Sleeping car attendants go above and beyond, and are generally willing to help with things outside the scope of their duties if you ask nicely. On a Christmas Eve trip from LA to New Orleans aboard the Sunset Limited, our car attendant allowed us use the attendant break room to wrap gifts for our 10-year-old twin sons while they slept, and found a big red bag that she put the wrapped gifts in before delivering them to our table at breakfast the next morning, which was Christmas day. She told my astonished, wide-eyed kids that Santa had met the train in San Antonio the night before and dropped off their gifts. Patty helped us keep the magic for our kids for another few years, and earned a million thanks from us.
One point I'd add: yes, be courteous to your fellow passengers (especially your seatmate and dining companions, if applicable). But if you're a "chatty Cathy" type, keep in mind that not everyone is. Amtrak likes to push "meeting new friends" on the train, but not everyone is a social butterfly. I'll be nice to you, because I do enjoy a good conversation for a while, but there will come a time when I've had enough -- and I'm sure I speak for many other introverts!
I'm very introverted and would prefer to eat alone at my own table, but the last time I was sat next to other people and I must admit it was delightful. The other people were wonderful and afterwards I was glad that I was sort of forced to be socialable.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Which is the least favored time amongst passengers for meal reservations - is it towards the end of dining hours? Or the beginning times? Sometimes, I still prefer to eat alone and/or at the least inconvenience to the train crew and fellow passengers. Thanks a bunch!
I thought the same thing the first time i took a long distance train. And had the same experience. Many years and train rides later have come to realize thats part of the joy of ld train travel meeting all kinds of different people who are not going anywhere in a hurry
It’s hit or miss. I got seated with an elderly couple who were fine and next to a woman who said she was South African but was from the Carolinas and was talking about the South Africa of old as a good thing. I tuned her out after dashing her stories as BS. She didn’t anticipate someone who knew that her story was so outdated and racist.
As an Aussie having visited the US 6 times now, I have really enjoyed my Amtrak journeys. Comfortable, picturesque views out the windows, great way to meet others. Have met some wonderful US residents. Thx for letting me reminisce. 😊
I want to do do the Indian Pacific through the Nullabor Plain. I think the plain would be cool for about 30 minutes, and then a good time to take a nap.
My husband and I are both older and a bit on the shy side. We are generally quiet and keep our conversations private when we are sharing a space with others. On our first trip on the Coast Starlight we were really not looking forward to sharing a table with strangers. But, it ended up being a wonderful experience. We encountered everything from a young couple covered in tattoos and piercings to older professionals. We were very fortunate because, to a person, they were all very nice and interesting. I distinctly remember that young couple. When I saw them My hear sank because I just KNEW we would get seated with them. And, we did. They’ve ended up being the most memorable dining guests. Just another lesson to stop judging people on how they look. You would think that at my age I would know better but I guess we all need a refresher course now and then. I no longer fret over sharing a table. I would also have no problem whatsoever asking to be moved or taking my meal to my room if I encountered belligerent, rude, racist or generally nasty dining guests. I might be shy but I don’t tolerate the company of jerks.
My husband and I have been watching you’re channel for a few months now, and we love it!!! We took our first Amtrak trip on the “Southwest Chief” a week ago. We had a blast!! We already have our second trip on the Empire Builder reserved for November. Your channel has been absolutely invaluable. We stayed in a bedroom, which was perfect. Almost reserved a roomette, but after watching one of your videos we changed to bedroom. Thank God. LoL it would have been too small for us. Please keep the content coming, great work!!! Thank you! ❤
Thanks so much! Glad you really enjoyed your trip! The Empire Builder is one of our favorites! It is such a beautiful route, you should have a great time!
How was your Empire Builder? I need to go from Olympic Peninsula to Spokane. So will be taking it ( only b/c I do not want to drive over Cascades in the winter) before spring.
I am an occasional AMTRAK passenger. I like to travel first class. My most recent trip was last June, traveled on the California Zephyr McCook NE to Sacramento, then on the Coast Starlight to Seattle, Returned via reverse route. Had a good time, I am a retired locomotive engineer who loves trains, and it is nice having someone else do the driving. Regarding your comments about trying to make up time enroute: Many long-distance trains have to make connections with other trains enroute. Spending too much time enroute could result in a missed connection.
I got back from my first ever Amtrak trip last week. I took the Southwest Chief from LA to NM and it was such an amazing experience. I felt prepared thanks to your videos! Thanks so much 😁
Two months ago I took my 3rd ride on the Southwest Chief from KC to LA. We had a couple of short scenic bus rides to take us on to Sacramento, which was very enjoyable. I’d like to take the California Zephyr next time. Thanks for the heads up about their observation car. True, the Southwest Chief doesn’t monitor theirs. I love the fact that you two are totally on point and very helpful. Thank you‼️❣️‼️
For my weeklong vacation in May 2024, I booked with the notion that long distance trains are going to be late, especially getting to their endpoints. When I take the Coast Starlight and transfer to the Texas Eagle, I factored in a late arriving train, and as a result, booked a 1-night hotel room. I did the same thing when transferring in Chicago from the Texas Eagle to the California Zephyr in that I booked a 1-night hotel in Chicago in factoring in a late arriving Texas Eagle in Chicago.
I love train travel. Mostly the Coast Starlight between Oregon and California. Started in Coach and graduated to Roomettes after a stressful week. I'll never go back! Took the Zephyr to Omaha and it was only 1 hour late. Otherwise, never had a problem with being late Actually, being late into Omaha was OK since it was supposed to arrive at 5 am and it got in at 6am. Made it easier to get a cab and breakfast. I love Amtrak and will always choose it over planes. 😊
I haven't taken the train much the past few years, and I enjoyed listening. What the both of you made a lot of sense. I wish that others would follow these "unwritten" rules... such as smoking. I took a train from BWI to FAY and the person that sat next to me got off at every chance to smoke. I got off once to stretch and saw them outside right next to the door. When we got back on, and the person sat down and the stench (from smoking) really bothered me. I am very sensitive to that and my eyes started watering, I got a really bad headache and started having trouble breathing. My next journey on Amtrak is on the Empire Builder in a little less than a month. As far as observation car on California Zephyr, I took this train back in 2016 and there were a few people that were there for many, many hours. They didn't have the courtesy to return to their seat.
Very informative, thank you! Especially the tipping, many people just wouldn't even think about tipping. Some questions about tipping - (1) sleeper car attendants - do they change daily, or do you leave one tip at the end of a mult-day trip? (2) how do you give the tip to the attendant, just hand it to them or is there a box or a place in the room? (3) do you tip in coach on longer trips, are there attendants for that specific car? (4) for dining attendants do you leave the tip at the table like in a restaurant? Thank you so much for your guidance, love your videos.
For dining attendants we just leave it on the table, but for the room attendant it will be the same one the entire trip so we hand it to them when we get off at the end.
When I took the Amtrak from San Diego to Los Angeles the attendant put the card over my head. I went to the snack car and when I came back someone was in my seat. I had to ask the guy to move and he was like oh I want this view and I showed him the ticket above, then he moved
That same thing happened to my son and me when we rode the Northeast Corridor between DC and Philly. The lady who took our seats was rather put off because she wanted to sit by herself without a seat mate. She went back to her original seat two rows behind us and spent the next hour talking on her cellphone loudly. We were happy when we got off the train in Philadelphia.
