All Aboard: Travelling By Train

For those who love travelling by train, many of the great sights and experiences of Europe are accessible through an extensive rail network. 

Over the past few decades millions of travellers have used the InterRail system to explore Europe by train. 

In the old days, the system sometimes didn't work as well as promised, often misprints in timetables meant that people missed their connections or that connections simply didn't exist.  But most people saw this as part of the adventure. 

Now with modern technology and a more sophisticated rail network, such mishaps happen much less frequently. 

In the past, people travelling from the UK would take a ferry to connect with their train in Europe, but travelling to the continent is easier now with the opening up of the Eurostar high speed train.  UK travellers can now connect to other mainline European destinations with the minimum of fuss. 

To plan a European train trip adventure, have a look at the Rail Europe website.  Not only can you book online, the website has everything a traveller needs, including the most up-to-date train information and travel information.  It has an interactive map that allows travellers to plot their trip, as well as information on travel, schedules and passes. 

Travelling by train really is one of the best ways to enjoy Europe.  It's environmentally friendly, it's relaxing and travellers can enjoy the scenery without having to worry about driving or waiting for flights.  The choice of destinations is endless, it's possible to spend a couple of days in Paris before going on to Belgium and Amsterdam or travel south to the Mediterranean.

 It can also be a cheaper way to travel.  Buying a train pass can reduce the cost of travel considerably and InterRail cards allow almost unlimited travel around Europe within a certain time period.

The Rail Europe website has an interactive map with all the possible European destinations. 

It's a good idea to travel as light as possible when InterRailing.  Carrying bags around Europe is not fun, and when you're on the train you'll want to keep your bags with you and not have to pack them away because of their size.

To protect yourself, it's a good idea to take out comprehensive travel insurance before leaving on your trip.  A good broker can advise you but think about medical cover as well as cover for loss of possessions or if part of your journey is ruined by a later train or a cancellation.   There's a lot you can find out about insurance online, and you'll also likely get a discount if you buy cover online.

For more information on travel insurance, visit www.directline.com.

Article submitted Thursday, October 09, 2008
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