DB plans new Belgium-Germany link
German operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) has announced plans for a new direct high-speed rail service between Antwerp in Belgium and Aachen and Cologne in Germany from late 2026.
The new service will run twice-daily in both directions from September 2026 with stops at Brussels Airport, Leuven and Liège.
According to VRT News, trains are expected to depart Antwerp at 11h00 and 19h00, arriving in Cologne two-and-half hours later. The return trips will depart Cologne at 06h30 and 14h30.
Blue Jasmine tourism train launches in Thailand
The State Railway of Thailand and Asian DMC, DTH Travel, have collaborated to introduce a new tourism train experience to showcase Thailand’s lesser-known destinations.
The Blue Jasmine will embark on nine-day itineraries, with two overnights on the train and the rest spent in hotels. The train will operate roundtrips to Bangkok, with stops in Ayutthaya, Uthai Thani, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai. The itinerary offers excursions and experiences, including tuk-tuk tours, picnics, visits to monasteries and temples, a Sakae Krang River cruise, a tour of the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, and a traditional dinner and musical performance.
The first charter is scheduled to depart on 16 November 2025, with subsequent dates on sale thereafter.
The train offers three cabin classes. Classic cabins have seating that transforms into bunks and shared bathrooms. Premium cabins have shared bathrooms and access to a panorama lounge, an open-air balcony and private dining in a separate coach. Premium suites have double beds, en-suite bathrooms and a dedicated butler service.
Japan plans overnight express train
East Japan Railways will convert its E657 express train into an overnight sleeper train between Tokyo and Tohoku.
All the seats in the 10-car train will be removed and replaced by private rooms, accommodating between one and four passengers. Multiple room types will be available, including premium class accommodation in the end cars.
Services are expected to begin in the first half of 2027 and will depart Tokyo at 21h00, arriving at Aomori Station in the Tohoku region at 09h00 the next morning.
