Originally Posted by
Schweden
I will be traveling from Suzhou-Hefei-Wuhan-Changsha on trains and I had a few questions:
1) Should I book train tickets with Ctrip?
2) Is there any tangible difference between 1st and 2nd class except seats? I have 2 luggages and a bag so I'm worried that I won't have enough space in the overhead area.
3) When should I book my tickets? I won't be in China until May.
Ctrip is OK for booking ahead.
If you arrive in Suzhou earlier, I'd probably recommend just getting the tickets from a local travel agency selling train tickets (+5Y) or at the station itself. Unless it's around one of the major travel seasons like 1st May.
On some lines, 1st class does offer a snack onboard (nothing fancy, though) - and obviously the space for luggage (as well as your personal space
) is much better. I'd always book 1st class, to be honest, when it's available. As you said, you're travelling heavy: Get first class! Yes it's more expensive, but as long as you want a comfortable ride.. get it.
As soon as possible. With trains, there is no rule such as 30/45 days as there are with airline tickets. Get it when you reach China if that means still days or longer ahead. If you're arriving into China JUST before your train ride (I doubt so, from what I understand) booking with Ctrip is a good idea.
Last but not least: 2nd class on high speed trains isn't bad if you're a slim/average person. I've done it many times, even with "normal" luggage.
But then I don't have to turn around every Yuan, so I'll gladly pay a bit extra for much more space especially on longer rides.
Some years ago, I've made some "K" trains (I think) - local K trains. 2nd class. It was fun
But I've grown older.. and while it's fun for someone in their early 20s, probably less so when you've put a 3 in front.. or even more..
This website is quite good at listing options (while still being advertisement for their own service)
http://www.travelchinaguide.com/chin...et-service.htm