Short Breaks Ltd | Eurostar City Breaks
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Latest News from Short Breaks Ltd

 
Current News
See Short Breaks comments at http://www.short-breaks.com/blog/

11/08/2010 17:3:56 - New News

Eurostar Engineering works October and November 2010

We have been advised that due to engineering works on 30 October, 31 October and 20 November 2010,
some Eurostar trains from Paris to London will be departing earlier than the scheduled
departure time.

We have checked our records and will advise any customers who may be affected  by these minor changes

Eurostar Train        Original Paris           New Paris                        Difference in
 Number             departure times       departure time                   departure times

9007                          07:13               07:07                                -6 minutes
9019                          10:13               10:10                                -3 minutes
9023                          11:13               11:07                                -6 minutes
9035                          14:13               14:09                                -4 minutes
9039                          15:07               15:04                                -3 minutes
9043                          16:13               16:07                                -6 minutes
9045                          16:43               16:40                                -3 minutes
9047                          17:13               17:07                                -6 minutes
9049                          17:43               17:34                                -9 minutes
9051                          18:13               18:10                                -3 minutes
9059                          20:13               20:07                                -6 minutes
9061                          20:43               20:40                                -3 minutes
• Trains will arrive within a few minutes of original arrival time, with the

following
exceptions:
- Eurostar 9011 departing 08:07 will arrive at 09:54, 18 minutes later than

originally
scheduled
- Train 9031 departing 13:04 will arrive at 14:42, 11 minutes later than

originally
scheduled
- Train 9055 departing 19:13 will arrive at 20:40, 6 minutes later than

originally
scheduled
- Train 9063 departing 21:13 will arrive at 22:42, 13 minutes later than

originally
scheduled
• For technical reasons only 1 of the 12 trains affected (trains 9049) will show the
revised times on the booking system. All other Paris-London Eurostar trains will continue to show the original departure times. 

Short Breaks Ltd

 

20/05/2010 12:11:26

Eurostar offers a new class of service Standard Premier

Eurostar, has today announced an important change to its class of service range.

Eurostar is introducing Standard Premier – a ‘mid-class’ designed to appeal to not only the more cost-conscious business traveller, but also leisure travellers who want that little bit extra space and service.

Standard Premier tickets are now on sale for travel from 1 September. The new class will replace Eurostar’s existing Leisure Select class, which has been on offer since 2005.

This change comes as a result of extensive customer feedback and market research and sees Eurostar’s class offerings move towards a more intuitive structure with Standard Premier perfectly complementing the existing Business Premier and Standard classes.

Commercial Director Nick Mercer said:

"Following extensive research and feedback from our corporate clients and business travel agents, it became very clear that there was a strong appetite for a mid-range product pitched between our fully-flexible Business Premier and Standard classes.

We have taken this on board and have now introduced a new class which not only meets the needs of our more cost-conscious business customers but also appeals to the leisure traveller looking for a bit of extra comfort and service on board.

With the introduction of Standard Premier, we now have a range of products that meets the differing needs of all our customers."

What is on offer?

Business Premier
Eurostar's exclusive business class offers the highest level of freedom to work in dedicated, comfortable surroundings. With fully flexible fares, Business Premier offers a 10 minute express check-in, business lounge access, plus drinks and a fine food menus often designed by top ranking chefs. This summer, Business Premier travellers will enjoy menus designed by Michelin star chef Graham Garrett from acclaimed Kent restaurant 'The West House'.

Standard Premier
This new class of service provides for travellers seeking more from their time on board. With the option of flexible fares*, Standard Premier offers the freedom to work, think, or simply unwind. Customers are presented with calm, spacious surroundings with on-board staff offering a light meal and a selection of magazines.

Standard Class
All the advantages of high-speed, city centre to city centre rail travel, plus great value. Standard Class is for travellers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on style or comfort.

03/06/2010 15:46:0

Eurostar become a partner for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Bid

Eurostar, have signed to become a Tier 2 partner in support of England’s bid for the FIFA 2018 World Cup.

 The latest tie-up with another major sporting initiative follows the announcement by LOCOG for Eurostar as a Tier 3 sponsor and the International Rail Services Provider for London 2012.

 England 2018 Bid’s CEO, Andy Anson, said “The fact that England is easy to get to and easy to get around is an important selling point of our bid.  Eurostar is a fitting example of our world-class transport system and we are delighted to be working with them for the remainder of this campaign.”

 Eurostar’s Commercial Director, Nick Mercer, commented:  “With London directly linked to the European high-speed network it is a complete no-brainer that Eurostar should become a partner in FIFA’s England 2018 bid.  ….”

09/06/2010 16:15:46

Short Breaks Ltd win Award for Best Short Break Tour Operator to France 2010

On Saturday night Short Breaks were pleased to accept the award for Best Short Break Tour Operator to France 2010 at an awards ceremony at the pristine Park Plaza Wesminister Bridge Hotel , London organised by Atout France  - the official French Government Tourist Board. In their words ....

Award nomination process:
ATOUT FRANCE UK has appointed a jury composed of key local partners and associations dealing with France and British tour operators, and formed the following jury:
ABTOF
P&V
RAILEUROPE
SEAFRANCE
COACH TOURISM COUNCIL

The French Travel Trade Awards give special recognition to 8 operators for their contribution to the promotion of the destination France in various categories and take into account innovation, initiatives and general dedication to France in the programmes.

The judging process was extremely close with all those nominated demonstrating strong commitment and creativity during the very challenging economic climate of the past 2 years. 

Well done the winners!

Nominations & results:

Best Short Breaks Tour Operator 2010

Short Breaks  Ltd (winner)
French Travel Service
Railbookers
Ski Weekends

' We are , of course , pleased to accept this award in recognition of the great value , diverse breaks that we provide and the level of service that we strive to give and are sure that it will push us to further improve the product to France that we offer in the future '  Vid Veerapen General Manager 

23/06/2010 9:42:45

French National Strike - Thursday 24th June 2010 - No Effect on Eurostar

We have been advised that from 22:00 today (Wednesday 23rd June) to 08:00 on Friday 25th June there will be a French National strike that could cause disruption to transport services.

Eurostar services will operate as normal.

