LAX based Amtrak train attendant & av geeek! Thank you for your positive enthusiasm for American passenger trains! Working #4 SWC tonight! I'm appalled the cafe attendant was a poor representation of our product.
@@theatremusician There IS competition for positions though. Because of the union though it's hard to fire people for having a shitty attitude. To some degree I think it's good that people can't be fired willy nilly (although a bunch got furloughed due to COVID), but I wish the union would self-police better to keep its membership on mission.
I have traveled on Amtrak’s roomettes several times, both solo and with my wife. As a former U S Navy Submariner, I found the experience similar to living as I did on my Submarines. There were “close quarters” and the rocking of the train as it travels the rails. My response the first time we traveled by train was “I’m home.” 🙂. Speaking only for myself, I like the roomettes. There usually is enough room for both of us to somewhat stretch out our legs and the beds are reasonably comfortable. All in all, I like train travel, but you have to be ready for delays or the train not being on time. If you need to be at your destination in a hurry, air is best. However, if you “care more about the journey,” and don’t have to worry about when you arrive, IMO the train wins hands down.
As a fellow mariner, on sailboats and ships, train berths are fine. No leaks from the overhead or bad hatches, halyards slapping against the mast, or sails flogging during a sail change. They're not a quiet as a turbine steamship, but those are long gone.
The roomettes are very nice.....BUT....They've become "out of my price range". I go coach now. Curling up on two coach seats is not the most comfortable...but....the impact on my wallet is much MUCH less.
Trains are the future. Back to the future that is. The fascination with highways, cars, and planes is finally dying. and hopefully the damage they have wrought too. The Earth can’t take their destruction much longer.
These roomettes are a rip off. You pay 800 dollars or more. There's no privacy, you usually end up sharing it with a total stranger. Last week I purchased a coach ticket for 342. I asked about the roomettes, was quoted 1100. for one. I asked is it "private" she said not usually. For that price, I think it would be private. So coach it is. Be prepared, if you travel coach-- the restrooms are filthy! I was a custodian at a school district for 22 years, and these rest rooms were gross and unserviced. Good luck.
Sounds like you guys ran into the poor track quality between New Rochelle and New Haven. Amtrak does not actually own that part of the NEC and therefore has no real say in the way it’s maintained. Connecticut frankly does a pretty poor job of it.
It's also pretty bad going into NY from New Jersey as all the lines merge to go into the Hudson tunnel. That tunnel project has been in their planning for years but only now does it look like it'll get funded.
Being a Bostonian, I love the NE Regional when heading to DC or back home. My only overnighter was in a reclining seat which was surprisingly comfy. I prefer traveling during the day because I love the NE stations and coastline views.
@@MC-342 Haven't done a long enough trip yet to give you advice. I've been following Jeb because I'm hoping to do a Boston to CA trip early next year. Roomettes, depending on the cost, seem best to me because I'll be traveling alone which is normal. Happy traveling 🚉
I did a reclining seat from Champagne to Memphis. It was better than how I typically do on red-eyes, when I sleep like 2 hours.. I didn't need a roomette for that. Nor did I need the roomette the leg from Memphis to New Orleans, which is basically 6:45 am to 3:45pm.
How excited are you for the new trains that are going into service soon starting with the zephyr and bringing back the traditional dining experience!? I already know youre planning a vid on it I cant wait for it!
There's no excuse for the cafe car attendant to yell and be rude. On one or two occasions in the past I have found them to be a little curt, though most are friendly.... Overall the video was fun and interesting. I am so eager to ride the Acela to Boston or DC again when I am able to.
@@jttraina4516 In my case when I did not show my business class ticket to the cafe car guy in time he clearly raised his voice and showed a good amount of anger. It's not like he screamed but I thought it was an overreaction.
Would I use the in room bathroom if sharing with another. In an emergency, yes I would, but it would have to be someone I'm in a relationship with, and then it would only be #1. For any #2 issues, I'd go to the train car bathroom. Some smells aren't meant to be shared with the spouse. Suzanne is awesome, so have her with you on more trips! Definitely want to be on the shore side of the train if you can. Never done the DC to Boston run, but several times done the Newark to Boston run. Right side going north, Left side going south.
How it should be: "I'm sorry sir, but the Cafe is not open yet. Please come back at XX o'clock when I'll be all ready for you!" Amtrak: "Get out! I'm not open yet! Go!" (Snaps fingers and points)
Jeb, Have you ever considered taking the Metro from the airport to Union Station. Might be quicker and less money. I have found the metro system in DC to be very good. And it now goes to both Regean and Dulles
Northeast Regional does have some rough track sections which might have kept you from sleeping. NE corridor is heavily trafficked which contributes to wear & tear. As a frequent regional rail & long haul rail user, I do hope some railroad infrastructure help is coming soon.
I'm an old coot who frequently rode sleepers fifty years ago. My reaction to this video (which is well thought out and well presented, BTW) is: (1) Roomettes today differ very little from the roomettes of the 1960s and 70s. There are a couple of added amenities like charging ports, WiFi (if it works), and showers that don't sound inviting; and the removal of the in-room toilet is (IMO) a mistake. The reason is my point (2): I never, ever, would have considered a roomette as a comfortable travelling space for two people. For two, the only reasonable option then (and -- it seems -- these days) is a bedroom. In fact, when my wife and I took a transcontinental train trip and found that there were no bedrooms available for our dates, we booked a pair of roomettes across the corridor from each other. That enabled us to join one another when we wanted company and to retreat to our own spaces when we didn't. That solved the toilet problem, we each had plenty of room to move around, and we were able to sleep comfortably. So I don't think it's fair to evaluate roomettes as accommodation for two people. They weren't designed for that purpose. Technically you can fit two people into the room, but you're not going to travel comfortably.
@@TheEnd-eg6wq Honestly, very little difference. The old ones never had a shower, always had a toilet, and I wouldn't have shared one with a medium-sized cat -- otherwise, pretty much the same story.
Try sleeping in the fo'cs'le of a sailboat underway at sea. Compared to that, a railcar roomette is a luxury, even for two. Both people can stretch out on clean, dry sheets with no likelihood of being thrown from their rack by a bad roll. lt's all a matter of what one has experienced for comparison.
@@frankmiller95 The way you compared/contrasted those two sleeping experiences was very effective! And your last sentence raises an excellent point and is applicable to so many things in life.
You wouldn’t accept a flight attendant talking to you like that!!! Report her at least to your car attendant. No reason to have an attitude like that! You get what you accept!!!
@@x-90 at least the trains with sleepers on them coming from south of dc. All the NEC only trains (Acela, NE Regional) are on time over 90% of the time
I as a single woman who booked a roomette on the CA Zephyr back in the late 70's worked perfectly for me. I think it might have been not so perfect with 2.