@@georgemcdowell8302 Yep. We had the misfortune of getting on at San Juan Capistrano going south, not realizing there was a Padres game. I ended up standing while all of the people 30 to 40 years younger than I looked at me the whole way. LOL.
I took my first train ride, encouraged by watching your channel for the last year. It was a short ride so I did coach from Omaha to Denver. It was enjoyable however the bathrooms were filthy and I wasn’t prepared for that. Also, in some ways it reminded of taking greyhound. I’ll definitely get a roomette next time. Im also looking into taking the Rocky Mountaineer next year. 😊
On Amtrak, roomettes on the Superliner (two level) train cars don't have private bathrooms either. They use public bathrooms at the ends of the cars or downstairs...you have to leave your roomette to use them. You would have to get a bedroom on a Superliner train in order to have a private bathroom. On Amtrak trains with Viewliner and Viewliner II cars (used mainly on Eastern US trains), the roomettes DO have a private, enclosed bathroom within the roomette. On Amtrak, it's best to check first to make sure the particular train you are booking has a private bathroom in sleeping accommodations if that's what you are interested in. I don't know anything about the Rocky Mountaineer sleeping accommodation bathrooms. It would be best to make sure about those beforehand as well.
@ C T - You are most candid and informative, but I gave up on Amtrak, years ago, as I just do not understand how they could be so POORLY run. Best Wishes.
I absolutely love you guys! My husband has been suggesting taking a trip on Amtrak and I’ve always said NO EFFING WAY, until now! Your videos have gotten me so excited about booking either a Coast Starlight or California Zephyr trip! I gave him only one condition - a roomette at the bare minimum! Thank you for your very informative input! SUBSCRIBED!
I used to ride the train across the state to visit grandparents when I was 12-13ish in the late 70s - parents thought there would be a better class of kooks on the train vs greyhound bus!😀
You two are so personable and fun !!! I wish I could take my California Zephyr trip down to a family reunion with YOU !!! I have always loved taking the train … as my Grandpa was an engineer for the Union Pacific since the 1910’s … he had an immaculate record too … my Mama used to take us down to the LA Union Pacific Station (it was so FUN !!!) … we would wave goodbye to Grandpa as he took his trains out on a run … There’s nothing like a well run train line … I do, however, miss the beautiful mahogany paneling and more spacious restrooms of the 50’s 60’s & 70’s 🚂Union Pacific RR Line🚞… but I still prefer to take the 🚂train when I can …🛤🚉 Love your well presented & informative videos !!! Bon Voyage
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I should have watched your videos before I recently took my first train trip. My husband and I were in a bedroom but we never really saw any of our car attendants. They didn't help carry luggage, or bring us meals or put the beds down/up for us. I didn't even realize that was their job until watching these videos! We tipped because I had read it was the custom but I don't think I would tip again unless they did the things you mention in your videos. (My husband had to seek out the attendant to meet him then tip him.) I did accidentally hit the call button one time but no one ever came. The button stayed lit on my end until we finished the trip the next day. I am so happy that my gross, 10+ hour delayed trip with a wet floor, dry food, and invisible attendants is not the norm on Amtrak. I do know that the people who were in the bedroom after us had a much cleaner room than we did. It took many Clorox wipes covered in mystery brown before I felt comfortable brushing my teeth in the bedroom sink or leaning my head against anything in that bedroom. We got nearly $1k in vouchers because of all the problems on my trip so I guess we'll have to ride the train again or throw away free money. Honestly, it's a toss up because the train was not a good experience for me. I am glad others have better journeys. I know we'll never get the bedroom again. Sure, the bathroom is nice to have but it is so small that I think I'd rather go down the hall. The room was too cold to even think about using the shower. (Texas Eagle from AUS To LAX.)
Good point about the vouchers - if you don't use them, they are actually no compensation at all. And I bet a lot of people don't bother. Here in the UK, we get proper refunds (actual money) if trains are late or cancelled. We don't get the sort of delays you get in the US, as our system prioritises passenger trains over freight, and journeys are usually much shorter, but there are still plenty of delays and cancelations that meet the rules for claiming. We took a trip from our home in SE England to York last year (about a 3-4 hour journey overall), and our train to London was cancelled, which meant that we mised our connection. Then our train from London to York was delayed, but it got there literally 55 minutes late (it has to be over an hour to claim!), so we assumed we wouldn't be able to get refund. But it turned out that it's the whole journey that counts, not just the actual train that was delayed, so we were well over an hour late and got a full refund. Being late wasn't actually much of a problem for us, so we effectively travelled to York for free, for no real inconvenience! It's not always like that, though - a journey home from Scotland a few months later was hell (broken down train, long diversion, home 5 hours late - all with an ill child) and no amount of compensation would have made up for that.
great advice! fyi, the Coast Starlight has to yield to freight traffic (BNSF), so is almost always late. If you are traveling between Vancouver BC - Seattle - Portland - Eugene OR, you should make sure you are on the Amtrak Cascades... which does not have to give way to freight trains, so is almost always on time.
Since Amtrak has started assigning seats in coach, I've had bad experiences. I'm too shy to ask to be moved. I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but Seattle to Los Angeles is too long to endure body odor, crazy politics, or helping an elderly person to the restroom again and again. Even when there are empty seats, I'm always paired with another person who's travelling a long distance. Like we're expected to bond and become besties.
Questions. on tipping: Do you tip room attendant daily? In the dining car, do you have the same server daily - should you tip daily and how/who to tip if dining in your room? Room attendant or dining car? Love your content! Can’t wait to take my first train trip.
When I traveled this summer, I tipped my room attendant $5 if they brought my meal to my room, and again at the end of the trip. In the dining car, I tipped $3 at breakfast and lunch, and $5 at dinner, left on the table at the end of the meal. Before I left Chicago, I went to the bank and got $25 in ones and $40 in 5s, and all my tips came out of that envelope.
We just tip the room attendant at the end of the trip when we get off, kind of add it all up. We do the dining car at each meal because you might get a different attendant the next day or last day, and it can be hard to track them down at the end of the trip. Your room attendant will help you get off the train so you always see them. You could however do it any way you'd like!
I was stuck for a 6 delay on my way to San Fransisco from Colorado because of a freight train. This was my first and last time I will ever ride a passenger train that shares the tracks with freight.
According to my dad (a career railroad guy), military transport trains have priority over all other trains on the USA rails. I'm prepared to believe this. It's relevant in that if there are rail traffic problems, military transports get priority over freight and passenger rail. If that causes a delay in freight/passenger, so be it. Thanks for showing the path forward. Robert in NYC.
When I was a child the bathroom on a train was licked when we passed through towns because the tiolet just dumped onto the tracks when out if towns. No holding tanks. This was back in the mid 1960s🤔
We traveled on the Auto Train from Sanford to Lorton in a Family suite and someone around us kept lighting up their cigarettes throughout the entire trip. The attendant announced many times for people to go to the smoking car but this individual refused. I came off that train looking green and unable to breathe well from their lack of courtesy. We have not ridden the Auto Train again since that misadventure. Our suggestion is to put smoke alarms in each of the cabins so they go off if someone lights up and then the attendant would know where the smoker was located. Our attendant claimed he did not know who was smoking. Terrible train experience.
