Is the Eurostar frequent traveller scheme worth joining?
If you are considering a one-off Eurostar trip then my answer is most definitely no. In fact, the registration to the Eurostar scheme can only be arranged after you have made a “qualifying journey” with a minimum ticket price of £250
If you’re likely to travel in premium class several times a year, then read on ….
Business Premier Bookings
If you purchase the most expensive Business Premier (hot food) service at the ludicrous £490 fare, then just 3 tickets will be enough for one free standard class ticket. (I say ludicrous but compare this with City Jet / Air France business class flights from City to Paris Orly which cost £705 return)
But what about “Leisure Premier” class bookings?
Leisure Premier comprises of the same first class seating but with cold food. Although the name suggests that this is for holiday travelers, it is the category most used by business travelers.
Points are awarded per single fare;
Single fares typically average between £100 and £200 and you’ll be rewarded 100 points up to £154.99 single and 150 points (up to £205 single).
Points are valid and they accrue for up to 3 years before expiry so you have plenty of time to collect a reasonable balance.
How many Eurostar trips do I need for a free ticket?
A standard return ticket costs 900 points and Standard Premier return costs 1,800 (single journeys are 50% and child fares are 2/3).
Or, more simply between 3 and 5 Leisure Premier return = 1 free standard class return ticket OR
Between 6 and 9 trips = 1 free first class return (“Leisure Premier”) ticket.
See the full redemption chart here
How many Eurostar trips do I need to reach Eurostar Carte Blanche Status
Carte Blanche status includes access to the Eurostar Business Lounge and priority 10 minute check-in.
If you’ve ever had to wait at Brussels Midi Station you’ll appreciate the business lounge access.
You require 1,500 points to reach Carte Blanche level.
Explained another simpler way, between 5 and 8 return trips in one year
More general information is available here
Are there any other benefits?
Eurostar will have your mobile number and will text you if your train is cancelled
You’ll be able to retrieve your boarding cards by using your membership card but only if your booking was made directly with Eurostar and not via Rail Europe
This entry was posted on Wednesday, June 12th, 2013 at 3:53 pm and is filed under Booking Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
