INTRODUCTION - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 17

Travel times from London to Paris were reduced from more than 9 and a half
hours to 2 hours 15 minutes, and Brussels is only 1 hour and 15 minutes away,
thus making a European Capitals tour nothing more than a day excursion. Eurail
pass holders receive a discount on Eurostar tickets. Eurostar also serves Lille and
Calais in Northern France, Marne-la-Valle to Euro Disney just east of Paris, and
Ashford in England. There are also some additional ski trains during the winter
months.
The sleek Eurostar trains (Trans Manche Super Trains) each carry nearly 800
passengers (25 in premium first class, 206 in first class, and 548 in second class)
and reach speeds of 186 mph in France and 100 mph through the Chunnel and
in England. The train is based primarily on the TGV but was redesigned to ac-
commodate the three different voltage types encountered en route. The trains are
accessible to disabled passengers and those with special needs. Arrangements
may be made up to 48 hours prior to departure by calling Eurostar Complimentary
Assistance Service in the United Kingdom at [phone]. Sufficient stor-
age for luggage is provided.
Families traveling with children may opt for coaches 1 or 18, where facilities are
offered for baby changing and flip-up seats allow more room for kids. Ask the train
manager for a children's pack of things to do while traveling.
For security reasons, you are required to check in at the Eurostar terminal at
least 30 minutes prior to departure. We suggest allowing a bit more time. This train
is long (nearly a quarter of a mile) and the walk to your seat may be a lengthy one.
After check-in and passing through the security and passport control, you will find
a boarding-area lounge, cafeteria, bar, and shops.
Those taking advantage of a trip from Paris or Brussels to London on a Eurostar
train are in for a treat. The trains offer the comfort and amenities comparable to
few other trains in the world. From departure you're in store for a smooth, quiet
ride, and even when you enter the tunnel, the only noticeable change is the sud-
den darkness outside the windows. Those concerned with changes in air pressure
needn't worry. Air flow through the tunnel is regulated to minimize changes in pres-
sure, and few passengers, if any, notice discomfort.
Eurostar staff are multilingual and are available to provide assistance from the
minute you enter the terminal to the minute you exit the platform. You'll notice them
right away, dressed in navy blue uniforms with accented yellow scarves or ties. If
you have any questions, don't be shy—they're there to serve you, and serve you
they do.
Passengers traveling first class are treated to an onboard gourmet meal with
wine ranging from breakfast to dinner, depending upon the time of day. Second-