Interconnecting services ie trains travell to Disney via Lille coudl be affected but we have checked all boookings travelling over the affected period and non of our customers should be inconvenienced.

As always if you need any more information please call us and we will be happy to help. 

 

29/06/2010 14:21:17

Important Eurotunnel Advice for Summer 2010

IMPORTANT  EUROTUNNEL INFORMATION
 
With the busy summer holiday period fast approaching, we have been asked by Eurotunnel to remind you to kindly respect your check-in and departure times.

It is imperative that you arrive in time to meet your departure  to avoid being delayed, as Eurotunnel will be extremely busy during these popular travel periods. 

Please note that whilst there is very little available space for certain weekends in July and August it is still worth contact Short Breaks as we will be able to help find suitable Eurotunnel travel times .  The first weekend in September returning from Calais is almost full.

In the event that you  need to amend your  outbound or return travel, please do so , where possible,before you travel.

As you can appreciate, space will be limited for those customers who simply arrive at check-in, expecting to travel and these customers may experience a lengthy wait.

We thank you for your understanding and assistance with this matter.

04/08/2010 11:53:5

Eurostar Sales and Passenger Increase in the First Half of 2010

Eurostar revenues increased by 18% to £404 million and passenger numbers rose by 6% to 4.6 million during the first half of 2010.

As well as the the impact of the ash cloud disruption the increase  also reflects a increase in both business and leisure travellers in Eurostar during the period. 


Nicolas Petrovic, Chief Executive of Eurostar, said:


“Over the last six months, we have delivered strong growth in both business and leisure bookings.  As the economic environment has strengthened we have seen an uplift in the business market and an overall increase in the number of passengers travelling.


“Whilst our core routes continue to be busy more and more people are opting to travel further afield and explore new destinations by train.  Forward bookings are looking strong and with the increasing appetite for high speed rail travel in Europe, the trend looks set to continue.”

20/05/2010 11:59:26

Eurostar to sponsor London 2012

Eurostar has become a tier 3 sponsor of London 2012, the 30th domestic sponsor , The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) announced

Eurostar has become Official International Rail Services Provider and will be providing the London 2012 Olympics with arrival and departure services at St Pancras International for those competing and working at the Games who are travelling to London on its trains. It will also provide international rail services for London 2012's operational requirements.

Eurostar will also have a role to play for both the Belgian and French Olympic Organising committees in the transportation of their respective teams.

As part of its sponsorship of the London 2012 Games, Eurostar will be conducting a number of activations across the UK, France and Belgium to promote London 2012 as a truly sustainable Games.

The first main Eurostar activation is the Tri-City-Athlon planned for 14 September 2010 which takes places across the three capital cities that Eurostar serves. Over one day participants will do a swim in Paris, a cycle in Brussels and a run in London.

LOCOG Chair Sebastian Coe commented: "We are thrilled that Eurostar has come onboard as a London 2012 partner. They are an iconic brand with a strong emphasis on quality and I know they will ensure that everyone coming to London 2012 by rail, either as a competitor or spectator, has the best travel experience possible from the moment they start their journey."

Nicolas Petrovic, Chief Executive of Eurostar, said: "We are proud to be partners with London 2012 and believe we will play a critical role in bringing people from all over Europe. As the high speed rail link between the UK and the continent we will be bringing over a million people to and from the UK during the Games and will help make London 2012 the most sustainable Games possible."

02/07/2010 14:50:43

Eurostar Catering Today - Friday 2nd July 2010

We have just been advised that due to French industrial action there has not been any catering in both Leisure Select and Business Premier Classes on Eurostar trains back from Paris today.

On behalf  of Eurostar we apologise to any of our customers who have been affected by this.If youu have been affected please contact us on your return and we will take up compensation claims with Eurostar on your behalf.

As soon as we are made aware that catering has been resumed we will update the site.

 

Latest News Archive

19th April 10 New News

Eurostar News

We have been advised that Eurostar have added some extra trains to Paris and Brussels to cope with extra demand due to situation with air travel.

The extra Eurostar trains that are operating today Monday 19th April are From London to Paris (direct service only):

  • Train 9016: Dep 10:00 - arr 13:17
  • Train 9022: Dep 11:32 - arr 14:47
  • Train 9040: Dep 16:31 - arr 19:47
From Paris to London (direct service only):
  • Train 9045: Dep 16:43 - arr 17:59
  • Train 9061: Dep 20:43 - arr 21:59
From Brussels to London:
  • Train 9141: dep 14:59 - arr 15:56
As well as the above we do still have some breaks left to travel in the next few days please call and we will be pleased to try and help.

1st April 10 New News

Easter Opening Hours

Please see below our opening hours this Easter

Good Friday 10am -4pm
Saturday 3rd April- 9am -4pm
Easter Sunday - Closed
Monday 5th April - 10am - 4pm

Have a great Easter Break.

Short Breaks Ltd

29th March 10 New News

Eurostar services and planned UK Rail Strike action

Eurostar have advise Short Breaks that if the planned industrial action on the UK Rail Network goes ahead from the 6th to 9th April Eurostar are planning to run a full service.

London Underground is not affected by the action and will run a normal service.

If we are advised of any material change we will update the website and if necessary contact customers.

Short Breaks Ltd

01st March 10 - as of 10:10 New News

Eurostar News

We have been advised that high speed Eurostar services between the UK and Brussels will resume today Monday 1 March, when the lines near the site of the recent train accident will re-open.

Thanks to all our customers who were affected in the last two weeks for their understanding.

Short Breaks Ltd

19th February 10 - as of 12:06

Important Eurostar News

We have just been advised that due to the ongoing investigation direct Eurostar services to Brussels will not operate until Friday 26th Feb at the earliest. There is a very regular coach shuttle service between Lille and Brussels and also for customers travelling to Bruges there is a local train service from Lille.

We are in the process of contacting customers who will be affected but please feel free to contact us above.

Short Breaks Ltd

18th February 10 - as of 10:31

Important Eurostar News

Eurostar have advised that due to the fact that emergency services and investigators are still at the scene of the accident outside Brussels there will not be direct services from the UK to Brussels until at least Sunday 21st February inclusive.

