Eurostar has introduced a round-the-year train from May 1, with direct services between London St Pancras International and Lyon (four and a half hours), Avignon (nearly six hours) and Marseille (six and a half hours) in southern France. However, Britain is not part of the EU Schengen treaty. So while passengers leaving from London do not face any problem, those coming to London, will have to get down at Lille in France for passport checks. As per the current schedule, the train will operate three to five times a week depending on the monthly schedule between May and October. Fares start at &pound99 for a return ticket in Standard class from London St Pancras International or Ashford International to Lyon Part Dieu. www.eurostar.com