NS VIRM! The Dutch DOUBLE-DECKER Intercity!

This week, I check out one the Dutch national operator Nederlandse Spoorwegen's (NS) double-decker VIRM sets on a journey from Maastricht, near the border with Belgium to the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam!

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Date of Travel: 6 August 2020
Class of Travel: 2nd Class
Rolling Stock: Talbot VIRM-3
Cost of Ticket: €28 (£24.90, $33.80)
Origin: Maastricht, the Netherlands
Destination: Amsterdam Centraal, the Netherlands

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Credits

[colanitower]

Fun fact: when the first NS double-decker was designed, the manufacturer had a choice to make. Two stairs up on the sides and one stair down in the middle, as in French trains at the time, or one stair up and one down? They invited people to come to the factory and to rush in and out a mockup train in large groups to simulate rush hours. Result of the parties was that the "one stair up and one down" configuration works best to get as many people as possible in and out the train within limited stopping time at stations. This configuration of stairs is what you see in these trains.

[LynX_]

As you have seen, they are clearly showing their age and the need for an upgrade. These trains are currently in the process of being completely overhauled with a more modern/up-to-date interior. The overhaul from their older counterparts (the VIRM1 series) has already been completed at this moment. The first overhauled VIRM2/3 series train is currently being tested and should be running in regular service somewhere this spring.

[stevenkranowski]

9:14 No trip to the Netherlands is complete without seeing at least one windmill.

[dl]

For those who wonder why Utrecht Centraal is so big/busy despite the size of the city, it is because of its geography. Not only is it close enough to Amsterdam and other places for easy commuting, but it’s also a major interchange for lines going to/from all parts of the country. Most people passing through the station aren’t from (or going to) Utrecht, but simply passing through and/or changing between services there and never exit the station.

[andysedgley]

It's unlike Dylan not to arrive at a station a good hour before departure! 😳

[marklee]

Hi Dylan. Hope you are staying safe so far. We appreciate your hard work.

[icdragonz]

the architecture at maastricht is amazing

[zonderafspraak]

These trains were brand spanking new when I was there in 2004-2006, they are definitely showing their age now. Glad that they are getting refurbished.

[jaurrelzichem]

You got into one of the old generation VIRM, this one is from the era that you described. And they are actually refurbishing all the old ones to the newest generation. So you got 'lucky' sitting in the old one. I can assure you the newer generation is cleaner and has a more modern style!

[lorijohnston]

Loved seeing the Dutch scenery from the train. I hope to visit one day, once we are able to travel internationally again. The interior of the Maastricht station was just stunning.

Thanks for the video, Dylan. Stay safe and see you on Friday!

[erik_griswold]

I think the VIRMs were built with small elevators to allow the catering trolleys to travel through the train. On-board catering has been largely, if not totally, discontinued.

[matthewbriggs]

I've been with train company a few times. I normally travel from Schipol Airport to Sneek. I love that train ride. I was really nervous as I had to change at Zwolle and Leeuwarden.

[IC-qfev]

you should check them out when the first refurbed one re enters service soon they are testing them now

[stephenskorupa]

Great Video Dylan.I have been to Amsterdam twice and always found it a bit of a novelty to be going upstairs on a train having never experienced that before.

[Andrewjg_]

Got to like the double decker trains in the Netherlands.

[ThoomVlog]

Hi there! I’m living in the netherlands and i like to see your dutch travel video’s. I hope you travel anytime soon with NS.

[maureendesquitado]

Hi Dylan, I like that this train is a double decker. What I don, t like and I agree with you is that this train is in dire need to be cleaned. The trash bin is dirty, the wall in the bathroom the graffiti needs to be removed and etc.Overall a really nice train trip!! Thank you for the video.Too bed no catering or cafe car. See you next Friday!!!

[josgvis]

Great video, just one thing; You took the train ride at the end of the day and then the train isn't as clean and tidy as in the morning. Every train gets a thorough cleaning after it's last ride.

[nleak]

I love the Dutch railways and especially love the double decker trains, wish we had them in the UK

[sodorflubbs]

I’m now following you on every media you’re on.