Business travellers. There will be 3 trains a day to Paris along with the daily direct Eurostar to Disneyland and the weekly Avignon trains during the summer.

For more information about these services or to purchase an Eurostar ticket, please consult your Rail Europe travel agent. List to be found on www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

EUROPEAN HIGH SPEED RAIL OPERATORS LAUNCH RAILTEAM

Railteam makes international travel on high-speed trains
to and from Europe easy for travellers

Real alternative to air alliances and to travel by car

By 2010, 25 million international travellers on European
high-speed rail network

Rail Europe, the leading distributor of European Rail Products overseas is glad to advertise that on 2 July 2007, seven European high speed train operators announced the start of Railteam. SNCF (France), SBB (Switzerland), Eurostar (UK, France and Belgium), Deutsche Bahn (Germany), SNCB (Belgium), NS Hispeed (The Netherlands), ÖBB (Austria), and subsidiaries Thalys, Lyria and Alleo offer then to give travellers seamless high-speed train travel across international borders in Western Europe.

The already wide range of products of Rail Europe, with a Western European high speed rail network that links over 45 major urban destinations in Europe via over 4,700km of track, will keep on growing as the network will stretch to 6,000 km by 2010 and will triple in size by 2020. However, despite the size and continuing growth of the high speed rail network, many international travellers remain unaware of the benefits of taking high speed rail.

Easy, faster and seamless journeys.

From today, if for any reason, a traveller misses their connection because of a late running service, Railteam will ensure they can hop on the next train, irrespective of the ticket type they have.

Rail Europe’s offer will gain in quality with the diffusion of multi-lingual information onboard trains and in stations that will ensure international travellers know where, when and how to connect onto other services.

Railteam information points will be installed in the five main hubs (Brussels, Cologne, Lille, Frankfurt and Stuttgart), and in the coming months, at other major stations such as London, Strasbourg, Amsterdam and in the main high-speed train stations in Paris.

To reduce transit times for travellers, Railteam partners will also better coordinate connecting departure and arrival times.

Railteam members are investing 30 million euro in a new distribution system that will allow international travellers to find an attractive combination of prices, make a reservation, pay, and receive their ticket from Rail Europe in one transaction.  The new system will go live in 2009.

Railteam also will seek to introduce new innovations as technologies develop over forthcoming years such as text messaging about timetables and service disruptions.

A greener and mart choice: the choice of the future!

Rail Europe expects that with travel on high-speed trains becoming even easier and smoother, increasing numbers of travellers will opt for environmentally friendly high speed train travel within Europe. It is common knowledge that high speed rail journeys release significantly less carbon dioxide than flying to the same destinations.

Extensive research has also shown that business travellers are willing to travel up to four hours on rail because of the increased productivity versus the airlines, whilst leisure travellers are prepared to enjoy longer journeys of around 6 hours.

By 2010, the Railteam members expect 25 million international travellers to be using their European high-speed rail network.

Guillaume Pepy, Chief Executive Officer of SNCF said: “It is achievable when you consider that Rail is served by city centre terminals. Factor in the transport time,travelling to airports, grinding traffic jams, security delays ans so on, and it’s pretty clear that on travel times alone high-speed rail is, at the very least, a realistic alternative on any journey across the Railteam member states”

“High-speed rail represents the future of sustainable, comfortable travel across Europe.”

Discover the gems of Eastern Europe!

Rail Europe is glad to announce the launch on April, 1st of two new Eurail Regional passes, the Eurail Czech Republic-Germany Pass and the Eurail Germany-Poland Pass. Make the most of your time in Europe and visit Germany's admirable neighbours…

The Czech lands have been the crossroads of European cultures for centuries… With 12 Unesco World Heritage sites, you'll have much to enjoy!  Culture, vibrant cities, charming villages, Romantic Praha, Spa towns… you could see it all!

Not yet as famous as the Czech Republic, Poland is becoming a popular holiday destination, thanks to its fascinating mixture of old and new, from medieval castles and festivals to modern art galleries. You could also enjoy a great variety of stunning sights, with superb landscapes, mountains as well as the beautiful Baltic coast.

Both the Eurail Czech Republic-Germany Pass and the Eurail Germany-Poland Pass are available through Euronet, Rail Europe's online distribution system. They provide rail travel flexibility in the corresponding countries, in 1st and 2nd class, and are available for 5/6/8 or 10 days within two months. Cherry on the cake, Pass holders will also benefit from bonuses in Germany, as free sailings on boats operated by the “KD German Rhine Line” making regular runs on the river Rhine between Köln and Mainz and on the river Mosel between Koblenz and Cochem.