Something we have learned. We have only gotten a bedroom once, we bid on an upgrade from Roomette and got it but our son was traveling with us but he was in coach and they let us move him into the bedroom with us (don't ask me why I did this). The bottom bunk does not really hold 2, my husband and I joke that we can share a twin which we can but this is not even the size of a twin. I was stuck against the wall and the straps kept my husband from rolling on to the floor. But the worst thing was that you sleep perpendicular to the tracks in the bedroom. Which means it is like jumping up and down for your bladder with the movement of the train, I was happy to the have toilet in the room for the 5 times I had to crawl out and use it. On the Roomette you are sleeping parallel to the train - hubby on top with his cpap - he has figured out how to get it up there and secure and me on the bottom. You roll back and forth slightly which is less taxing on the bladder. Just and FYI. We really wanted to sleep together on the bottom but the bed is simply not even close to big enough and we sleep entangled all night but in the bedroom we had to coordinate our turning and me crawling out as not to disturb him was difficult. LOL - I often wonder how the family bedroom differs. We like the roomettes though. Heading to Dallas in March.
Very useful suggestions. Should be common sense but sadly not everyone would think like that. Dread to think how an evacuation would have gone with that baggage on the stairs!
I'd like to add an unwritten rule that should stand for any travel situation: be reasonable at the counter. I was riding long trip from Ohio to DC down to Jacksonville and had my railroad frequency scanner on my earbuds and was just hanging out. If was about 2am and we pulled into some station in Georgia. And we sat and we sat. Finally over the scanner I hear the conductor ask what the holdup was and the station said a big family with a lot of kids and a lot of luggage and no tickets had shown up at the counter at the last instant and it was taking a while. Another long time goes by and the conductor said well, what do you want us to do? And the station said, well they are being a real [delight,] and it would be all the same with the station if the train left. And..the train left. Be on time. Have your ticket. If you're asking a lot in the middle of the night, BE NICE. Or, the train might literally sail on out of there for no other reason but you were rude. I'm sure they didn't realize a passenger was listening :)
I wish people that people in Coach would not use the Observation car as a bed at night. That was one thing I experienced both heading to LA and heading to NY.
I worked freight for over a decade. We were in big trouble if we delayed Amtrak. Seems like things have changed because Amtrak I have ridden often is stopped for freight. Other than that I love riding the train. Just be patient and meet the people. The food is not the greatest the bathrooms get pretty dirty on long routes. Take had cleaner and wipes with you, deal with it.
Just to expand on 03:38: The reason why the seats are so far apart is because they can be rotated to face a specific direction, and the size of the seats themselves means a lot of space is needed to allow for this - Look at the space behind the last row in coach for a general idea of just how much, though this does mean the space behind the last seat also doubles as a luggage rack. 🧳 N.B: Although it _is_ possible to rotate the seats yourself if you know how to do so, this generally isn't permitted on Amtrak or Renfe, and if you need this done (e.g: To make a bay of four for a family group) it's best to ask the carriage host. When it comes to temperature at 02:12 this is because the carriage uses a single heating unit that serves all rooms, and the room adjuster simply controls a baffle which switches between convection (For warmth) or no-convection (cool). I understand that a few of the SuperLiner coaches (for whatever reason) might've been built here in the UK, and with British heating systems like they are the temperature options in those will be as follows: _Cold, Cold, Cold_ ...And _Baltic_ 🥶🚃😉 Talking of British things - Or rather; Tips for British visitors - *Don't forget to tip!* Our culture is the exact opposite of the U.S. in this regard, and this can be such an easy mistake for British visitors to make. ⚠ Finally: If - Like me - You're highly accustomed to European rail systems where speeds of 320km/h and close punctuality are commonplace, there is a one-word rule for using Amtrak... _...Don't!_ 🐌💨🚂😉
Pro-tip if you're taking the Amtrak Accela train from Boston, through NYC, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and then Washington DC. Some trains have a "quiet car." You're not supposed to have phone conversations or play music. Use headphones, and move to another car if you need to talk on the phone!
Amtrak is very accommodating to the handicapped. Yes they have bathrooms for handicapped. It would be against the law if they didn’t. They will also ride you to your car if needed. It’s a long walk to the train. 😊
Yes, both in coach and on the lower level of 2 level sleeper cars (where the accessible rooms are). Call the 1-800 number to verify coach wheel chair accommodations - sometimes these get reserved early.
I don't get people who book things too close together. If I have to have a layover in an Airport, I try to allow 2 hours between flights. I'd have the proportional time allowance for a train ride.
You might want to plan a day between. Unless you are supposed to arrive early in the morning and your connection is schedule for that afternoon or evening. There are times when the train has been as much as 6 or 7 hours late. It was because of an accident or train problems. Even Bob and Allie had one that was 9 hours late. Amtrak made up for it by giving them a voucher for another trip but the missed their connection. It doesn’t happen often but if you really need to be somewhere else later, plan your trip accordingly. 😊
I'm going on an Amtrak trip for the first time, from Pasco, WA to Chicago on the Empire Builder. I am doing coach but I snore a lot. How is the ambient noise of the train - how noticeable will my snoring be, I guess I'm trying to ask?
ELOISHA SHALOM 0 seconds ago THANKS FOR THE INFO. BUT WE REALLY NEED TO KNOW HOW TO MAKE RESERVATIONS. EXAMPLE, IF WE GET A FAMILY ROOM, HOW MANY TRAVELERS SHOULD BE REGISTER? 2? 3?
Hello Grounded Life Travel: My Husband has Leukemia, and we'd like to eat all our meals in our room, for our upcoming Empire Builder Trip. How would I let my sleeper car attendant know this? Should I call in advance to the 800#? How should I increase tipping to compensate? I typically do $20/night to my sleeper car attendant. Will I just be tipping my sleeping car attendant, since I won't be leaving tips at the dining car table? Thank you for giving me a place to ask my question. I don't want to be rude to the poor people working their hearts out right now, but I also want to stay safe during this phase of the pandemic.
Hello, yes you can eat in your room, you can just let your attendant know once you are on board and it won't be a problem. Yes, you'll only be tipping your room attendant in that instance, so you could increase it if you like, but $20 per night is probably already considered generous. Hope you have a great trip!
I actually had been assigned a seat but the man who was sitting in my assigned seat went to the bathroom and got very aggressive with me and the person he was sitting with before. I felt bad for the guy sitting next to him as this person was clearly on drugs of some kind. I went to a staff member of Amtrak and they gave me a new seat and made sure I had my ticket. I guess it varies.
Retiring soon. Plan to take scenic Trains! Wud a Loop like California Zephyr, Coastal Star and return to Chicago on Empire Builder be Good or too much? How much time between each Legs? When wud be good time of year? I've heard South side of Zephyr is better? Left side heading West? Is Westbound or Eastbound better on either route? Scenery and or when is light vs dark? What type of food is available if riding coach not in sleeper? I am thinking Coach? I am a Solo traveler and package tours or based on dbl Occ and charge almost entire fare for solo tour.
there may be quiet hours but when the doors slam going to the restroom in the middle of the night because they can't be closed that has to be annoying and disturbing ...
