Another great video. I love the train’s livery and the matching interior design - really sleek and stylish. It’s interesting that first class costs twice as much as second for the same seating. A traveller would really want to sit alone for that premium.
Nice video! I believe the MTRX service started out as 2nd class only, hence the train configuration being uniform. This might be because Swedish government employees and many private sector employers only allow work travel in 2nd class.
Good video. Given the minimal differences you pointed out, I'd just get a second class ticket and either eat breakfast before boarding, buy something at the train's cafe, or if I wasn't really hungry wait until we arrived at Gothenburg and have a larger late breakfast. The scenery looks beautiful there in winter regardless. Love the livery, the red and black together are striking.
Bear I’m mind that the 38sek single ticket is valid for starting an interchange within 75 minutes and can take you from Norrtälje to Södertälje, a 104km journey since we don’t have any zones here in Stockholm. So for one station it’s pricey. But not overall.
Travelling first by the Tube in Stockholm and then the "Red-train" to Gothenburg you travel Chinese all the way. One important fact about MTRX is that their cafés are all cash-free so you have to pay by card and your receipt will be sent to your e-mail.
4:32 Be careful, in Swedish "Kiss" means "pee". So they are not calling the train Stadler Kiss, but a Stadler DOSTO. And gosh, what a treasure you have filmed at 15:14 ! The three ex-ÖBB Class 1012 locomotives, which were meant to be the backbone of the ÖBB fleet, but lost battle against the Taurus. How lucky that all of them are preserved and used by Hector Rail. The Flirt Nordic trains actually look amazing. I would definitely give a try to MTR Express, but sadly it's not included in Interrail.
@@CruisePlanee these are common in Europe, while the mentioned three Austrian locos are the only of their kind, prototypes actually that never got to the serial production.
14:53 20-35Mbps, woohoo! That's faster than what EE can deliver to my phone right here at home in the UK! Most trains tend to use one or more 4G connections split through all of the users, so either no-one was using the wi-fi, or it uses a different method of delivering the connection to the users on the train (one that has a higher bandwidth). Also I like how you're offering a discount on a VPN service, but I won't be taking it - I don't have a need for a VPN service currently. The last time I used a VPN (free ones from Google Play), they either had download caps, or they significantly altered the speed available to the handset. And when you're barely getting 1Mbps on a Class 22x train back in the UK, you need everything you can get.
Nice one Dylan. It's interesting to see, at about 14:50, that the logo for MTRx is the same as that for the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway, MTR, which operates most of the public transport network in Hong Kong. I guess that the two are related.
I just had a trip on MTRX, it looked modern and new. My biggest hang up was trying to use the restroom in Goteborg, I walked towards the mens room and heard Swedish Chef noises, I did it twice and some guy waiting in a line said I had to pay money to use the restroom.
Thanks for the great review. How interesting that the Hong Kong metro operator runs so many services in Sweden. I agree with you on Plus not being worth the extra cost on this operator.
I have traveled on MTRX from Stockholm to Gothenburg once - on their first day of running. It was just to see how they compared with SJ:s X2000 service, and I share Dylan's recommendation to use the SJ train... In my opinion the MTRX Flirt is just a spruced up commuter train and I have never even considered using it again.
It's great to hear you say this! I too have tried MTRX only once and decided to stick to X2000. However, as I have been working close to SJ and X2000 for over ten years, I thought my opinion was a bit biased.
From what I see, it seems like the smartest thing for MTRX to do would be to simply abolish Plus Class entirely and do a single class only operation. If Plus tickets are about double Standard Class already, then it makes little difference to simply require passengers wanting the extra space to just buy a second ticket and reserve both seats. As for the food service, just offer it at an extra cost to all passengers; they've already got a cafe section (of a sort), so just add a "Hot Breakfast Box" to the menu and pop it in the microwave on order. That's basically the theme of this suggestion: Just keep doing what they're doing, but simplify and cut the faff. Side note: Why are so many European train operators trying to get cute with their class designations? Why do we need all these "Premier Plus" or "Executive"? What was so wrong with simple, easy to understand at an instant "1st Class", "2nd Class", "3rd Class"? Don't even get me started on "Business Class", which in some cases can be higher than 1st Class but in some cases isn't.
You know how MTR earning money in HK😂😂😂 Citizens complain about MTR always up floating prices of the train fare but it often get some faults causing the delay. (Personally think the faults is actually not that often.) I remembered the fare of last year should be down float a little but MTR discontinued a fare discount causing the actual fare being much higher. EX: The latest accident happened in the MTR is a train’s door hit the advertisement light box that is opened due to some reasons, and the door broke out from the train.
As a logistician in passenger transport major. I do understand your point, however I also understand the “food drinks included” stuffs when a passenger has paid for first class. This method is meant for the transporters to gain as much yield as possible. For example: If a first class passenger does not want any food, it would be even better for the company since they could save that order for another passenger. Usually, a passenger with higher willingness to pay will just accept the way it is. Either because they would want to enjoy the “full package of luxury”, or that they are business travelers who don’t necessarily pay for themselves. Anyway, I am not familiar with many budget train companies; besides, they are usually not internationally developed, for example SJ. Let’s take a internationally famous transport company as example - Ryanair, world’s most successful budget airline. They work in the way you mentioned, ticket means ticket, no free food nor drinks, everything requires additional payment. This is a advantage since passengers need to pay less, but also a disadvantage since they are known as “cheap/budget airline”. If a company wants to be called better than budget, they will have to come up with another policy. In addition, some passengers prefer “all in one” package( in a certain degree, since that will make their in-flight experience better when they don’t need to spend time to choose, or spending more time to pay) In conclusion, 2 class policy will satisfy more passengers, and Theoretically it is possible to satisfy all passengers when there are different classes/price-groups, for different kind of passengers; basically if they want something more they have to pay more. On the other hand, there are certain things that can’t be “payed in-flight to get more”. For example legroom, seat width, seat configuration etc. Lastly, there will always be different views, some will prefer “included” policy, and some will prefer “pay more to get more” policy.
