Following on the success of its France ‘n Italy Pass, which became one of Rail Europe's most popular passes in the short time since it was introduced earlier this year, the organization representing most of the continent's rail systems has decided to introduce another mix ‘n match pair, France and Spain for 2003.
Rail Europe will be the exclusive distributor of this France ‘n Spain Pass, and you must purchase it before departing for Europe. In addition to the regular prices, there are discounts for two or more persons traveling together. The new style of pass has been created "in response to the changing travel patterns of North Americans, who prefer to see fewer destinations for shorter periods of time," according to Bernard Frelat, CEO of the Rail Europe Group.
In second class, you get any four days of unlimited train travel within a two-month period, with regular (Adult) prices per person starting at $252 (CDN $ 416). For two or more people traveling together, you can get a France ‘n Spain Pass Saver, starting at $214 per person (CDN $354), also in second-class. For travelers under the age of 26, there is a Youth Pass, starting at $189 (CDN $312), again in second class.
Children under 4 travel free and those between 4 and 11 pay half the adult fare. Rail travel days may be non-consecutive. Additional days beyond the basic 4-day pass may be purchased for $21 to $32 (CDN $35 to $53), depending on class of travel and type of pass (Saver Pass, Youth or Adult).
Rail Europe says that with a basic 4-day France ‘n Spain Pass, you could travel between Paris, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Barcelona, Madrid or between Paris, Avignon, Barcelona, Madrid and Seville, just to mention two possible itineraries. The pass does not include seat reservations fees or sleeper compartments, which are required on some trains.
As a bonus, holders of the pass receive discounts and special prices on a number of rail and non-rail products, such as special high-speed Premier trains, private railways, and boat and ferry crossings to Corsica and the Balearic Islands.
For more information on the France ‘n Spain Pass, which will be available for purchase starting on January 1, 2003, contact a travel agent or Rail Europe at 888/382-7245 in the US or 800/361-7245 in Canada, or go to the Web site, www.raileurope.com.