My experience on Amtrak is that the other passengers are better behaved than on an airplane. Maybe it's because they haven't been treated like cattle beforehand, maybe it's because they have a little bit more room, maybe just everything is more relaxed on a train and less stressful. But that's my experience.
Certainly people who take the train in the US are a self selected group. On the Southwest Chief there were a lot of Amish, often in the sightseeing car so I think they were in coach. There were always lots of seats in that car even though the train was sold out, unlike on the California Zephyr.
This video should be required viewing for all passengers. Really good insights. I booked a round trip on the Zephyr for this November because of the content from this channel. I hope to share a table with anyone in the dining car that watched this video! Happy trails! Thanks and praise!
I love the comment about luggage. They failed to mention that if you are getting on at a non-manned station and you have a lot of bags, you cannot check them.
Disabled with autism here. I love the train, particularly going cross country. (orlando - seattle). The train is a portable, Self contained little world, like the Starship Enterprise. I like having two seats to myself in the very back 'cause it's like having my own little Crew quarters module. But there's no way I'm going to eat with other people. not only don't I like other people Because they're not interesting, but I have a malfunctioning social interaction interface unit, and so they always find me weird, odd, strange, disturbing, and peculiar. Also my uncomfortableness makes them uncomfortable , and I notice it. From my experiences with them, when I'm with other people I am forced to talk to, I just want to escape. So I refuse to eat In that car unless I can be alone. The hell with the normals. I don't like normal people. I would absolutely love to try one of those Roometts, but I'm not paying $500 for $70 trip. Dat's that's boo shee-yit.
May be not appropriate for some folks but my avatar is my wife and I , it is good to see a mixed couple on RUclips. We had 43 years before her death in 2020.
The porters & car attendants were incredibly helpful when I traveled with my husband, who had very poor mobility, getting him a ramp, switching his seating to the lower part of the car, with the restrooms in close proximity. On another occasion, when we had a roomette, the porter thoughtfully brought a meal down from the dining car for my husband. Shhhh! Not sure that was allowed, but the compassion shown was really appreciated.
People need to lock the bathroom doors when they are in use. I’ve walked in one somebody on the train who didn’t lock the door, so it said it was open. I just assumed it was common sense, unless it was a child, to lock the door. Although this was a grown woman. Please lock the door and don’t scream when someone walks in.
I have done many train trips and once the lock didn't engage and the attendant walked in on me, I had thought I locked it and after wards we checked and it was faulty. Luckily I often wear dresses so nothing was at all showing he was far more embarrassed than I was.
Just found you; thank you so much. Fun and informative. I’m a fossil. My first train trip was in 1948 as I recall, Sioux City, Iowa, to Chicago, connecting service to Milwaukee. We were late arriving in Chicago (snowstorm) and had to run for the Milwaukee Road, which was creeping out of station and crammed with Great Lakes sailors on Christmas leave going home. The conductor found us a spot in the bar car. Mother squished between exuberant sailors and I slept on the table top cushioned and covered by damp pea coats. We arrived in Milwaukee sometime near dawn to several feet of new snow. The conductor kept track of mother and me, and helped us off the train and into the station past massive snowdrifts. I loved it all I cannot imagine another mode of public transportation that would have accommodated a diminutive woman with a small child and big bags, especially in that hectic crush. This began a love affair with the rails which has lasted. You’ve made me think that I might still be able to physically manage another rail journey. I will contact Amtrak and inquire. Possibly I can skip sleeping on a table in a lounge car this time. Thank you so much for your channel. I will certainly travel with you in spirit.
You come across as such nice people, and so knowledgeable, and so generous with your observations. As if sitting across from you, thank you. It was been very nice meeting you. And what great spokespeople you are for Amtrak. Wishing you many more safe and enjoyable adventures.
Suggestion for people who get cold easily. In the cafe car, you can buy a sleep pack. Which includes: blanket, earplugs, neck pillow, and a sleep mask that go over the eyes.
I've decided for future travel to book 2 roomettes vs. a larger suite. I think we're too old to climb up into the top bunk, so 2 lower bunks should be better, plus, we can check out the view from both sides of the train. The shared bathroom is larger than the bathroom in the bedroom. That bathroom was almost funny and if my rear end was 2" larger.. IDK if I would have fit. I have to give a big shout out to the crew on the sleeper, though, because I had an emergency and everyone was AWESOME in dealing with it. GO AMTRAK!
I recently rode the California Capitol Corridor from Sacramento to Davis. $9 and didn't charge me for my bicycle. Yes, a simple 15-minute ride, but so much fun. Was able to hang out with friends, then rode my bicycle the distance home. I LOVE TRAINS. Thanks for your videos. -- I also did a coach round trip from Sac to SLC last summer. Was a blast. Only cost $25 each way to bring my bike. Rode all around SLC.
I took two nieces from Florida to DC roundtrip and on the way home we got delayed in Savannah for over 5 hours because a freight train had a several cars derail up the line. The staff were super nice and kept us up to speed with news about the situation throughout the delay. A few days after the trip, Amtrak Customer Service called me and gave me a $500. voucher. I was thrilled of course but it never even occurred to me to ask for one because the delay was not something Amtrak could control. We had planned our trip to account for possible delays anyway. I mean, if I'm being honest, an excuse to sit and sleep/read for five hours was sort of okay by me! :) We were wiped out from our DC trip anyway. Also, I did see the "overflowing" trash bins in the bathrooms. Now I know to check to see if they are really overflowing or just deceiving me.
I recall our train having to give way to the freight trains, on one of my train trips. It made us very late, to Chicago, and we missed our connections heading east. We were offered alternative travel arrangements, which worked just fine. Thankfully.
My wife took Amtrak from Orem, Utah to Denver and it was in the dead of winter. The "station" was more like an old bus stop. There was no place to go inside to get warm. She stood there until 5 a.m. and the train finally showed up. It was over 5 hours late. It's something she'll never forget.
IME many of Amtraks stations - Especially those on lines owned/operated by freight lines (BNSF, UP et-al) - Are generally nothing more than a paved or packed dirt area, possibly with a bus shelter if you're really lucky. Most of the service Amtrak provides on these routes is statutory (We call it „Parliamentary service“ here in the UK) so there's little or no money for station facilities at all. My tips: Expect nothing at the station, and go prepared. Indeed; If the train might arrive in darkness, take a *white* light to signal the driver as they approach - The more advance notice they get of the need to stop, the easier it is for them. (After all; Do *you* know the stopping distance for a 750 ton train in variable weather conditions? 😇)
Thanks for all your helpful advice. My husband and I are leaving next week on our bucket trip, and we never would have attempted it if I hadn't stumbled across your videos. What I most appreciated was your advise on the closest hotels to various Amtrak stops and tipping suggestions. No matter how delayed the trains may be, we're going to have the time of our lives!
I appreciate your videos. On this one with the unwritten rules I think if you abide by what is called the Golden Rule, things will be just fine. Do unto others as you would like Others to do unto you.