I had to laugh when you said "if you're a solo traveller, they will make sure the seat next to you is vacant" then you panned round & there is someone sitting there.
The ticket office you film at 2:30 is not operated by SJ but SL, the Greater Stockholm Local Transit Company. The SJ ticket offices are further inside.
Man if you dislike that first class experience you definitely wouldn't enjoy DSB's first class just over the water in Denmark. Theirs for the most part is also just a "European business" like MTRX, even if some older units still have different kinds of seating in the 1st class area. And you pay 180 DKK extra between Copenhagen and Aalborg to give an example. And what do you get? A free light breakfast (if you travel in the morning. If you travel at any other time of day you don't get food served), a small shelf of Fruits, tea, coffee, and Müsli bars to take from, and free newspapers... That's it.
Thanks, Dylan! Your video is remarkable. Only, you forgot to put a j'adore to my previous comments, in particular that of the night train where I detailed my comment a lot. You are adorable. But your English is difficult for many people to follow, and you speak very quickly at the end, we feel that you are in your universe. You don't have 100,000 subscribers yet, which is a shame for the best trip report channel in the world. You are really stagnant because of English. If your trip report is mixed, then I'm mixed too. For me, second class is more than enough. Friendships.
A very good video! The ticket office you see to the left when you enter the main entrance of Stockholm Central station is not for SJ-trains but for SL with local tickets for the Stockholm area. SJ doesn’t even have any ticket offices any more but you can buy SJ-tickets in the ticket mashines, the tourist information or at Pressbyrån in the Stocholm Central station. The first class in MTRX have the same seats as 2 class but you will always get an empty seat beside you in first class.
It's good to see there are so many companies on this route. However, cutting on luxury isn't something they should do. By the way, the official top speed for this train is 199,9 km/h, because if it will be 200 km/h trains do meet different safety regulations. Also the use of plastic for the food is something that can be reduced I guess. It's really nice to see the flirt lay-out but adjusted for longer distances. By the way, i don't comment enough on your videos. But I really like the voice over. This way I can watch the screen instead of reading the tekst. And almost 100 k followers whoop whoop, keep it up!
I think SJ has a better product over all. SJ also has a rail-bonuscard that gathers points (like airlines). Gatherd points must be used within one year or they fall invalid... This is useful for SJ-commuters/frecvent travellers that can spend points on other SJ products (tickes, on-board café etc.). MTRX is also known as MTR express, and is run by Hongkong-based MTR.
@@DylansTravelReports I’ve only seen GA’s new fleet on video and, truth be told, rather envied them their new trains. The exciting news is that some of TfW’s new trains have been delivered and are now undergoing route trials up the Rhymney Valley line 🙂 PS I always look forward your videos!
So many questions! 1. How much would that food have cost if you'd bought it on board from the "café"? 2. How do you manage to keep travelling the same route west? Did you teletransport back to Stockholm. 😂
Not sure about the cafe, but it could be picked up inexpensively from pretty much any convenience store. I wish 😂 I'll be releasing that review in the coming months.
Another nice, informative video Dylan. haha having done Stockholm C to Oslo at the same time of year also earlyish morning, I could understand your sentiments about the cold! I was also trying not to fall over on some icy parts of footpath between my hostel and the station. The Station is definitely one of my favourites. Beautiful main hall with some wonderful paintings in the alcoves not seen in this video and as you say, a good array of shops and services. Doing a pre Christmas trip in the UK and western Europe and up to Scandinavia, I though Stockholm C was by far the most Christmasy looking station. I loved it! Despite you being underwhelmed on the value of the 1st class experience, on a positive note, at least this time you did take the morning train and get to see the beautiful Winter scenery!
I have to agree, that is too high a tariff for too little extra, especially if there are two of you. You lose the advantage of that empty seat so you end up paying a ransom for a cold ham and cheese sandwich and some coffee. The trains were very nice, though. The ride was comfortable and quick, at least. See you Friday, Dylan! .
