Rail Europe has teamed up with the European Travel Commission (ETC) and VisitBritain in a visionary collaboration that signals bullish expectations for the coming year. The powerhouses are set to unveil their trailblazing “Visit Europe & Britain Roadshow” this autumn. Melbourne will be honoured to kick off the event on October 31st, with Sydney following closely on November 1st.

A historic occasion in its own right, the event will see the congregation of eight illustrious members from the ETC’s Australian Chapter. These include bigwigs such as Atout France, the Italian National Tourist Board, Switzerland Tourism, Tourism Ireland, the Austrian National Tourist Office, Visit Monaco, Spain Tourism Board, and Visit Portugal. Additionally, the stalwarts VisitBritain and Rail Europe will also be present. This grand assembly under a single canopy is a first.

This grandiose gathering intends to arm travel advisors with first-hand intel on the burgeoning offerings from each European nation for 2024 and beyond. Attendees can anticipate a deluge of information on novel experiences, significant events, and relatively unknown gems scattered across the European and British landscapes. But it’s not all business – those in attendance also stand a chance to win numerous prizes.

E320 train on the move-Verbatim Eurostar.

Richard Leonard, Rail Europe’s GM for APAC, expressed his elation about the event, stating, “Europe and the UK have consistently been high on the travel wishlist for Australians. This roadshow will serve as a pivotal nexus, enlightening advisors on the emerging attractions, events, and optimal travel routes.” Leonard also emphasized the surge in rail travel, heralding it as a reliable, sustainable, and efficient means of crisscrossing Europe.

Echoing Leonard’s sentiments, ETC’s Marketing Project Manager, Ludivine Destree, elaborated on the shift in travel perspectives. With Europe’s vast and varied offerings, travellers are now inclined to explore off-season and venture beyond typical tourist trails. Destree noted, “Our Horizon 2022 marketing strategy is pivotal in promoting Europe as an ensemble of unique experiences tied to individual passions.”

On Britain’s offerings, Maria Sykes, VisitBritain Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand, highlighted the iconic rail journeys connecting Britain’s panoramic landscapes. She articulated, “With Australia being one of the most crucial markets for Britain, the increasing demand in 2023 has seen Aussie travelers expanding their horizons, effectively leveraging our expansive rail network.”

In what promises to be an industry-defining event, travel advisors will soon receive their golden tickets to this exclusive show. Meanwhile, they can channel their interest through Rail Europe representatives James Hooper and Grant Robertson.

With the travel sphere evolving rapidly and the stage set for a promising 2024, the Rail Europe roadshow could redefine how Australians experience Europe and Britain.

Written by: My Thanh Pham

==================================