My first trip on Amtrak (I'm from England so flew out the night before) was The Cardinal (New York - Chicago) straight onto The California Zephyr to Emeryville then straight onto The Coast Starlight to Portland and I did all of this in Coach (non stop for 5 nights!). I was soooo ready for my hotel in Portland and that shower in the hotel felt amazing! I then got onto the Cascades and travelled up to Vancouver. I maxed out my rail time that holiday and by then end of it felt like I knew Amtrak inside out! Would love to do it again though and now I'm 10 years older might treat myself to a Roomette!
The "one time use umbrella". Hmm. Through in the trunk of your car for emergency use or give it to a homeless person sometime. They can use it and appreciate the help.
Thank you for highlighting your experience with the cafe attendant. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten onto an Amtrak train and had the same experience. I feel that the price of your ticket should include access to the cafe car at all times during the journey. I think Amtrak should work on having the cafe car open and ready for business prior to departure to avoid situations like that.
A couple of times in business class they told us to show our ticket in the cafe car for a discount. I made the mistake of waiting until after I placed my order and then showed the ticket, and then I got yelled at. I thought it was a simple mistake but apparently this is a big hassle for them. I was embarrassed though and probably should have sent feedback to customer service after the trip.
Awesome video! used to operate for my airline into Bar Harbor during the summer! We supplemented Cape Air’s operation. Hope you enjoyed your stay there.
Something nostalgic about the old name 'Night Owl' as it was known when Amtrak named all their trains. It makes me think of a train passing through the foggy darkness of Connecticut in the middle of the night being guided by the solitary headlight of an ex-NYNHH FL-9 locomotive. As of now, Amtrak isn't using the Viewliner sleepers on the 66/67 trains. I'm guessing because of a shortage of needed sleepers on other trains or they are being refurbished. .
I just did a 40 hour round trip on the City of New Orleans with my girlfriend in a super liner roomette. We had a blast, but we will splash the cash for a bigger room next time. Sorry y’all had such a rough experience!
Cool review here. Been a good while since Amtrak offered sleeper car accommodations on this overnight train, so glad you were able to document your experience. Regarding the in-room toilet? I find it disgusting but convenient at times.
If you feel awful because hadn't enough sleep when traveling that is not a jetlag. You can call it sleep deprivation. Jetlag is - by definition - caused by circadian rhythm disruption.
Have you ever been slept on a ship? You're experience kind of reminds me of when I first started working in one. Took a while to get used to the constant rocking/engine in bed but it grew on to me.
Glad I didn’t see your video before my Arizona to Houston trip on Saturday😊. Mine was fine; the railway tracks are probably better maintained. The cafe attendant made me a fresh pot of coffee, even though there was enough in the pot for one cup.
The tracks around New York through into New Haven are a lot rougher and are constantly undergoing repairs and a replacements to make everything smoother. I believe your rail car was one of the early generation cars and probably needed some repairs. thus also more than likely some flat spots on the wheels. The newer cars that are getting placed into service are much better. I hope you have a better experience in the future. You should try out the Amtrak Vermonter. I took it over 50+ times for college and was always an amazing trip through the forests and countryside of Vermont. It is operated by 3 different Crew's and they always are a blast! If you do Amtrak Vermont and you get my favorite conductor, count the amount of times he says "folks".
the Vermonter is amazing. I always got on in Essex and went down to Philly to visit grandparents. unfortunately that time has passed but with other family still in the Philly area I hopefully can still take the Vermonter. it is one of the best routes
Sorry that y’all had a rough night of sleep that has happened to me multiple times on the Viewliner to NOLA/Newark Hopefully we will see a Video from you From Greensboro to NOLA soon!
I managed to sleep really well on 66 in a roomette...although that was likely because I'd slept in roomettes on 449 and 30 the 2 nights before and I was exhausted haha. But if you're not particularly tired or a light sleeper, Viewliners are "rated" for 110 mph but they're not exactly smooth as silk at that speed.
Superliners are rated only to 100 mph. Viewliners 1 is for 110 mph, but Viewliners 2 is for 125 mph. The reason is Viewliners on Trains #65/66/67 are oldest one, previously was in Cardinal. So they are little bit bumpy at speed over 100 mph.
@@JackArkitekt I'd really like to see Viewliner IIs on 65-67. Since they are built for higher speeds and are newer and thus could attract ridership for a new service (not to mention the lack of in-room toilets might be more tolerable for a short trip), they should put them on these trains.
@@thefareplayer2254 Viewliners type 1 sleepers built from 1992 to 1997, original design from 1988 Viewliner Cafe Car who also prototype for Viewliners type 2, what's actually improved version of previous type, built from 2015 up to now. They are too new to be scrapped (type 1). While wear and tear visible already, so it's better use them for shorter long distance, like Night Owl and Palmetto. Adding sleeper car makes them true long distance trains. Viewliners 1 type probably will be refurbished soon.. Railway cars designed for normal service life of 50-60 years. Amfleet 1 cars built in 1974-1978, will be replaced by 2029, but Amfleet 2 cars, built in 1980-1984, will be replaced by 2035. Btw Amfleet cars were tested for 150 mph speed, but FRA limited them to safe operation of 125 mph. Amfleet tubing design is from Metroliner who was tested in 1967 for 165 mph. Never certified for that speed, so limited to 135 mph initially, but then to 125 mph. They were designed as true High Speed cars, streamlined airplane design to reduce airflow to minimum, were beat even Bullet trains, but they lack Electric Engine, they were EMU and this created problems with their tractions, and create a long list of malfunctions, so Metroliner EMU sets were to be replaced by locomotive powered Amfleet, at this time US have obsolete fleet of Electric engines, and they were not designed for High Speed, and this result Swedish designed AEM-7 locomotive, who was limited by FRA to 125 mph. At same time France tested their TGV HS train at 187 mph... By European standards much lower than FRA they were allowed this to operate initially at 175 mph, then to 187 mph. Then Germany built ICE-3 train at 202 mph tested and certified at 175 mph. Then ICE-4 at 220 mph. ICE-4 was tested in NEC and failed FRA standards, then Acela was born, tested at 175 mph but certified at 150 mph by FRA, because it's shows discomfort ride at 165 mph. New Avelia Liberty tested in NEC at 172 mph, but certified at 160 mph by FRA, and not recommended to be use faster than 165 mph in NEC. Avelia Liberty failed some tests at speeds of 178 mph at Pueblo test track. But passed all tests at speed below 169 mph. With tilt and without it. FRA not recommend use this trainset without tilt on speed over 175 mph. I guess that even 250 mph Chinese trains will fail FRA test at 170 mph. They are too light to get survived at crush impact without structural damage at 80 mph. And this is minimum requirements for passing FRA tests.
