We are booked on Eurostar from Gare du Nord to St. Pancreas Station on Saturday, 12/21. Since we are over a week out, it's possible that the strike may be resolved but unlikely. I am considering booking a short one-way flight from CDG to Heathrow as an alternative. There are some decdent rates on British Airways. I won't book AirFrance because of the potential for cancellation. Any recommendations? I've been monitoring the Eurostar website daily for updates but I want to make sure I get back to England. BTW, we researched changing our return flight from CDG instead of Heathrow and the airline quoted us a $2000/each rebooking cost. So, we have to find a way back to England. Thanks for everyone's help.
Posted by
Chicago
8181 posts
You could also use Easy Jet to fly to London Luton or London Gatwick from Paris if you are not planning to spend the 12/21 and 12/22 at an hotel located near London Heathrow Airport. The flights usually cost less money.
Posted by
Charleston & Birmingham
4628 posts
Which airline is such a Grinch? I've never heard of a rebooking cost that high-sounds like someone is price-gouging because of the strikes in Paris.
Posted by
Paris
7312 posts
I would stick with Eurostar... 2/3 to 3/4 of them are running now, and it's easier to get to Gare du Nord than CDG during a strike.
Of course, if you can find a refundable or partly refundable airline ticket, by all means book it as insurance for peace of mind.
Posted by
Hampshire, England.
1075 posts
It's St Pancras Station BTW, nothing to do with body organs. 😀
Posted by
Folsom
2739 posts
We were in a similar bind a few years ago. In Paris and needed to get to Barcelona for the RS Spain tour. Train strike meant we would not know until the day before if we were going. Bought 4 refundable tix on Veuling as a backup. Train went, canceled the flights. But it took a month and several calls, emails before the refund came through. That aside I think a similar plan is your best bet.
Posted by
OP
6 posts
harley. thanks for the correction on St. Pancreas. Delta is the gem that quoted us the $2000 change per person. Yes, I think they are taking advantage. But, the Delta agent did indicate that they waive the fee IF it falls within the official "strike" time frame, which was 13 December as of yesterday. I think the "strike" timeframe is fluid and is changing. I would much prefer taking Eurostar rather than going back to CDG. Thanks for everyone's input.