If choosing between Czech Republic and Poland is a too cruel dilemma, Rail Europe offers you other travel alternatives with the European East Pass for instance, which will enable you unlimited travel on the national rail networks of Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria and Hungary.

Passes, Point to Point tickets and reservations can be puchased through Rail Europe's General Sales Agents' network. For a complete list of Rail Europe’s representatives, just log on to: www.Raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Record broken!

With a speed of 574.8 km/hr (357,2 mph), TGV, the French High Speed train (Train à Grande Vitesse), set up a new World Speed Record on conventional tracks, smashing its previous 1990 one of 515.3 km/h (320,2 mph)!

This record has been settled yesterday, on a stretch of the new TGV Est EUROPEEN high speed line, 200 km east of Paris. “The goal was more than simply breaking a record”, SNCF’s (French Railways) officials said. The primary objective of the testing campaign was indeed to collect an array of speed-related data that cannot be simulated in a laboratory, in order to improve security, reliability and the comfort of passengers.

This testing campaign again reminds that TGV, like the other European bullet trains (Eurostar, Lyria, Thalys, etc.), is one of the best ways to travel while in Europe. Fast, comfortable, they allow travellers to make the most of their journeys, at speeds reaching 320 km/h, in great security and comfort, hassle-free and from city centre to city centre.
With TGV, Paris is at a mere 3 hours from Marseille, and with TGV Est EUROPEEN, as of 10th June 2007, it will take you only 2h20 to go from Strasbourg to Paris!

All European high speed trains are bookable from Rail Europe, the leading distributor of European rail products worldwide. For more information or to purchase your ticket, please contact your Rail Europe travel agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Rail Europe is glad to introduce its new brand identity!

With a brand new design and bright colors, it embodies Rail Europe's uniqueness and ambition, as the worldwide leader in European Railways' distribution. Simple, warm and powerful, it is built around two elements: the Rail Europe's Name, and the cyan blue arrow.                               

A name that says it all… Rail Europe is about discovering Europe by rail, enjoying Europe by train. It was obvious Rail Europe's name would be the most appropriate choice for a new logo…

The elegant and contemporary typography reminds Rail Europe's network's professionalism.

The color, a daring blend from crimson to vermilion, conveys dynamism, innovation and proximity, reflecting the colors of the French and Swiss National Railways, Rail Europe’s shareholders.

Traveling is also, by essence, being in movement, discovering, dreaming… which is symbolized by the cyan blue! arrow.

Not only this cute little arrow softly evokes the sky, the power of imagination, freedom and space … it also naturally links together Rail and Europe, as natural evidence …

Easy to read, easy to understand, this new logo is a strong element for rail Europe's forthcoming communication… so get prepared to often pass it on!

BACK FOR GOOD!

This year again, Rail Europe launches the Eurail Early Bird promotion, in cooperation with Eurail.

Book your Select Pass between February 1st and March 31st, 2007 and you'll benefit from one extra day of travel for free!

In other words, when you buy an Eurail Select Pass valid for 6 days, you will automatically be issued a 7-day rail pass. The period of validity remains the same: 2 months. The offer is valid on two other popular validities of the Eurail Select Pass: the 8 days and 10 days. So just choose the countries you want to visit and start planning your trip!

With the Eurail Select Pass, Europe is your oyster! This pass entitles you to unlimited rail travel in 3, 4 or 5 bordering countries, with more than 23 countries to choose from… Visit the traditional central European destinations such as France, Germany and Switzerland or explore the increasingly popular and diverse countries of Eastern European, such as Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary and Romania. With over 750 possible combinations, the Eurail Select Pass gives customers true freedom and flexibility!

Travel by train in European is really a must…European railways offer an extensive network and a huge variety of high quality trains to consider, from high speed to regional, from scenic to sleepers. Forget about traffic jams, avoid long queues in the airports, just sit back and relax amid the spacious surrounds and watch the ever-changing countryside outside.

Your Rail Europe Travel agent is here to help you, so don't wait before you book your Eurail Early Bird offer , and take the opportunity to experience European trains!

For more information about Eurail passes, contact your Rail Europe travel agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

MORE REASONS TO TRAVEL IN EUROPE IN 2007… WITH RAIL EUROPE!

Rail Europe, the leader distributor of European Rail Travel, is proud to propose in 2007 a wider range of products than ever… What with new passes and new routes, travellers will find the tailor-made rail products, suited to their needs and budget, for an efficient, stress less and authentic trip in Europe. Travelling in Europe has never been so easy!

New Passes
There are now a lot more possibilities to visit European countries in depth and in total freedom, thanks to the new Eurail passes, sold by Rail Europe!