No idea why the cafe attendant yelled at you, pretty sure this train begins in Virginia. The thing about Amtrak employees is that some are wonderful, and some are terrible. And you get everything in between that too
thats true but, in dc they change the engine from a diesel to an electric which basically cuts off all the power and water to the train so maybe that impacts the ability of the setup and availability of the cafe car
@@zesolodar Doesn’t change the fact that yelling “Leave!! Leave now!!” instead of saying “I’m sorry, we’re closed at the moment. Come back at [time].” is unacceptable.
Lessons: pack a picnic for two meals each, take a motion sickness pill or eat a chunk of fresh ginger to allay problems due to train swaying and vibration. Bring a washcloth and deodorant for a quick refresher when you get up, take your fave pillow if you must. And forget the false economy of travel by a cheaper method if you will pay a high personal price in terms of lost sleep, motion sickness or disturbance by whistles, other pax or whatever. The true cost of this trip was higher than it needed to be.
I have taken a roomette on the Autotrain from Florida to Virginia. It was fine to have a private room and it was nice to have that. The train was running late but the room made it nicer. Arrived in Virginia only 10 minutes late so that was not bad at all. The room is small, but comfortable for one or two. That is about it. Finding the room is easy, you just ask the conductor of the train. The bathroom is unfortunate - you have to leave the room for the other person to use it. Sleeping depends on how deeply you sleep. Light sleepers beware as shown here. Don't put things on the top bunk - you are asking for trouble as Jeb found out. The track is not smooth - sorry.
I’ve traveled on the auto train several times from Va to Fl in a roomette, and slept like a baby.I would love to go cross country on Amtrack in a roomette, but unfortunately can’t afford it. Hope your next journey is better. 😊
We couldn’t afford it either, but then I got an Amtrak credit card. Except for gas, if I need a card, I use it. It knocks the price of a trip down or sleeper for the price of coach!
I watch lots of your videos, Jeb, and this one is hilarious. I mostly ride the Southwest Chief and didn't know any of the NER trains have sleeper cars. I always use a "sleep aid" (melatonin or benadryl) when overnighting on a train. A glass of wine helps, too, but wow you didn't get that. Next time (if there is one) I'll bet your SCA would fetch your free alcoholic drink for you. Thanks for posting Amtrak videos. My granddaughter loves the overnight with me on the SWC from L.A. to Albuquerque where I live.
They stopped doing the sleeper service a few years ago and just brought it back thanks to more funding again. When I say just brought it back I mean like 06/03/2021.
Can't wait to ride overnight on what could be the first Seattle-San Diego, Philadelphia-Chicago, Chicago-Dallas, Boston-Atlanta, or San Antonio-Miami High Speed Rail line by 2045. Will be a very comfortable alternative to flying when that happens.
As always, love the Amtrak video! Would love to see you try a long-distance ride again but with the new/restored full dining menus (wonder how their new meatballs are 🤔)
At least in the rommettes you have your own toilet. I wouldn't want to have to use a public toilet on a train. So at least they give you that. The shower...? Yeah I mean you could probably go a day or two without showering providing you don't sweat, and if you have some wipes that helps too. I remember taking a one day train (overnight) from NYC to Chicago and luckily there was a toilet in the room, which was helpful for in the middle of the night. Of course I did take a shower, but I did so early on so I was one of the first people to do so right after they cleaned it.
If it where my wife and I or a guy friend and I ..I would not mind taking a leak in the roomette toilet but that's it..even with my wife.. I usually take coach because the roomettes are a little too expensive.. however knowing it includes a beverage and food that is a better deal I guess.. like I said I usually take coach.. and learned the best seats are at the front of the coach..(more leg room) however the closer you are to the doors the more train noise you hear..i.e. people going back and forth from car to car and track noise when the doors open and close
I work unusual hours at work (night shifts, late afternoon, early morning etc) and I totally feel "jetlag" when working a lot. For me, your spot on with your not enough sleep in a 24h period theory.
You have some strange expectations. I have travel from New York City to Chicago, New Orleans, Florida and Denver. Never have I been able to sleep more than an over night train to any of those destinations. The train rocks too much, even in my roomette. Still it’s better than frying. I hate being in a plan.
Great video! I appreciate your honest review. After our overnight experience on The City of New Orleans we now pack foam ear plugs. It drowns out the horn enough that it makes it easier to sleep.
Pardon me, boy Is that the Chattanooga choo choo? (yes yes) Track twenty-nine Boy, you can gimme a shine Can you afford To board a Chattanooga choo choo I've got my fare And just a trifle to spare You leave the Pennsylvania Station 'bout a quarter to four Read a magazine and then you're in Baltimore Dinner in the diner Nothing could be finer Then to have your ham an' eggs in Carolina When you hear the whistle blowin' eight to the bar Then you know that Tennessee is not very far.
I'm so sorry to hear you didn't get a good night's sleep! The Cafe attendant must have also been having a bad day if they were so rude to you both. However, I am ecstatic to see your video on Cape Air! I recently started flying for them and would be thrilled to have you as a passenger on board 🥰
To use the toilet in the old Viewliners, one party usually steps outside the Roomette. The newer Viewliners do not have the in-roomette toilets. There are a few at the end of the car for use by all.
Really appreciate your well-made video! We are about to reserve sleepers from Kingston RI to DC, then the Cardinal to Maysville KY, a day with hotel rooms in Maysville, and back, a four+ day trip. We don't expect to get much sleep on the train (rarely do) but your experience convinced us to get the larger bedroom if available. Unfortunately the Cardinal is a tiny train, only has one sleeper car I hear.
In some ways, it seems that rail travel has regressed. I think the price is too high to make this practical. I think the Amtrack executives need to travel incognito and learn what needs to be done to make it comfortable and affordable.
I have only traveled on this train years ago also in a newer style roomeette. However I was traveling alone and found it to be spacious and comfortable and got a reasonable nights sleep. I have traveled extensively on Amtrak overnight trains and as you mentioned sometimes the track can be rather rough and make it harder to sleep. I generally found out my biggest problem was when the train would stop especially if it was for a longer time. It would tend to wake me up. I was surprised to hear the track on the northeast line was so bad, I generally ride this line on daylight coach trains and did not notice bad track, however at high speed especially if you are passing through track junctions the train can sway and rock. One other suggestion is the location of your sleeping room, I noticed you had room 3. If that was near the end of car you were most likely ridding over the trucks that have the wheels of the sleeping car. Middle of the car rooms usually ride smoother since the vibration is not directly under your room. One last comment, the lounge car, snack bar attendants really vary in friendliness. Some are quite nice while others are like what you encountered. The best ones always announce at departure that the car is not open yet and then give another announcement when it opens and also give a warning announcement before they are ready to close it. I would suggest you try this trip again but if it’s for two the bedroom sleeper is much superior to a roomette for comfort of two people.