There is a service to Lille as per the timetable below and coaches are running between Lille and Brussels. Eurostar are currently operating up to 40 coaches a day between Lille and Brussels and it is likely that they will be running more over the weekend.

We are currently advising our customers of their options.

Paris services and the direct Eurostar service to Disneyland Paris are running as normal.

We apologies to customers for any inconvenience that this cause but given the circumstance we are sure that you understand that this is beyond either Short Breaks or Eurostar's control.

Short Breaks Ltd

16th February 10 - as of 15:40

Important Eurostar News

We have been advised by Eurostar that no due to the ongoing investigation of the causes of the commuter train accident outside Brussels there will be no direct Eurostar services to Brussels tomorrow. A shuttle service to Lille will operate and coaches will transfer passengers from Lille to Brussels (journey time from Lille is approx 90 minutes).

Trains to Lille are scheduled to depart as below:

TRAINS DEP ASHFORD EBBSFLEET CALAIS LILLE ARRIVAL
9108 06:20 06:34/37 06:54/57 08:29/32 09:07 -
9120 08:27 08:41/45     10:54 -
9132 12:57 13:11/15     15:24 -
9144 16:04       18:25 -
9150 17:27 17:41/45     19:54 -
9158 19:34       21:54 -

The direct Disney service and Paris services are unaffected by this however there have been unrelated delays on the Paris services today.

If any customers are booked on Lille trains that do not appear on the above timetable you will be accommodated on the next available Eurostar service but we strongly recommend you to arrive at the time stated on your confirmation or ticket.

Short Breaks Ltd

15th February 10 - as of 17:40

Important Eurostar News

Whilst Eurostar will post an updated service announcement later tonight we have been advised that following the incident this morning outside Brussels it is highly unlikely that there will be Eurostar services operating to Brussels tomorrow.

We have contacted all customers who are due to travel with us.

For those who are already in Bruges, Brussels, Leuven or Mechelen – we are in the process of contacting you or the hotels in which you are staying. As has happened today Eurostar trains are running from Lille to the UK.

From Bruges the quickest way is to get a taxi to Lille - this will cost approx 120 Euros

If you wish to travel to Brussels again at present the only way is by taxi which will cost approx 200 Euros – you will then either have to get a local non high speed train to Lille or take one of the coaches available to Lille – please see Eurostar staff at Brussels station for further information.

If you are already in Brussels please go to the Eurostar ticket Office at Brussels Midi and Eurostar staff will be pleased to help you.

Short Breaks Ltd

15th February 10 - as of 10:48

Important Eurostar News

Due to an serious commuter train accident on the rail line just outside Brussels we have been advised that there will be no Eurostar services running directly to Brussels today.

Eurostar have advised that they are looking at alternative means of transport from Lille to Brussels and back but this is yet to be confirmed.

Customers who are due to travel today

We are currently contacting customers to advise of the alternatives. – Eurostar are offering free cancellations and free changes on the Eurostar element of the trip – some hotels may charge a no show fee unless the trips are rescheduled. We will advise when we contact you of the individual hotel’s stance

Customers who are due to travel back from Belgium today.

At present we do not have information as to the level of Eurostar services although it is possible that the disruption may extend to the next few days . As soon as we are advised of any definite plans we will be calling and advising customers individually.

Short Breaks apologises for the disruption that this incident has caused.

Short Breaks Ltd

11th February 10 - as of 10:11

Eurostar News

We have been advised that due to the weather conditions in Kent there are delays on Eurostar this morning of about an hour.

We will keep you informed if we are advised of any more information.

We have also been advised that Eurotunnel has suspended services we will post updates here as soon as we have more information

Short Breaks Ltd

13th January 10 - as of 13:59

Eurostar/Short Breaks Update

From Wednesday 13 to Friday 15 January, we have been advised by Eurostar that they are running a near normal service with a small number of cancellations. There may also be some slight delays to your journey.

Weather permitting from Saturday 16th January Eurostar will revert to running a normal service .

If you have any queries please contact us.

Short Breaks Ltd

11th January 10 - as of 13:14

Eurostar News

As of the Tuesday 12th January Eurostar are planning to operate a near normal service with possibly slight delays and a minimal number of cancellations.

At this time Eurostar have advised that are no longer advising customers to postpone their travel and as such not offering to cancel or amend bookings without charge.

If you have any queries please contact us.

Short Breaks Ltd

08th January 10 - as of 17:39

Eurostar Update

As of today and over the weekend other than planned cancellations trains have operated. At the weekend there is a reduced service operating with mainly the latest and earliest trains affected. Eurostar have advised that they will be an updated timetable within Eurostar.com in the next hour with the timetable for the weekend.

Please refer to this for the latest news

Please note that the Disney direct service is due to operate on both days.

We have contacted or left messages for customers who may be affected.

As of now we are expecting Eurostar to return to a normal timetable as of Monday Of course the above is subject to change if the weather worsens unexpectedly. The office is open on Saturday 9-4 and Sunday from 10-2 should you require any more info.

Short Breaks Ltd

07th January 10 - as of 12:30

Eurostar Update

Because of the current bad weather conditions across northern Europe Eurostar will be running a restricted service over the next few days. If you need to travel you should still check-in 30 minutes before the departure time shown on your ticket, however your service may be subject to cancellation or delay.

We are waiting for further updates from Eurostar and will update as soon as we have more news.

Short Breaks Ltd

07th January 10

Eurostar Update

Eurostar are planning to operate a near normal service today. However due to the severe weather in the UK and France, services are subject to possible delay due to speed restrictions.

There is a small planned reduction in services on Thursday 7 January with the following trains cancelled: 9044, 9053, 9112 and 9157. Booked travellers will be re-accommodated onto alternative services Customers who experience difficulty reaching our UK stations will be able to exchange their tickets for travel anytime within the next two months.

For Friday 8 January and the weekend, Eurostar expects to operate near normal services. There may be a small number of planned cancellations depending on the severity of the weather.


Whilst Eurostar themselves are offering refunds on that part of your break we will have to contact hotels to see whether they will be charging if our customers decide to move dates. Most of our hotel partners have been very accommodating and , as long as breaks are rescheduled, they have been willing to waive normal cancellation fees. If you need clarification please call us.

