Wake up to the smell of fresh croissants as you journey through Europe. The rise of a new generation of night trains in Europe are providing a virtuous alternative to air travel. As the founder of the crowd-funded European Sleeper, Chris Engelsman envisions sustainable and profitable journeys, offering competition to airplanes while reducing carbon emissions. Engelsman emphasizes the time efficiency of night trains, allowing travelers to cover longer distances to destinations like Barcelona, Milan, Prague, and Copenhagen. By convincing just 5% of current air travelers, the company could achieve full bookings daily. Support from the EU and initiatives like France's ban on short-haul flights encourage the expansion of these eco-friendly journeys. The Belgian government even promises to subsidize night trains, envisioning Brussels as a night train hub, with connections to Vienna, Berlin, and a future service to Southern Europe. With the night trains, affordability meets retro glamour, weaving together luxury and simplicity. Passengers appreciate the practicality and enjoyment of the journey. Mark Smith, founder of "The Man in Seat 61" train enthusiasts' website, highlights the stress-free nature of night riding, where travelers can sleep away the night and awaken in a new country. With the expansion of night train services, the dream of exploring Europe's diverse landscapes becomes a delightful reality.
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