Hey Jeb I'm all the way in Jamaica, but I enjoy traveling with you. I love the trains , I love the views and you have a beautiful wife and an lovely voice.
Maybe you should try and get a roomette in the Viewliner II next time. They took out the toilet, improved on the seat cushioning, and added an extra power outlet so now there are two; one by the sink and one by the opposite seat... OH AND added a digital thermostat to better control the roomette temperature...
They still need to improve on the safety net/guard on the upper bunk... I have a hard time believing that thing can protect anyone... It is too loose and doesn't cover enough area...
Overnight from DC to Boston. Dogging rodents, fending off criminals, and purse snatchers, you are lucky you were not assaulted. Take a tire iron with you next time. Hey, free advice: Take a anti-hep C and HIV-prophylaxis tablet , you could have been bitten by a human. Stay safe...
When we moved from NYC to the Bay Area we did a similar thing. Our POD was going to take a week to arrive, California hotels are expensive so we figured the train would be a nice adventure. We travelled via the California Zephyr, three of us in a room. Was tight but not uncomfortable. Enjoyed meeting people in the dining room (most times we had a extra person added to our table). We love meeting new people
Wow, surprised about the way the train movement affected you. I find it literally 'rocks me to sleep' and the train itself makes 'white noise.' I love it when I can travel by train overnight. And yes, I use the shower on the train, it is fine, small but you feel good when done, as with any shower. The cafe` car attendant that was rude well, that person gets a ZERO!
When I travel, I like my privacy. If I'm not comfortable enough with someone to use the in room commode, I'm probably not comfortable enough to be sharing the room with them to begin with.
I can’t say I agree that the trip from bos to DC is the same experience in a bedroom. I have done two day trips to DC in a bedroom and myself my wife and our tween son absolutely loved it. Slept great, woke refreshed. Most important thing is to shower in the am, makes the bedroom essential for a day trip but will do it again it was a great day trip
I like the single level cars better but those toilets have got to go. A. Farting is one thing but why the hell would I wanna blow up the phone booth I'm sitting in? B. I really don't want the compelling experience of hearing and smelling my neighbor's poor diet choices. C. I think dropping logs in front of people is reserved for prisons.
Would my husband and I use the toilet in the room? Yes, since we don't close bathroom doors anyway at home. However, not sure the smell would be good consider how small the room is and how the smell might go into the hall way and disturb others.
One good thing about receiving that much rain? They’ll have Greenergrass.
I’ll show myself out.
Genius! 🤣
Ouch
(**Groan!**)
Oh this was damn good 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@Delmond Devaux watch the first 23 seconds of the video then come back
LAX based Amtrak train attendant & av geeek! Thank you for your positive enthusiasm for American passenger trains! Working #4 SWC tonight! I'm appalled the cafe attendant was a poor representation of our product.
Yes the cafe attendant was an extremely poor representation of any product and any company..
I was a fairly frequent passenger on the SWC between Chicago and ABQ about 5-6 years ago, taking 2-3 round trips a year. Service was always great!
@@StringerNews1 Happy to learn that you've enjoyed your travels abroad Amtrak. Thank you for riding with us!
Amtrak has no incentive to be better because they have no real competition on the rails.
@@theatremusician There IS competition for positions though. Because of the union though it's hard to fire people for having a shitty attitude. To some degree I think it's good that people can't be fired willy nilly (although a bunch got furloughed due to COVID), but I wish the union would self-police better to keep its membership on mission.
I have traveled on Amtrak’s roomettes several times, both solo and with my wife. As a former U S Navy Submariner, I found the experience similar to living as I did on my Submarines. There were “close quarters” and the rocking of the train as it travels the rails. My response the first time we traveled by train was “I’m home.” 🙂. Speaking only for myself, I like the roomettes. There usually is enough room for both of us to somewhat stretch out our legs and the beds are reasonably comfortable. All in all, I like train travel, but you have to be ready for delays or the train not being on time. If you need to be at your destination in a hurry, air is best. However, if you “care more about the journey,” and don’t have to worry about when you arrive, IMO the train wins hands down.
Thank you for your service 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
As a fellow mariner, on sailboats and ships, train berths are fine. No leaks from the overhead or bad hatches, halyards slapping against the mast, or sails flogging during a sail change. They're not a quiet as a turbine steamship, but those are long gone.
The roomettes are very nice.....BUT....They've become "out of my price range". I go coach now. Curling up on two coach seats is not the most comfortable...but....the impact on my wallet is much MUCH less.
Easier and faster to drive!😊
Why the roommate are so expensive?
Anyone else loving Jeb's new found love of trains? I love the content!
Indeed! I can't wait to see Jeb review trains from other countries especially the ones with JR.
Trains are the future. Back to the future that is. The fascination with highways, cars, and planes is finally dying. and hopefully the damage they have wrought too. The Earth can’t take their destruction much longer.
@@Toast0808 LOL
@@kvogel9245 what, you find reality to be funny?
He made me addicted, now trains are the coolest thing for me. Jebb!!
A relationship that can survive a teensie roomette with a toilet next to the bed is a match made in heaven
I'm skeptical that I could survive traveling in a small cell even by myself.
@@GuidedbyCrows 1
Lol, you're describing a jail cell.
These roomettes are a rip off. You pay 800 dollars or more. There's no privacy, you usually end up sharing it with a total stranger. Last week I purchased a coach ticket for 342. I asked about the roomettes, was quoted 1100. for one. I asked is it "private" she said not usually. For that price, I think it would be private. So coach it is. Be prepared, if you travel coach-- the restrooms are filthy!
I was a custodian at a school district for 22 years, and these rest rooms were gross and unserviced. Good luck.
Lol seriously...uh honey sorry to disturb your movie but....
Sounds like you guys ran into the poor track quality between New Rochelle and New Haven. Amtrak does not actually own that part of the NEC and therefore has no real say in the way it’s maintained. Connecticut frankly does a pretty poor job of it.
It's also pretty bad going into NY from New Jersey as all the lines merge to go into the Hudson tunnel. That tunnel project has been in their planning for years but only now does it look like it'll get funded.
Its called Metro North's shitty maintnence in plain english
Being a Bostonian, I love the NE Regional when heading to DC or back home. My only overnighter was in a reclining seat which was surprisingly comfy. I prefer traveling during the day because I love the NE stations and coastline views.
Do you recommend getting a roomette or seating for long trips? Any other tips?
@@MC-342 Haven't done a long enough trip yet to give you advice. I've been following Jeb because I'm hoping to do a Boston to CA trip early next year. Roomettes, depending on the cost, seem best to me because I'll be traveling alone which is normal. Happy traveling 🚉
I did a reclining seat from Champagne to Memphis. It was better than how I typically do on red-eyes, when I sleep like 2 hours.. I didn't need a roomette for that. Nor did I need the roomette the leg from Memphis to New Orleans, which is basically 6:45 am to 3:45pm.