Short Breaks Ltd

24th December 09

Eurostar Disruption Update

We know that for many of our customers the Eurostar cancellations has caused disruption and in many cases has caused much more than mere inconvenience. Please rest assured that we are trying our best to deal with our customers so that any ongoing inconvenience is minimised.

The latest Eurostar information we have is as follows

9:00 (GMT) UPDATE TO EUROSTAR SERVICES FOR THURSDAY 24 DECEMBER 2009

Eurostar is operating services throughout Thursday 24 December to a modified timetable.

We advise customers holding tickets for travel on Thursday 24 December to arrive at the station an hour before their original departure time and we will allocate seating on the next available train.

We will also ensure that anyone holding tickets for any day between Saturday 19 December and Wednesday 23 December will be able to travel.

Disneyland Paris

The direct Eurostar service to Eurodisney is scheduled to operate on 26th December onwards. For those customers who are in resort there is no Eurostar back on the 26th December and you will have to make your way by RER to Gare Du Nord where your tickets will be accepted by Eurostar staff there.

For further updates during the holiday period please refer to news on the Eurostar website.

Once again Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Short Breaks Ltd

24th December 09

Short Breaks Christmas Message

We wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Our Christmas Opening hours are:

24th December - Until 2pm
25th - 27th December - Closed
28th December - 10am - 4pm
29th - 31st December - 9am - 6pm
1st January - Closed

Short Breaks

22nd December 09 - as of 16:57

Eurostar Update

UPDATE ON EUROSTAR SERVICES AT 12:30 ON TUESDAY 22 DECEMBER 2009

Eurostar continues to run a restricted service today and it seems that most of the backlog of customers is beginning to clear .

We are aware that customers who were due to travel today have been able to travel even though earlier indications from Eurostar were that they would not.

We have yet to have confirmation on what Eurostar services are running on the 23rd but given todays experience it is very possible that clients who do have tickets will probably travel albeit with an amended timetable

Customers who were unable to travel on 19th,20th ,21st ,22nd

We are still in the process of contacting all of the above customers to advise of the options open to them - Please contact us if you have yet to hear from us so we can advise you.

Thanks for your understanding

Short Breaks    

21st December 09 - as of 18:31

Eurostar Update

Eurostar will be resuming a restricted service from Tuesday 22 December. Trains will depart from 07.30 to 18.00.

Eurostar are advising clients who are travelling tomorrow not to travel unless it is necessary however please note that some of our hotels will be charging clients that do not arrive unless they can reschedule their dates.

Customers are advised not to attempt to travel independently via the channel ports or the Channel Tunnel unless they have confirmed bookings.

Our office will be open from 9 am tomorrow morning to deal with any queries

Once again we are sorry for any inconvenince that has been caused by this disruption.

Short Breaks    

21st December 09 - as of 09:39

Eurostar Update - For customers stuck at Disney

For those of you that are stuck at Disney, Eurostar are sending coaches to the Disney station (Marne-le-Valle) to take you back home.

Please keep checking with the reception desk or Concierge at your hotel for more information

Short Breaks    

21st December 09 - as of 09:00

Eurostar Update

As of 9am this morning we have been advised that there will be no Eurostar services running today (Monday 21st December).

As soon as we have more information, we will be contacting our clients to advise. We will also be keeping our website up to date with the latest information

Sorry for any inconvenience.

Short Breaks    

19th December 09 - as of 18:07

Eurostar Update

We have been advised that there will be a limited service operating tomorrow.

As soon as we have more details we will update you here

S
hort Breaks    

19th December 09

Eurostar Update

We have been advised that no Eurostar services will be running today because of weather conditions in France.

We will have an update about services scheduled for tomorrow at around about 16:00 today and will put details here as soon as possible after that.

We have staff in the office today but call volume is high .

Apologies for the inconvenience that this disruption is causing

S
hort Breaks    

17th December 09

Eurostar Strike Update


Whilst the industrial action will be going ahead this weekend Eurostar have issued us the following statement

Eurostar services operating normally

There is planned industrial action on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 December, however during this period Eurostar services will operate normally.


As always if we are advised of any changes to the above we will advise any customers who may be affected

16th December 09

Possible Eurostar Strike Friday 18th / Saturday 19th December


Despite reports on the BBC and other news sources we have been informed by Eurostar that services are likely to run as normal.

If we hear anything to the contrary we will post news here and if necessary be contacting passengers who may be affected.

If you have any further questions please check back here or call us on 0844 482 2940
15th October 09

Signs of Sales recovery as Eurostar heads toward their 15th Anniversary


Ticket sales up 6.8% in Q3 2009 compared to Q3 2008

Signs of an upturn in business travel market

Eurostar, the provider rail journeys between the UK and the Continent, today announced its Quarter 3 2009 July - September results which report some recovery in sales.

Whilst sales and revenues for the year to date are down slightly and the business travel environment remains challenging, overall sales revenue in Q3 2009 is up 6.8% on the same period last year.  This uplift is due to the impact of the fire on a shuttle in the Channel Tunnel in September last year which depressed the Q3 2008 results, helped by growth in the leisure market and a bottoming-out in the decline of business sales.

Overall ticket sales between January and September 2009 totalled £504.9 million and since the beginning of the year Eurostar has welcomed 6.9 million travellers.  Whilst this is down 0.9% on 2008, the volume of passengers travelling in Q3 2009 went up to 2.6 million from 2.4 million 2008. This sees an 11% increase in passengers travelling outbound from the UK and a 7% increase of passengers travelling inbound from the Continent year on year.

The increase reflects the success of the ‘Little Break, Big Difference’ advertising campaign which has encouraged UK travellers to treat themselves for as little as the £59 return fare – Eurostar’s lead in fare which has stayed the same for the last six years.

Richard Brown, Chief Executive, Eurostar, said:

“Today’s figures show that despite tough times, people are increasingly realising the great benefit of travelling with Eurostar.

“These individuals are part of what we call the ‘Eurostar Generation’; travellers who over the past decade and a half have experienced significant changes to the way they live, work and play as the network of high-speed rail services steadily grows.”

