Travel test

BY EMMA MUNBODH

WHAT: Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. The journey takes just over two hours (max 2hr 45min) and tickets start at £39 one way. eurostar.com. EXPERIENCE: The beauty of this high-speed shuttle is the simplicity of it all. The advice is to arrive two hours before your train, where you’ll go through the usual security checks (although faster than at an airport) before arriving at the departure lounge.

While most passengers seem to travel light, you can take up to two pieces of luggage each (max 85cm long) without extra charges. There’s also no limit on liquids (including no 100ml cap on toiletries), so you can take your water bottle on board, or even a bottle of fizz. It really is so much simpler than a flight.

The journey is seamless. Our train departed bang on time and we arrived in Gare du Nord two hours and 20 minutes later.

If you get bored easily there’s a little tuck shop called Café Métropole on board where you can pick up fresh croissants for breakfast, magazines or a glass of French wine.

You’re under water for some of your trip so free wi-fi is supplied.

There are also smartphone sockets if you’re watching Netflix or catching up on emails.

On arrival there are no passport checks as these are all completed in London.

If you’re going for the day, trains start at 5:40am, which leaves you with plenty of time to enjoy the sights.

QUIBBLES: The waiting area in Gare du Nord is pretty small and gets packed out fast. Get there early if you’re hoping to nab a seat. In the worst-case scenario, there are plenty of shops to browse to keep you busy. VERDICT: If you’re after a walletfriendly escape, and if London St Pancras is convenient for you, with minimal security faff, you can hardly fault it.