How excited are you for the new trains that are going into service soon starting with the zephyr and bringing back the traditional dining experience!? I already know youre planning a vid on it I cant wait for it!
the cafe car should be open from the minute it takes off....and the attendant shouldn't be yelling. hope you shared that with amtrak.
@@arun120977 Self improvement is a journey worth taking. Rather than just being content with acting on primate urges.
@@arun120977 Foolish person, THEY ARE" NOT" Government Employees. Amtrak is Subsidized by the government, as is EVERY OTHER PASSINGER RR in the US.
I would have yelled back in the same tone.
There's no excuse for the cafe car attendant to yell and be rude. On one or two occasions in the past I have found them to be a little curt, though most are friendly.... Overall the video was fun and interesting. I am so eager to ride the Acela to Boston or DC again when I am able to.
Not curt but rather uppity. For Amtrak it is difficult to fire those losers because of union tactics.
Don't take everything so Literally. I find it difficult to believe that any Amtrak employee would YELL at a passenger.
@@jttraina4516they don't really yell. It's just those loud obnoxious vocal cords of theirs couple with "I have power"
@@jttraina4516 In my case when I did not show my business class ticket to the cafe car guy in time he clearly raised his voice and showed a good amount of anger. It's not like he screamed but I thought it was an overreaction.
@@Mardasee Guessing hospitality training also goes against their tactics.
Would I use the in room bathroom if sharing with another. In an emergency, yes I would, but it would have to be someone I'm in a relationship with, and then it would only be #1. For any #2 issues, I'd go to the train car bathroom. Some smells aren't meant to be shared with the spouse. Suzanne is awesome, so have her with you on more trips!
Definitely want to be on the shore side of the train if you can. Never done the DC to Boston run, but several times done the Newark to Boston run. Right side going north, Left side going south.
Same here. I never used the _en suite_ toilet. And with hours of sitting, it's nice to take the short walk to the loo.
@@StringerNews1 You'll be happy to know that the new cars do not have the porta potty in them so you have to share with the rest of the train.
@@cgchilds8470 Porta Potty? What are you talking about?
I find that having a toilet next to my head when I sleep is dictating. I don’t know why the designer where thinking! My opinion.
My gf poop smells like roses. But she hates mine. I guess she doesn’t love me
I done a 3 day train between New York and California it was lots of fun! Colorado is the best state to pass through!
Sometimes Colorado is even a nice State to stop in for a while.
That is so true
Wow, you got yelled at to leave...Amtrak’s customer service at its finest.
Not only that - the tiny room, beds, sink, the big box of a tiny breakfast. I can’t call that service - or welcoming any paying customer. 😔
How it should be: "I'm sorry sir, but the Cafe is not open yet. Please come back at XX o'clock when I'll be all ready for you!"
Amtrak: "Get out! I'm not open yet! Go!" (Snaps fingers and points)
Disgraceful
You should report that cafe attendant for being rude, like you said that is fail
@@beckygriggs7827 I've never had that problem.
Jeb,
Have you ever considered taking the Metro from the airport to Union Station. Might be quicker and less money. I have found the metro system in DC to be very good. And it now goes to both Regean and Dulles
Metro doesnt have trains to Dulles yet, so youd have to take a highway bus.
@@Jobother -ronald reagan airport Yellow&Blue metro lines
Just to be precise in this situation, at 1:33 Jeb mentions DCA, which is Reagan National; not IAD/Dulles.
When you can you should come over to the UK and try the two sleeper trains we have. GWR'S night riviera and the Caledonian sleeper.
Noise cancelling headphones would be a good idea.
Northeast Regional does have some rough track sections which might have kept you from sleeping. NE corridor is heavily trafficked which contributes to wear & tear. As a frequent regional rail & long haul rail user, I do hope some railroad infrastructure help is coming soon.
I'm an old coot who frequently rode sleepers fifty years ago. My reaction to this video (which is well thought out and well presented, BTW) is: (1) Roomettes today differ very little from the roomettes of the 1960s and 70s. There are a couple of added amenities like charging ports, WiFi (if it works), and showers that don't sound inviting; and the removal of the in-room toilet is (IMO) a mistake. The reason is my point (2): I never, ever, would have considered a roomette as a comfortable travelling space for two people. For two, the only reasonable option then (and -- it seems -- these days) is a bedroom. In fact, when my wife and I took a transcontinental train trip and found that there were no bedrooms available for our dates, we booked a pair of roomettes across the corridor from each other. That enabled us to join one another when we wanted company and to retreat to our own spaces when we didn't. That solved the toilet problem, we each had plenty of room to move around, and we were able to sleep comfortably. So I don't think it's fair to evaluate roomettes as accommodation for two people. They weren't designed for that purpose. Technically you can fit two people into the room, but you're not going to travel comfortably.
Wow, these roomettes aren't like 50 years ago, seriously?
@@TheEnd-eg6wq Honestly, very little difference. The old ones never had a shower, always had a toilet, and I wouldn't have shared one with a medium-sized cat -- otherwise, pretty much the same story.
Try sleeping in the fo'cs'le of a sailboat underway at sea. Compared to that, a railcar roomette is a luxury, even for two. Both people can stretch out on clean, dry sheets with no likelihood of being thrown from their rack by a bad roll. lt's all a matter of what one has experienced for comparison.
@@frankmiller95 The way you compared/contrasted those two sleeping experiences was very effective! And your last sentence raises an excellent point and is applicable to so many things in life.
You wouldn’t accept a flight attendant talking to you like that!!!
Report her at least to your car attendant. No reason to have an attitude like that! You get what you accept!!!
Love the train videos thanks for doing them. They are the best.
So cool who doesn’t like Amtrak
Unfortunately- people who ride it for work rather than leisure.
People that hate on Amtrak for being too good
It gets delayed a lot
@@x-90 freight owns the tracks and ignores the 1971 laws that say Amtrak is to have priority at all times
@@x-90 at least the trains with sleepers on them coming from south of dc. All the NEC only trains (Acela, NE Regional) are on time over 90% of the time
Roomette would be great for a solo traveller. It seems that it is more spacious than the one on the superliner.
I as a single woman who booked a roomette on the CA Zephyr back in the late 70's worked perfectly for me. I think it might have been not so perfect with 2.
My first trip on Amtrak (I'm from England so flew out the night before) was The Cardinal (New York - Chicago) straight onto The California Zephyr to Emeryville then straight onto The Coast Starlight to Portland and I did all of this in Coach (non stop for 5 nights!). I was soooo ready for my hotel in Portland and that shower in the hotel felt amazing! I then got onto the Cascades and travelled up to Vancouver. I maxed out my rail time that holiday and by then end of it felt like I knew Amtrak inside out! Would love to do it again though and now I'm 10 years older might treat myself to a Roomette!
