Deutsche Bahn: Non-Smoking Regulations Set to Begin September 2007
Up until now it has been a smokers paradise in the Deutsche Bahn (German National Rail System) system. There are a few non-smoking cars and many smoking cars, and plenty of cars where it's split down the middle using a small piece of plexi glass to separate the two sections; which essentially creates yet another smoking car......Uuuugh!
Beginning September 2007 all German trains will be non-smoking. The Germans parliament is finally taking action in order to protect non-smokers and children from second hand smoke, thanks to a fat & embarassing reprimand from the European Union's Health Ministry.
It is often cheaper to fly with some of Germany's & Europe's no-frill airlines, but nothing can replace a European train traveling experience if you've never had one.
Some tips: Get to your train station early. Purchasing the tickets from the automatic vending machines is annoying and confusing even if you speak German. Until you get the hang of the Deutsche Bahn system purchase tickets at the kiosks or offices. It is extremely wise to make seat reservations, unless you don't mind sitting on the floor on a Friday evening. If you're staying in a hotel, you can call Deutsche Bahn to order your tickets and have them delivered to your hotel prior to your departure.
If you don't know your track number then try to get help at a Deutsche Bahn information kiosk (usually English speaking employees work here). On the tracks are posters detailing specific train layouts according to model. On these posters you can often tell where along the track your car number will be located....just make sure you check under the proper model number witch should appear on your tickets.
Be aware of the fact that Deutsche Bahn personnel who service the track platforms often speak little or no English. So be prepared to show your tickets and pantomime what you want.
Here is a link to the Deutsche Bahn's English Website: http://www.bahn.de/p/view/international/englisch/international_guests.shtml.
