EUROSTAR has extended cancellations to its services amid strike action across France. In its latest update, the rail company has said that there will be reduced trains to France, Belgium and the Netherlands until December 12. So far, over 100 Eurostar services to Paris, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Brussels have been cancelled between December 5 and […]
EUROSTAR has extended cancellations to its services amid strike action across France.
In its latest update, the rail company has said that there will be reduced trains to France, Belgium and the Netherlands until December 12.
So far, over 100 Eurostar services to Paris, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Brussels have been cancelled between December 5 and 12 – some to take into account the knock on effects of the strike.
A total of 20 trains have been cancelled today (December 9), with another 19 services axed tomorrow.
A further eight are cancelled on December 11, and five on December 12.
Eurostar said that customers who are affected by cancellations will be notified and are advised to check their website for the latest update.
As there will also be disruption to Metro and RER services within Paris, you should check that you’re still able to make any connecting trains.
For Metro and RER services in Paris, you can check their website here.
And for local trains, you can check the SNCF website here.
Those who are affected by the cancellations are able to exchange their tickets for another day or get a full refund.
If you are booked on a cancelled train, you can exchange or refund your ticket on Eurostar’s website here. You have up to 60 days from the date of your journey to exchange or refund your ticket.
Eurostar added: “As the situation is now clearer, exchanges during the strike period are possible, although availability is very limited. We do still advise that you travel outside the strike period.
“Should you choose to travel we would ask you to check the likely impact for your journey, including any onward connection, before making your exchange.”
And for those who are not affected by cancellations, you’ll be able to postpone your journey for free.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office warned of severe delays that could affect “trains, metros, busses and trams” across France.
Brits heading to France next week should therefore check before they travel to make sure services are still running.
The FCO said: “Significant industrial action is expected across France from Thursday 5 December for an unspecified duration.
“This will primarily affect transport and public services, with cancellations and severe delays to train, metro, bus and tram services expected from the evening of Wednesday 4 December.
“Disruption and cancellations to Eurostar services between London St. Pancras and Gare du Nord are expected.
“Other international rail services such as those to the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Germany may also be affected.
“Industrial action at ports may cause delays and cancellations to some cross-Channel ferry services. You should check the website of your chosen operator before you set off.
“In the event of any disruption, information about alternative routes and operators is available via this interactive map.
“Industrial action by hauliers on some major roads may also cause delays or blockages.
“Strike action by Air France workers and air traffic controllers may also cause disruption to air travel. You should check services before travelling.”
It added: “Wider demonstrations are also planned across France, including a large authorised demonstration in central Paris on Thursday 5 December, leaving from the Gare du Nord at 2:00pm and finishing at Nation.
“Additional protests may also be held linked to the yellow vest (gilets jaunes) movement. In all cases, you should avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.”
Last year, it was revealed that French air traffic controllers were responsible for a third of flight delays in Europe.
A terror warning was recently issued for Christmas market destinations across Europe.
Sun Online Travel recently revealed some of the most dangerous destinations to travel to in 2020.
