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Posts Tagged ‘Train Travel’

Train Travel Tips

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009

Always have your train ticket with you. Just like all your other valuable travel documents such as your ID card and passport, your ticket should be well guarded. This is especially important if you are using a multiple type of pass. Carefully read the information indicated on your ticket, so you know the time for boarding and the platform that you are to wait on. When traveling on the train, keep the train pass with you in an easily accessible place, so that you can pull it out if needed. You do not want to have to be digging around in your bag for it.

Get to know your destination points well. Using a map or a tourist guide, you should be able to identify key areas, as well as basic signs regarding your train. This will prevent you from missing your stop or boarding the wrong train. Most train stations have passenger information in English, and you can also inquire at ticket offices if you have any concerns.

Be sure that you have enough food with you as you travel. Depending on the length of travel time, which can be anywhere from an hour to several hours, trains can provide first class passengers with food and drinks. If you are using a second class ticket, you can bring your own food beforehand, buy snacks on your next stop, or purchase them from on the train.

You should be familiar about luggage rules and guidelines on your train. Usually, each passenger should not have more than three items of luggage, and the size standards may vary depending on which country you are in. For example, if you are traveling in Europe, there are certain trains that do not allow pets, large pieces of luggage, or bicycles. Take note of these before you make a reservation or purchase your ticket.

Another note about luggage. It will be wise to properly label all your belongings. You can store your bags on overhead racks in the train, or even under your seat. Though you may have the option of having some luggage stowed in the luggage car of your train, not all stations have porters who can pick them up for you. Organizing your luggage properly makes finding them easy. According to sources, train stations are not liable for any luggage losses.

Train Travel is Cheap and Convenient

Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009

If you want to see the countryside and its many shades, traveling by train is one way to do it without having to worry about the cost of gas, reading a map, or taking alternative routes. When you board a train, you will be able to put your luggage away and relax in a cozy seat near the window. With snack cars, sleeping cars, and dining cars, traveling by train takes away the anxiety of travel and leaves you with some great vacation memories.

Train travel is a way to save money this summer, allowing you to take a family vacation. It can be considerably cheaper than air travel or traveling by car because the ticket price is not directly related to the price of fuel. Train travel is also much more convenient and hassle-free.

Discounts are available for many people that travel by train. All students, seniors and veterans receive a discount. AAA members receive 10% off. Children (ages 2-15) pay half price and one infant (0-2 years of age) per adult is free.

In addition to the many discounts offered, miles are earned each time you travel by train. These miles can be redeemed not only for free train travel, but also for free airfare. Amtrak, the major train company, also has a credit card that allows members to earn additional miles on all the purchases they make using that card.

Travel by train can be much more convenient than flying. Check-in is considerably faster at train stations than airports. There is no security to pass through. You just show that the name on your train ticket matches the name on your identification, if asked.

Train stations are conveniently located in the middle of the city, not on the edge like airports. This helps cut down on taxi fare to your desired destination.

When purchasing train fare, keep in mind that the price can vary between locations, so check the price from nearby cities to your destination. It may be cheaper to drive a little ways and catch a train from another city.

The price to travel by train also varies greatly by the accommodations chosen and services provided during train travel. It is harder to purchase regular coach seating in the summer, and around Thanksgiving and Christmas. These seats are usually booked well in advance. You can also choose from first-class seating, business-class seating and a variety of sleeping accommodations. Some of these rooms have showers and food provided. For other accommodations, food can be purchased on most trains.

Consider train travel this summer. Statistically it’s much safer than driving. It can be a relaxing and peaceful ride, accompanied by beautiful scenery. Also, the price can be much more affordable than air travel or car travel.