European Rail Passes Will Cost More in 2003

Prices for European rail passes are increasing again. They will cost about 3% more starting Jan. 1, after increases of 3% to 5.5%, depending on the pass, this year. The passes are good for travel six months after purchase, so you can beat the increase by buying your pass by Dec. 31 if you plan to travel within that period.

There are dozens of types of passes. New for 2003 are four-and five-country versions of the Eurail Selectpass, which generally allow unlimited first-class travel on a given number of days within a two-month period. (This year there is only a three-country option.) Four-country Selectpasses start at $398 for five days or $340 per person when two people travel together. (888) 382-7245, www.raileurope.com.

This fall Eurostar, the high-speed train that links London with Paris and Brussels, will run fewer trains on some weekends and cut some weekend service to Disneyland Paris Resort because of rail construction work. The company is offering 20% off some Eurostar fares for travel Oct. 15 to Dec. 15. For details, contact Rail Europe.