Thalys train PAR-AMS
 

Looks like the Thalys train is the most convenient link from Paris to Amsterdam especially when taking into account the time involved with a trip back to CDG.

Accordingly, I'd like some feedback/input on whether or not you think a 1 class ticket is "worth it" on a 4 hour trip with a modest amount of luggage. (I have taken this train before in 2 cabin and on a quick hop day trip, that cabin is fine.... but I didn't even take a look at the 1 cabin.)

It seems like there are limited 1 services on the weekends, however (such as newspapers, meals, etc.)

So my basic questions are (1) is it worth it and why? (2) is the food onboard edible at all? (just in case we oversleep and don't get to some lovely deli or patisserie that morning)? (3) Has anyone taken a long weekend train and do they provide any services, or is the webpage accurate.

Any additional comments are welcome, too http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Thanks

I travel on the Thalys regularly, but only the AMS-BRU part. As I've always been in 1st I can't really compare, but 1st is certainly very comfortable and you can choose to be seated 'alone', as a couple, or in a group of four facing each other with a larger table in between.

The meal is served between BRU-Paris so I never had it. The snack they serve between AMS-BRU is not worth much, nor are the drinks (coffee, beer, soft drinks). And yes, in the weekends there is no service in the 1st cabin so you'll have to walk down to the crowded dining car and pay for drinks.

First class on Thalys is far from the concept of First class in the air, at least as for service. Maybe an additional benefit is that you don't have crying children etc near you as you might in the tourist cabin.

I've taken the Thalys several times Amsterdam CS - Paris Nord. To me, the extra cost for 1st cl is worth it because of more space and a quieter environment. The food benefit is next to worthless: you get a croissant and coffee or a sandwich and a soda.

Seating is 2-1 (in 2nd class it's 2-2). However -- and this is a big however -- at all costs avoid getting a 1st class seat in the 'salon.' This is a compartment that has two facing rows of 3 incredibly uncomfortable seats -- they don't recline, and they're awful.

Go first.

Very few passengers. And lots of quiet!

Coach was very crowded on my trip.

Dan

If and when money does't matter go "First".
I would go "Second" and safe some money. This trains are new, nice and clean.

I concur with "wideman" and "dhammer53" about First being worth it for the extra room and quieter carriage. And "wideman" is absoultely right about the 'salon' seating - most unpleasant.

Have fun!

Another reason for 1st is a table in front of you for your laptop in case you need to work.

Stimpy, are there United Airlines powerports for computer use (ie, bring my own batteries and lots of em?) http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

We were three couples Paris - Amsterdam in 1st during July of this year. Meal service is about like 1st on a domestic flight (full breakfast) and very comfortable and quiet. We would certainly spend the extra money again.

if you want the extra space go with first but i wouldnt make my decision based on food. in 2nd class you will still be able to go to the cafe car and purchase food/drinks.

seat comfort in 2nd class is not great but bearable when compared to economy on an intra-european flight.

also, if you are a non-smoker BE CERTAIN not to get a seat in the smokers section as it will be a horrible experience.

and i agree Thalys is a great way to get between Paris and AMS, BRU, etc.

I will echo the sentiments above - - first class is roomy and quiet, but the food service is nothing special. A very convenient way to travel between AMS and Paris.

for the train tickets Amsterdam-Paris, does one purchase in advance for a less expensive fare? (like the plane tkts?)

is there any difference buying tkts in the u.s. or paris/amsterdam?

For the Thalys 1st class there exists a cheaper fare with an advance-purchase requirement, but which I think is not flexible. The number of seats they sell at this lower fare is (obviously) limited. I don't know any more details as my secretary always books it for me, maybe on their website www.thalys.com

There, indeed, was a much reduced fare for residents of the 4 countries where Thalys runs, available on the web, and I understood enough of the French to say that North America/Asia residents couldn't buy them (I suppose you have to pick the tix up in a station there). As its a new year's eve ride, I can't risk waiting until I get there.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum...ML/001201.html


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PARIS, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Air France and Franco-Belgian train operator Thalys confirmed on Monday they were in talks aimed at replacing the airline's flights between Paris and Brussels with rail transport.
The companies said a new deal could take effect on March 25, 2001 with Air France flights between the two cities ending and Thalys adding an extra daily round-trip between Brussels and Roissy airport near Paris.

Air France said it would effectively be chartering Thalys trains for its passengers wishing to make connections through its hub at Roissy.

Under a prior agreement, Thalys has four daily departures from Brussels to Roissy that complement the five daily flights between the Belgian capital and the French airport.