ALEX MCWHIRTER CONSUMER CHAMPION AND RAIL EXPERT
When Lufthansa started running its ‘Donald Duck’ train between Dusseldorf and Frankfurt 30 years ago, Germany’s national airline couldn’t have imagined how it would develop. One of the first highspeed trains, nicknamed for its distinctive yellow and white paint job, its original purpose was to offer airline customers an alternative connection.
Today Lufthansa and Deutsche Bahn (DB) have become world leaders in developing rail-air connections (though many other airlines’ customers can also use DB’s rail-air services). In 2022, Deutsche Bahn joined Star Alliance, the only rail operator to be an alliance member.
Rail-air has now evolved from a special train for airline passengers to customers taking regular scheduled services. Multimodal transport solutions are becoming increasingly vital to reduce pressure on airport capacity and provide more sustainable options.
ON THE RIGHT TRACK
The benefits are also increasing. Travellers can now buy a combined rail and flight ticket, which gives them protection from missed connections throughout the journey. Other benefits include the potential for earning extra miles (for Star members), while first and business class passengers can travel first class with DB and use the DB lounge at Frankfurt airport.
この記事は Business Traveller UK の April 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
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この記事は Business Traveller UK の April 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore
BACKGROUND This biophilic property opened in June 2023 and is the second Pan Pacific hotel in the city, the other being the Pan Pacific Singapore. The hotel is a member of the Green Collection within the GHA Discovery loyalty programme. It is BCA Green Mark Platinum-certified for its sustainability credentials.
The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam
BACKGROUND The Hoxton brand debuted in London's Shoreditch in 2006 and is part of Ennismore, in which Accor holds a majority stake. The brand has 16 properties across Europe and North America, including two in Amsterdam - the first opened in 2015 in the city centre, followed by this property in the Eastern Docklands in August 2023.
Ruby Zoe, London
BACKGROUND Germany's Ruby Hotels launched in 2013, and operates 17 properties in locations including Amsterdam, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Zurich.
London Hilton on Park Lane
BACKGROUND The London Hilton on Park Lane opened in 1963 - the first Hilton property in the UK. To celebrate its 60th anniversary last year, the hotel embarked on an extensive multi-million pound refurbishment led by the GA Group.
Philippine Airlines A321 business class SINGAPORE-MANILA
BACKGROUND Philippine Airlines operates flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, using A321ceo aircraft, which stands for 'current engine option, indicating an older aircraft than the A321neo. My flight (PR502) was a morning departure at 1035, arriving 1425 local time in Manila.
Lima
Peru's coastal capital boasts colourful public parks, striking street art and generous plates of ceviche
The inside scoop
We chat to the president of luxury hotel and restaurant association Relais & Châteaux, which marks its 70th anniversary this month
Why business isn't better
Our 'columnist' this month explains why they believe economy class reigns supreme over business class
Here be dragons
For a city known for its densely packed streets and hectic pace of life, Hong Kong has a truly remarkable countryside
Provincial Provence
As Terre Blanche marks its 20th anniversary, we experience the resort's golfing and spa facilities as well as Michelin-starred food and blush rosé