London to South of France via Lille

Hi Lawrence,

At the moment we only show connections via Paris for that route. Probably because it's often shorter via Paris, as there are lots of direct trains from Paris. But I agree it's sometimes preferable to go through Lille and avoid changing trains in the capital, and you're right there are plenty of connections you can take via Lille, with connecting services from Marseille or Aix-en-Provence.

We're working on functionality that will let you add a "via" to your search so it's easier to personalise, but in the meantime it's still possible to build your journey. If you search for London to Lille, then Lille to Toulon, choose your trains and place the separate parts in your basket, you can pay for them in one go at the end without additional cost. I hope that's helpful.

Some friends and I are going to Europe for a few days (Paris, and Rome) we wanted to know where the best hangouts are and unique things to do are: like shopping, places to eat, and clubs to go to. Any information would be great! And what would you recommend bringing to wear and bring on our trip from America to Europe? Any tips for traveling or anything would be helpful as well. Thank you in advance!

Hi Sophia,

Thanks for your post. You don't say exactly when you plan to travel, but if it's soon, bring some warm winter clothes, there's a bit of a cold snap in Europe at the minute. Here are some of our recommendations for Rome and Paris:

Rome

• If you've got a taste for the macabre, head to the city outskirts and to the subterranean catacombs of San Callisto - it's reached via the Via Appica Antiaca one of the earliest Roman roads

• Forget the usual walking tours, and take a running tour instead, it'll put you through your paces!

• Learn to become a Roman gladiator at the Gladiator School - courses range from a day to a 2 month intensive

Paris

• 18th Arrondissement - home to the likes of the Sacre Coeur and La Pigalle, and has great views over the city from Montmartre and a quaint village feel

• Mosquée de Paris - a hammam longside the city's oldest mosque where you can head for a spot of pampering

• Head to La Pagode Cinema for a truly theatrical evening an elegant cinema in elegant Japanese style

If you're planning to go by train, read our post on How to travel by train without breaking the bank which has advice on how to get cheap train tickets. Happy railing!