Business Travel Services - Rail Travel
With the privatisation of British Rail into 26 different operating companies, there is now an even greater range of rail ticket types and services available to the business traveller. As a ATOC licensed travel partner, TD Travel are able to offer our clients the right ticket at the right price.
Tickets vary between different train companies and routes. As a guide, however, the following are generally available:
The Executive Ticket
Probably the most useful and convenient product for the business traveller, as it provides a package of benefits for only a small supplement on top of the normal First Class return fare. The package includes First Class return travel, outward and return seat reservations, zone one London Underground tickets and free car park vouchers for travellers originating outside London . Local conditions may vary the package available.
First Class
The single and open return tickets give complete freedom, enabling the traveller to choose the time of travel. Seat reservations for First Class passengers are complimentary.
Off Peak Savers and Advance Purchase Fares
Cannot generally be used prior to 9.30a.m. on weekdays, although they are particularly useful for weekend travel. Please consult your reservation team for further details as various restrictions apply to these fares.
European Rail Travel
The TD Travel Group can also make reservations on Continental Rail and can supply tickets and advise on itineraries for most European journeys.
Eurostar to Paris and Brussels
Eurostar high-speed passenger rail services operate from London Waterloo International and Ashford Kent , to Lille , Paris (Gare du Nord) and Brussels ( Midi ). Onward high-speed rail connections are available from Lille . Connecting UK rail services to/from Waterloo are also available from selected cities in Northern England and Scotland .
Eurostar services operate in a similar way as international air travel; check-in closes 20 minutes before departure, and security and immigration checks are made.
Premium First Class
A Eurostar product, available on the London-Paris route, this consists of a superior level of service and high quality meal, as well as added-value items such as lounge access and free parking at Ashford International station.
First Class
First Class travellers receive an at-seat meal service and complimentary drinks included within the ticket price. Special meals are available by pre-booking. All passengers are pre-seated in either smoking or non-smoking carriages. A First Class lounge is available to members only.
Standard Class
A selection of sandwiches, snacks and beverages are available throughout the journey. All passengers have pre-reserved seats.
Fare Types
There is a range of fares available covering both First and Standard travel:
- Fully flexible tickets that are fully refundable
- Advance purchase - certain restrictions apply
- Special fares - certain restrictions apply
- Group fares - subject to minimum numbers
All fares are subject to availability and your business travel centre or implant will advise on the various options and restrictions that may apply.