Discover Dubrovnik and beautiful Croatia, thanks to the Eurail Croatia Pass… You can also choose to explore Portuguese coasts and dive into the vast and diversified historic and cultural heritage of this country with the Eurail Portugal Pass or enjoy Irish hospitality and magnificent landscapes with the Eurail Ireland Pass…
In 2007, there are also 2 new regional passes, the Eurail Austria & Hungary Pass and Eurail Italy & Spain Pass, and both the Benelux TourRail pass and Trenitalia pass are taken over by Eurail and become the Eurail Benelux Pass and Eurail Italy Pass.

Like all other Eurail Passes, these passes offer unlimited rail travel in the countries where they are valid, and exist in different validities with adult, child or youth prices, and for individuals or small groups ("saver").

All these passes are part of the Rail Europe large choice of passes, also including for instance the France RailPass, the Swiss Pass, the Balkan FlexiPass and the Eurail Global Pass, previously named Eurailpass.

More than 18 000 new routes!
Passes offer great value for money, but for travellers who do not want to travel intensively and just need to visit one or two cities, point-to-point tickets are ideal.
The great news is that now, almost all European routes are available from Rail Europe, as Euronet has been enriched with more than 18 000 routes! In a nutshell, Rail Europe and Euronet allows you to virtually go everywhere in Europe!

Travel from Firenze to Siena for only 12 EUR, from Salzburg to Wien for 45 EUR or between Krakow and Warsaw for only 21,60 EUR!
Fares on these routes are set until 8th December 2007, and benefit from adapted after-sales policy, specifically designed to suit foreign travellers needs.

Besides that, Rail Europe of course keeps on offering the best possible fares on revenue managed trains thanks to Euronet's real-time connection to European inventories. Overseas travellers have access to domestic fares and can make substantial savings when booking enough in advance.

For more information about European Rail products, to purchase a pass or a ticket, consult your Rail Europe agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Christmas markets

Should you find yourself wondering what to do with your last few weeks in December BEFORE Christmas, Rail Europe has some excellent suggestions to bring interesting alternatives to the traditional approach to Christmas. Come explore some of continental Europe’s Christmas markets. Yes, they will bring back all the magic of Christmas, with their log cabins, hand-craft gifts, delicious smells of mulled wine and regional savouries, you’ll give yourself a welcome break from the usual Christmas stress and no doubt find some beautiful, original gifts. It provides memorable sights, sounds and smells for all the family. 

Christmas markets date back to the 16th century, when religious holidays were also social events with fairs and entertainment. This tradition continues in France, Germany, Belgium, Italy and the Scandinavian countries. What better way to take the pain and commercialisation out of Christmas shopping than to visit some of the best-known Christmas markets by train.       

                                       

Rail Europe has selected some of the top Christmas markets in Europe for short week-end breaks, easily accessible by train:

• Strasbourg Christmas Market (Christkindelsmarik): Place Broglie through to rue de la Comédie are a wonderland for children and adults. Renowned for its traditional gifts, wines and foods, the Strasbourg Christmas market attracts tourists looking for new ideas for Christmas... since the 16th century! The market opens 26th November to 23rd December.

• Lille’s Christmas market on Place Rihour entertains and delights tourists and locals alike every year with stalls selling gifts, arts and crafts and northern delicacies. Don’t miss the music and entertainment each Saturday with a big concert held on the last Saturday before Christmas.

• Go south for Provençal Christmas markets! Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Arles, numerous cities and towns in the south of France hold their Christmas markets with the well-known provençale “santons” or figurines dressed in their traditional costumes and work garbs of gone-by days. Wines and local gastromic delights are for sale as well as music and street theatre for children... not forgetting Santa’s hut!

• German Christmas markets – from Bremen in the north, to Berlin, Cologne, Koblenz and Freiburg, German Christmas markets are set against the back-drop of beautiful historic squares and City Halls (“Rathaus”), with music, stalls, tempting dishes and wines and beers for this special season.

         

• Try an Alpine Italian Christmas markets – high in the Dolomites, or in the surrounding Alpine cities, experience the beauty of the snow-covered mountains, the Italian hand-craft gifts and wondeful food to enjoy an atmospheric experience.

• Belgian Christmas markets – The Brussels annual Christmas market takes place in Place St. Catherine with its wonderful bright lights from the beginning to the end of December. For the first time this year, young children can ice-skate on the nearby ice-rink to bring a real atmosphere of Christmas. Find all kinds of gifts and ideas in these magical surroundings. Nearby on the coast, Ostend also holds its annual market with stalls, boutiques, all cheefully lit up for the occasion.

