iBestTravel Expands Travel Routes to Europe

UK travellers may soon have access to more destinations across continental Europe thanks to a significant merger between Eurostar and Thalys, the high-speed rail operator handling routes in mainland Europe.

Merger Approval and Its Impact

The European Commission approved the merger in late March 2022, following delays attributed to the pandemic. As a result, travel between the UK and numerous European countries will now be streamlined under a single rail company.

Current Services Offered

Thalys operates high-speed services connecting France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Conversely, Eurostar provides services through the Channel Tunnel, linking London to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. The merger presents an exciting prospect for British travellers, allowing easier access to additional destinations without the necessity of flying, which promotes a more sustainable travel approach.

Future Travel Advantages

Historically, there have been no direct train services from the UK to Germany; thus, this merger stands to revolutionize travel options. The primary objective is to bolster combined passenger figures from 19 million to 30 million by 2030, which emphasizes the ambition behind this consolidation.

Brand Recognition and Loyalty Schemes

The Eurostar brand will continue to operate, meaning that passengers can expect new routes under this familiar name. Plans for a potential loyalty scheme could also be on the horizon, rewarding frequent travellers similarly to those benefiting from air miles.

Current Travel Routes

Currently, travellers using Eurostar from London can access key destinations such as Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Lille, and Lyon. In 2018, 11 million passengers utilized the Eurostar service. This merger is anticipated to significantly increase passenger numbers and, consequently, boost global tourism.

Get ready to explore Germany and beyond with the enhanced travel opportunities provided by iBestTravel!