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Anyone who has had to stand in the ‘Non-EU’ traveller section of passport control will understand that Brexit has done nothing to facilitate easy travel.
But a new system is set to be implemented later this year that will see British travellers enjoy streamlined security checks when travelling in the EU and Schengen area.
So regulations aside, how can you make the most of a rail trip across countries? Regular travellers know there are few travel methods more romantic than by rail, with sweeping vistas and comfortable lodgings all possible. However, there will be times when the views aren’t as interesting as you might have hoped and you will need something to pass the time.
Downloading movies, podcasts, and audiobooks on smartphones and other devices before setting off means you will be able to access entertainment without using data or relying on public wi-fi.
Some rail companies offer their customers wi-fi options that are useful for people who want to play games, with online casinos growing in popularity thanks to their state-of-the-art designs, exciting games and the chance players have of winning money.
Online gambling rules may change by region, but some of the top casino sites offer a massive selection of games to choose from, including slots, poker, and blackjack. You can play here and enjoy impressive bonuses and strong security when travelling.
Travelling by train means you will have some space to stow belongings, but you will not want to overpack and end up lugging gear about when you get to your destination. Some essentials that you should consider include a hand sanitiser, wet wipes and toiletries to keep clean and germ-free between washing facilities. A travel pillow can make a massive difference to your comfort and can minimise the risk of getting a stiff neck if you fall asleep while sitting.
Portable power banks and chargers for devices are essential, with many relying on mobile phones to store tickets, maps, and payment methods. A universal adaptor should help when travelling between countries as well. A first aid kit with some basics will help you patch up any scrapes, while finding a secure location for cash and essential documents is essential.
The Schengen area covers a group of mostly EU countries plus Switzerland, Iceland and Norway, but excluding Cyprus and Ireland. This area has abolished passport and border controls between countries, while strengthening external borders. The aim of this is to create free movement of people and goods between the countries involved.
This next month will see the implementation of the new EES (entry-exit system), which will see the use of biometric identification. This system is being used to streamline the traditional border techniques and will help to combat fraud, identify criminals and police limited stays.
The automation of non-EU nationals will make data collection and analysis significantly easier and will replace the more time-consuming system of passport stamping. While the new scheme will start its rollout on October 12, it will be some time before passports will no longer be stamped.
Europe is home to some of the best train journeys in the world, with stunning views that take travellers through forests, mountains, lake regions and cities. Some of the top European train trips worth exploring include:
Bernina Express
This crosses the Swiss Alps through the Bernina and Albula landscapes, which connect Italy to Switzerland. The 76-mile route takes approximately four hours and crosses 196 bridges and viaducts, passing through 55 tunnels. While travellers must book seats in advance, Eurail, Interrail and Swiss Travel passes are all valid, but there will be a reservation surcharge.
Belgrade-Bar Railway
The railway takes travellers through Serbia, Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina, taking between 11 and 12 hours. This is one of the best value options for rail travellers, with one-way, second-class tickets available from just €21. The route takes in scenic terrain, including lakes and mountains, and travellers can break up the journey by visiting towns and cities along the route.
Many train journeys through Europe will offer great facilities, but the Belgrade-Bar Railway is a more basic option without a food cart of power facilities.
Brenner Railway Munich to Venice
This route from Munich to Venice includes stops at Rosenheim, Innsbruck, the Brenner Pass and Verona and covers a distance of around 560km. The journey typically lasts around seven hours and gives travellers an opportunity to see the lakes, meadows, and Alpine backdrops of the Bavarian foothills, the vineyards, orchards, and castles of South Tyrol, and the plains and lagoon of Venice.
Customers can lounge in spacious seating, make use of dining cars, and charge devices with the power outlets available in new coaches. Sitting on the right side of the train on the Munich to Venice train will give travellers the best views.
Shopping around for deals and investing in Eurail and Interrail passes can help consumers enjoy flexible and discounted travel. Splitting tickets can often reveal hidden fares, with dedicated apps helping travellers find the cheapest routes.
