Applications now open for free 12-journey rail pass

Applications have now opened for Belgium's free 12-journey rail pass - but it will not be available to use until 5 October.

The free pass, called Hello Belgium, announced by the federal government earlier this year, aims to boost domestic tourism after the coronavirus shutdown.

Initially due to launch in the summer, it had already been postponed to September to avoid overcrowding at the coast.

Now the pass will be valid for 12 free single journeys between 5 October and 31 March. You can apply for yours here.

This latest delay, until October, was agreed after consultation between the SNCB, transport ministers and coastal mayors, who have been concerned about the number of daytrippers visiting the seaside during the summer break.

An SNCB spokesperson said: "We had requested a postponement of this measure for obvious health security reasons, so that the SNCB can continue to transport passengers in the safest possible way."