15:44 you find Flirts to have good ride quality? I find them to be quite stiff. Flirts are used on various local routes in the Netherlands and you can feel every bump and kink in the tracks. from my experience the train feels like a rigid tube with barely any suspension. It does mean that the train barely sways sideways but Im no fan of the ride quality on less than stellar trackwork. Older trains ride much softer and as such more comfortable imo
Another wonderful video giving insight to train travel in one of the more expensive to live in countries of the world. Dylan, I simply love the decor of this FLIRT unit and have seen the British equivalent in other presentations. The style is elegant, a bit of a backflip to elegance of the late 70's/early 80's when combinations of black, red and orange were de rigeur, so no complaints from me. But I do agree with your assessment of the Plus Class, having a bit of food chucked at you for almost double the standard class fare. Sounds a bit like Hong Kong cunning and 'Take it or leave it' style management (I won't insult it by calling it marketing - rip off is more my assessment!) Now your better half has been sprung a second time on this pre-Christmas jolly of yours. I do hope she hasn't canned you as a result. I had to chuckle about your wish that you could find 7 kilos of gold. It's a natural reaction to current reality for your generation. Now while you haven't so far found any such fortune, I have something to share that will add to your yearning. Recently another Australian UA-camr by the name of "Aus Flight Channel" has posted a review of Australian Luxury Rail Travel on his recent journey from Adelaide to Brisbane on "The Great Southern" which uses "The Ghan" rolling stock during that train's off season. The title of the clip is "Australia's newest luxury train/The Great Southern/Adelaide to Brisbane/Aus Flight Channel and it goes for 35 minutes. The beauty of this clip is the sharing of the on-train menus along with views of the various dishes served on top of the review of the train, the journey, the scenery and the off train side trips. I'm sure you will enjoy it and be encouraged to start squirreling away funds or become a lottery addict to share the real deal (after allowing for more mundane life priorities, of course). I'm hoping to crack the Tattslotto 1st division sometime soon so I can afford to eat and drink to my heart's content on a future journey on this train. Now to click onto your HST Cornwall journey and give some comment on that. Cheers for now from your Aussie commentator, Michael.
I much prefer SJ X2000 First Class because (a) lounge access. (b) seats more comfortable (c) seat controls alongside the seat (d) four plugs to get work done (e) overall cabin decor is more pleasant IMHO.
What i like most with MTR is their clean and light trains, seats that doesn’t give me backpain, nice and friendly crew and that they almost always depart and arrive on time... There they are lightyears ahead of SJ for me... Their cafeteria’s are more or less on the same level but i also think the 1:st Class product on SJ X2000 is still more 1:st Class feeling... Sweden is a country that does not like to flash with super luxury and make it clear that some people can afford more than others - so this is as good as 1:st class will get here (i’m afraid 🤪)
I’m recovering from Covid and pneumonia. I’m on supplemental oxygen. There’s no other way for me to experience that rail experience except through your report! I truly feel I’ve experienced it. I can’t thank you enough!
It's the first time I've seen this member of ALLRAILEU reviewed, so thanks Dylan. I just wonder if the 2-2 configuration in first class (plus the adjacent seat being unsold) is intended to satisfy the egalitarian Swedes. After all back in 1988 national airline SAS was the first European airline to drop long-haul first class in favour of business class. At that time I recall SAS' PR people telling me that even their govt ministers were happy with business class on long-haul flights. In the 1990s when I visited Bangkok one of TG's Scandinavian managers at a function told me he couldn't remember when TG last sold a first class ticket in Sweden (at that time TG was still offering first class out of Scandinavia).
I think it has more to do with the standard being high already in standard class, and then it feels unnecessary to pay extra. However we’re not only egalitarian, we also enjoy our personal space. I usually pay extra to prevent anyone from booking the seat next to me.
I live abroad, and have fewer and fewer relatives left to visit. Each time I've visited, I think the trains have improved, like also the busses and their timetables. There are sparsely populated parts of the country where a rental car remains necessary. But most people don't live there.
It seems that UK trains really are the most expensive. Can you imagine getting a single first class to Newcastle from London (exactly the same distance and time) for 39 GBP? The cheapest is 184!! A standard class costs between 110 and 169.
Comparing like for like: Newcastle to King's Cross, in 14 days time: £27.90 (standard)/£73.50 (first) Dylan said his ticket was 2 weeks in advance. So standard class on a par, and first class just under twice as much. 10 weeks out is marginally cheaper (£24.90/£66.50). 24 hours in advance is a bit more (£45, £95.50) Walk-up tickets are much more expensive.
Yes, a 1st class SJ ticket would have given you access to the SJ lounge in Central Station. That's a nice bonus. Otherwise, these MTR trains look really clean.
I was like you would go for stunning double decker Dylan boss. Amazing vlog I thoroughly enjoyed your vlog. Sweden seems to be quite underrated it seems to be a very beautiful & innovative country in Scania & Volvo.
Once again a train which is only known as a regional train in Germany makes for a great intercity train elsewhere. And this black and red design inside and outside just looks absolutely amazing!!! Seriousely this must be one of the coolest looking trains out there, I absolutely love it! You're right with the 1st vs 2nd class assessment though. A light breakfast and some coffee is definitely not worth double the price of 2nd class. Still a cool train though. If I were frequently travelling this route, this would probably be my choice as the middle product between SJ and Flixtrain.
These are a different spec of Flirt though, mind you. They have wider bodies, because of the more generous loading gauge in Sweden and Norway, can travel faster and have buffet Service available. The German Flirts are not fitted out to be InterCity trains, these are.
The point is, it's Plus, not First Class. SAS planes have Go and Plus, with the same seating so I guess they're just mimicking that. If it's twice the price, don't choose it.
Detail: at 2:45 you mention a link to another video being on the screen but the link doesn't appear. Otherwise, another great video, well-filmed and informative.
This is perfectly normal in Sweden! If you're going to put your feet up on the seats you take your shoes off. If you ever visit a Swede's house you're also expected to remove your shoes at the front door.
Love the interior of the train, especially the tables with the lamps on them. Obviously plus class is not going to be important for your average traveller, so I wouldnt even consider. As a second class product on its own it ticks all the boxes for me.
That definitely doesn't spell first class to me. How expensive would the breakfast be? It appeared to me that all lines were electrified, am I correct? As always, great video Dylan.