• Swiss Christmas markets – Basel is one of Switzerland’s most popular Christmas markets, when the city is alight with lights and stands selling all types of gifts.

Rail Europe, the World’s largest distributor of European rail travel offers travellers a number of easy solutions to visit Christmas markets in several countries or to visit several Christmas markets within a specific country:

• Eurail Select Pass – With this 1st class pass, travellers can visit 3,4 or 5 adjoining countries connected by train. It would be possible, for example, to visit the Brussels, Cologne, Paris and Strasbourg Christmas markets. It would also be possible to visit, Freiburg, Berlin, Prague and Vienna.

• Eurail Regional and National passes – There are many combinations for regional and national passes. All enable travellers to use the train in countries where are held Christmas markets. The passes offer you unlimited travel by train in the country / region covered. They are valid for 2 months, available in 1st or 2nd class, with great flexibility (“continuous” or “flexi” formulas).

• City to city tickets – Enjoy selected destinations at high speed! Rail Europe indeed sells a unique range of high speed trains, to quote but a few: Eurostar (London-Paris/Brussels), Thalys (Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam/Cologne), TGV (France), ICE (Germany), Artesia (France-Italy), Lyria (France-Switzerland) and Italian fast trains, allowing you to visit and experience many different traditions and atmospheres even during a short stay in Europe

For more information on passes and tickets, please contact your Rail Europe agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

SANTA CLAUS IN FINLAND

Rail Europe, the leading services supplier of European rail passes and tickets, brings you to the heart of Christmas action in Finland. Discover Santa Claus’ Village way up beyond the Artic Circle in Rovaniemi, Lapland.

Everyone knows that good old Santa heads off to deliver gifts to children all over the world on Christmas Eve and millions of children awaken on Christmas morning to the excitement and trepidation of sleepily slipping over to the Christmas tree to discover their gifts. But did you know it is possible to visit the Santa Claus village? Children and grown-ups can journey through the Santa’s home town, where both the elves and Santa work away throughout the year to prepare for this magical night. Discover the secrets, the day to day activities, Santa’s house, all tucked away in this amazing village.

Within a short distance of the northern town of Rovaniemi, visitors to Finland’s Christmas paradise can also visit the reindeer Park and the Santa Park. Children and adults will enjoy the Christmas House, where they can admire the Finnish Christmas traditions, learn about other traditions around the world and see the Elves Factory. An unforgettable trip in the snow covered landscape of Finland.

Looking for more? Your trip to Finland can also be the opportunity to visit other Scandinavian countries. What with the natural wonders (Fjords, Aurora Borealis, …), warm and welcoming traditions, and charming people… There’s definitely a lot to discover and enjoy in Northern Europe!

For your travels in Finland and Scandinavia, Rail Europe’s passes will make your life easier:

• The Eurail Finland Pass  is valid in 1st and 2nd class and entitles you to unlimited travel for 3, 5 or 10 days within a one month period. With this pass, you can take any of the Finnish Railways’ trains, be it fast trains, InterCity trains, Express trains or Night trains. If you travel with children, the night train is the best option for Lapland – children will enjoy the excitement of the night train, sleeping in the cabins and wakening up to the magic of Lapland and Santa Claus’ Village.

• With the ScanRail Pass you’ll have the possibility to visit Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The pass includes ferry boat lines between Denmark and Germany and exists in different validities (flexi or consecutive days) in 2nd class to better suit your travel needs.

For more information on the Rail Europe passes, please contact your Rail Europe agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Barcelona - ELIPSOS

The Spanish Railways have been operating a useful service since this summer that links Trenhotel Elipsos departures / arrivals at Barcelona-França station with Barcelona-Sants Station.
Trains leave every 30 minutes from each station and services are free for travellers with ELIPSOS tickets.

Trenitalia – Winter Promotion

Another excellent opportunity to discover or re-visit Italy’s treasures!
Rail Europe is offering a 20% reduction on the Trenitalia Pass, which is valid for reservations made between 1st October and 31 December 2006 for travellers wishing to visit Italy between 1st November 2006 and 31st March 2007.
The Trenitalia Pass is not available in Italy, so buy before you fly and take advantage of this fabulous promotion!

RailEurope opens a new office in Argentina

Rail Europe consolidates its leadership with the opening of its new representative office in Buenos Aires. This new office is the fourth opening in line with the company’s development strategy. Other representative offices are located in Japan, Korea and India.
The office is run by Maria Corinaldesi who was previously agent for Rail Europe in the area. She will be responsible for promoting and positioning rail as the best way to travel through Europe for the whole South American continent.