Brown also said that whilst the economic climate remains difficult there are signs that the worst might be over for the business market:

“In recent weeks a number of our major corporate clients have eased their business travel restrictions.  Although it is early days, this may be a sign of an upturn.”
13th October 09

High Speed rail streaks ahead in race to cut carbon dioxide emissions from travel - Eurostar leading the way


Short-haul travellers who choose high-speed rail over the plane are already making huge and immediate reductions in their carbon dioxide emissions – simply by switching how they get from A to B.

Eurostar, the provider of carbon neutral, high-speed rail journeys between the UK and mainland Europe, highlighted (22 September) the value of emissions cuts being made right now, on the day that the aviation industry promised to cuts emissions by 50% by 2050.

Eurostar’s Head of Environment and Energy Louisa Bell said:

“While we welcome this move, there is no better time to remind travellers of the carbon dioxide savings that can be made today, simply by choosing train over plane.

“High-speed rail in the form of Eurostar achieves an immediate 90% cut in journey emissions, based on research which has shown that a Eurostar trip generates just 10% of the CO2 emissions of an equivalent flight. What’s more, as governments pursue policies to decarbonise electricity supplies, the emissions from high-speed rail journeys will only further reduce.

“Whilst the aviation industry has made long-term promises to halve carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, consumers are already making much bigger cuts, simply by choosing to take the train.

“Across Europe, for high-speed journeys of up to four hours, typically more than half the market now prefers rail to air. For shorter trips, the market share of rail is significantly greater.”

Under its Tread Lightly environmental plan launched in April 2007, Eurostar has a target of reducing carbon dioxide emissions per traveller journey by 35% by 2012, compared with 2007.

The train operator has already achieved a 31% cut in journey emissions, largely through a switch to lower carbon sources of electricity along its routes, and without using offsetting in order to achieve its target.

Eurostar’s policy is only to use offsetting where emissions cannot yet be eliminated. This is done in order to make all journeys carbon neutral, at no extra cost to passengers.

More widely across Europe, high-speed trains are already enabling travellers to make major reductions in journey emissions compared with the old alternative of flying. And with the size of Europe’s high-speed rail network due to triple in the 15 years to 2020, passengers will be able to travel faster point-to-point by high-speed rail than by plane on nearly half of Europe’s busiest air routes, according to a recent study by Boston Consulting Group*.

It conducted a survey of 13,000 pan-European distance travellers from 13 countries, which found that more than 30 percent would like to switch modes with the proportion in some countries as high as 65 percent.

*Boston Consulting Group: ‘Planes, Trains, and Automobiles’, March 2009
07th July 09 ed rail

Eurostar, the high-speed passenger service that links the UK with the continent, today unveiled a new look and feel for the onboard branding of “Leisure Select” - its first class accommodation for leisure travellers. 

The rich and colourful imagery of the new branding re-defines the Leisure Select experience by using pictures of cultural hotspots - particularly cafes, bars and restaurants - in London, Paris and Brussels that have been selected as offering great value for money. 

The revamp of Leisure Select branding is expected to further increase the number of travellers who choose this popular, first class ‘treat’ between London, Paris and Brussels, as well as on the daily services to Disneyland Resort Paris and the weekly direct services from London to Avignon in Provence during the summer.

Eurostar and third party travel agents and tour operators who sell Eurostar tickets will also use the new Leisure Select identity to enhance their marketing of the product.

Leisure Select offers style, quality and value, and includes a choice of meals and drinks served at seat. 

Uniquely, Eurostar offers three classes of services on its trains, including two first class products:  

Business Premier is tailored to provide maximum flexibility of ticketing, 10-minute check-in, business lounge access and a highly productive work-on-the move environment, with a catering service designed to fit around the needs of business travellers, including an express breakfast service. 

Leisure Select occupies the same spacious first class coaches as Business Premier, with roomy seats, power points, newspapers and magazines.  However, it is aimed at travellers who want to relax, not work, with at seat service designed to maximise the enjoyment of the journey. Travellers are offered champagne, a choice of meal, and have the opportunity to read, play games or meet like-minded travellers.

Standard Class offers excellent value,travellers can purchase food and drinks from the bar buffet, or take their own food on board.  All three classes offer the reassurance that a journey by high-speed rail is far less environmentally damaging than the alternative of flying.
28th April 09

Eurostar provides Update on Tread Lightly report 2009


Raising the self imposed target for reducing carbon dioxide emissions
per traveller journey

Travellers want businesses to go the extra mile to reduce their environmental impact, according to new research

More than 40,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide saved by travellers switching from plane to train


Eurostar, the high-speed passenger service between Britain and mainland Europe, today published its first Tread Lightly Report, revealing progress towards achieving its environmental targets.

Higher load factors and a switch of electricity supply in the Channel Tunnel have chiefly contributed to a cut of more than a quarter (31%) in carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) per passenger journey, compared with 2007. Eurostar has now raised its target to a 35% saving by 2012.

The Tread Lightly plan was published in April 2007 and included:
  • a target of cutting CO2 emissions by 25% (now 35%) per passenger journey by 2012
  • a 10-point plan to reduce all other environmental impacts
  • a commitment to neutralise the carbon from all passenger journeys from the date of Eurostar’s move to St Pancras International (14 November 2007), by offsetting them through investment in projects that reduce the same amount of CO2

On 14 November 2007, Eurostar became the first train operator in the world to make all passenger journeys carbon neutral at no extra charge. Since then, travellers who have switched from plane to train have reduced the emissions from their journeys by an estimated 40,000 tonnes of CO2 compared with if they had made their journeys by air.

Research commissioned by Eurostar among the general public in the United Kingdom, France and Belgium shows that the environment remains a priority for consumers, despite the economic downturn. The survey by Hall & Partners* found that:

  • 7 out of 10 believe large companies have a responsibility to go beyond simple box ticking when reducing the impact of their products (73% UK, 79% France, 77% Belgium)
  • 7 out of 10 think their own actions and consumption choices can affect global warming and climate change (75% UK, 79% France, 75% Belgium)
  • 6 out of 10 consumers say the environment is a priority when spending (60% UK, 64% France, 68% Belgium)
  • 4 out of 10 say environmental issues had an impact on decisions when making recent purchases or choices concerning holiday travel (48% UK, 39% France, 37% Belgium)

Richard Brown, Chief Executive, Eurostar, said: “There is a clear appetite among consumers to find ways of reducing the carbon emissions from their holiday travel, and an expectation that the industry should help them do this.

