Imagine drifting off to sleep in one country and waking up in another, all while traveling in style and comfort. This is the promise of Twiliner, a Swiss startup that has just launched a fleet of luxurious sleeper buses, offering a unique and sustainable travel experience across Europe.
But is it really possible to get a good night's rest on a moving bus? I decided to find out by testing Twiliner's new service between Amsterdam and Zurich. As I settled into the plush mattress, with a cozy blanket and a pillow, I felt my travel-weary body begin to relax. But the bedtime routine had a unique twist: my legs were secured in a mesh bag, clipped into seatbelts, ensuring safety during the 12-hour journey at 50 mph.
Twiliner's sleeper buses are a game-changer in the travel industry. With three weekly trips between Amsterdam and Zurich, and a Zurich to Barcelona route launching soon, they provide a novel alternative to flying. The company's mission, as stated by co-founder and CEO Luca Bortolani, is to combat climate change by offering a travel option people will choose over flying. Their solution? A seat that transforms into a bed, akin to business class on a plane, manufactured by a UK-based company.
I opted for the full Zurich route, starting in London and connecting through Amsterdam, despite the option of a shorter journey via Eurostar. As I boarded the bus, I was impressed by its amenities: a spacious toilet, a changing room, and self-service shelves stocked with travel essentials. The upper deck, where I was seated, offered stunning views and USB ports. As we departed Amsterdam, the city lights twinkled around me, and I accessed bed instructions via a QR code.
The bus's atmosphere was a mix of excitement and tranquility. Strict policies on children, food, drink, and noise ensured a peaceful journey. By 10 pm, most passengers were asleep, and I soon joined them. I awoke at 5:30 am, slightly too warm (a minor issue Twiliner is addressing), and dozed off again, feeling like a pampered baby in a plush pram. The sunrise and cooler temperature marked the end of our journey.
And here's where it gets controversial: is this mode of transport truly better than flying? Adrien, a fellow passenger, shared his thoughts: "It's not quicker or cheaper, but it's a great option." Twiliner's buses, running on renewable diesel, claim to produce 90% less CO2 emissions than flights. Even when using regular diesel, they match sleeper trains in sustainability. With plans to expand to 25 routes by 2028, Twiliner aims to revolutionize European travel.
The journey's only downside was the outdoor boarding in Amsterdam, a minor inconvenience compared to the overall experience. Arriving in Zurich, I felt refreshed and ready to explore. The magic of Twiliner lies in its ability to provide a comfortable, sustainable, and unique travel experience, all while you sleep.
But what do you think? Would you choose a sleeper bus over a flight or train for your next European adventure? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the future of sustainable travel!