Thanks for the helpful tips❤👍 Glad that an agreement was made and we didn’t have a rail strike in the US 🎉 Our economy couldn’t afford it. Most Amtrak passages do not know the rails are owned and maintained by commercial freight lines.
Most people have no idea how Amtrak works at all. One of the most confusing things is the fact that the Texas Eagle and the Sunset Limited are the same train from LA to San Antonio, but have different train numbers. Say what? There are two trains? (NOT.)
@@shanson786 Sure, they're "virtual machines" sharing hardware. I understand the confusion, though, as I'm from the era where "one train, one number" was the norm. It's probably less confusing than issuing a segmented ticket where it would appear that the rider would have to de-train and re-board even though though the consist changed only with the addition of cars.
I can't afford to travel right now, but the info about the temperature control is really helpful. Eek, I'd rather freeze than be sweltering! (That's why I wish trains could have windows that open at least a crack!) Thank you for being considerate about that! Most people wouldn't care that temps were changed for everyone, as long as they were comfortable.
Those open windows, even open just a crack, would be a lot less desirable at 80 miles an hour. One of those undesirable things is the pulsing effect created as air pressure inside the vehicle changes and then airflow at the window repeatedly breaks and gets reestablished. Plus, in the days right up to Amtrak, when there were still daily-use railroad coaches, especially on some commuter lines, which had opening windows, the influx of dust raised by the train was an issue.
@@alonespirit9923 In Belgium until around 1980 all coaches had opening windows, and trains were riding close to 90 miles per hour (in Belgium this is called 140 km/h).
one thing i can suggest (especially if you are going to be bringing alot of snacks and things with you on those longer trips) is bring a couple of kitchen size garbage bags... when i travel my trash is in that bag and during a fresh air stop i seek out an attendant to either dump and save the bag or just dispose of the whole thing if it is necessary :). they are so correct about those tiny trash bins they can be annoying and i have caught myself gloving up and cleaning out a restroom that was just so incredibly gorked and it usually was containable in that kitchen sized bag... as others have said the attendants really do go above and beyond in most cases so its kind of a feel good thing (for me) to help them out :)
You two are so personable and fun !!! I wish I could take my California Zephyr trip down to a family reunion with YOU !!! I have always loved taking the train … as my Grandpa was an engineer for the Union Pacific since the 1910’s … he had an immaculate record too … my Mama used to take us down to the LA Union Pacific Station (it was so FUN !!!) … we would wave goodbye to Grandpa as he took his trains out on a run … There’s nothing like a well run train line … I do, however, miss the beautiful mahogany paneling and more spacious restrooms of the 50’s 60’s & 70’s 🚂Union Pacific RR Line🚞… but I still prefer to take the 🚂train when I can …🛤🚉 Love your well presented & informative videos !!! Bon Voyage
Been on Amtrak a number of years back. Took the sleeper and knew the food came with the sleeper. Noticed people tipping several different employees. The cook was friendly and social. At one point he just assumed he would get a tip from me and I just wasn't prepared for that. He showed a brief disappointment but went about his normal routine without any dismay. That experience alone enticed me to watch this video. If I knew about the tipping I would've given a grateful amount.
Wish I thought about calling for compensation for late arrivals ... I'd be riding for free "a lot" as those long haul routes are usually many hours behind schedule. I did learn my lesson (the hard way) about planning connections for the day of arrival, usually not gonna happen. I book a room and get a nights rest before moving on the next day. Otherwise, all your info was spot on 👊🏻
If you ride was then less a year old, you can still try and maybe get a vocher for a future trip. If longer that a year ago, I would just wait untill your next trip, and trip was not great make sure you call the next day after getting of the train.
Sleeping car attendants go above and beyond, and are generally willing to help with things outside the scope of their duties if you ask nicely. On a Christmas Eve trip from LA to New Orleans aboard the Sunset Limited, our car attendant allowed us use the attendant break room to wrap gifts for our 10-year-old twin sons while they slept, and found a big red bag that she put the wrapped gifts in before delivering them to our table at breakfast the next morning, which was Christmas day. She told my astonished, wide-eyed kids that Santa had met the train in San Antonio the night before and dropped off their gifts. Patty helped us keep the magic for our kids for another few years, and earned a million thanks from us.
That is soooo sweet. Now I need to go find some kids
That is so cool! Love the story!
@@ediewall6360they found the right cart attendants I couldn't imagine lying to kids
Great story! Thanks for sharing
That’s great unless there were other kids on the train whose parents didn’t have their gifts on the train.
One point I'd add: yes, be courteous to your fellow passengers (especially your seatmate and dining companions, if applicable). But if you're a "chatty Cathy" type, keep in mind that not everyone is. Amtrak likes to push "meeting new friends" on the train, but not everyone is a social butterfly. I'll be nice to you, because I do enjoy a good conversation for a while, but there will come a time when I've had enough -- and I'm sure I speak for many other introverts!
I'm very introverted and would prefer to eat alone at my own table, but the last time I was sat next to other people and I must admit it was delightful. The other people were wonderful and afterwards I was glad that I was sort of forced to be socialable.
Yes, very understandable! We've always been glad afterwards too. Thanks for sharing your experiences!
@@GroundedLifeTravel Which is the least favored time amongst passengers for meal reservations - is it towards the end of dining hours? Or the beginning times?
Sometimes, I still prefer to eat alone and/or at the least inconvenience to the train crew and fellow passengers. Thanks a bunch!
I thought the same thing the first time i took a long distance train. And had the same experience. Many years and train rides later have come to realize thats part of the joy of ld train travel meeting all kinds of different people who are not going anywhere in a hurry
It’s hit or miss. I got seated with an elderly couple who were fine and next to a woman who said she was South African but was from the Carolinas and was talking about the South Africa of old as a good thing. I tuned her out after dashing her stories as BS. She didn’t anticipate someone who knew that her story was so outdated and racist.
As an Aussie having visited the US 6 times now, I have really enjoyed my Amtrak journeys. Comfortable, picturesque views out the windows, great way to meet others. Have met some wonderful US residents. Thx for letting me reminisce. 😊
I want to do do the Indian Pacific through the Nullabor Plain. I think the plain would be cool for about 30 minutes, and then a good time to take a nap.
My husband and I are both older and a bit on the shy side. We are generally quiet and keep our conversations private when we are sharing a space with others. On our first trip on the Coast Starlight we were really not looking forward to sharing a table with strangers. But, it ended up being a wonderful experience. We encountered everything from a young couple covered in tattoos and piercings to older professionals. We were very fortunate because, to a person, they were all very nice and interesting. I distinctly remember that young couple. When I saw them My hear sank because I just KNEW we would get seated with them. And, we did. They’ve ended up being the most memorable dining guests. Just another lesson to stop judging people on how they look. You would think that at my age I would know better but I guess we all need a refresher course now and then. I no longer fret over sharing a table. I would also have no problem whatsoever asking to be moved or taking my meal to my room if I encountered belligerent, rude, racist or generally nasty dining guests. I might be shy but I don’t tolerate the company of jerks.