On this journey you come in contact travelling at the right time with the Kinnekulletåget and it diverts for a substantial part of its trip on an unelectrified line just on the shore of the lake Vänern.
There are *some* lines where electrification hasn't been deemed profitable. Beside some pure freight lines, everything south-east of Linköping, east of Nässjö and northeast of Alvesta. Plus the line Halmstad-Värnamo-Jönköping and Värnamo-Nässjö. There is also Håkantorp-Gårdsjö with regular passenger service. It's often said that 20-25% of the tracks used for passengers are for diesel MTUs. But, of course, much less if counting passenger-kilometres.
Longer journey time than SJ due to X2000 able to tilt whereas this facility not available on MTRX. MTR have not made any money out of this service yet! Did you notice the “made in Switzerland” on the side of the Stadlers?
Overall, looks decent, but I'd be going 2nd Class. An upgrade to "1st Class" really isn't worth it considering you can buy drinks outside of the train for much cheaper, and you could probably buy a light breakfast for cheaper as well.
This is expensive compared to other products in Europe, but first class in Denmark is stil more expensive, and usually for shorter journeys than this one
manual door lock in the toilet. YES! Plus class looks really poor value though. It's a nice standard class seat, but for the extra money, you'd expect a 2+1 layout at least. Odd choice given they're trying to compete with SJ as open access.
I think the 1st class aspect is definitely a cultural thing - Swedes are very egalitarian, heavily into equality, and showing off, bragging about wealth or making out that you're in any way better than others is greatly frowned upon. It stands to reason therefore that the 1st class product would be characterised by this Swedish subtlety in terms of any sort of 'class' distinction.
Be sure to take advantage of Nord VPN's generous offer of 70% off a 2 year plan plus an extra month for free!: nordvpn.com/dylantr
As a Swede I have to applaud your effort to pronounce the place names. Almost perfect 👍
Lucky for Dylan the train didn’t stop at Växjö!
Skövde is up there on difficulty with Växjö so it was definitely a good attempt!
Thanks!
Excellent video, as always. "You get a bit of food chucked at you" may be the best thing I've heard today.
Another great video. I love the train’s livery and the matching interior design - really sleek and stylish. It’s interesting that first class costs twice as much as second for the same seating. A traveller would really want to sit alone for that premium.
Thanks!
Nice video! I believe the MTRX service started out as 2nd class only, hence the train configuration being uniform. This might be because Swedish government employees and many private sector employers only allow work travel in 2nd class.
Good video. Given the minimal differences you pointed out, I'd just get a second class ticket and either eat breakfast before boarding, buy something at the train's cafe, or if I wasn't really hungry wait until we arrived at Gothenburg and have a larger late breakfast. The scenery looks beautiful there in winter regardless. Love the livery, the red and black together are striking.
I really appreciate that you put “Date of travel” on your videos. I wish all travel cloggers did that! 😊
Bear I’m mind that the 38sek single ticket is valid for starting an interchange within 75 minutes and can take you from Norrtälje to Södertälje, a 104km journey since we don’t have any zones here in Stockholm. So for one station it’s pricey. But not overall.
Travelling first by the Tube in Stockholm and then the "Red-train" to Gothenburg you travel Chinese all the way. One important fact about MTRX is that their cafés are all cash-free so you have to pay by card and your receipt will be sent to your e-mail.
4:32 Be careful, in Swedish "Kiss" means "pee". So they are not calling the train Stadler Kiss, but a Stadler DOSTO.
And gosh, what a treasure you have filmed at 15:14 ! The three ex-ÖBB Class 1012 locomotives, which were meant to be the backbone of the ÖBB fleet, but lost battle against the Taurus. How lucky that all of them are preserved and used by Hector Rail.
The Flirt Nordic trains actually look amazing. I would definitely give a try to MTR Express, but sadly it's not included in Interrail.
im more amazed that there is a class 59 or 66 (the blue one at the rear) there
@@CruisePlanee 66s can be found all over Europe, from Poland to France and also in Scandinavia.
@@CruisePlanee these are common in Europe, while the mentioned three Austrian locos are the only of their kind, prototypes actually that never got to the serial production.
@@markoobid2005 ah ok didnt know that
Ah yes, I heard, although tbf, I wouldn't put it past Stadler calling a train that 😂
14:53 20-35Mbps, woohoo! That's faster than what EE can deliver to my phone right here at home in the UK!
Most trains tend to use one or more 4G connections split through all of the users, so either no-one was using the wi-fi, or it uses a different method of delivering the connection to the users on the train (one that has a higher bandwidth).
Also I like how you're offering a discount on a VPN service, but I won't be taking it - I don't have a need for a VPN service currently. The last time I used a VPN (free ones from Google Play), they either had download caps, or they significantly altered the speed available to the handset. And when you're barely getting 1Mbps on a Class 22x train back in the UK, you need everything you can get.
Nice one Dylan. It's interesting to see, at about 14:50, that the logo for MTRx is the same as that for the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway, MTR, which operates most of the public transport network in Hong Kong. I guess that the two are related.
That's correct. MTR operates MTRX, Mälartåg (seen at 4:30 in the video) and the Stockholm commuter trains + the underground.
I took this exact train from Stockholm to Gothenburg in 2017. We really enjoyed the trip and thought the train was quite nice.
I just had a trip on MTRX, it looked modern and new. My biggest hang up was trying to use the restroom in Goteborg, I walked towards the mens room and heard Swedish Chef noises, I did it twice and some guy waiting in a line said I had to pay money to use the restroom.