“It is time to harness consumer pressure and business creativity into a virtuous circle of actions to tackle climate change, that will help travellers cut the overall emissions generated by their holiday travel.”

Progress on the 10-point plan has included:

  • a big increase in waste recycling at Eurostar’s UK maintenance depot
  • a reduction of over 70% in waste being sent to landfill from directly managed sites compared to 2007
  • new measures to help travellers to reduce emissions when connecting with Eurostar services
  • the introduction of biodegradable and recyclable paper and plastic crockery and cutlery on board
  • greener electricity tariffs at head office, the UK contact centre and Ashford International car park
  • recycling of old uniforms into new clothing and accessory products

Progress on other points such as the handling of on-board waste and replacement of air-conditioning refrigerants on trains is taking longer than expected, and the target dates have been extended.

Although Eurostar has achieved its 25% target for reducing carbon dioxide emissions per journey earlier than expected, it foresees a modest reversal this year as a result of the economic downturn. Nevertheless the target has now been raised to a 35% reduction in emissions per passenger journey by 2012.

Richard Brown said: “We expected that much of the reduction in emissions per journey would come in the first two years. We are now investing significant resources to achieve the harder-to-win savings to be gained over the next three years.”

16th April 09

Eurostar Overall sales hit £168.1 million in first quarter


· 1.92 million travellers carried
· Punctuality of 96% on Eurostar following restoration of full service through the Channel Tunnel

Eurostar, the achieved sales of £168.1 million in the first three months of 2009, down 5.8% from £178.5 million for the same period last year. Traveller numbers totalled 1.92 million, down 11.5% on 2.17 million last time.

 Both sales revenue and traveller numbers were significantly affected by the restrictions on Channel Tunnel capacity following the fire on a Eurotunnel shuttle train last September, and the consequent reduction in Eurostar services. The global economic downturn has also had a particular impact on business traffic with demand reducing and customers down-trading.

However, following the full opening of the tunnel on 23 February, Eurostar was able to resume full promotional campaigns in its three core markets which has already lead to a significant increase in leisure sales.  Indeed, set against a challenging economic environment, leisure sales were up 2.2% in a first quarter which had just five weeks of full service operation. In France and Belgium one of the key factors in stimulating travel has been the favourable exchange rate for euro-zone visitors to London and other parts of the UK. 

Overall, business sales were down around 20% compared with January to March last year due to the combined affect of the capacity and operating restrictions in the Channel Tunnel and the global recession.  

The return to normal operations through the tunnel enabled Eurostar to achieve punctuality of 96% between 23 February and the end of March and compares with an average punctuality of 79% on the air routes with which Eurostar competes.
08th April 09
Eurostar appoints Pininfarina  - Ferrari as designer for interior refurbishment of the existing Eurostar Trains

Eurostar, has announced that it has awarded the design contract for the interior refurbishment of its fleet to the Italian design consultancy Pininfarina.

Pininfarina has been appointed after a lengthy and rigorous selection process. The company is a world-class design house that is best known for its work in the car industry, with prestige marques such as Ferrari and Maserati as well as volume manufacturers including Peugeot, Alfa Romeo, Ford and Volvo. It is also developing the revolutionary, electric Pininfarina BlueCar that is due to go into production in 2011, and which will cut carbon dioxide emissions from road travel. 

Importantly for Eurostar, Pininfarina also has extensive experience in the rail industry, having designed the interiors and exteriors of Italy’s high-speed trains; rolling stock for Swiss, Danish and Norwegian Railways; automated light rail cars in Lille, northern France; and trams for cities in Italy, Greece, Sweden and Turkey.Pininfarina will be responsible for the full interior design including styling and engineering, and the exterior livery. The 28 trains in the Eurostar fleet will be fitted out by SNCF, and the first ones are due in service in 2012.
02nd February 09 / As of - 11:40am

Eurostar Services - Monday 2nd February '09


We have been advised that Eurostar is operating a service today although it is subject to delay and possible cancellation.

As we are advised of any more information we will pass on to you.

We are waiting for information with regards to how Disneyland Paris will deal with customers who are unable to travel and will advise as soon as we know.

If you require more information please email info@short-breaks.com and we will do our best to answer your query.

Short Breaks Ltd
20th January 09 / As of - 14:10pm

Eurostar Returns to Normal Timetable


As per news received last night we are pleased to advise that as of the 11th February the Channel Tunnel will be back to operating normally. Until 22nd February the timetable will operate as it is at the moment  - from the 23rd February a new timetable will be operating. We are currently loading the new Eurostar timetable and will be advising customers who have already booked of any changes to their timings as soon as possible.

We appreciate that for many of customers we have already advised you of changes to your journey which may now change again - we apologise for any inconvenience and confusion this has caused.

The positive news is that after the 23rd of February journey times will now be faster with Paris only two and a quarter hours , Brussels under 2 hours , Lille in under an hour and a quarter.

Please find the new timetable here.

If you have already booked with us and would like to compare your original times with the new timetable please do so here

Short Breaks Ltd
28th November 08 / As of - 13:31pm

Eurostar update - possible train strikes in the run up to Christmas?


There are reports in the press of the possibility of strike action by Eurostar trains drivers in the run up to Christmas. At present we have not been advised by Eurostar of the effect, if any this will have on customers we have travelling with us.

Of course as soon as we are advised on any concrete developments from Eurostar we will advise accordingly. In the meantime please see below a statement from Marc Noaro Eurostar's customer services director.

Eurostar said it had already met with and continues to talk to the unions to resolve the dispute.

“The rosters and shift patterns were introduced as a result of the amended timetable since the incident in the Channel Tunnel in September and fully meet the conditions of contract for all Eurostar UK train managers,” a statement said.

Eurostar UK train managers represent a proportion of the total complement, which includes staff from French and Belgian national railways.

