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This rail rider answers the most frequently asked questions about train travel in Europe for families and reminds travelers of what else they need to know.

No statistics are readily available, but as the busy spring holiday travel season approaches, it's apparent that the numbers of Americans who choose train travel to Europe is on the rise.

Below are some of the most-asked questions -- and my honest answers -- about train travel in Europe.

Q: What are the best European countries for trains?

A: A matter of opinion, but probably Britain and Switzerland, both of which have modern trains that offer many passes where children ride for free.

Q: Do European trains run often and is it easy to figure out the schedules?

A: Because so many people use trains in Europe, they run far more regularly than America's Amtrak system. In countries where English is not as common as others, Italy, for example, there is somewhat more of a challenge to figure out the schedule, but almost all stations have large timetables. The bright yellow ones are the departure timetables; the white ones are generally arrival times.

Q: What will our family do about missing our stop?

A: That does concern me as well, I have to admit, so I generally look at the schedule to see the time of my stop. Since European trains are generally on time, you should be able to look at your watch to know where you are. It's true announcements can be brief, and in another language, but you can always ask the conductor or other passengers about the stop. Train people are generally friendly.

Q: What if the railway's ticket agent does not speak English?

A: This does happen, but if you know your family's destination and when your train leaves, you should be able to handle it. Hand signals might help.