Night Trains

[Firsttimer]

Hi all,

My wife and I have reserved couchettes for 2 night train trips in May:

1. Venice S. Lucia to Rome
2. Nice to Paris

We initially wanted to book a sleeper for privacy and security, but found out they would cost ~ $260 each trip for the two of us. The couchettes we reserved were for 6 people. As this is our first Europe trip, can anyone offer any security advice to us? We plan on sleeping with our valuables close to us and wearing money belts, but other tips would be appreciated (where to put our main packs, etc).

Sorry, but 2 other quick questions!

Does a couchette reservation designate your car & bed or do you get the chance to find one for yourself?

Is gassing a thing of the past (more than 5-10 years ago)

Thanks everyone!
First-timer.........and a type A trip planner!

[LHR02]

Hi, and welcome,

Curious as to why you would book a couchette or even take an overnight Venice to Rome? On the Eurostar trains it is just under five hours total travel time. Doubt you will get much in the way of sleep, normally there are 3 stops on that route, sometimes 4. Not that you have to get off, but the stop and go will surely disrupt your sleep. Add to that...this is one of my personal favorite train rides! The scenery throughout the countryside is beautiful...makes my heart smile every time I view it. To do it in the dark to me is a great loss.

Gassing.....the longest lived urban legend ever. It is remotely possible it happened once somewhere, but honestly, I defy anyone to find an actual, truthful criminal police report about that occurance. Put your mind at ease...no one is going to gas you or at least I'd say there is a 99.9% chance that you'll not get 'gassed'.

Reserving a couchette will include both car and 'seat' number...both will be clearly printed on your ticket. You do not get to choose it unless you can sweet talk the gal at the ticket office to do you a favor and assign what you want, assuming it is available.