It goes to show a picture doesn't tell the whole story. Something my parents taught me
My husband and I have been watching you’re channel for a few months now, and we love it!!! We took our first Amtrak trip on the “Southwest Chief” a week ago. We had a blast!! We already have our second trip on the Empire Builder reserved for November. Your channel has been absolutely invaluable. We stayed in a bedroom, which was perfect. Almost reserved a roomette, but after watching one of your videos we changed to bedroom. Thank God. LoL it would have been too small for us. Please keep the content coming, great work!!! Thank you! ❤
Thanks so much! Glad you really enjoyed your trip! The Empire Builder is one of our favorites! It is such a beautiful route, you should have a great time!
How was your Empire Builder? I need to go from Olympic Peninsula to Spokane. So will be taking it ( only b/c I do not want to drive over Cascades in the winter) before spring.
I second that! We are going on our first auto train ride soon. I’m so thankful to have found this channel.
I am an occasional AMTRAK passenger. I like to travel first class. My most recent trip was last June, traveled on the California Zephyr McCook NE to Sacramento, then on the Coast Starlight to Seattle, Returned via reverse route. Had a good time, I am a retired locomotive engineer who loves trains, and it is nice having someone else do the driving.
Regarding your comments about trying to make up time enroute: Many long-distance trains have to make connections with other trains enroute. Spending too much time enroute could result in a missed connection.
I've learned to add about 15% to my expected trip duration. While it's not always needed, it has saved me some stress in the past.
I got back from my first ever Amtrak trip last week. I took the Southwest Chief from LA to NM and it was such an amazing experience. I felt prepared thanks to your videos! Thanks so much 😁
Glad you had a great trip!
I've taken that train several times to visit my son at Ft Carson. I loved it both ways.
Two months ago I took my 3rd ride on the Southwest Chief from KC to LA. We had a couple of short scenic bus rides to take us on to Sacramento, which was very enjoyable. I’d like to take the California Zephyr next time. Thanks for the heads up about their observation car. True, the Southwest Chief doesn’t monitor theirs. I love the fact that you two are totally on point and very helpful. Thank you‼️❣️‼️
Thanks so much!
For my weeklong vacation in May 2024, I booked with the notion that long distance trains are going to be late, especially getting to their endpoints. When I take the Coast Starlight and transfer to the Texas Eagle, I factored in a late arriving train, and as a result, booked a 1-night hotel room. I did the same thing when transferring in Chicago from the Texas Eagle to the California Zephyr in that I booked a 1-night hotel in Chicago in factoring in a late arriving Texas Eagle in Chicago.
I love how so many of these are just common courtesy and common sense.
True!
But if you don't have an overview of how it all works, it is hard to know what would strike others as courteous.
@@653j521 no
I love train travel. Mostly the Coast Starlight between Oregon and California. Started in Coach and graduated to Roomettes after a stressful week. I'll never go back! Took the Zephyr to Omaha and it was only 1 hour late. Otherwise, never had a problem with being late
Actually, being late into Omaha was OK since it was supposed to arrive at 5 am and it got in at 6am. Made it easier to get a cab and breakfast. I love Amtrak and will always choose it over planes. 😊
great tips. Sometimes it helps to be reminded of the courtesies which should be - but are not - commonly known.
Thanks!
Love your channel! When my train is late I just am thankful for more train time without more cost. :)
I've written amtrak a lot and I still learned some great stuff from this video. Thanks so much for the info.
Very welcome! Thanks for watching!
What a delightful couple ! VERY helpful, informative videos. THANK you.
I haven't taken the train much the past few years, and I enjoyed listening. What the both of you made a lot of sense. I wish that others would follow these "unwritten" rules... such as smoking. I took a train from BWI to FAY and the person that sat next to me got off at every chance to smoke. I got off once to stretch and saw them outside right next to the door. When we got back on, and the person sat down and the stench (from smoking) really bothered me. I am very sensitive to that and my eyes started watering, I got a really bad headache and started having trouble breathing. My next journey on Amtrak is on the Empire Builder in a little less than a month.
As far as observation car on California Zephyr, I took this train back in 2016 and there were a few people that were there for many, many hours. They didn't have the courtesy to return to their seat.
Very informative, thank you! Especially the tipping, many people just wouldn't even think about tipping. Some questions about tipping - (1) sleeper car attendants - do they change daily, or do you leave one tip at the end of a mult-day trip? (2) how do you give the tip to the attendant, just hand it to them or is there a box or a place in the room? (3) do you tip in coach on longer trips, are there attendants for that specific car? (4) for dining attendants do you leave the tip at the table like in a restaurant?
Thank you so much for your guidance, love your videos.
For dining attendants we just leave it on the table, but for the room attendant it will be the same one the entire trip so we hand it to them when we get off at the end.
When I took the Amtrak from San Diego to Los Angeles the attendant put the card over my head. I went to the snack car and when I came back someone was in my seat. I had to ask the guy to move and he was like oh I want this view and I showed him the ticket above, then he moved
The Pacific Surfliner can get to the point where people are standing in the aisles, so guard your seat between L.A. & San Diego.
Thanks for sharing your story, I'm sure that will help someone that reads it!
That same thing happened to my son and me when we rode the Northeast Corridor between DC and Philly. The lady who took our seats was rather put off because she wanted to sit by herself without a seat mate. She went back to her original seat two rows behind us and spent the next hour talking on her cellphone loudly. We were happy when we got off the train in Philadelphia.
@@georgemcdowell8302 Yep. We had the misfortune of getting on at San Juan Capistrano going south, not realizing there was a Padres game. I ended up standing while all of the people 30 to 40 years younger than I looked at me the whole way. LOL.
Last time we rode in the coach car we brought signs saying “reserved” with us and put them on our seats when we got up. Seemed to work well.
I took my first train ride, encouraged by watching your channel for the last year. It was a short ride so I did coach from Omaha to Denver. It was enjoyable however the bathrooms were filthy and I wasn’t prepared for that. Also, in some ways it reminded of taking greyhound. I’ll definitely get a roomette next time. Im also looking into taking the Rocky Mountaineer next year. 😊
Thanks for sharing your trip with us!
On Amtrak, roomettes on the Superliner (two level) train cars don't have private bathrooms either. They use public bathrooms at the ends of the cars or downstairs...you have to leave your roomette to use them. You would have to get a bedroom on a Superliner train in order to have a private bathroom. On Amtrak trains with Viewliner and Viewliner II cars (used mainly on Eastern US trains), the roomettes DO have a private, enclosed bathroom within the roomette. On Amtrak, it's best to check first to make sure the particular train you are booking has a private bathroom in sleeping accommodations if that's what you are interested in. I don't know anything about the Rocky Mountaineer sleeping accommodation bathrooms. It would be best to make sure about those beforehand as well.
@ C T - You are most candid and informative, but I gave up on Amtrak, years ago, as I just do not understand how they could be so POORLY run.
Best Wishes.
I absolutely love you guys! My husband has been suggesting taking a trip on Amtrak and I’ve always said NO EFFING WAY, until now! Your videos have gotten me so excited about booking either a Coast Starlight or California Zephyr trip! I gave him only one condition - a roomette at the bare minimum! Thank you for your very informative input! SUBSCRIBED!
