Let's make transport better, greener and fairer for all.
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Michael by a French train

Let's make it easier to choose train over plane

Hello Supporter

Today is World Tourism Day. When we head off on holiday, how we travel makes a huge difference to the impact of our trip. We know that travelling by train is a great choice for the planet, producing a fraction of the carbon emissions of flying. But international rail travel can often be tricky and expensive. 

Our Head of Campaigns, Michael, had plenty of time to consider these matters when he travelled from London to Portugal by train. Why did he do that? Find out in his blog! 

Michael writes...
"I'd never travelled to Portugal by any mode of transport, let alone by train. My route was:

London → Paris → Barcelona → Madrid → Vigo → Porto → Coimbra...

London-Paris was a thrill. It is remarkable that we have become so accustomed to having a railway under the sea. St Pancras was absolutely packed, with queues stretching towards Camden - evidence, if any were needed, that demand for international rail is there.

From Paris I travelled south to Barcelona, with stunning views across France, the Mediterranean coast and the Pyrenees. The double-decker trains, complete with café-bar, are something we could learn from in Britain..."

Read more about Michael's journey in his blog, as well as some of the inspiring lessons he learnt along the way about how transport policy can help tackle climate change:
"Portugal has increased rail journeys by 10% in a year, after introducing the brilliant 'passe verde': just 20 euros for monthly travel across the entire national rail network."
Read Michael's blog

Journeys like Michael's can be a great experience, but they need to be easier and more affordable. This World Tourism Day, we're urging the Government to develop a dedicated International Rail Strategy, to give more travellers a realistic alternative to short-haul flights and help tackle the climate emergency.

All the best

Jess

Jess Fitch, Head of Digital Communications
Campaign for Better Transport
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