Dutch Railways considers banning Interrail from ICEs to Germany this summer
ICE train to Germany on the Dutch Betuwe route NS
Due to overcrowded trains last summer, Dutch Railways (NS) is considering banning Interrail passengers from ICE trains to Germany this summer. The direct Amsterdam-Berlin intercity remains unaffected. “We cannot prevent a lot of people boarding the ICE at the same time due to unpredictable Interrail travel behaviour, which is why we are considering making the ICE inaccessible with an Interrail pass this summer,” said an NS spokesperson.
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This NSspokesperson seems to know nothing about international nor national train travel. And must have had bad notes in geography. As travelling from Amsterdam, Utrecht or Arnhem to southern Germany via Liège takes about 2,5 hours and 3 or 4 changes extra.
Just make reservation compulsory for Interrailers
As Interrail passes can be bought 11 months in advance, and travel plans from last year’s special offer may extend into July, it would be quite unfair to limit train use for passes that were already bought.
No Interrail pass on the ICE between Arnhem and Köln, says NS. The DB mentions nothing. Very unfair to change the Rules during playing the game. I bought this Interrail pass 6 weeks Ago without restrictions on the ICE. And the reason for excluding? Crowded trains in the summer….. Now I doubt of I can reach Florence on a ons dat pass. Sustainable Dutch Railways….. Are you wanting me to travel to Venlo, Mönchengladbach etc. With local trains and changing with luggage?