I used to ride the train across the state to visit grandparents when I was 12-13ish in the late 70s - parents thought there would be a better class of kooks on the train vs greyhound bus!😀
You two are so personable and fun !!! I wish I could take my California Zephyr trip down to a family reunion with YOU !!! I have always loved taking the train … as my Grandpa was an engineer for the Union Pacific since the 1910’s … he had an immaculate record too … my Mama used to take us down to the LA Union Pacific Station (it was so FUN !!!) … we would wave goodbye to Grandpa as he took his trains out on a run …
There’s nothing like a well run train line … I do, however, miss the beautiful mahogany paneling and more spacious restrooms of the 50’s 60’s & 70’s 🚂Union Pacific RR Line🚞… but I still prefer to take the 🚂train when I can …🛤🚉
Love your well presented & informative videos !!!
Bon Voyage
frequently on sale, highly recommend Anker brand phone charger batteries, they come in anything from small cylinders to an absolute brick the size of a hardback book that would probably power a phone (or recharge it) for several days. But the makers of this video sometimes mention they have product promotions and links on their site, not trying to undercut that, but Anker is pretty good stuff.
I should have watched your videos before I recently took my first train trip. My husband and I were in a bedroom but we never really saw any of our car attendants. They didn't help carry luggage, or bring us meals or put the beds down/up for us. I didn't even realize that was their job until watching these videos! We tipped because I had read it was the custom but I don't think I would tip again unless they did the things you mention in your videos. (My husband had to seek out the attendant to meet him then tip him.) I did accidentally hit the call button one time but no one ever came. The button stayed lit on my end until we finished the trip the next day. I am so happy that my gross, 10+ hour delayed trip with a wet floor, dry food, and invisible attendants is not the norm on Amtrak. I do know that the people who were in the bedroom after us had a much cleaner room than we did. It took many Clorox wipes covered in mystery brown before I felt comfortable brushing my teeth in the bedroom sink or leaning my head against anything in that bedroom. We got nearly $1k in vouchers because of all the problems on my trip so I guess we'll have to ride the train again or throw away free money. Honestly, it's a toss up because the train was not a good experience for me. I am glad others have better journeys. I know we'll never get the bedroom again. Sure, the bathroom is nice to have but it is so small that I think I'd rather go down the hall. The room was too cold to even think about using the shower. (Texas Eagle from AUS To LAX.)
Good point about the vouchers - if you don't use them, they are actually no compensation at all. And I bet a lot of people don't bother. Here in the UK, we get proper refunds (actual money) if trains are late or cancelled. We don't get the sort of delays you get in the US, as our system prioritises passenger trains over freight, and journeys are usually much shorter, but there are still plenty of delays and cancelations that meet the rules for claiming.
We took a trip from our home in SE England to York last year (about a 3-4 hour journey overall), and our train to London was cancelled, which meant that we mised our connection. Then our train from London to York was delayed, but it got there literally 55 minutes late (it has to be over an hour to claim!), so we assumed we wouldn't be able to get refund. But it turned out that it's the whole journey that counts, not just the actual train that was delayed, so we were well over an hour late and got a full refund. Being late wasn't actually much of a problem for us, so we effectively travelled to York for free, for no real inconvenience! It's not always like that, though - a journey home from Scotland a few months later was hell (broken down train, long diversion, home 5 hours late - all with an ill child) and no amount of compensation would have made up for that.
great advice!
fyi, the Coast Starlight has to yield to freight traffic (BNSF), so is almost always late. If you are traveling between Vancouver BC - Seattle - Portland - Eugene OR, you should make sure you are on the Amtrak Cascades... which does not have to give way to freight trains, so is almost always on time.
Since Amtrak has started assigning seats in coach, I've had bad experiences. I'm too shy to ask to be moved. I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but Seattle to Los Angeles is too long to endure body odor, crazy politics, or helping an elderly person to the restroom again and again. Even when there are empty seats, I'm always paired with another person who's travelling a long distance. Like we're expected to bond and become besties.
Questions. on tipping: Do you tip room attendant daily? In the dining car, do you have the same server daily - should you tip daily and how/who to tip if dining in your room? Room attendant or dining car? Love your content! Can’t wait to take my first train trip.
When I traveled this summer, I tipped my room attendant $5 if they brought my meal to my room, and again at the end of the trip. In the dining car, I tipped $3 at breakfast and lunch, and $5 at dinner, left on the table at the end of the meal. Before I left Chicago, I went to the bank and got $25 in ones and $40 in 5s, and all my tips came out of that envelope.
They do have a video on what you are asking.
We just tip the room attendant at the end of the trip when we get off, kind of add it all up. We do the dining car at each meal because you might get a different attendant the next day or last day, and it can be hard to track them down at the end of the trip. Your room attendant will help you get off the train so you always see them. You could however do it any way you'd like!
I was stuck for a 6 delay on my way to San Fransisco from Colorado because of a freight train. This was my first and last time I will ever ride a passenger train that shares the tracks with freight.
According to my dad (a career railroad guy), military transport trains have priority over all other trains on the USA rails. I'm prepared to believe this. It's relevant in that if there are rail traffic problems, military transports get priority over freight and passenger rail. If that causes a delay in freight/passenger, so be it. Thanks for showing the path forward. Robert in NYC.
Thank you for all of this great train information. I will be able to use most of it in my train travel.
Nice shot of the Albuquerque Transportation Center
When I was a child the bathroom on a train was licked when we passed through towns because the tiolet just dumped onto the tracks when out if towns. No holding tanks. This was back in the mid 1960s🤔
No longer true. Trains have holding tanks now.
We traveled on the Auto Train from Sanford to Lorton in a Family suite and someone around us kept lighting up their cigarettes throughout the entire trip. The attendant announced many times for people to go to the smoking car but this individual refused. I came off that train looking green and unable to breathe well from their lack of courtesy. We have not ridden the Auto Train again since that misadventure. Our suggestion is to put smoke alarms in each of the cabins so they go off if someone lights up and then the attendant would know where the smoker was located. Our attendant claimed he did not know who was smoking. Terrible train experience.
Something we have learned. We have only gotten a bedroom once, we bid on an upgrade from Roomette and got it but our son was traveling with us but he was in coach and they let us move him into the bedroom with us (don't ask me why I did this). The bottom bunk does not really hold 2, my husband and I joke that we can share a twin which we can but this is not even the size of a twin. I was stuck against the wall and the straps kept my husband from rolling on to the floor. But the worst thing was that you sleep perpendicular to the tracks in the bedroom. Which means it is like jumping up and down for your bladder with the movement of the train, I was happy to the have toilet in the room for the 5 times I had to crawl out and use it. On the Roomette you are sleeping parallel to the train - hubby on top with his cpap - he has figured out how to get it up there and secure and me on the bottom. You roll back and forth slightly which is less taxing on the bladder. Just and FYI. We really wanted to sleep together on the bottom but the bed is simply not even close to big enough and we sleep entangled all night but in the bedroom we had to coordinate our turning and me crawling out as not to disturb him was difficult. LOL - I often wonder how the family bedroom differs. We like the roomettes though. Heading to Dallas in March.
Very useful suggestions. Should be common sense but sadly not everyone would think like that. Dread to think how an evacuation would have gone with that baggage on the stairs!
I'd like to add an unwritten rule that should stand for any travel situation: be reasonable at the counter.