Thanks for the great review. How interesting that the Hong Kong metro operator runs so many services in Sweden. I agree with you on Plus not being worth the extra cost on this operator.
I have traveled on MTRX from Stockholm to Gothenburg once - on their first day of running. It was just to see how they compared with SJ:s X2000 service, and I share Dylan's recommendation to use the SJ train... In my opinion the MTRX Flirt is just a spruced up commuter train and I have never even considered using it again.
It's great to hear you say this! I too have tried MTRX only once and decided to stick to X2000. However, as I have been working close to SJ and X2000 for over ten years, I thought my opinion was a bit biased.
At first I didn't know if I could get used to your narration, Dylan - but I sure am! I don't know what I'd do without your play-by-play travelogue! :)
Thanks a lot for your kind comment 😁
Highly appropriate you describe the weather as "baltic" considering you're in Stockholm, Sweden on the Baltic 😉 - another well put together video 👍.
Had to hit pause until I stopped laughing 🤣🤣🤣.
Thanks Bill!
"It's -12 here and absolutely Baltic"
{chuckles in Canadian} Seriously though, stay warm wherever you are - unless it's broiling and then stay cool.
Typical Canuck. Laughing at his ability to handle the cold. The rest of us were laughing at his geographic faux pas. Sweden is in the Baltic Sea 🤣
Great to see the comparison with SJ service. I've only used them and it is useful to know what the competition is like without forking out hard cash.
From what I see, it seems like the smartest thing for MTRX to do would be to simply abolish Plus Class entirely and do a single class only operation. If Plus tickets are about double Standard Class already, then it makes little difference to simply require passengers wanting the extra space to just buy a second ticket and reserve both seats. As for the food service, just offer it at an extra cost to all passengers; they've already got a cafe section (of a sort), so just add a "Hot Breakfast Box" to the menu and pop it in the microwave on order. That's basically the theme of this suggestion: Just keep doing what they're doing, but simplify and cut the faff.
Side note: Why are so many European train operators trying to get cute with their class designations? Why do we need all these "Premier Plus" or "Executive"? What was so wrong with simple, easy to understand at an instant "1st Class", "2nd Class", "3rd Class"? Don't even get me started on "Business Class", which in some cases can be higher than 1st Class but in some cases isn't.
You know how MTR earning money in HK😂😂😂
Citizens complain about MTR always up floating prices of the train fare but it often get some faults causing the delay. (Personally think the faults is actually not that often.) I remembered the fare of last year should be down float a little but MTR discontinued a fare discount causing the actual fare being much higher.
EX: The latest accident happened in the MTR is a train’s door hit the advertisement light box that is opened due to some reasons, and the door broke out from the train.
As a logistician in passenger transport major. I do understand your point, however I also understand the “food drinks included” stuffs when a passenger has paid for first class.
This method is meant for the transporters to gain as much yield as possible. For example: If a first class passenger does not want any food, it would be even better for the company since they could save that order for another passenger.
Usually, a passenger with higher willingness to pay will just accept the way it is. Either because they would want to enjoy the “full package of luxury”, or that they are business travelers who don’t necessarily pay for themselves.
Anyway, I am not familiar with many budget train companies; besides, they are usually not internationally developed, for example SJ. Let’s take a internationally famous transport company as example - Ryanair, world’s most successful budget airline. They work in the way you mentioned, ticket means ticket, no free food nor drinks, everything requires additional payment.
This is a advantage since passengers need to pay less, but also a disadvantage since they are known as “cheap/budget airline”. If a company wants to be called better than budget, they will have to come up with another policy. In addition, some passengers prefer “all in one” package( in a certain degree, since that will make their in-flight experience better when they don’t need to spend time to choose, or spending more time to pay)
In conclusion, 2 class policy will satisfy more passengers, and Theoretically it is possible to satisfy all passengers when there are different classes/price-groups, for different kind of passengers; basically if they want something more they have to pay more. On the other hand, there are certain things that can’t be “payed in-flight to get more”. For example legroom, seat width, seat configuration etc. Lastly, there will always be different views, some will prefer “included” policy, and some will prefer “pay more to get more” policy.
Supprised that there was no shoutout to the T66 that was parked at 15.15 in Hallsberg - A brittish freight loco used by Hector Rail :)
I had to laugh when you said "if you're a solo traveller, they will make sure the seat next to you is vacant" then you panned round & there is someone sitting there.
It's his girlfriend.🤷
@@kerrynnewman4589 Ah right, that explains it. Thanks
The places you start at in your vids are very artistic and awesome pieces of architecture Thanks for such amazing vids dylan
Thanks!
The ticket office you film at 2:30 is not operated by SJ but SL, the Greater Stockholm Local Transit Company. The SJ ticket offices are further inside.
Man if you dislike that first class experience you definitely wouldn't enjoy DSB's first class just over the water in Denmark. Theirs for the most part is also just a "European business" like MTRX, even if some older units still have different kinds of seating in the 1st class area. And you pay 180 DKK extra between Copenhagen and Aalborg to give an example. And what do you get? A free light breakfast (if you travel in the morning. If you travel at any other time of day you don't get food served), a small shelf of Fruits, tea, coffee, and Müsli bars to take from, and free newspapers... That's it.
