13 October 2008

Demand for rail breaks on the rise

Rising costs of petrol and parking together with a growing awareness of carbon footprints is resulting in a rise in UK breaks by rail.

Short break operator Superbreak has reported a 22% rise in passenger numbers with rail firm National Express in September compared to last year.

The operator claims its rates are often cheaper than booking direct when combined with overnight accommodation.

Superbreak offers reduced rail fares to London with National Express, Virgin, East Midland rains and First Great Western.

Travel agents do not need a rail license to be able to sell the rail inclusive packages which can be booked online with tickets sent out within three working days.

The lowest fare from London to Birmingham with Superbreak is currently Ã&#pound;22 per person, saving 71% against the current open saver return ticket at Ã&#pound;62 or estimated petrol consumption of Ã&#pound;42.

Leeds to London is currently Ã&#pound;32 per person, saving 76% against the current open saver return ticket at Ã&#pound;75 or estimated petrol consumption of Ã&#pound;68.

Sales director Ian Mounser said: Ã¢â¬ÅâœRail inclusive breaks are proving more and more popular, especially with customers visiting London.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœI believe factors such as the cost of petrol, emission and congestion zone charges plus the cost of parking is now making rail travel a financially viable and convenient way to travel.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœAs we all become more aware of our carbon footprints, travelling by train is a greener way to get away rather than driving.Ã¢â¬~

He added: Ã¢â¬ÅâœOn the agent website we have clearly broken down the savings to demonstrate to agents just what good value it is.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœRail is one of the easiest extras for agents to add on to a booking and they earn full commission on the ticket so I urge them to offer this with every short break booking they make.Ã¢â¬~

by Phil Davies