Eurostar customer services director Marc Noaro said: “Following the Channel Tunnel incident and the introduction of the current amended timetable our passengers have experienced significant disruption and by far the majority have understood the situation. We are extremely disappointed that our UK train managers have decided on this course of action and at this time, and we will make every effort to ensure our travellers face no further disruption in the busy period up to Christmas & the New Year.”
25th November 08 / As of - 16:30pm

Eurostars amended timetable operating until March 11th 2009


Eurostar have confirmed that their amended timetable as below will now operate until March 11th 2009.
ShortBreaks are in the process of informing all of our customers of possible time changes to their travel arrangements by either phone, email or letter.

Eurostar will inform us early in the New Year with regards to the timetable post the 11th March and as soon as we know. we will inform you.

If you have any queries at all regarding this please contact us at info@short-breaks.com.
06th October 08 / As of - 12:00pm

Eurostar update - New timetable service


Please note that Eurostar have now issued a new timetable to coincide with the restricted service caused by the Eurotunnel fire. Please find below service advice for each destination we operate.

Paris, Brussels, Lille

Until the 4th November Eurostar are operating a manual check-in. This is to ensure that everyone is allocated on the next available train service.

If you are already booked on trains that are no longer running you will still be able to use your tickets although they will be re-allocated through the manual check-in process (as above).

If you haven't already heard from us, we are in the process of calling all our clients who are affected by the new timetable to advise of the new train times.

Disney Train

The Disney service is now operating until the 13th December at the new times. If these new times affect your connecting trains to and from London please call us on 0844 482 2940 to discuss further.

Please see the new Eurostar timetable below:
Disneyland train service (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Outbound      
  Initial departure Arrival Depart
London 08:35am    
Ashford   09:03am 09:13am
Lille   11:27am 11:30am
Marne la Valle   12:30pm  
       
Inbound      
Marne la Valle 20:13pm    
Lille   No service No service
Ashford   21:37pm 21:45pm
London   22:13pm  

London - Paris (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Outbound (1 of 2)
London Dep 5:25 6:40 6:55 7:20 8:40 8:40 9:40 10:08 10:23 11:51  
Ebbsfleet Arr 5:40   7:09     8:54 9:54        
  Dep 5:45   7:12     8:57 9:59        
Ashford Arr   7:08           10:36      
  Dep   7:25           10:40      
Lille Arr                      
  Dep                      
Paris Arr 9:17 10:38 10:43 10:59 12:18 12:18 13:23 13:47 13:53 15:28  
London - Paris (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Outbound (2 of 2)
London Dep 13:10 13:31 13:37 15:00 16:20 17:35 17:35 17:55 19:15 19:39 19:39
Ebbsfleet Arr 13:24     15:14       18:09      
  Dep 13:28     15:17       18:12      
Ashford Arr         16:48            
  Dep         16:52            
Lille Arr                      
  Dep                      
Paris Arr 16:53 17:05 17:08 18:56 19:58 21:08 21:14 21:41 22:58 23:14 23:07
Paris - London (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Inbound (1 of 2)
Paris Dep 06:43 07:01 08:07 09:07 09:13 09:43 11:07 11:13 12:40 12:46 13:01
Lille Arr       10:06         13:44 13:44  
  Dep       10:16         13:48 13:48  
Ashford Arr       10:45 10:45            
  Dep       10:48 10:48            
Ebbsfleet Arr     09:35           14:16 14:16  
  Dep     09:38           14:18 14:18  
London Arr 08:12 08:32 09:52 11:16 11:16 11:19 12:38 12:38 14:32 14:32 14:36
Paris - London (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Inbound (2 of 2)
Paris Dep 14:10 14:34 16:13 16:13 16:07 17:13 17:43 18:13 18:43 20:13 20:43
Lille Arr                      
  Dep                      
Ashford Arr   15:45             20:08 21:30  
  Dep   15:56             20:11 21:32  
Ebbsfleet Arr     17:36 17:36 17:36 18:46   20:12   21:48 22:08
  Dep     17:39 17:39 17:39 18:49   20:16   21:52 22:11
London Arr 15:53 16:24 17:54 17:54 17:54 19:04 19:17 20:31 20:38 22:06 22:25
London - Brussels (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Outbound
London Dep 05:53 7:10 8:25 8:20 9:57 13:20 14:34 16:30 17:45 19:30  
Ebbsfleet Arr   7:24   8:35 10:11 13:34     17:59    
  Dep   7:27   8:40 10:15 13:36     18:03    
Lille Arr   9:52     12:47 16:02 17:12 19:07 20:32 22:07  
  Dep   9:56     12:50 16:05 17:15 19:09 20:35 22:10  
Brussels Arr 08:59 10:31 11:50 11:50 13:25 16:40 17:50 19:44 21:10 22:45  
Brussels - London (from 1st Oct 08 - 13th Dec 08)
Inbound
Brussels Dep 6:59 8:29 8:53 10:00 11:50 14:53 17:01 17:01 17:59 18:59 21:02
Lille Arr 7:32   9:26 10:33 12:23 15:26 17:35 17:35 18:32 19:32 21:36
  Dep 7:35   9:29 10:36 12:29 15:29 17:38 17:38 18:35 19:35 21:39
Ebbsfleet Arr     9:51 11:01 12:51     18:42 19:02   22:02
  Dep     9:54 11:07 12:54     18:45 19:05   22:05
London Arr 8:08 9:38 10:09 11:22 13:08 16:01 18:53 19:00 19:20 20:27 22:19

As always, if you have any questions please don't hestitate to contact us on 0844 482 2940

22nd September 08 / As of - 11:57am

Eurostar update - increase in service


Eurostar have increased the number of trains operating to all destinations as of today and are now running 15 trains to Paris daily (up from 12). Eurostar have also opened sales on certain trains operating this weekend, so if you would like to travel please call us on 0844 482 2940.

18th September 08 / As of - 11:00am

Eurostar update


Eurostar have indicated to us that the limited timetable that is operating will continue to do so until the 30th September. Please see the timetables below.

As sales for these Eurostar trains have now stopped please contact us & we can look at alternative means of transport for you.

We advise all our customers to check in as early as possible and you will be allocated on the first available train. Please be aware that there may be delays in boarding trains and journey times will be longer than published times. Eurostar staff at station will be on hand and will do everything possible to make this as stress free as possible.

