Monday, April 23, 2012

Level of comfort in Thalys vs. IC Trains/ 1st vs. 2nd Class

After a long day of touring in Amsterdam, we%26#39;ll be taking a train from Amsterdam Centraal to Brugge.





For the first leg of that journey, we have the option of booking a Thalys train.





Being over 60, it also appears that Thalys has an option to upgrade to first class for 10 Euro.





We%26#39;ll have four pieces of luggage to carry, as well.





My question relates to the level of comfort in first class vs. second class.





And also if the Thalys trains are more comfortable than the IC trains that make the Amsterdam to Belgium route.





Thanks!




|||



If you have the chance to upgrade to Comfort 1 on the Thalys for only 10 euros then do it. You get access to the international NSHispeed lounge in Amsterdam CS. Free drinks includign wine and beer plus coffee and soft drinks and some small snacks are available just like an airline lounge.



The Thalys is also a little more comfortable than the IC train and you normally get a meal included in the price of the ticket





thalys.com/nl/…discover-comfort-1





For more details. There is also a 1-2 seat configuration so more space than 2-2 in Comfort 2 plus free wi-fi and power points for laptops etc.



Only disadvantage (or advantage depending on how you look at it) is that reservations are compulsory on the Thalys. If you choose to take the IC train then you do not require reservations (which are actually not possible) so you can jump on any train. No inclusive meal or wi-fi on this train.



I will be in Comfort 1 all the way to Marsielles this coming Saturday so really looking forward to it.



Luggage is stored at the beginning of the carriages on most trains and it does not really make much difference 1st or 2nd class except 1st will likely be quieter so more space.



If you really can upgrade for only 10 euros (is this a special seniors offer?) then definitely do it.




|||



To clarify, the 10 Euro cost difference was between first class on an IC train vs. first class on the Thalys.





Sorry if I was not clearer.

No comments:

Post a Comment