How to travel and not be disappointed

When you go on vacation, you should decide in advance what kind of transportation you will use. You can drive, take the train, or choose the faster option of flying. In any case, it is worth remembering your rights in case something suddenly goes wrong.

Train

Statistically, rail travel is one of the safest forms of transportation. It is also a pleasant way to meditate while looking at the beautiful scenery outside the window. The main problem with this form of travelling is the cost.

If we talk about the European Union, a recent study showed that flying is on average cheaper than travelling by train. This is due to the large number of low-cost airlines, which have tax advantages and can therefore offer cheap tickets. Also, trains limit your choice of destinations.

Remember that if your train is delayed at the station of departure or en route, you are entitled to compensation. This is directly proportional to the length of the delay. The longer the delay, the more compensation you may receive.

Plane

The same is true for flights. Airlines operating in the EU are subject to a single regulation EG 261/2004. It states that in case of flight delays, the company is supposed to provide passengers with meals and two free phone calls. If the flight is delayed for more than five hours, you are already entitled to compensation.

If the flight is completely cancelled, there are two options. The first is a voluntary waiver in exchange for the airline's negotiated services. The second is compensation in the amount of 250-600 euros if an agreement cannot be reached.

Not all airports are punctual. Flight delays of 15 minutes or more are common at some airports. Here are the 10 most unpunctual hubs according to AirHelp:

1. London Gatwick (LGW) – 54,08%
2. Lisbon Humberto Delgado (LIS) – 51,04%
3. Copenhagen Kastrup (CPH) – 50,88%
4. Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – 50,60%
5. Antalya (AYT) – 47,34%
6. Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) – 46,85%
7. Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci (FCO) – 44,05%
8. Manchester International Airport (MAN) – 43,78%
9. Milano Malpensa (MXP) – 43,66%
10. Frankfurt International (FRA) – 42.99%

In contrast, there are airports that take the most responsible approach to arriving and departing to ensure the comfort of their passengers:

1. Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL) – 18,33%
2. Dusseldorf International (DUS) – 22,26%
3. Oslo Gardermoen (OSL) – 23,09%
4. Warsaw Chopin (WAW) – 23,35%
5. Vienna International (VIE) – 27,22%
6. Madrid-Barajas (MAD) – 28,38%
7. Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) – 28,45%
8. Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) – 30,54%
9. Istanbul Havalimani (IST) – 32,15%
10. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) – 34.17%

Luxembourg is not on any of these lists, but there are almost no serious complaints about delays at Findel, so it can be considered a stable and reliable airport.

Car

If you like to be independent, a car is your option. However, the responsibility for a comfortable trip lies entirely with you.

Before you set off, make sure that the major components of the engine and braking system are in good working order, that the tires are properly inflated, and that the electrical system is functioning properly.

If you don't have your own car, you can rent one or use a carsharing service. To find out how to do this, read our article: Carsharing and Ridesharing in Luxembourg.

Think about your own comfort and safety! Never overload your body, especially if you are the one driving. It is better to stop every few hours and take a break, warm up and breathe air to regain concentration.

Home security

Do not forget your home. If you are going to be away for a long time, ask neighbours or people you trust to keep an eye on the house. Tell them to report any suspicious activity or phenomena immediately. You can even leave your keys, especially if you need to water the plants or feed the cat.

Before you leave, check that all windows and doors are securely locked. It's the same with an iron or a stove — better a little healthy paranoia than bitter disappointment when something happens. It's also a good idea to turn off the water and, if possible, unplug all electrical appliances.

The Luxembourg police also offer an unusual service for people on vacation — a home security check while you are away. If you sign up for this service, the officers on duty will regularly check the order and security at your address.