3 trains to Berlin

An early morning start today. Fortunately we booked a hotel close to the European Train Station, so it was an easy walk down hill to the escalators and lifts of the station. Our first train left at 9.08am and I can tell you now, most trains are spot-on with their scheduling. First off though, we had to know which platform the train arrives and it is not posted till 20 mins beforehand, so we wait at the notice board until we know, then it is a determined effort to get onto the platform in time to embark, all with our suitcases in tow. But the platform could be a couple of levels underground and it is quite a feat to locate a lift to use, so most times we are getting onto escalators with backpacks slung over our shoulders, our day bags around our neck and shoulder and our suitcase wheeled alongside us. Then place the suitcase on the moving escalator before we step on ourselves. Ha.....all the time jostling into position with 100 or so other passengers, darting in all directions!

DH has coped especially well, considering his mobility issues and deserves a medal for it. There have been some lovely people who have come from out of the blue to help him with his suitcases. Lifting them down or up from or onto the trains and stairs. Brian and Roger have been great in organizing the luggage on and off the trains as well and I would not have managed without them.  You know, I am always surprised how unknown people have stepped in the assist DH and truly appreciate their assistance. I wish them all good Karma for their acts.

Three trains to Berlin. First train travelled from Lille to Brussels, second from Brussels to Cologne, then the last from Cologne to Berlin. I nearly had kittens in Brussels when DH went to the WC and thought he had time to wander back whilst we were all on the platform, with our suitcases waiting to board the train. 5 mins later he appeared, then we were hastily hauling the cases onto the train with 2 mins to spare and relief. Maybe that is my Karma for keeping him waiting at other times!

The last train we were on, was travelling at one stage, at 251kms per hour. As we were travelling first class the seating is a lot more comfortable, it is wider and there is more leg room. A steward comes along to take coffee orders, though there is a dinning carriage on board where passengers can sit and have a meal or drink. The ride is very smooth with little sway.

We are staying at the Adina apartments whilst here in Berlin which to our delight has a happy 2 hour from 5 to 7pm. DH and I found the bar and in it, 4 other Australians from our home town as well. Great.

Display on train showing destination and current speed.

The last train's seating

Waiting at Cologne station. The Cathedral is visible from the platform.

We had the first carriage when we travelled from Brussels to Cologne. Here is a picture of the train driver at the controls.