BERLIN: A combination of cheap rail tickets and the long holiday weekend has prompted Germans to hop on trains, the national rail operator says.

       At the beginning of the Whitsun, or Pentecost, holidays and after the introduction of the new €9 (US$9.65 or RM42.40) monthly ticket, regional trains are in great demand, especially to tourist destinations, according to Deutsche Bahn (DB).

       Travellers reported on Saturday that some trains were completely overcrowded and that there were also delays.

       Some rail customers were unable to find a seat, and in some places passengers with bicycles were unable to board regional trains, according to dpa reporters. Passengers also had to get off some packed trains.

       Passengers should check again with their local transport associations or via the DB Navigator application shortly before starting their journey.

       In view of the high occupancy rate, it could not be guaranteed that travellers would be able to take their bicycles with them: “Those who can should therefore do without,” DB said.

       Whitsun is usually always a busy time on the railways. This year the holiday coincided with the launch of the €9 or RM42.40 ticket, with which holders can travel throughout Germany on local public transport, including regional trains, in June, July and August.

       The Whitsun weekend is considered the first test for the government’s discount campaign. — dpa