Commenting on this opening, Xavier Theret, Sales Director for the region, said, “South America represents an important market for RailEurope, particularly Argentina and Brazil, and the opening of this office is a clear signal of our intentions to develop this market.”

EUROSTAR – Ebbsfleet International

Eurostar announced the opening of a new station, Ebbsfleet International, in autumn 2007, which will enable UK travellers to access the Eurostar services to France and Belgium, without having to drive into Central London. This new station, strategically located near Dartford in Kent close by major roads and the Bluewater shopping centre, will give travellers an easy alternative to London’s overcrowded airports. Ebbsfleet is indeed more quickly accessible than any of London’s airports including Heathrow.

Ebbsfleet International will be a 2h05 journey to Paris, 1h41 to Brussels and 1h10 to Lille.

Almost half of the Eurostar services will stop at Ebbsfleet International, with time-tables to suit both business and leisure travellers. The new station will offer 9,000 parking spaces and seamless connections to public transport. The service will commence once the switch has been made from Waterloo to St. Pancras International, in the autumn of 2007.

For more information on using the Eurostar service, please contact your agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

Turkey - plans to introduce high-speed rail

Holiday-makers interested in travelling through the Balkans will be pleased to know that Turkey is included in the Rail Europe Balkan Flexipass. Other designations included in the FlexiPass are Greece, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and Romania.

A brief focus on rail travel in Turkey shows some major changes as the country in the process of adopting high-speed trains and by 2008, Ankara, the capital, will be a mere 3h from Istanbul. This train line is one of the most crowded in the country. Currently, there are express trains, a night train and local trains using the line, and in a country where 12 million people travel between Ankara and Istanbul, this is insufficient. However, with the new high-speed trains, this is about to change.

The new high-speed service is being built in two phases, with the first section due to be completed at the end of this year, between Sincan (near Ankara) to Inönü, 251km apart. The second section between Inönü and Köseköy (158km) will be completed in 2008 as well as the linking lines between Sincan and Ankara and Gebze, near Istanbul. The Ankara-Istanbul high-speed project is the first of future projects. Another project will be to link Ankara to Konya, one of Turkey’s major cities in terms of agriculture and industry. Travel time between Istanbul and Konya is currently over 12 hours and will be reduced to 3 hours and 30 minutes.

For travellers intending to visit the country between now and 2008, when the high-speed trains will be introduced, there is still a number of types of interesting trains running through the country with, among others: Super Express trains serving large cities where travellers can choose between luxury pullman or saloon carriages, as well as restaurant and sleeping carriages on the night services. You can also travel on the fast “Blue Trains between Izmi, Iç Anadolu and Cukurova or on traditional Express or Normal passenger trains.

Rail Europe’s Balkan Flexipass is valid for any 5, 10 or 15 days unlimited travel over a one-month period, in 1st class and costs 160€ for an adult travelling any 5 days/month. Offering a large number of reductions on sea crossings between Greek Islands and between Greece and Italy, on hotel prices and on excursions in different cities, Rail Europe’s Balkan Flexipass is undoubtedly the nicest and most cost effective way to travel in the Balkans.

For more information on the Rail Europe Balkan Flexipass, services, travel information and reservations, please contact your agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

Record numbers on German trains during the World Cup

German Railways recently announced that over 15 million travellers used their services during the World Cup, 5 million more than initially expected! Cities such as Dortmund, Cologne or Gelsenkirchen where matchs were held, had an increase of between 1,2 and 1,5 million passengers during the World Cup. Over 370 extra trains were added to regular services throughout the country to cope with demand. The World Cup was an excellent opportunity to showcase the excellence of DB and to win new customers over to train travel.

Thalys sets new records

For its 10th anniversary, Thalys had a record year. Among others,

• In terms of passengers, on April 28th, Thalys carried 25 575 passengers in one day.
• The week between June 26th and July 2nd, Thalys reached its best passenger levels with almost 141 000 customers.
• In terms of performance, Thalys reached in the Netherlands the record speed of 331,1 km/h.

RailEurope in Manila

Adventure International Tours Incorporated recently organised a trade and media event in Manila, making the most of RE4A’s representative, Xavier Theret, visit to Philippines. It was an excellent opportunity to show the synergies which exist for several years between the two organisations in this important market for ASEAN.

RAILTEAM is now on tracks!

A major step forward has been achieved with the agreement in Berlin, on June 14th, between the major European railways – German, Austrian, Belgian, Dutch, Swiss and French. This alliance between the main high-speed services operating in Europe (Thalys, ICE, Eurostar, Lyria, TGV...) will offer travellers top quality service on Europe’s high-speed network. RAILTEAM is similar in concept to alliances set up by the major airlines.

