Only heavy sleepers get rest on train
QPlans for my European holiday include travelling by overnight trains to keep the cost of accommodation to a minimum. Research has left me wondering about the flexibility of being able to book or change reservations at the last minute. Also, I have read that there is some security risk when travelling alone on certain routes. Do you have any tips on this travel option?
A: Sleeping and security are two important considerations when travelling on overnight trains. Depending on the country and rail service, the most economical accommodation is either a reclining seat in a day car or a couchette ( think bunk or ledge with foam pad and pillow) in a compartment. During the day these compartments provide regular bench seats which are made into the lower bunks for night travel. Washrooms and toilets are located at the end of each rail car.
The sleeping aspect is questionable unless you are a heavy sleeper and are not disturbed by limited space, constant jolting of rail cars and in some cases, other passengers talking and snoring. The idea of snuggling down between crisp white sheets for a good night’s sleep in a compartment with private facilities is only possible on overnight trains where accommodation is at par with the rate of a good hotel.
Booking a couchette can easily be done either online or at ticket machines located in major rail stations. It is best to always book overnight accommodation at least 24 hours in advance of departure. Remember, a Eurail pass does not include overnight service but may offer a discount on specific routes.
Most couchette compartments are the same size but some are made up for four passengers while others accommodate six. Book the four- passenger compartment as it is less crowded with more space between the upper and lower beds. It will cost you a few euros more but is well worth the extra area.
Men and women often occupy the same compartment so be prepared to take your pyjamas. Women can request a ladiesonly compartment when travelling on the main routes.
The very best site to research when planning any rail holiday is www. seat61. com. The section on overnight train service provides a full description of all accommodation options plus tips on last minute reservations.
Depending on the country, security issues are minimal. Sleeping compartments have locks on the door which can only be opened from the inside. Don’t hesitate to change compartments if you become uncomfortable with other passengers. Luggage space is limited to space under the seats and racks located above the window and door.
Flying out of U. S.
Last week’s Saturday travel section included a great article by Chris Myden on the question if flying from Bellingham or Seattle is worth the drive for those of us living in the Lower Mainland. If you missed it, check out his site www.yvdeals.com for this very informative article plus additional tips on how to monitor waiting times for border crossing and availability of airport parking at U. S. airports.
Chris’ advice is based on the dollar savings with regards to finding the lowest airfares while considering the cost and time of getting to airports. Another factor in the “is it worth it” debate is to consider the percentage of savings against the total cost of your holiday. To save $ 100 on a $ 1,000 holiday can be worth it, but the same $ 100 on a $ 5,000 holiday may not be such a determining factor.