Thanks, Dylan! Your video is remarkable. Only, you forgot to put a j'adore to my previous comments, in particular that of the night train where I detailed my comment a lot. You are adorable. But your English is difficult for many people to follow, and you speak very quickly at the end, we feel that you are in your universe. You don't have 100,000 subscribers yet, which is a shame for the best trip report channel in the world. You are really stagnant because of English. If your trip report is mixed, then I'm mixed too. For me, second class is more than enough. Friendships.
Thanks Louis! I appreciate this so we usually ad English closed captions to the video to help you out.
A very good video! The ticket office you see to the left when you enter the main entrance of Stockholm Central station is not for SJ-trains but for SL with local tickets for the Stockholm area. SJ doesn’t even have any ticket offices any more but you can buy SJ-tickets in the ticket mashines, the tourist information or at Pressbyrån in the Stocholm Central station. The first class in MTRX have the same seats as 2 class but you will always get an empty seat beside you in first class.
Ah, thanks for the info.
It's good to see there are so many companies on this route. However, cutting on luxury isn't something they should do.
By the way, the official top speed for this train is 199,9 km/h, because if it will be 200 km/h trains do meet different safety regulations. Also the use of plastic for the food is something that can be reduced I guess.
It's really nice to see the flirt lay-out but adjusted for longer distances.
By the way, i don't comment enough on your videos. But I really like the voice over. This way I can watch the screen instead of reading the tekst. And almost 100 k followers whoop whoop, keep it up!
Thanks a lot! Wow, that's a cheeky way of getting around regulations. Glad you're liking the voice overs 😁
I think SJ has a better product over all. SJ also has a rail-bonuscard that gathers points (like airlines). Gatherd points must be used within one year or they fall invalid... This is useful for SJ-commuters/frecvent travellers that can spend points on other SJ products (tickes, on-board café etc.). MTRX is also known as MTR express, and is run by Hongkong-based MTR.
One of the nicest train interiors I've seen. I doubt TfW's new flirts will be more than merely wipe-clean and utilitarian.
I believe TfW's will be almost identical to Standard on GA's.
@@DylansTravelReports I’ve only seen GA’s new fleet on video and, truth be told, rather envied them their new trains. The exciting news is that some of TfW’s new trains have been delivered and are now undergoing route trials up the Rhymney Valley line 🙂 PS I always look forward your videos!
The ticket office you mention at Stockholm Central isn't SJ. It's SL, the public transport operator in the greater Stockholm area.
So many questions!
1. How much would that food have cost if you'd bought it on board from the "café"?
2. How do you manage to keep travelling the same route west? Did you teletransport back to Stockholm. 😂
Not sure about the cafe, but it could be picked up inexpensively from pretty much any convenience store.
I wish 😂 I'll be releasing that review in the coming months.
15:16 Yay a Class 66, or maybe a 77. Nice to see them outside the UK. :)
Another nice, informative video Dylan. haha having done Stockholm C to Oslo at the same time of year also earlyish morning, I could understand your sentiments about the cold! I was also trying not to fall over on some icy parts of footpath between my hostel and the station.
The Station is definitely one of my favourites. Beautiful main hall with some wonderful paintings in the alcoves not seen in this video and as you say, a good array of shops and services. Doing a pre Christmas trip in the UK and western Europe and up to Scandinavia, I though Stockholm C was by far the most Christmasy looking station. I loved it!
Despite you being underwhelmed on the value of the 1st class experience, on a positive note, at least this time you did take the morning train and get to see the beautiful Winter scenery!
I have to agree, that is too high a tariff for too little extra, especially if there are two of you. You lose the advantage of that empty seat so you end up paying a ransom for a cold ham and cheese sandwich and some coffee. The trains were very nice, though. The ride was comfortable and quick, at least. See you Friday, Dylan! .
"You get a bit of food chucked at you...." 😄
15:44 you find Flirts to have good ride quality? I find them to be quite stiff. Flirts are used on various local routes in the Netherlands and you can feel every bump and kink in the tracks. from my experience the train feels like a rigid tube with barely any suspension. It does mean that the train barely sways sideways but Im no fan of the ride quality on less than stellar trackwork. Older trains ride much softer and as such more comfortable imo
Another wonderful video giving insight to train travel in one of the more expensive to live in countries of the world. Dylan, I simply love the decor of this FLIRT unit and have seen the British equivalent in other presentations. The style is elegant, a bit of a backflip to elegance of the late 70's/early 80's when combinations of black, red and orange were de rigeur, so no complaints from me. But I do agree with your assessment of the Plus Class, having a bit of food chucked at you for almost double the standard class fare. Sounds a bit like Hong Kong cunning and 'Take it or leave it' style management (I won't insult it by calling it marketing - rip off is more my assessment!)
Now your better half has been sprung a second time on this pre-Christmas jolly of yours. I do hope she hasn't canned you as a result.
I had to chuckle about your wish that you could find 7 kilos of gold. It's a natural reaction to current reality for your generation. Now while you haven't so far found any such fortune, I have something to share that will add to your yearning.
Recently another Australian UA-camr by the name of "Aus Flight Channel" has posted a review of Australian Luxury Rail Travel on his recent journey from Adelaide to Brisbane on "The Great Southern" which uses "The Ghan" rolling stock during that train's off season. The title of the clip is "Australia's newest luxury train/The Great Southern/Adelaide to Brisbane/Aus Flight Channel and it goes for 35 minutes. The beauty of this clip is the sharing of the on-train menus along with views of the various dishes served on top of the review of the train, the journey, the scenery and the off train side trips. I'm sure you will enjoy it and be encouraged to start squirreling away funds or become a lottery addict to share the real deal (after allowing for more mundane life priorities, of course). I'm hoping to crack the Tattslotto 1st division sometime soon so I can afford to eat and drink to my heart's content on a future journey on this train.
