Wrong Track

Be careful when making train arrangements in Europe. Different companies use the prefix “Eur.” For example, Eurostar and Eurail. The first is a modern, comfortable train. The second could be a make-over from World War II.

On Eurail, our cramped compartment demanded an acrobatic climb to the top bunk. The dining car, supposed to be included, was never added. Our three meals were packaged snacks and sodas. In Aachen, Germany, a hasty unscheduled change resulted in loss of luggage and an altered route--to Brussels instead of Paris.

When we arrived in Brussels, we were dumped with our luggage on a platform in a large unfamiliar station with 20 minutes to make connections for Paris. This was impossible, and we had to buy new tickets.

JOEL JAVISH

Los Angeles