Step 4: Finding Accommodation & Step 5: Leveraging Points
Step 4: Finding Accommodation
After mapping out your train routes and potential stops, it's time to find your perfect place to stay.
Do Your Research! I recently discovered
Histroric Hotels of Europe Location vs. Lure: I once booked a "fabulous castle" in Italy. My heart was happy! But after researching travel time (almost 7 hours from Milan, involving infrequent trains and a bus, plus an enormous uphill walk with bags), I cancelled. Always verify location logistics.
Flexible Bookings: I almost always book hotels with free cancellation. Only commit to non-refundable options when there's truly no other viable choice (e.g., specific resorts like Cancun, or visiting family in Rio where location is fixed).
Important Note on European Hotels:
European hotels differ from American ones.Occupancy Matters: If you have more than one traveler, always input the correct number of guests in your search. In the US, a queen bed is standard; in Europe, you might book a single twin room for less if you're solo—not ideal for a couple, as I learned in Dublin!
Read Reviews & Amenities:
Nightclubs: Popular cities often have hotel rooftop or in-house nightclubs. A rooftop bar is lovely; a club directly above you at 4 AM might not be!
Pools: A pool on the website doesn't guarantee it's open. Many hotels in Spain, for instance, only open outdoor pools from June to October.
Step 5: Leveraging Points
If you're a points enthusiast, here's how to maximize them:
Spreadsheet Your Stays: Create a spreadsheet of interesting hotels and calculate your "bang for the buck" using points.
Sign Up for Programs: Always sign up for accounts with any train, plane, or hotel chain you use. You never know when you can cash in points, or when mergers (e.g., Choice Hotels and Radisson, Marriott and Starwood) might benefit you.
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