Finally lecture-free time! Some students are still in their exam phase, while others have already finished their assignments or have been doing so-called “Blockseminare”. However, most associate leisure time with lecture-free time and seek reunions with their loved ones or  explore new environments and chill. The reasonable “Deutschlandsemesterticket” illustrates a lucrative opportunity to discover North-Rhine Westphalia despite the distances and travel time. Even though the ticket enables students to explore Germany and some restricted areas outside of Germany with public transportation, the experience of using the Deutsche Bahn (railway company) can be like biting a bullet. In the last months, the brand gained public attention for extreme delays due to strikes, lack of workforce, and construction. The consequences were missed connections or canceled trains, resulting in passengers’ frustration and mistrust. ICE (high-speed trains) seems to be one of the alternatives to travel long-distances for less time despite its delays and cancellations. Recently, Deutsche Bahn announced that ICE will be reduced in North-Rhine Westphalia until mid-December. Thus, a potential way to escape routine is now questionable. 

:jen