Types of services which will be offered by mid-2007 include:

• Facilitating tickets, rates and platform changes at “hubs” such as Brussels, Frankfurt or Charles de Gaulle airport
• Harmonising rates, on-board services, in-station services to increase awareness of high-speed services
• Access to top notch services – waiting rooms, internet access
• Combining passenger loyalty schemes and determining passenger rights
• Combining marketing and communication activities to encourage usages of high-speed services in Europe

The alliance will be headed up by a top level committee with 4 working groups to implement plans. Guillaume Pepy, CEO of the French Railways, commenting on this new alliance said “Our ambition is to bring high-speed Europe to customers. By combining German and French services, we have a large network and top level quality service on offer. We aim to be the rail alternative for customers looking for an alternative to the airline offer.”

Visiting the UK

As Europe undergoes a heatwave, the UK is a temperate destination with a number of very interesting World Heritage sites for a holiday destination, combining culture and leisure with the comfort and freedom offered by the train service.

An itinerary could include a selection of sites from some of the following, facilitated by short train rides
between the different sites:

• London to Saltaire – 2h46
Leaving London and travelling to West Yorkshire gives the traveller ample opportunity to view cities and countryside in England. On arrival in Saltaire, which is a well-preserved industrial village dating back to the 19th centry, its textile factories, public buildings and worker’s houses is an interesting historial reminder of a paternalistic Victorian society.

• Saltaire to Durham – 1h40
Moving upwards from Yorkshire to Country Durham, home also to the mining industry, Durham Cathedral is a well-known historic site. Built at the end of the 11th and 12th centuries to house the relics of Saint Cuthbert, the cathedral is a hymn to the Benedictine style and is a fine examle of Norman architecture in England. It is a precursor of Gothic architecture. Behind the cathedral is the ancient Norman castle which was used by the princes and bishops of Durham as their residence.

• Durham to Edinburg – 1h51
Scotland’s capital city combines the 15th century with the 18th centry neoclassical architecture, dominated by the beautiful medieval castle. Edinburg’s rich architectural heritage influenced European urban planning to a great extent. As the gateway to the highlands, Edinburg has a plethora of festivals and cultural activities throughout the year.

• Edinburgh to New Lanark – 1h19
The train ride between Edinburg and New Lanark, located a short train ride from Edinburgh goes through some beautiful Scottish countryside and New Lanark is a 19th century village built by the utopic philantropist, Robert Owen is a tribute to his humanitarism. With the arrival of the industrial revolution in the textile industry, Rowert Owen built an industrial community with factories, workers’ housing and public buildings designed to improve and promote spiritual and physical well-being. Robert Owen and New Lanark are linked closely through his ideas on education, reform, working conditions, international co-operation, garderns and he had a profound influence on social developments throughout the 19th century.

• New Lanark to Liverpool – 4h07
Do not be suprised with the melodic changes of accents between Scotland and Liverpool, the traveller is approaching the home town of the Beatles. No less than 6 centres have been recognised by the World Heritage in Liverpool, in the historic part of the city and the port. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Liverpool was one of the great commercial centres in the world. Liverpool played a major role in the development of the British Empire and was a major port with America, for slaves and immigrants. Liverpool pioneered modern port technology, transport systems and port management.

• Liverpool to London – 2h52                                                                                                       On the train journey from Liverpool to London, the keen traveller can choose from a multitude of guides, an equally large number of historical monuments, museums and exhibitions in London city. For the purposes of this article, we’re looking at the Tower of London, a World Heritage site, built on the Thames by William the Conqueror to protect the city from attack. A stroll around this massive white tower, typical Norman architecture will bring the traveller to many other historic symbols of the monarchy.

Eurostar new Fare Range

From August 1st, Rail Europe will introduce Eurostar new fare range.
This new fare range is designed to better meet today’s travellers’ needs, with:

• Less restrictions: you no longer need to travel between Monday and Thursday from 11am to 3pm to enjoy cheap fares!
• Cheaper prices: up to 47% discount when you buy a return ticket.
• Wider range of fares: new fare levels for senior, youth and pass holders, increasing your chances to get a good price.
• Optimized fares and availability, for individuals, groups and Tour Operators.

