I'm getting contradictory info on whether an over-60 U.S. citizen can purchase a "golden pass" (tarjeta dorada) for use on trains in Spain. Some sites say only a member of EU can purchase one.
Posted by
Pantego, NC, USA
1014 posts
Go to seat61.com and read or email him. He is the man on train travel.
Posted by
white plains, ny, usa
4140 posts
Jan ,the man in seat 61 is your best bet for accurate information . I have not yet traveled there ,but I can tell you that the trains in Spain stay mainly on the plain . ( Sorry , I couldn't resist ! )
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16409 posts
Jan, I am curious where you read that only EU citizens are eligible for the Tarjeta Dorada, because that is not so, or at least as of a few months ago it wasn't. There are several people who post on this site, definitely American not EU citizens, who have used it and recommend it. I do not have personal experience ( although we are age-eligible) as we preferred the greater discount we got with Web fares (60%).
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16409 posts
Actually I don't see anywhere on seat61 where he had addressed the Tarjeta Dorada. Since his website is oriented toward UK English-speakers, he may not be concerned with rules applicable to Non-EU residents. But the Renfe site says the Tarjeta Dorada may be purchased by any person over 60, with no qualification. That is consistent with what has been reported here by Frank and others.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23343 posts
It is anyone. We have done it twice within the past five.six years. It is good deal. Last time it was 5E. Probably a Euro or two more now. You have to show your passport.
Posted by
Whittington
984 posts
There is no doubt the Tarjeta Dorada is available to all over 60, irrespective of nationality. Detail - http://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/tarifas/tarjeta_dorada.html However, this now begs the question - are you going to 'wing it' for all your train travel and pay more than necessary? Greater discounts are available with an itinerary and advance purchase on-line.