The "one time use umbrella". Hmm. Through in the trunk of your car for emergency use or give it to a homeless person sometime. They can use it and appreciate the help.
Thank you for highlighting your experience with the cafe attendant. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten onto an Amtrak train and had the same experience. I feel that the price of your ticket should include access to the cafe car at all times during the journey. I think Amtrak should work on having the cafe car open and ready for business prior to departure to avoid situations like that.
A couple of times in business class they told us to show our ticket in the cafe car for a discount. I made the mistake of waiting until after I placed my order and then showed the ticket, and then I got yelled at. I thought it was a simple mistake but apparently this is a big hassle for them. I was embarrassed though and probably should have sent feedback to customer service after the trip.
One time when I took a train from DC to NY, the cafe car did not open until about Aberdeen MD. Do the math.
💜💜💜 The 3 P’s!!! Love it 💜💜💜
Awesome video! used to operate for my airline into Bar Harbor during the summer! We supplemented Cape Air’s operation. Hope you enjoyed your stay there.
Something nostalgic about the old name 'Night Owl' as it was known when Amtrak named all their trains. It makes me think of a train passing through the foggy darkness of Connecticut in the middle of the night being guided by the solitary headlight of an ex-NYNHH FL-9 locomotive.
As of now, Amtrak isn't using the Viewliner sleepers on the 66/67 trains. I'm guessing because of a shortage of needed sleepers on other trains or they are being refurbished. .
I just did a 40 hour round trip on the City of New Orleans with my girlfriend in a super liner roomette. We had a blast, but we will splash the cash for a bigger room next time. Sorry y’all had such a rough experience!
Cool review here. Been a good while since Amtrak offered sleeper car accommodations on this overnight train, so glad you were able to document your experience. Regarding the in-room toilet? I find it disgusting but convenient at times.
Convenient… for one Traveller! Yet, too small/tiny room!
Suzanne Brooks!! 😀 😁 Is the best. #1. Move over Jeb. She should have her own travel channel lol 😂
love the amtrak vids!
Agreed
they should just remove the toilet...so nasty you'd feel like you are actually sitting in a toilet cubicle
They're in the process of being removed on the Viewliner I's and the brand new Viewliner II's don't have them.
@@dynasty0019 exactly! You beat me to that comment 😂
Seeing this, I’m glad that the Viewliner II’s got rid of the in suite toilet
If I was in a viewliner I, I'd rather go to the coach bathroom than use the one in the room.
If you feel awful because hadn't enough sleep when traveling that is not a jetlag. You can call it sleep deprivation. Jetlag is - by definition - caused by circadian rhythm disruption.
Have you ever been slept on a ship? You're experience kind of reminds me of when I first started working in one. Took a while to get used to the constant rocking/engine in bed but it grew on to me.
I was on a cruise during a storm. Yikes ... all that rocking.
Glad I didn’t see your video before my Arizona to Houston trip on Saturday😊. Mine was fine; the railway tracks are probably better maintained. The cafe attendant made me a fresh pot of coffee, even though there was enough in the pot for one cup.
Jeb, this video sounds like a "term paper in a creative English class", I admire your control of the so-called "wood language".
Rude employees? Poor food? America's airlines say "Hold my beer."
The tracks around New York through into New Haven are a lot rougher and are constantly undergoing repairs and a replacements to make everything smoother. I believe your rail car was one of the early generation cars and probably needed some repairs. thus also more than likely some flat spots on the wheels. The newer cars that are getting placed into service are much better. I hope you have a better experience in the future. You should try out the Amtrak Vermonter. I took it over 50+ times for college and was always an amazing trip through the forests and countryside of Vermont. It is operated by 3 different Crew's and they always are a blast!
If you do Amtrak Vermont and you get my favorite conductor, count the amount of times he says "folks".
the Vermonter is amazing. I always got on in Essex and went down to Philly to visit grandparents. unfortunately that time has passed but with other family still in the Philly area I hopefully can still take the Vermonter. it is one of the best routes
Sorry that y’all had a rough night of sleep that has happened to me multiple times on the Viewliner to NOLA/Newark Hopefully we will see a Video from you From Greensboro to NOLA soon!
Suzanne's a cool chick and trust me from experience, unabashed pooping in the same room together does eventually happen over time lol
I wonder if they are at the "farting" stage yet?
No it doesn't, married 28 years tomorrow and still do not poop in front of each other.
I love the click clack sound the wheels make going over the tracks and the rocking it’s so relaxing
I managed to sleep really well on 66 in a roomette...although that was likely because I'd slept in roomettes on 449 and 30 the 2 nights before and I was exhausted haha. But if you're not particularly tired or a light sleeper, Viewliners are "rated" for 110 mph but they're not exactly smooth as silk at that speed.
Superliners are rated only to 100 mph. Viewliners 1 is for 110 mph, but Viewliners 2 is for 125 mph. The reason is Viewliners on Trains #65/66/67 are oldest one, previously was in Cardinal.
So they are little bit bumpy at speed over 100 mph.
@@JackArkitekt I'd really like to see Viewliner IIs on 65-67. Since they are built for higher speeds and are newer and thus could attract ridership for a new service (not to mention the lack of in-room toilets might be more tolerable for a short trip), they should put them on these trains.
@@thefareplayer2254 Viewliners type 1 sleepers built from 1992 to 1997, original design from 1988 Viewliner Cafe Car who also prototype for Viewliners type 2, what's actually improved version of previous type, built from 2015 up to now. They are too new to be scrapped (type 1). While wear and tear visible already, so it's better use them for shorter long distance, like Night Owl and Palmetto. Adding sleeper car makes them true long distance trains.
Viewliners 1 type probably will be refurbished soon..
Railway cars designed for normal service life of 50-60 years. Amfleet 1 cars built in 1974-1978, will be replaced by 2029, but Amfleet 2 cars, built in 1980-1984, will be replaced by 2035. Btw Amfleet cars were tested for 150 mph speed, but FRA limited them to safe operation of 125 mph. Amfleet tubing design is from Metroliner who was tested in 1967 for 165 mph. Never certified for that speed, so limited to 135 mph initially, but then to 125 mph. They were designed as true High Speed cars, streamlined airplane design to reduce airflow to minimum, were beat even Bullet trains, but they lack Electric Engine, they were EMU and this created problems with their tractions, and create a long list of malfunctions, so Metroliner EMU sets were to be replaced by locomotive powered Amfleet, at this time US have obsolete fleet of Electric engines, and they were not designed for High Speed, and this result Swedish designed AEM-7 locomotive, who was limited by FRA to 125 mph.
