Urgent Eurail advice needed!

[ctwizzy]

Hello!

I used railsaver to estimate what pass I would need for my trip, but my intinirry isnt set in stone.

We were originally going to get a 8 day 5 country pass BeNeLux/Germany/France/Italy/Austria for 479 USD

But some of the trips, especially Prague-> Genoa is like 18hrs so we are adding some extra day stops, and finishing in Paris insted now, tentativly.

So now we are planning on a 15 day in 2 month Global pass, this way if we want to add spain or any other country or more stops in germany or whatever we have that added flexibility.

Is this a good idea?

Also im leaving in 2 days for europe and my friend meets me in a month which is when we will start to use the passes, can I order mine and have it shipped to england at my relatives place? I heard it must be shipped to the country you are trvaveling from.

How do I use the pass? Is it only valid on eurail trains? Do I need to book ahead to use it? Are the prices incl tax?

This eurail stuff is sounding complex and im trying to read the rick steves book to explain it a lil more.

Thanks!

[Eagle]

ctwizzy, Given the fact you're leaving in two days, it doesn't leave much time for dealing with the Railpass situation.

I don't believe that it's possible to have a Eurail Pass shipped to England? However, one option would be to have this sent to your home address, and then have parents or other relatives send this via FedEx or other Courier to your relatives home.

Some answers to your other questions:

How do I use the pass?

You will need to validate the Pass before you use it for the first time. Present the Pass and your Passport at the ticket window, and they'll stamp it. When the Conductor asks for "tickets", present your Pass.

Is it only valid on eurail trains?

I'm not thoroughly familiar with the Global Pass, but check the Rail Europe web site to determine which countries this covers.

Do I need to book ahead to use it?

Yes and No. The Rail Pass is used instead of a ticket, but doesn't cover reservations on rail routes where these are mandatory (usually the high speed trains such as the TGV, IC or ICE trains). You will need to buy a separate reservation if this is required. The Rail Pass also doesn't cover Couchette / Sleeper reservations (if you plan on using these?).

In addition to whichever Rick Steves book you're reading, you might check the "Rail Skills" section on his website.

Good luck and happy travels!!!