Rail Europe reveals their 2014 summer travel trends.
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – France remains the top destination for their North American travelers according to Rail Europe, Inc., the largest distributor of European rail products in North America. According to sales data, Italy and the United Kingdom followed France respectively as the top destinations for Rail Europe travelers this summer.
In reviewing their 2014 sales figures, Rail Europe identified noteworthy travel data that showcases the latest trends and preferences among their North American clients. Key findings include:
- Traffic between Paris and Barcelona increased by a whopping 86%, due to the introduction of the new high-speed line between the two cities which transports passengers from city-center to city-center in just over 6 hours.
- With more high speed lines and tickets available at lower costs, Italy sales saw a 35% increase this year. Italian hotspots include: Rome, Milan and Venice – also known as the Golden Triangle.
- Spain and Switzerland are also among the leading European destinations, with an increase of roughly 30% in sales from the same time last year. North Americans are flocking to Zurich, Bern, Geneva, Lucerne, Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Cordova.
- Top 5 city-center to city-center journeys this summer: Rome to Milan; Rome to Venice via Florence; Paris to London; Paris to Avignon; and Paris to Amsterdam.
“Summer has always been a key selling season for Rail Europe, and this year was no exception. We’re pleased with the positive results from summer 2014 and expect the momentum to continue,” said Frederic Langlois, President and CEO of Rail Europe. “Working closely with our tourism board and rail partners is the key to delivering a memorable European experience to clients.”
“North American travelers are vital to our country’s tourism industry, and as host we aim to bring light to all that France has to offer,” said Anne Lure Tuncer of ATOUT France. “From bustling cities to charming villages, our partnership with Rail Europe ensures that North American travelers experience the benefits of rail travel, allowing them to explore more of France.”
Rail Europe, has become well-known among leisure and business travelers alike for their award winning customer service and creative marketing campaigns, along with an extensive product line, including a wide range of rail passes, high-speed train tickets, local and regional train tickets, as well as e-ticketing options available for many top destinations.
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