At same time France tested their TGV HS train at 187 mph... By European standards much lower than FRA they were allowed this to operate initially at 175 mph, then to 187 mph. Then Germany built ICE-3 train at 202 mph tested and certified at 175 mph. Then ICE-4 at 220 mph. ICE-4 was tested in NEC and failed FRA standards, then Acela was born, tested at 175 mph but certified at 150 mph by FRA, because it's shows discomfort ride at 165 mph. New Avelia Liberty tested in NEC at 172 mph, but certified at 160 mph by FRA, and not recommended to be use faster than 165 mph in NEC. Avelia Liberty failed some tests at speeds of 178 mph at Pueblo test track. But passed all tests at speed below 169 mph.
With tilt and without it.
FRA not recommend use this trainset without tilt on speed over 175 mph.
I guess that even 250 mph Chinese trains will fail FRA test at 170 mph. They are too light to get survived at crush impact without structural damage at 80 mph. And this is minimum requirements for passing FRA tests.
@@JackArkitekt The track is not maintained well enough for those speeds. The power can get you to those speeds but comfort suffers on those rails.
No idea why the cafe attendant yelled at you, pretty sure this train begins in Virginia.
The thing about Amtrak employees is that some are wonderful, and some are terrible. And you get everything in between that too
thats true but, in dc they change the engine from a diesel to an electric which basically cuts off all the power and water to the train so maybe that impacts the ability of the setup and availability of the cafe car
@@zesolodar Cafe should already have been setup, Jeb went after departure
@@zesolodar Doesn’t change the fact that yelling “Leave!! Leave now!!” instead of saying “I’m sorry, we’re closed at the moment. Come back at [time].” is unacceptable.
The Amtrak employee yelled at you? That's not a shocking surprise. Most Amtrak employees are rude. Would you ever do a grayhound trip?
Lessons: pack a picnic for two meals each, take a motion sickness pill or eat a chunk of fresh ginger to allay problems due to train swaying and vibration. Bring a washcloth and deodorant for a quick refresher when you get up, take your fave pillow if you must. And forget the false economy of travel by a cheaper method if you will pay a high personal price in terms of lost sleep, motion sickness or disturbance by whistles, other pax or whatever. The true cost of this trip was higher than it needed to be.
No way I’m using a toilet that close to a bed or using a bed that close to a toilet.
That toilet is in the same place you may sit and eat. No way. that is nasty.
I have taken a roomette on the Autotrain from Florida to Virginia. It was fine to have a private room and it was nice to have that. The train was running late but the room made it nicer. Arrived in Virginia only 10 minutes late so that was not bad at all. The room is small, but comfortable for one or two. That is about it. Finding the room is easy, you just ask the conductor of the train. The bathroom is unfortunate - you have to leave the room for the other person to use it. Sleeping depends on how deeply you sleep. Light sleepers beware as shown here. Don't put things on the top bunk - you are asking for trouble as Jeb found out. The track is not smooth - sorry.
I’ve traveled on the auto train several times from Va to Fl in a roomette, and slept like a baby.I would love to go cross country on Amtrack in a roomette, but unfortunately can’t afford it. Hope your next journey is better. 😊
We couldn’t afford it either, but then I got an Amtrak credit card. Except for gas, if I need a card, I use it. It knocks the price of a trip down or sleeper for the price of coach!
I watch lots of your videos, Jeb, and this one is hilarious. I mostly ride the Southwest Chief and didn't know any of the NER trains have sleeper cars. I always use a "sleep aid" (melatonin or benadryl) when overnighting on a train. A glass of wine helps, too, but wow you didn't get that. Next time (if there is one) I'll bet your SCA would fetch your free alcoholic drink for you. Thanks for posting Amtrak videos. My granddaughter loves the overnight with me on the SWC from L.A. to Albuquerque where I live.
They stopped doing the sleeper service a few years ago and just brought it back thanks to more funding again. When I say just brought it back I mean like 06/03/2021.
BYOB. Problem solved.
Can't wait to ride overnight on what could be the first Seattle-San Diego, Philadelphia-Chicago, Chicago-Dallas, Boston-Atlanta, or San Antonio-Miami High Speed Rail line by 2045. Will be a very comfortable alternative to flying when that happens.
As always, love the Amtrak video! Would love to see you try a long-distance ride again but with the new/restored full dining menus (wonder how their new meatballs are 🤔)
Nice Patek man. What a stunning piece! Is that the Aquanaut travel time?
Yes! My favorite watch!
Loved the Amtrak videos. I’m a huge fan of the rails.
At least in the rommettes you have your own toilet. I wouldn't want to have to use a public toilet on a train. So at least they give you that. The shower...? Yeah I mean you could probably go a day or two without showering providing you don't sweat, and if you have some wipes that helps too. I remember taking a one day train (overnight) from NYC to Chicago and luckily there was a toilet in the room, which was helpful for in the middle of the night. Of course I did take a shower, but I did so early on so I was one of the first people to do so right after they cleaned it.
Why’s the train so dirty inside like no one cleans
I agree…. Especially since you’re expected to sleep a few inches away from a toilet that thousands of strangers used before you. Disgusting 🤮
If it where my wife and I or a guy friend and I ..I would not mind taking a leak in the roomette toilet but that's it..even with my wife.. I usually take coach because the roomettes are a little too expensive.. however knowing it includes a beverage and food that is a better deal I guess.. like I said I usually take coach.. and learned the best seats are at the front of the coach..(more leg room) however the closer you are to the doors the more train noise you hear..i.e. people going back and forth from car to car and track noise when the doors open and close
I work unusual hours at work (night shifts, late afternoon, early morning etc) and I totally feel "jetlag" when working a lot. For me, your spot on with your not enough sleep in a 24h period theory.
For me, I’m fine with one day of bad sleep, if it’s more than 1 day then I do fee jet lag
You have some strange expectations. I have travel from New York City to Chicago, New Orleans, Florida and Denver. Never have I been able to sleep more than an over night train to any of those destinations. The train rocks too much, even in my roomette. Still it’s better than frying. I hate being in a plan.
Great video! I appreciate your honest review. After our overnight experience on The City of New Orleans we now pack foam ear plugs. It drowns out the horn enough that it makes it easier to sleep.
Pardon me, boy
Is that the Chattanooga choo choo? (yes yes)
Track twenty-nine
Boy, you can gimme a shine
Can you afford To board a Chattanooga choo choo
I've got my fare And just a trifle to spare
You leave the Pennsylvania Station 'bout a quarter to four
Read a magazine and then you're in Baltimore
Dinner in the diner
Nothing could be finer
Then to have your ham an' eggs in Carolina
When you hear the whistle blowin' eight to the bar
Then you know that Tennessee is not very far.