Now to click onto your HST Cornwall journey and give some comment on that. Cheers for now from your Aussie commentator, Michael.
Thanks Michael! I can assure you she hasn't canned me (yet) 😅
I much prefer SJ X2000 First Class because (a) lounge access. (b) seats more comfortable (c) seat controls alongside the seat (d) four plugs to get work done (e) overall cabin decor is more pleasant IMHO.
What i like most with MTR is their clean and light trains, seats that doesn’t give me backpain, nice and friendly crew and that they almost always depart and arrive on time... There they are lightyears ahead of SJ for me... Their cafeteria’s are more or less on the same level but i also think the 1:st Class product on SJ X2000 is still more 1:st Class feeling...
Sweden is a country that does not like to flash with super luxury and make it clear that some people can afford more than others - so this is as good as 1:st class will get here (i’m afraid 🤪)
This was very thorough. Thanks for taking the time to put it together.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I’m recovering from Covid and pneumonia. I’m on supplemental oxygen. There’s no other way for me to experience that rail experience except through your report! I truly feel I’ve experienced it. I can’t thank you enough!
It's the first time I've seen this member of ALLRAILEU reviewed, so thanks Dylan. I just wonder if the 2-2 configuration in first class (plus the adjacent seat being unsold) is intended to satisfy the egalitarian Swedes. After all back in 1988 national airline SAS was the first European airline to drop long-haul first class in favour of business class. At that time I recall SAS' PR people telling me that even their govt ministers were happy with business class on long-haul flights. In the 1990s when I visited Bangkok one of TG's Scandinavian managers at a function told me he couldn't remember when TG last sold a first class ticket in Sweden (at that time TG was still offering first class out of Scandinavia).
I think it has more to do with the standard being high already in standard class, and then it feels unnecessary to pay extra. However we’re not only egalitarian, we also enjoy our personal space. I usually pay extra to prevent anyone from booking the seat next to me.
Wow, very interesting insight!
the download speed test part of your videos I always find interesting. Do you keep a chart of the speeds you've come across on your travels?
I don't but maybe I should 😅
Love his pronunciation of "Huevdey". Still, great attempts to pronounce Swedish words were made - and really well at that
Always enjoy videos from Sweden. Looks like a good service, make a mental note next time I am over. Thanks.
I live abroad, and have fewer and fewer relatives left to visit.
Each time I've visited, I think the trains have improved, like also the busses and their timetables.
There are sparsely populated parts of the country where a rental car remains necessary. But most people don't live there.
It seems that UK trains really are the most expensive. Can you imagine getting a single first class to Newcastle from London (exactly the same distance and time) for 39 GBP? The cheapest is 184!! A standard class costs between 110 and 169.
Comparing like for like: Newcastle to King's Cross, in 14 days time: £27.90 (standard)/£73.50 (first) Dylan said his ticket was 2 weeks in advance. So standard class on a par, and first class just under twice as much. 10 weeks out is marginally cheaper (£24.90/£66.50). 24 hours in advance is a bit more (£45, £95.50) Walk-up tickets are much more expensive.
@@stewartbrodie1720 Definitely. Though I'd be interested to see what the price for Dylan's trip would've been if it had been bought on the day. Dylan?
It’s much nicer in Summer. The islands are worth exploring. 👍🏻🏴
Yes, a 1st class SJ ticket would have given you access to the SJ lounge in Central Station. That's a nice bonus. Otherwise, these MTR trains look really clean.
Please make a video on the swiss stadler giruno train. I can't find anything that properly shows the inside of that train.
I was like you would go for stunning double decker Dylan boss. Amazing vlog I thoroughly enjoyed your vlog. Sweden seems to be quite underrated it seems to be a very beautiful & innovative country in Scania & Volvo.
I honestly think I would stick to standard on this occasion 🤷♂️🤷♂️ Bring my own coffee in a flask
Once again a train which is only known as a regional train in Germany makes for a great intercity train elsewhere. And this black and red design inside and outside just looks absolutely amazing!!! Seriousely this must be one of the coolest looking trains out there, I absolutely love it!
You're right with the 1st vs 2nd class assessment though. A light breakfast and some coffee is definitely not worth double the price of 2nd class.
Still a cool train though. If I were frequently travelling this route, this would probably be my choice as the middle product between SJ and Flixtrain.
These are a different spec of Flirt though, mind you. They have wider bodies, because of the more generous loading gauge in Sweden and Norway, can travel faster and have buffet Service available. The German Flirts are not fitted out to be InterCity trains, these are.
@@bahnspotterEU I know. Speaks for the versatility of the system though.
I like your videos now that you speak in them etc :)
Great video mate! Usually I skip to the seat tour but but from the start you had me gripped and I have watched the whole thing!!!!
Thanks!
Brrrr, looked pretty cold, hope the train carriage itself was reasonably warm!
Is that a cameo appearance from Mrs Dylan? Lurking by the entry barrier then sat next to you?
Maybe 😏
@@DylansTravelReports Sprung again!
I’m hoping for entirely rebuilt X2000 next time on that line. Electrically adjustable seats! A recycled train.
The trash bags are much better than those small trash containers on most trains (my opinion, at least).
The point is, it's Plus, not First Class.
SAS planes have Go and Plus, with the same seating so I guess they're just mimicking that.
