Search results

YES, definitely consider hostels. You will be welcomed at any age, and find a companionable set of people there. Not luxurious, but everything that you actually need for a very reasonable cost. I haven't used on lately, but they were something I looked forward to back when I was doing a lot...

Since it is a completely new experience, why not go coach one way and business class one way. By doing that you will have a good comparison between the two grades of services and will know which one to use on your next train trip.

Peet's Rules. I use it in bulk ground packages for drip machine rather than pods, but two strong cups have been the highlight of my mornings for the past 15 years.

You've received lots of good information and accurate answers here. I'd just like to emphasize that BY FAR your best choice is to be in the Observation car during the day. There you will have awesome views from both sides and good company. This is an especially useful approach for you...

We bought a set of all-white Corelle 25 years ago and have used it daily since. Zero broken dishes and it still looks spectacular. Highly recommended.

Yes, that was quite the entertaining "graphic essay". I highly recommend reading it if you have access to the Post. I especially liked the cartoon depictions of spaces we are all familiar with such as Roomettes, Cafe car, etc. Useful comparisons between sleeper and coach travel also.

Nice lengthily article in today's NY Times about using a rail pass and the Empire Builder to explore small towns along it's route. Well done.

Your fare is correct, and you did very well with the timing of your booking. Check again a couple months before your departure, and you will be glad you purchased when you did.

You may get occasional snatches of wi-fi when at a station or slowly passing through a very populated area. But do not depend on it. But cell service is available over a good portion of the route. If your phone is set up with roaming data service, you will be able to keep your email / text...

If you haven't been there, Truckee might be worth adding to your list.

Even when traveling alone I always book as two one-way trips. No extra cost and more flexible.

No need to be worried about any of the things you mentioned. But, you might having a problem with sleeping well. The seats are large, comfy and lots of leg room. Even so, many people can't get much sleep - more from the somewhat upright position, not from excessive noise or rude passengers...

I second the New Orleans suggestion. Totally unlike any other US city. Also, when in southern California, consider doing at least part of the Pacific Surfliner.

For as long as I have used Amtrak, it has been too unreliable (except for Acela) to use for business travel. Now, it seems that it is also too unreliable to use for most vacation or family event travel. Given that it is now only suitable for adventure travel for rail enthusiasts with extra...

It would depend somewhat on what change/small bills I had on hand, but for just a coffee I usually tip between 50 cents and a dollar.

Awesome! THANK YOU carjaq !

I'd like to ask a favor, Carjaq. Since you live right "next door", you are a certified neighbor and expert of Union Station. I think that many of us in this forum would like to know what you consider to be be the highlights of the immediate neighborhood. When you have the time, could...

Yes, that is shocking. If it were me, I'd drive the 1200 miles. Two days each way. Probably $200 gas each way, one $150 motel and $ 70 food, so about $420 each way. And some mighty nice scenery.

Neither, actually. I was just making a joking reference to the dated job title - similar to the old "Stewardess". A lot of things have changed in our lifetimes!

Where can I get me one of them "Zephyrettes" ?