It’s tough to count on a train in Europe these days, with French rail workers walking off the job Nov. 13, German rail workers striking Nov. 14, and the UK’s Midland Mainline and Silverlink rail workers continuing their intermittent work stoppage. This is the second string of strikes for France and Germany, and we’ve been advised strikes could continue indefinitely.

Whether by plan or coincidence, the rail unions have aligned strike dates and while workers might have different concerns—in France it’s pension changes, in the UK and Germany it’s pay — the end result derails commuters. In Germany and the UK, train disruptions won’t shut down mass transit, but travelers can expect increased traffic congestion and are advised to confirm all rental-car reservations.

French commuters won’t be so lucky, with public transportation expected to grind to a halt. Utility workers have threatened the country will see power outages, civil servants and students are up in arms and there’s even talk of the Paris Opera canceling the Nov. 14th premiere of the Nutcracker.
It’s possible the entire country will stay home and wait out the strikes.
Business travelers should wear good walking shoes, bring a flashlight and be prepared to hop on a bicycle.