Please also note that check in at all stations as below. We are contacting any customers who may be affected by the early closure of check in.

If you require any more information or have any questions please call and we will be happy to help.

Services direct to Disneyland® Paris are unnaffected and travel times areas below. For via Lille services you will be accommodated on the first available train from Lille to Disneyland Paris.

Please also note that the information we have can be subject to late changes dependant on the situation and hope that you understand this.

Station closure times

  •         London check-in will close at 18.45 (BST) until further notice 
  •         Paris check-in will close at 20.00 (CET) until further notice 
  •         Brussels check-in will close at 20.30 (CET) until further notice
Eurostar timetables

   LONDON - PARIS
Train no. Departure Arrival Also Calls At

9078

05.22

09.03

Ebbsfleet

9004

06.55

10.57

Ashford

9006

07.27

11.13

Ebbsfleet; Calais

9014

09.25

13.02

Ebbsfleet

9026

13.22

16.57

Ashford

9028

13.38

17.03

 

9030

15.04

18.57

Ebbsfleet

9036

15.29

19.17

Ebbsfleet; Calais

9040

16.55

20.57

Ashford

9044

17.30

21.02

 

9050

19.00

22.57

Ebbsfleet

9054

19.29

23.02

 

 PARIS - LONDON
Train no. Departure Arrival Also Calls At

9005

06.43

08.21

 

9011

08.07

10.29

Calais; Ebbsfleet

9015

08.52

10.36

Ashford

9019

10.13

12.17

 

9027

12.13

14.17

 

9031

12.43

14.34

Lille; Calais; Ebbsfleet

9039

14.43

16.36

Calais; Ashford

9043

16.13

18.24

Ebbsfleet

9047

16.43

18.36

Ebbsfleet

9051

18.13

20.27

Ebbsfleet

9053

18.43

20.42

Ashford

9061

20.43

22.34

Ebbsfleet
 LONDON - BRUSSELS
Train no. Departure Arrival Also Calls At

9110

07.18

10.44

Ebbsfleet; Lille

9114

09.28

12.33

 

9132

13.25

16.44

Ebbsfleet; Lille

9138

15.34

18.44

Lille

9150

17.27

20.49

Ebbsfleet; Lille

9158

19.32

22.49

Lille
  BRUSSELS – LONDON
Train no. Departure Arrival Also Calls At

9109

06.59

08.17

Lille

9117

08.59

10.24

Lille; Ebbsfleet

9141

14.59

16.17

Lille

9149

17.01

18.28

Lille; Ebbsfleet

9157

18.59

20.21

Lille

9165

21.02

22.27

Lille; Ebbsfleet
  LONDON - DISNEYLAND RESORT PARIS
Train no. Departure Arrival Also Calls At

9074

09.16

13.15

Ebbsfleet; Ashford; Lille
  DISNEYLAND RESORT PARIS – LONDON
Train no. Departure Arrival Also Calls At

9057

19.37

22.2

Lille; Ashford

 

15th September 08 / As of - 17:00pm

Further update from Eurostar - This weekend and beyond


As of today we have been advised that the limited timetable Eurostar are operating will continue until Sunday 21st September.

All customers who have valid bookings will be able to travel although they may be subject to delay.

We have contacted all of our customers who are travelling up until Tuesday. We will endeavour to contact other customers over the next few days.
13th September 08 / As of - 07:30am

Further update from Eurostar - This weekend and beyond


Eurostar has today resumed a limited service through the Channel Tunnel. Trains are operating through the single tunnel that is unaffected by the fire.

Eurostar is operating a temporary, reduced timetable. We expect to run up to 12 trains each way between London and Paris, up to six trains each way between London and Brussels, and the daily service each way between London and Disneyland Resort Paris. Trains will also serve Ashford International, Ebbsfleet International and Lille.

Ticket holders should turn up at the normal time for their scheduled service, and Eurostar will seek to accommodate them on the first available train. This is likely to mean longer than normal waiting times before departure. Journey times will also be longer than normal.

Inevitably, there will be further alterations to this limited timetable, as Eurostar adjusts its services to match the reduced tunnel capacity.

Eurostar will continue to liaise closely with Eurotunnel, the operator of the Channel Tunnel, in order to seek to provide a reliable service for travellers.

Clients who are abroad

Please go the relevant stations as on the allotted days & times and Eurostar staff will be on hand to help.

If at all possible it may be prudent to arrive a bit earlier than you would have done otherwise.

Clients we have already contacted

We are contacting all clients who are due to travel on Sunday 14th September to advise the above. The previous offers of cancellation and amending dates of travel will still be valid

Clients travelling on Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th

We will be contacting you today and tomorrow advising you of the above

Clients travelling from Wednesday 17th onwards

Travel as normal  - if there is any change in the situation we will contact you.

Short Breaks would like to thank all our customers for their understanding with regards to this situation over the past few days.

12th September 08 / As of - 17:21pm

Latest update regarding Eurostar Services


We have been advised that it is very unlikely that Eurostar will be resuming normal service this weekend Saturday 13th Sep and Sunday 14th Sep.

We are now in the process of contacting all of our clients travelling over this weekend to offer alternative dates and accommodation.

As soon as we have more information regarding travel from Monday onwards we will be contacting clients ASAP as well as posting the information up on this page. Please keep checking back for updates.

As always, please contact us on 0844 482 2940 for further information, we are more than happy to help.
12th September 08 / As of - 13:50pm

Further information


As it stands there is still no more information regarding Eurostar service over the weekend and beyond.

Once further information becomes available to us we will post up on our site ASAP. Please keep checking back.

Again, if you have any more questions please call us on 0844 482 2940, we are more than happy to help
12th September 08 / As of - 10:23am

No Eurostar Services expected to run 12th September 2008


Due to the incident on Thursday 11 September in the Channel Tunnel, involving a Eurotunnel shuttle train, Eurostar does not expect to operate a service on Friday 12 September between the UK and the Continent.

We do not, as yet, have any further news regarding travel for Saturday and beyond.

As soon as we have more information we will post information here and will call customers to advise of the situation, In the meantime if you have any questions please call us and we will be pleased to help.
 
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