If it's twice the price, don't choose it.
15:16 - a Class 66esque ‘shed’
Detail: at 2:45 you mention a link to another video being on the screen but the link doesn't appear. Otherwise, another great video, well-filmed and informative.
Yes, I am currently away, so unable to add it. I'll try and remember to do it when I get home though.
The reason the ticket prices for the metro is so high is that you can travel unlimited in a very large area.
That WiFi is faster than I get at home.
l like color scheme inside and out and the interior design is very attractive. Is this train as fast as the X2000?
Yes, but it has to slow down as it rounds some curves due to not being tilt enabled.
They look a bit like the 1923 tube stock outside.
13:14 - SOCKS and no shoes, on a train! Dear me, you never know whats been on the train floor.
This is perfectly normal in Sweden! If you're going to put your feet up on the seats you take your shoes off. If you ever visit a Swede's house you're also expected to remove your shoes at the front door.
Excellent video as always, duly liked. But if you ever make one without using the words "find" "found" or "sturdy", I'll give £25 to charity.
How is he supposed to describe the tray tables then?? :p
I found that the tray tables were both large and sturdy, so that's a good find. :)
Scania are not a car manufacturer and haven’t been since the demise of SAAB quite a few years ago, they make truck and bus chassis.
Love the interior of the train, especially the tables with the lamps on them. Obviously plus class is not going to be important for your average traveller, so I wouldnt even consider. As a second class product on its own it ticks all the boxes for me.
I always have been curious on how transversal seating is the most common in the EU citie's systems
I had to think intensely to figure out the city of Whebb-Day … 😀
That definitely doesn't spell first class to me. How expensive would the breakfast be?
It appeared to me that all lines were electrified, am I correct?
As always, great video Dylan.
On this journey you come in contact travelling at the right time with the Kinnekulletåget and it diverts for a substantial part of its trip on an unelectrified line just on the shore of the lake Vänern.
There are *some* lines where electrification hasn't been deemed profitable. Beside some pure freight lines, everything south-east of Linköping, east of Nässjö and northeast of Alvesta. Plus the line Halmstad-Värnamo-Jönköping and Värnamo-Nässjö.
There is also Håkantorp-Gårdsjö with regular passenger service.
It's often said that 20-25% of the tracks used for passengers are for diesel MTUs. But, of course, much less if counting passenger-kilometres.
@@jmolofsson There is also the Fryksdal-railway and the mostly for tourists workiing Inland-railway that are unelectrified.
@@JISJ1964 right!
Yes, all lines are electrified. You could literally pick up that breakfast in a convenience store for about £5 or 6
Lovely station in Stockholm.
always good to travel with you buddy :)
I gather by your opening you don't like the cold...? 🙂
As for the service, it looks like MTRX are only FLIRTing with a 1st class product....
No, I'm more of a warm weather man me 😅
Longer journey time than SJ due to X2000 able to tilt whereas this facility not available on MTRX. MTR have not made any money out of this service yet! Did you notice the “made in Switzerland” on the side of the Stadlers?
Nice little detail 😁
Haha, Stadler going with "KISS" and "FLIRT", pretty sure that was intentional!
Nice video. Reminds why I NEVER travel in the winter. Better you than me, Dylan.
Overall, looks decent, but I'd be going 2nd Class. An upgrade to "1st Class" really isn't worth it considering you can buy drinks outside of the train for much cheaper, and you could probably buy a light breakfast for cheaper as well.
Welcome to London. It is also not the cheapest public tranpsort in Europe
This is expensive compared to other products in Europe, but first class in Denmark is stil more expensive, and usually for shorter journeys than this one
"...known for car manufacturer Scania..."? I thought they made trucks. And who is the little lady hiding in her hoodie? I swear it's Fiz from Corrie 😂
Merry Christmas, Dylan! 🙂
Belated Merry Christmas to you too!
Thanks Dylan! Love your Videos! ^_^
Would love to see a trip report of Scotrail Edinburgh Waverley to Milngavie. Would be poggers content
congrats on the sponsor
Thanks!
Great video. Thanks.
you said that they leave the seat vacant if you are a solo traveller, how come somebody was seated next to you?
Girlfriend 🙋🏼♀️
There is a lot of glare on the window. Distracting!
manual door lock in the toilet. YES! Plus class looks really poor value though. It's a nice standard class seat, but for the extra money, you'd expect a 2+1 layout at least. Odd choice given they're trying to compete with SJ as open access.
Some passengers really prefer the free side seat.
It’s beautiful! But still too cold for me
What camera/go pro do you use to record your videos as doing so railway trips in the coming months great video once again thx
Gopro hero 9
@@DylansTravelReports that's good that what I was thinking of getting if I get one would you recommend it
I just realized you are at 99.5k subs
100k soon?
Nice video, and Scania is a Truck and Bus manufacturer😉
Great trip. I think the best FLiRT intercity/long distance operator is Leo Express.
I agree!
Good narration!
Thanks!
Nice video . Thanks
Seems a a nice ride, but nit my climate. Wish all Train/Aircraft had that killer wi-fi. Nord is a great VPN. Cheers on a new video!
Damn that's still cheaper than Midlands to London
I think the 1st class aspect is definitely a cultural thing - Swedes are very egalitarian, heavily into equality, and showing off, bragging about wealth or making out that you're in any way better than others is greatly frowned upon. It stands to reason therefore that the 1st class product would be characterised by this Swedish subtlety in terms of any sort of 'class' distinction.