I'm planning CZ and CS next July, with very tight scheduling linking to planes.
I presume July is a busy time. I've been delaying while I work out itineraries but once I know my dates should I book immediately to ensure a berth or wait a while for possible discounts? Is there a danger of schedule changes so far out? How late can I safely leave it?
alan_s: Since no one else has addressed your other two questions, I'll attempt to do so. I'm not sure I understand the last one, though. I agree with the answer given regarding booking to ensure a sleeper compartment.
Your first comment is the one that concerns me. It is not advisable to schedule a very tight plane connection from a long distance Amtrak train arrival. It is not unusual for long distance trains in the U.S. to run late, sometimes very late, to their final destinations. Sometimes passengers are taken off the train and travel by alternate means to avoid being so late, but I don't know if that is common on the CZ or CS.
I'd say it is doubtful the timetable will change, if that's what you mean. However, there are certain times of the year that trains may likely experience rerouting or delays, affecting their actual arrival times. It is my understanding that track work on the CZ route is common during the summer, but I don't know which months.
I've never taken this train but have asked questions about it, because it is one I'd very much like to take. I may have misunderstood your questions. Hopefully others with more experience will respond.
In any case, I would not advise scheduling a tight connection time from a long distance train. If you meant a tight connection to board a train, there should be no problem, assuming your flight is not late. Trains do not leave before the scheduled time. (There are rare exceptions but none that should apply to you.)
I hope you have a pleasant trip!
