When you travel regularly for business, you will quickly learn what you need to prioritise in order to enjoy a comfortable and practical journey each and every time. Comfort refers not just to the level of luxury experienced while travelling, but also the convenience of the journey, and a practical journey involves few changes in transport and also space to work while you travel.
With this is mind, it goes without saying that one of the finest forms of transport to use when travelling for work has to be via train. Efficient, fast, comfortable, luxurious first-class carriages, with dining and bar carts and spacious seating areas, trains offer a stylish way to get from A to B without you having to worry about road diversions, car troubles and stopping for breaks if driving or cancelled flights, going through airport security, luggage limits and the like when flying.
On a train you can kick back and relax, have a drink, snooze and work, while getting up and stretching your legs as and when you see fit, while on board Wi-Fi and table seats mean that you can stay connected and working as you make your way to your business trip.
When travelling to offices, events centres, hotels and the like around the UK and Europe, you will find that a lot of areas are actually more easily accessed by rail and one or two stops may be all you need to get you quite far and to more remote destinations. There are tens of thousands of train stations spread across Europe, so you’ll have no issue reaching your destination, whatever it might be.
Business rail journeys are gaining in popularity amongst business travellers in Europe and around the world – and they bring several benefits. As mentioned, train travel helps you avoid the frustrations associated with road trips and air travel and has the ability to turn any business trip into a pleasant experience. We take a closer look below at the benefits of train journeys for business travel.
Why travelling by train is the best option for business travel
It’s time saving
Depending on where your meeting or event is taking place, it’s often the case that train travel will get you there quicker than most modes of transport. Imagine the time it takes when flying a short distance, from the moment you arrive at the airport, through to chick-in, potential delays (or even cancellations these days), luggage collection, all the way through to transport into a city centre to find your hotel. Now imagine arriving at the train station, taking your seat in comfy first class and changing maybe once or twice and arriving directly in a city centre.
We certainly aren’t suggesting that every destination will be shorter by train, but many destinations, especially in Europe are easily accessed by rail. NS International describes the train as the ideal means of transportation for corporate travel because trains usually arrive at a central point in a city, so you can easily find a taxi to get you to your hotel.
It’s environmentally friendly
If your company is looking for ways to lower its impact on the environment and cut down carbon emissions, using the train as means of transportation for business travel is a great start. Train travel is greener than flying or driving. As an example, an individual that travels from Madrid to London by plane emits 118 kilograms of CO2, but only 43 kilograms if they have a train journey. Opting for business train travel is a sustainable option, showing your clients that your company is committed to making the planet greener.
Easy access
As stated before, large airports are usually located on the outskirts of cities, so it often takes a while to travel from the airport to your destination. However, train stations are conveniently placed in city centres to make it easier to reach your destination as fast as possible. Also, airports are usually located only in major cities, so if you need to reach a smaller city nearby the metropolis, you need to combine aeroplane travel with another means of transportation. Why waste time and money and deal with the hassle of switching between means of transportation when you can get on the train in your hometown and wait patiently to arrive at your destination?
It offers a pleasing environment
Let’s say that you need to get a train to Brussels from another European city; you would most likely have the opportunity to admire unique and captivating landscapes because trains have large windows that invite the travellers to have a glimpse outdoors. Most trains have wider seats and more legroom than aeroplanes, so you’ll also feel more comfortable than flying. By taking in the scenery, basking in natural light, and benefitting from enough room to travel comfortably, you’ll likely feel more energised during the journey and arrive refreshed to your destination.
Tips to make the most of your next train business trip
As you know by now, travelling by train is more comfortable and luxurious than travelling by car or plane, in many situations. However, it’s a different experience, and you should be prepared for it. Here’s how to make the most of it when travelling for business.
– Research the available routes. There are thousands of train routes in Europe from various locations, so you should take a look at the schedule and identify the route in advance to book the right ticket for you.
– Look for deals online. As you already know, you can purchase your tickets in advance using an online directory. Compare the prices and plan your trip in advance to get the best deals.
– Use business class lounges. Depending on the train you board, it might offer business class lounges where you can access the Wi-Fi, relax, and engage in conversation with other business individuals.
– Book together if you travel with other colleagues. If you’re travelling with other colleagues for a business event, make sure to book tickets for the entire group so you can sit together.
– Keep essentials with you. Always bring a small bag containing your most important belongings like business documents and laptop close by when you travel by train.