I'm so sorry to hear you didn't get a good night's sleep! The Cafe attendant must have also been having a bad day if they were so rude to you both. However, I am ecstatic to see your video on Cape Air! I recently started flying for them and would be thrilled to have you as a passenger on board 🥰
To use the toilet in the old Viewliners, one party usually steps outside the Roomette. The newer Viewliners do not have the in-roomette toilets. There are a few at the end of the car for use by all.
Really appreciate your well-made video! We are about to reserve sleepers from Kingston RI to DC, then the Cardinal to Maysville KY, a day with hotel rooms in Maysville, and back, a four+ day trip. We don't expect to get much sleep on the train (rarely do) but your experience convinced us to get the larger bedroom if available. Unfortunately the Cardinal is a tiny train, only has one sleeper car I hear.
The next time you fly to other countries, you should try riding the European Trains as well!!
Jeb taking a dump in front of his lady is a big NOPE!! LOL
Hello sir, welcome aboard, your breakfast boxes are sitting on your toilet ;-)! Thanks for sharing friends
On the toilet! Well, that is the final destination of the items in the breakfast box.
We like Suzanne, a lot! Man should not travel alone.
I think I’d sleep pretty well on this train due to the constant rocking. Get my best sleep on planes when there’s the tiniest bit of turbulence lol
I don’t get how the restaurants in the station could close before the last train boards.
Who’s clapping? We haven’t even arrived at the station yet.
I'm looking forward to traveling when I feel better.
It looks like not for the claustrophobic! 🤯😹
Another great video! I did the full bedroom right after it became available. Great experience overall. Was about $150 more than roomette.
In some ways, it seems that rail travel has regressed. I think the price is too high to make this practical. I think the Amtrack executives need to travel incognito and learn what needs to be done to make it comfortable and affordable.
1:50 “but trains keep on running”
*Doobie Brothers music intensifies
Cue up The Who (but probably not on turntable in this instance): "Shaken' all over."
Your videos are very well made, good camera work, good audio, good narration, honest, informative, and well edited. Thank you.
Sorry that you had a bad time on train #66! For several years, they had taken off any sleeping cars!
I always like your channel. Really fun bloopers.
Suzanne good work! I am not sure if train travel works for you. Will have to watch more videos. Yes! I have traveled a lot.
I took the City of New Orleans train from Mattoon to New Orleans. I was in that roomette for a good 17 hours and honestly I liked it.
17 hours is nothing! Lol, I’ve been in one for nearly 70 hours straight.
Cue up Arlo, son of Woody.
@@Cal90208 Wow that sounds like fun
I'd love to try that someday! But I do know that the roomettes on the Superliner trains are a bit different than this one on the Viewliner tho
@@Keither754 yeah there weren’t toilets in the roomette but for me it was very cozy
I have only traveled on this train years ago also in a newer style roomeette. However I was traveling alone and found it to be spacious and comfortable and got a reasonable nights sleep. I have traveled extensively on Amtrak overnight trains and as you mentioned sometimes the track can be rather rough and make it harder to sleep. I generally found out my biggest problem was when the train would stop especially if it was for a longer time. It would tend to wake me up. I was surprised to hear the track on the northeast line was so bad, I generally ride this line on daylight coach trains and did not notice bad track, however at high speed especially if you are passing through track junctions the train can sway and rock. One other suggestion is the location of your sleeping room, I noticed you had room 3. If that was near the end of car you were most likely ridding over the trucks that have the wheels of the sleeping car. Middle of the car rooms usually ride smoother since the vibration is not directly under your room.
One last comment, the lounge car, snack bar attendants really vary in friendliness. Some are quite nice while others are like what you encountered. The best ones always announce at departure that the car is not open yet and then give another announcement when it opens and also give a warning announcement before they are ready to close it. I would suggest you try this trip again but if it’s for two the bedroom sleeper is much superior to a roomette for comfort of two people.
Hey Jeb I'm all the way in Jamaica, but I enjoy traveling with you. I love the trains , I love the views and you have a beautiful wife and an lovely voice.
Maybe you should try and get a roomette in the Viewliner II next time. They took out the toilet, improved on the seat cushioning, and added an extra power outlet so now there are two; one by the sink and one by the opposite seat... OH AND added a digital thermostat to better control the roomette temperature...
They still need to improve on the safety net/guard on the upper bunk... I have a hard time believing that thing can protect anyone... It is too loose and doesn't cover enough area...
There’s new view liner cars that don’t have the roomette toilet anymore! Saw them on another video on the silver meteor.
We would overhaul the passenger rail system with a more luxurious and spacious comfort like they used to do back in those days.
Bob just documented one of the needs in the infrastructure bill.
You should see Cincinnati Union terminal. It’s beautiful!
I’d totally use that toilet! I was in the Navy too lo and I learned not to care
Overnight from DC to Boston. Dogging rodents, fending off criminals, and purse snatchers, you are lucky you were not assaulted. Take a tire iron with you next time. Hey, free advice: Take a anti-hep C and HIV-prophylaxis tablet , you could have been bitten by a human. Stay safe...
I heard they got new roomettes with NO toilets!!! I hope that is true. I cannot believe someone came up with that kind of design. Seriously!!!!!!
When we moved from NYC to the Bay Area we did a similar thing. Our POD was going to take a week to arrive, California hotels are expensive so we figured the train would be a nice adventure. We travelled via the California Zephyr, three of us in a room. Was tight but not uncomfortable. Enjoyed meeting people in the dining room (most times we had a extra person added to our table). We love meeting new people
I always use an Ambien in those situations... Especially if you are over 30... 🥴😂
Wow, surprised about the way the train movement affected you. I find it literally 'rocks me to sleep' and the train itself makes 'white noise.' I love it when I can travel by train overnight. And yes, I use the shower on the train, it is fine, small but you feel good when done, as with any shower.
The cafe` car attendant that was rude well, that person gets a ZERO!
When I travel, I like my privacy. If I'm not comfortable enough with someone to use the in room commode, I'm probably not comfortable enough to be sharing the room with them to begin with.
I can’t say I agree that the trip from bos to DC is the same experience in a bedroom. I have done two day trips to DC in a bedroom and myself my wife and our tween son absolutely loved it. Slept great, woke refreshed. Most important thing is to shower in the am, makes the bedroom essential for a day trip but will do it again it was a great day trip
I like the single level cars better but those toilets have got to go. A. Farting is one thing but why the hell would I wanna blow up the phone booth I'm sitting in? B. I really don't want the compelling experience of hearing and smelling my neighbor's poor diet choices. C. I think dropping logs in front of people is reserved for prisons.
Great video Jeb! Based on Suzanne’s 747 shirt I’m guessing she’s an Avgeek! Also, I know you’ve mentioned what your job is but what’s her job?
Would my husband and I use the toilet in the room? Yes, since we don't close bathroom doors anyway at home. However, not sure the smell would be good consider how small the room is and how the smell might go into the hall way and disturb others.