Covid-19. It’s all we seem to be able to speak about, and for good reason. This virus has gripped the world and completely changed the way we think about daily life and of course Train Travel. Train Travel is a mode of transport many use not just for holiday pleasure, but for work commutes as well.
- Train Transport Is The Eco-Friendly Way To Travel. This article is written to educate about Train Travel by Save A Train, The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World.
So, What Is The Train Travel Industry Advise On Traveling?
Let’s discuss what the train industry is doing to keep you safe. The majority of train stations are intensifying its cleaning protocol for trains and stations. Besides intensifying cleaning, the frequency on trains and at stations has also increased. Cleaning occurs on an hourly basis, and includes the use of disinfectant to wipe down handrails, doorknobs, handles and restrooms. Additional antibacterial products, including sanitizers and wipes, are being provided at stations, on trains and in employee work areas.
Train Travel Industry Advise On Traveling Tip 1: Online Payment
We recommend going 100% contactless if you can. If you have not bought your train ticket online for whatever reason, going forward all payments should be contactless if possible. Why? Well, there are some mixed messages. This is what the Bank of England says: “Like any other surface that large numbers of people come into contact with, notes can carry bacteria or viruses. However, the risk posed by handling a polymer note is no greater than touching any other common surfaces such as handrails, doorknobs or credit cards.” Earlier this month a newspaper report claimed the World Health Organization (WHO) had said banknotes may be spreading the coronavirus, so people should try to use contactless payments instead. But it was then reported that the WHO denied it had said cash was transmitting the coronavirus, and that it had been “misrepresented” – so go figure.
However, let’s put two and two together, shall we? Most notes and coins will have previously been handled by large numbers of people , so if you are worried, paying with a contactless card where possible is probably the way to go.
Tip 2: Social Distancing!
Social Distancing means NO TOUCHY under any circumstances. But, what about the crammed trains, tubes, and trams?
Anyone who has regularly used Train Travel will know that it can be hard to stay a few cm’s away from the next passenger, never mind the recommended 1M. In Milan, passengers have been advised to sit opposite an empty seat, something of which passengers in more busy cities can usually only dream.
One of the busiest Train Travelling cities is London. The Transport for London unveiled an “enhanced cleaning regime” to improve the hygiene levels on the capital’s public transport, but nothing to enforce social distancing. This is up to you. Bottom line is that you need to try avoid touching other people. Travel at less busy times if possible, wear gloves if you can’t avoid touching rails, seat etc. Carry your own disinfectant with you. Don’t rely on the Train Stations to provide for you at all times. Better safe than sorry!
Tip 3: Don’t Use Refillable Cups!
The Train Travel Industry Advise on Traveling includes guides on the do’s and don’t and your favorite cuppa. While getting into the habit of carrying and using refillable cups when out and about has been encouraged as an eco-conscious move, we’re afraid this no longer applies.
Many large coffee chains are having a rethink in response to the coronavirus outbreak, with Starbucks temporarily banning the use of reusable cups – typically made of plastic, glass or bamboo material – for the safety of both customers and staff. Usually you receive a discount for bringing your own cup, but you may not get the same response now! You’re going to have to forfeit that small discount for safety’s sake.
Tip 4: Don’t Touch!
Many people are asking if taking the train means more risk of infection. The short answer is that if you are sitting on a train and within 1-2 meters of an infected person who coughs, you are at risk of infection.
But what we think is more pertinent to point out that the more likely risk is the virus lingering for 48-72 hours on a hard surface, such as the hand rail. This doesn’t just apply to Trains though. It’s ANY public space.
If you have to touch rails, buttons, tickets and so on, try to do it with just one hand or better, your elbow! Keep phones in the other “clean” hand and wash both as soon as you can at your destination.
Tip 5: Travel By Train!
If you’re going to travel, let it be by train. We’re increasingly seeing no refunds on air travel, while train travel is more flexible. Normal terms and conditions apply seem to be many of the airlines responses. “There is currently no change to advice for airlines, so our flights are operating as normal and standard terms and conditions on tickets continue to apply,” says easyJet.
Some rival airlines are being more accommodating. British Airways is offering a degree of flexibility on flights to northern Italy, while its sister airline Aer Lingus is going one better with the promise: “Guests who made bookings on aerlingus.com and wish to change the dates or destinations of their upcoming flights can do so.”
Tip 6: Pack Your Own Snacks!
Pack your own snacks if you’re traveling by train. Many trains have temporarily closed their First Class Lounges and removed on board catering. So, time to get creative with your lunchboxes! Take your own refreshments or purchase from station food retailers before you board. These measures are of course, designed to protect you and reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus!
