Marseille railway stations 2003 news
During the months of July and August it's Summertime and Holiday season
in Marseille. Plenty of tourists then travel by train to and from the
South of France, so it's bussy at the Marseille railway station.
In 2003 there is no direct rail link with the airport, but a busservice is available between the airport and the Marseille Saint Charles railway station.
In July 2003 I wanted to take a train
in Marseille. I still had to buy a ticket when I arrived by bus from
the airport. I was in time to catch the train I needed, but noticed it
was delayed, so I ate a sandwitch first. When afterwards I wanted to
buy a ticket for the train something most amazing happened.
The train was half an hour late. I needed that train in order to catch a boat in Saint-Raphael, but i
was unable to buy a ticket as railway staff told me that according to their reservation system the train
had already gone.
I got onboard anyway (plenty of empty seats) and payed much extra as I was fined as an illegal passenger. But it got my boat
in time. The train was late because vandals put it on fire twice that afternoon. Wonder why.
In 2003 the Hi-speed trains (TGV) in France can
only be used with a valid reservation for a specific seat. The price of the train ride
depends on who wants to travel (children and the elderly travel
cheaper) and which fare type you get. Each
fare type has only a limited number of seats availabe for sale. The
sale of each fare type is opened on a different moment. Usual fare
types are:
- for sale from 2 months in advance
- for sale from 14 days in advance
- for sale from 7 days in advance.
If you didn't make a reservation before you arrive at the railway
station, it's normally possible to buy a ticket, but then you pay the
full price which will be at least twice the best price.