Traveling on Eurostar from London to Paris
by Martyn Davis

Travelling to France have you thought of taking The EuroStar? This high-speed passenger train, travels quickly between London and Paris through the channel tunnel. But don’t confuse EuroStar with Eurotunnel the shuttle train service that also allows for cars and motorcoach buses to travel between places.

If you do not wish to take your car abroad or prefer not to fly, the EuroStar is a great alternative with less hassle and no luggage weight restrictions. Plus you arrive in the heart of Paris from the UK in only around two and half hours.

The EuroStar used to depart from Waterloo station, but it now departs from the historical Victorian St Pancras International Station in London. Interestingly it arrives at the just as historical, Gare du Nord Train Station in Paris France.

Photo of St Pancras Station sttue of the Meeting photo by Oxyman/Wikimenda

St Pancras station has been renovated to its former glory, with a replica of the original station clock. This is the starting point of your holiday to France, so be sure to leave time to experience this fantastic building. There is an incredible feature here you don’t want to miss; the glass and steel train shed that was actually the largest enclosed space in the world when originally built. Best part is, you can enjoy a refreshing drink underneath this structure that has the longest Champagne bar in Europe.

You can also enjoy numerous shops and cafes at the St Pancras International station. Appealing to business travelers and connections to friends and family at home, there is a free WiFi connection. For those who like to plug in, at the departure lounge there are facilities for recharging. On board EuroStar, a few of the carriages have power sockets for plugging that includes your mobile phone or games. However, at this time there is no WiFi access on the train and you are charged for this facility at Gare du Nord station in Paris.

When it comes to booking your tickets for the EuroStar you can have them sent to an address in the UK, Belgium or in France. You can also arrange to collect them from the ticket office just prior to departure. For the best rates try booking early, which you can do up to four months in advance, where you can also request your seats.

Photo by Oxyman/Wikimedia

You have a choice of First Class with drink and meal included, or Second Class also known as Standard. The way seats are laid out is also different between carriages similar to airline configurations, whilst others are positioned facing each other so you can have friendly conversations with those sitting across from you. A favorite are seats that have tables between them, these are especially recommended if travelling with family or friends. Having the table is easier if you are traveling with young children so they have space to play. Also, if travelling with young children, you may wish to be near to the front or rear of the train, this is where baby changing facilities are located. Then of course there is the option to choose a window seat to admire the French countryside as you travel to Paris.

Quickly looking over detailed plans of the carriage help you to choose where you would like to be seated. Do bear in mind that if you are not booking through directly through EuroStar, and going to one of the many online firms, then you may not be able to choose specific seating.

EuroStar runs every day except for the 25th December. Because they run virtually every hour 24 hours a day, you can choose the time that best works with your plans. Be sure to check off-peak times they tend to be less expensive than prime times. Also, children under the age of four are free providing they do not take up a seat, also children under the age of 11 will have discounted rates.

Book EuroStar to other destinations than Paris, many utilize the train to get to Brussels. The journey normally stops at the city of Lille, which is the capital of the Nord-Pas de Calais region in France. Traveling in summer months, they have scheduled days with direct service from London to Avignon in the Provence-Alps-Côte-d'Azur region. Even better, during ski season they run a service directly to the French Alps for those that desire to ski in France.

To be prepared, make sure you have your passport when traveling between countries. They still have passport control and will not let you pass without documentation. Check in quicker than flying, and you are allowed to keep your luggage with you at all times. There are no weight restrictions on your bags, so here is some good advice...travel light! Heavier luggage is hard to maneuver and has caused some to miss their scheduled time. Also a word of warning, if someone comes running to help you from out of nowhere, they may hold your luggage captive until you give them a tip. If you know they are taking the train you will probably okay.

Photo of Gare du Nord by Bras Cyril/Wikimedia

The Gare du Nord train station in Paris is a main connection point to other destinations throughout Europe. It is an extremely busy station, for those who plan on a short stay, its an easy walk through the main concourse to the streets of Paris. Just outside the station is a taxi stand to take you to your hotel or Paris attraction. If you prefer Metro, head downstairs for a quick jaunt to your destination.

EuroStar is traveling technology at its best, with your comfort and enjoyment in mind. It is the finest way to travel whether for business or for pleasure. Easy to book, and easy to ride, so why not consider this relaxing form of transportation next time you have a need to go between these two wonderful countries?

About the Author:
www.placesinfrance.com - Martyn Davis European Traveler, Author, Photographer and Business Development Manager. For all your French holiday needs and travel guide to Paris and France, with tourist information, landmarks and attractions - EuroStar Channel Tunnel Crossing