Rail Europe Joins Forces with European Travel Commission
Rail Europe, a leading global brand for European train bookings, has proudly announced its new status as an associate member of the European Travel Commission (ETC). This partnership aims to integrate national tourism boards of Europe with sustainable mobility solutions, marking a significant step towards the future of rail transport across the continent.
Early data for 2024 indicates a promising year for European tourism, with consumer travel spending expected to rise substantially. The collaboration between Rail Europe and ETC reflects their shared vision for a more sustainable future. By joining ETC as an associate member, Rail Europe plans to utilize its extensive global B2B network, including tour operators, online travel agencies, and travel management companies, to highlight rail travel. This partnership focuses on transforming the travel industry, promoting sustainable economic growth, and supporting regional development through shared promotion, market intelligence, and best practices.
"We are very proud to become an official associate member of ETC today. Our partnership with ETC will bring tourism and mobility even closer together, and it will allow us to advocate for greener travel solutions, ensuring rail becomes the backbone of European tourism," stated Björn Bender, CEO of Rail Europe.
Eduardo Santander, CEO of the European Travel Commission, added, "We are delighted to welcome Rail Europe as an associate member. Their expertise spanning over 90 years in rail travel aligns perfectly with our mission to promote sustainable tourism across Europe. Together, we will work towards fostering closer cooperation between the rail and tourism sectors in Europe, benefiting both travelers and the environment."
Under this new agreement, Rail Europe and ETC will launch selected collaborative projects aimed at promoting sustainable travel initiatives and enhancing the overall travel experience for both local and international visitors.
Travelers can expect several advantages from this partnership. One of the key benefits will be the seamless integration of rail travel options into their itineraries, making it easier to explore multiple destinations across Europe efficiently. Additionally, travelers will enjoy more environmentally friendly travel choices, contributing to the reduction of their carbon footprint. Enhanced cooperation between rail and tourism sectors will also lead to better travel packages, improved services, and more comprehensive travel information, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.