For more information about this new Eurostar fare range, please contact your agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

TGV Méditerranée

Five years after its launch, over 100 million business and leisure travellers have used the high-speed service between Paris-Marseille (with stops at Avignon, Aix-en-Provence), Paris-Montpellier and Paris Toulon. These cities and towns conjure dreams of holidays, cultural activities, lavender, beautiful countryside and villages for leisure travellers from not just France but also Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK. Nicknamed TGV Med, this train quickly won its passengers’ affection and participated to the economical development of the region. For the business traveller, these cities are accessible in a day’s travel thereby increasing business opportunities and opening up exchanges in a fast-moving, global economy.

Reduced journey times between the different cities explain the 75,000 daily passengers who travel on the TGV Méditerranée. Marseille and Paris, for example, are 3 hours apart, Lyon and Avignon are 1 hour apart and Lille, up in the north of France is only 5 hours away from Montpellier. In 2005, 2 million people went through Aix-en-Provence. The number of connections has increased alongside the number of passengers, for example, today there are 17 daily services between Marseille and Paris. Market share for the rail/air modes of transport have shifted considerably in favour of the train which now has 66% of the market.

Development plans for the TGV Méditerranée plan to link Northern and Southern Europe between 2009 and 2011. New high-speed lines between Figueras in Spain and Perpignan in France, between the Riviera and the Alps and the Rhine-Rhone line will facilitate access to the south of France for over 10 million passengers. Barcelona will be 2h15 from Montpellier and 3h45 from Marseille. With the new TGV Est EUROPEEN service, Mulhouse will be a mere 4h35 from Montpellier and Strasbourg only 5h from Marseille.

Tourism is a major economic force for the southern region which welcomes over 35 million tourists per annum. Surveys carried out demonstrate that TGV Méditerranée with its reduced journey times and city centre to city centre connections has contributed to an increase in passengers and short-term stays.

To celebrate its 5th birthday, French Railways is associated with Aix-en-Provence’s big annual celebration of Cezanne. This world famous painter renowned for his works on Sainte Victoire mountain – 44 oil paintings and 43 water paintings in total feature this beautiful scenery – is toast of the year in Aix. At the TGV station in Aix-en-Provence, passengers can view reproductions of some of Cezanne’s famous works and compare passengers’ viewpoints of the famous mountain. One of the TGV trains has even been decorated in Cezanne’s colours. It will circulate between 7th June and the end of September.

For more information on the TGV Méditerranée and its services, time-tables and reservations, please contact your agent www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

1ST SEMESTER 2006 – GREAT RESULTS FOR RAIL EUROPE 4A

With an accumulated turnover of 71 million USD at the end of June, Rail Europe 4A closes its first semester 2006 with a record increase of 11% versus the first semester 2005.

"This first semester is really satisfactory!" says Pierre-Stéphane Austi, Managing Director of Rail Europe 4A. "Our excellent results reflect Rail Europe's new strategy since the beginning of the year as well as the great commitment of our General Sales Agents (GSAs) throughout the world"

2006 is indeed an intense year, what with new GSA accreditations, the release of new version of Euronet, Rail Europe's exclusive ticketing and online reservation system for European trains, and the rapid expansion of web-based distribution channels.

With the new Euronet version, called REDS, booking point to point tickets has never been so easy, fast and user-friendly.
Besides, new tools such as internet websites, "white labels" sites and web-services will allow Rail Europe to make the most of the web opportunities to increase awareness about their products and facilitate the purchase of Rail tickets and passes.

Rail Europe 4A is a joint venture of the French and Swiss National Railways (SNCF & SBB), in charge of marketing and selling European Rail Passes and Point to Point tickets in Asia, Australia, Africa and South America.
As of July 2006, 81 GSAs are located in more than 40 countries and 416 Euronet accounts are active on RE4A markets
Rail Europe 4A has 3 liaison offices in Tokyo, Seoul and Mumbai.

Total sales in 2005: 122 million USD

For any query about our products, to purchase a pass or a point to point ticket, please contact one of our GSAs.
For a complete list, just log onto www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

New bonuses for the France Railpass

The France Railpass, already a great way to discover France as it provides unlimited travel on the French rail network from only 136 € *, also entitles the passholder to bonuses with various partners which from now even include:
- a 50% discount on the Standard Cruise with Bateaux Parisiens (www.bateauxparisiens.fr)
- a 20% discount on the Lunch Cruise with Bateaux Parisiens
- a 20% discount on the Batobus (www.batobus.com)
- a 20% discount on the visit of Roland Garros and its backstage (except during competition) www.rolandgarros.com
- a 12% discount at the Lido (2nd show) www.lido.com
- a 10% discount at  Citadines apart’hotels in France (www.citadines.com)

Find the list of the bonuses associated to the France Railpass and more about the product on a previous post on our blog (http://raileurope.typepad.com) or consult your Rail Europe agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy

*Price for 3 days in 1 month in 2nd class, in saver formula (from 2 to 5 people travelling together)

Check out these new internet sites

Swiss Travel System – www.swisstravelsystem.ch was launched 1 May to provide partners and visitors with up to date information to prepare for a trip to Switzerland. This ranges from timetable information for trains, buses, boats and mountain cable cars to suggestions and ideas to maximise enjoyment during a visit to the country. Excursions are included, museums as well as special offers to public monuments and exhibitions for travellers using the Swiss Pass.

