It's at the RENFE.ES site, so maybe I haven't FOUND anything you don't all know about - it's just that they are listing WEB and ESTELLE prices now. The price difference is 81,80 vs 49,10 Euros (star price).

The 4 stations for Madrid are:
Madrid (*)
Madrid-Chamartin
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha
Madrid-Atocha Cercanias

My first trip is from Malaga to Madrid - which station do I pick?

The REAL differences (from your description) between tourist and business seems minimal (but the E difference is 24,40E). I think I'll stick with tourist.

By the way - something has changed on the RENFE site. Or I'm getting smarter! I actually think I can get my ticket on line *L* By myself even!

Another question - once I pay, does it let you print your ticket?
The link to their FAQ page is not working.

Yes it does.

And, if you are coming from Malaga then you will stop at Madrid Atocha. Because you'll have to take the AVE.

And, MM, preferente also means you get a plug socket on your seat - a must if you travel with a laptop and plan to work (or watch a movie), or want to charge your mobile phone.

Not much of an advantage, but vital for business travellers.

Thank you Daniel-Madrid!!

The RENFE ticket site wants an identification document. I'm pretty sure I should pick foreign ID, and use my passport number. What do you guys think?

Help again, please, folks. I got all the way to putting in my credit card number - a VISA Card. However, I got an error message which says: "The process cannot continue right now. We apologise for any inconvenience (G001-ET01"

Does anyone know what the problem is? My credit card? I really DID want to take advantage of the discount WEB/STAR tickets. If I wait until I'm there and find a travel agent, do you think I can get the discounted price?

You know if I need a travel agent, I'll be asking for one in Torremolinas (our first stop). Although we will leave from Malaga.

Advice? Hints? Help???? Please. Thank you.

I doubt it is your card, most likely there is a fault in the website and you'll just need to try later. Alternatively, you could call them and try over the phone, then they will email you the ticket.

You might be able to get the discount in a travel agent, but they would probably have to buy the ticket online themselves.

Also, you'll be best using your passport number for the ID on the website (i assume you don't have a DNI card). but, you'll need to travel with your passport in order to board the train.

Take a look at previous threads about booking RENFE tickets online. Although I've heard conflicting reports, some say you can only use a Spanish credit card. I remember Steve Robinson going through many of these issues a few months ago.

There are also (64-day) limitations to how far in advance one can book tickets.

Saludos, MadridMan

Good day! Thanks, Madrid Man and Daniel-Madrid.
I did read thru the previous threads - most seemed to deal with AMEX cards.
I called my VISA customer service - they were blocking the purchase! Some security breaches and unauthorized billings, they said. As well, the RENFE site was experiencing some difficulties. I ALMOST got a ticket though!
Today, with some patience, I will try again, and let you know.
Only 4.2 weeks until I meet SPAIN!

grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Still won't work. I will try again later.