I want to be sure I understand the terminology I see when I view timetables, either online or in the Thomas Cook book. I understand the little R in a box in the Cook book means I must make a reservation and pay extra or I won't be allowed to sit anywhere on the train. But when I see "supplement" without the R in the box, I think this just means I have to pay extra but I don't necessarily get an assigned seat, correct? Typically, where, when, and how do I pay for supplements? At the station at any ticket window (or perhaps specified ones) just before boarding a train needing one? On the train? From a vending machine? Or all of the above? And finally, I'll be using a one-month Eurail Global Pass. Am I still required to pay supplements when the timetables say a particular train needs one (not the R in the box; I understand that's always required and always costs extra)?
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19159 posts
A rail pass does not give you free access to all trains. Some trains are either run by a consortium of national rail companies (ie Thalys) or considered by the rail company to be a premium train for which an extra charge (supplement) is needed. For most or all of these trains, all seats require reservations, so one comes with the supplement, and for that reason, the supplement is often referred to as a "reservation fee". Rail Europe often refers to a "reservation fee" when they actually mean the required supplement, which includes a seat reservation. Certain trains shown on the German Rail website are popular routes. Reservations are suggested, not required. They will show a circle 'R' but putting the cursor over the symbol shows the tip, 'reservation recommended' (for €4). Other trains, (ie, ICE Sprinters) will have a different circle 'R' symbol which says that a reservation is mandatory. Those reservations will be a little more expensive (€11,50) and include a supplement.
Posted by
OP
Easley, SC, USA
306 posts
OK. Thanks Lee.