Lyria – www.tgv-lyria.com was launched mid-June with train timetables for the Lyria service between Paris and Zurich, Lausanne, Brig and Geneva.

Currently the site has information directly linked to the train and its services and will shortly have more
information on cities linked by Lyria, hotels, events, highlights, restaurants and suggestions for visits.

Cisalpino – new developments

Cisalpino, a subsidiary of the Swiss and Italian railways, announced a 75% increase in the number of passengers carried in 2005 - 7,8 million people used the service. The company took over management for rail traffic between Switzerland and Italy in 2005.

Cisalpino has 32 daily trains running between the two countries, with 9 pendular trains and 22 Euro-City trains and posted an annual turnover of 160,9 million CHF compared with 97,9 million CHF in 2004.
A major expansion programme is underway and Cisalpino is also preparing for the opening of the Lotschberg tunnel, at the end of 2007. This 34,6 kilometers long tunnel, along with the Simplon tunnel, will be the first north-south transalpine high speed train link. To prepare for this, Cisalpino will receive 14 new pendular, second generation train sets from Alstom Italy, which will be delivered from 2007 through to 2008.

By 2009, journey times between Zurich and Rome will take only 7 hours, when the new high speed link between Milan and Rome opens.

Thalys’ 10th anniversary

Thalys celebrates its 10th birthday in June 2006. Ten exciting years down the line, Thalys has pioneered a number of records! For example, it won the lion’s share of the international business and tourist market from the airlines. Its train drivers pioneered cross-border journeys in Europe, working with 4 electrical systems and 7 signalling systems when it was launched. As a result, the entire international system is being revised and the ERTMS system is currently being installed.

When launched in 1996, Thalys initially linked Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam. In the early days, journey times between Paris and Brussels were just over 2 hours, while Paris-Amsterdam was just under 5 hours at 4h47.

A year later, in 1997, journey times came down to 1h25 on the Paris-Brussels line with the opening of the high speed line. Paris-Amsterdam dropped to just over 4 hours. Aachen and Cologne in Germany joined the Thalys network. And within two years, the French and Belgian railways set up Thalys International, a company based in Brussels, with the German and Dutch railways as partners.

Thalys International introduced direct services like the Thalys Snow train to the ski resort, Bourg St Maurice in the winter of 1998 and for sun-seekers, in 2002, Thalys Sun brought holiday-makers to Avignon and Marseille, a direct link to the beaches of the south of France. Broad-band was offered free of charge in 2005, for business travellers, who made up - in that same year - 48% of the travelling public.

In 10 years, a staggering 52 million people travelled on the Thalys, with traffic growing over 5% in the last two years. In 2005 alone, 6 million travellers (business and tourists) filled the distinctive red Thalys trains. Passenger satisfaction rates run at a high 88% and service reliability is 95%.

For more information on the 160 year old story of relations between the railways on the Paris-Brussels-Cologne-Amsterdam line, please visit the specially designed internet site www.thalystory.com.

To reserve seats this summer on Thalys, please contact your Rail Europe agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy.

Spain: Madrid-Saragossa-Barcelona

For Spain’s 50 million visitors, Renfe, the Spanish Railways, reinforced services on the Madrid-Barcelon line. They recently launch ALVIA, a new service on the Madrid-Saragossa-Barcelona line. ALVIA runs 12 brand new train-sets, designed by CAF-Alstom, and cuts the journey time by 15 minutes between Barcelona-Madrid, which takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes on the direct service. As well as time savings, there are more frequent connections with six daily connections in each direction and one direct service between the two cities. The latter operates every day of the week except Saturdays.

Each train has 238 seats in air-conditioned carriages, with 82 seats in first class (there is a specially designed space for handicapped travellers) and 156 seats in second class. Each seat has plug-in facilities for listening to music or watching videos which can be hired in the dining carriage. First-class passengers are treated royally with extra privileges and services such as on-board meals and access to the Sala Club in the terminal train stations.

For more information on Rail Europe Passes to Spain or reserving your train seats on Alvia, please contact your agent: www.raileurope.fr/wheretobuy