Which train to take from Paris to Brussells? Are they the same train? Can booking be made in the USA for a December roundtrip? Can tickets be easily purchased at the station in Paris for the next day trip on December 23?

They are the same train. Thalys is the TGV and it will get you to Brussels in about an hour and twenty minutes. A very nice ride. I booked it in the U.S. ahead of time. I even changed trains at the station for an earlier one so I imagine it would be no problem actually buying the tix there. However, I think the trains are full-up later in the day so it's best to reserve ahead of time, and given the days and time of year you are planning to travel I would definitely book ahead. <BR>

Thomas, for the past two years (May)we arrived at CDG and then purchased roundtrip tickets to (1) Brugge and (2) Amsterdam. Both times it was easier that we expected. We were booked on the best train, at the cheapest price, and with help from fellow Foderites we knew what to expect. Ben Haines is the best source of that information. We found the cost to be less buying the ticket upon arrival than purchasing it here in the States. Either way, I'm sure you'll enjoy the visit.

You should definitely book ahead as your trip is on Saturday, Dec 23 which cumulates Christmas holiday massive departures + Christmas week-end! <BR>To my very best knowledge, at least in France, you can only book two months in advance. So... get ready for your bookings on Oct. 23rd!

They are different trains. One the Belgian version (Thalys) one the French (TGV). Having said that, there is probably very little difference between the 2 (both fast trains). We've only traveled on the Thalys - Brussels to Paris and it took just under 2 hours. <BR> <BR>Had no trouble buying tickets 2 days in advance, but if I were traveling during the holidays I'd probably book ahead. Try www.b-rail.com.

Thank you all. But is it true that I can get the Thalys at Paris Nord, while the TGV leaves from CDG? Or does it go through both locations? Tomorrow I'll go the NYC and check some stuff out at the French Tourist and Belgian Tourist offices (I hope). I tend to see too many alternatives. It drives Carol batty.

I'd be suprised if you can't take the TGV from Gare du Nord to Brussels. You can check www.sncf.com for TGV schedules.

Thomas, that is what we discovered during the our trips the last two springs. It seems the THAYLS runs in and out of Paris Nord, while the TGV services the airport. This May on our side trip to Amsterdam, we took the nonstop TGV direct to Brussels then changed trains to Amsterdam. The return was via THAYLS