New rail pass targets retired travellers

(Eurail/Photographer Martin Kers)

European rail agency Eurail has launched two new InterRail passes aimed at senior citizens and holiday makers.

The Global 60+ Pass was launched January 18 and allows travelers over the age of 60 to travel Europe by rail at a reduced tariff. With 70 percent of InterRail passengers under 26, the pass is designed to promote European rail travel to a group with more disposable time and income.

"60 plussers form an exciting new group of InterRailers because they have the time and the means to travel," said Ana Dias e Seixas of the Eurail Group. "Plus, they are starting to discover that travelling by train is less expensive than flying and there are lots of interesting destinations across the European continent that can be reached by train."

The group has also announced a shorter-duration pass to boost the appeal for travelers taking time off work. Previously, the shortest pass duration was 22 days, but this drops to 15 days as of Monday. The pass is designed for users who wish to travel by rail every few days whilst on a two-week vacation.

InterRail Global passes are valid in 30 European countries and will now start at €399 for a 15 day pass. Senior tariffs begin at €359.

Website: http://www.eurailgroup.com/