I was riding long trip from Ohio to DC down to Jacksonville and had my railroad frequency scanner on my earbuds and was just hanging out. If was about 2am and we pulled into some station in Georgia. And we sat and we sat. Finally over the scanner I hear the conductor ask what the holdup was and the station said a big family with a lot of kids and a lot of luggage and no tickets had shown up at the counter at the last instant and it was taking a while. Another long time goes by and the conductor said well, what do you want us to do? And the station said, well they are being a real [delight,] and it would be all the same with the station if the train left. And..the train left. Be on time. Have your ticket. If you're asking a lot in the middle of the night, BE NICE. Or, the train might literally sail on out of there for no other reason but you were rude. I'm sure they didn't realize a passenger was listening :)
the presenters have mentioned repeatedly that staff will go out of their way if you ask nicely.
Love your channel!
Thanks!
Saw your video. I am considering a train trip. It is nice to know that the train might be late. That way my pickup won't be waiting unnecessarily
I wish people that people in Coach would not use the Observation car as a bed at night. That was one thing I experienced both heading to LA and heading to NY.
Awesome and complete information. Thank you so much for the video!
Where did you say the link was for the ear plugs? Great video by the way
It is on our site, under an article called things you need for your amtrak trip
I worked freight for over a decade. We were in big trouble if we delayed Amtrak. Seems like things have changed because Amtrak I have ridden often is stopped for freight. Other than that I love riding the train. Just be patient and meet the people. The food is not the greatest the bathrooms get pretty dirty on long routes. Take had cleaner and wipes with you, deal with it.
I appriciated the advice thank you
Very helpful. Ty
Great video, thanks!
Just to expand on 03:38: The reason why the seats are so far apart is because they can be rotated to face a specific direction, and the size of the seats themselves means a lot of space is needed to allow for this - Look at the space behind the last row in coach for a general idea of just how much, though this does mean the space behind the last seat also doubles as a luggage rack. 🧳
N.B: Although it _is_ possible to rotate the seats yourself if you know how to do so, this generally isn't permitted on Amtrak or Renfe, and if you need this done (e.g: To make a bay of four for a family group) it's best to ask the carriage host.
When it comes to temperature at 02:12 this is because the carriage uses a single heating unit that serves all rooms, and the room adjuster simply controls a baffle which switches between convection (For warmth) or no-convection (cool). I understand that a few of the SuperLiner coaches (for whatever reason) might've been built here in the UK, and with British heating systems like they are the temperature options in those will be as follows: _Cold, Cold, Cold_ ...And _Baltic_ 🥶🚃😉
Talking of British things - Or rather; Tips for British visitors - *Don't forget to tip!* Our culture is the exact opposite of the U.S. in this regard, and this can be such an easy mistake for British visitors to make. ⚠
Finally: If - Like me - You're highly accustomed to European rail systems where speeds of 320km/h and close punctuality are commonplace, there is a one-word rule for using Amtrak...
_...Don't!_ 🐌💨🚂😉
Very helpful!
Thanks
Thank you. This was very informative.
Glad it was helpful!
First trip for my sister and I on a train. What are the best coach seats on the Crescent from Atlanta to New Orleans and what should I do to get them?
Pro-tip if you're taking the Amtrak Accela train from Boston, through NYC, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and then Washington DC. Some trains have a "quiet car." You're not supposed to have phone conversations or play music. Use headphones, and move to another car if you need to talk on the phone!
Wonderful, as usual. Thank you.
Trying to plan my first trip with my 9yr old daughter. It's only going to be 17-18 hrs if on schedule
Very helpful, thank you very much!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for your info.
You're welcome
I want to take a group of people to LA, California from West Palm Beach next year. What should I do as far as planning? Roomettes look a little small.
Hi to you both , really enjoy your blogs ,just wondering if Amtrak has disabled bathrooms , ,🙂
Amtrak is very accommodating to the handicapped. Yes they have bathrooms for handicapped. It would be against the law if they didn’t. They will also ride you to your car if needed. It’s a long walk to the train. 😊
They do in coach and also have accessible bedrooms
Yes, both in coach and on the lower level of 2 level sleeper cars (where the accessible rooms are). Call the 1-800 number to verify coach wheel chair accommodations - sometimes these get reserved early.
Thanks!
I don't get people who book things too close together. If I have to have a layover in an Airport, I try to allow 2 hours between flights. I'd have the proportional time allowance for a train ride.
You might want to plan a day between. Unless you are supposed to arrive early in the morning and your connection is schedule for that afternoon or evening. There are times when the train has been as much as 6 or 7 hours late. It was because of an accident or train problems. Even Bob and Allie had one that was 9 hours late. Amtrak made up for it by giving them a voucher for another trip but the missed their connection. It doesn’t happen often but if you really need to be somewhere else later, plan your trip accordingly. 😊
@@BH-sn7ws Sounds very solid.
I don't see the links to the earbuds on your website.
I'm going on an Amtrak trip for the first time, from Pasco, WA to Chicago on the Empire Builder. I am doing coach but I snore a lot. How is the ambient noise of the train - how noticeable will my snoring be, I guess I'm trying to ask?
We were on 58 the other day......... the conductor said that they do not have a chef on board yet. Was your food microwaved?
What size luggage can we bring pls
ELOISHA SHALOM
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THANKS FOR THE INFO. BUT WE REALLY NEED TO KNOW HOW TO MAKE RESERVATIONS. EXAMPLE, IF WE GET A FAMILY ROOM, HOW MANY TRAVELERS SHOULD BE REGISTER? 2? 3?
Hello Grounded Life Travel: My Husband has Leukemia, and we'd like to eat all our meals in our room, for our upcoming Empire Builder Trip. How would I let my sleeper car attendant know this? Should I call in advance to the 800#? How should I increase tipping to compensate? I typically do $20/night to my sleeper car attendant. Will I just be tipping my sleeping car attendant, since I won't be leaving tips at the dining car table?
Thank you for giving me a place to ask my question. I don't want to be rude to the poor people working their hearts out right now, but I also want to stay safe during this phase of the pandemic.
Hello, yes you can eat in your room, you can just let your attendant know once you are on board and it won't be a problem. Yes, you'll only be tipping your room attendant in that instance, so you could increase it if you like, but $20 per night is probably already considered generous. Hope you have a great trip!
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thank you!
I actually had been assigned a seat but the man who was sitting in my assigned seat went to the bathroom and got very aggressive with me and the person he was sitting with before. I felt bad for the guy sitting next to him as this person was clearly on drugs of some kind. I went to a staff member of Amtrak and they gave me a new seat and made sure I had my ticket. I guess it varies.
Retiring soon. Plan to take scenic Trains! Wud a Loop like California Zephyr, Coastal Star and return to Chicago on Empire Builder be Good or too much? How much time between each Legs? When wud be good time of year? I've heard South side of Zephyr is better? Left side heading West? Is Westbound or Eastbound better on either route? Scenery and or when is light vs dark? What type of food is available if riding coach not in sleeper? I am thinking Coach? I am a Solo traveler and package tours or based on dbl Occ and charge almost entire fare for solo tour.
Thanks 😊
We had a trip in Nevada on "bad track". Car rocked a good amount. Is this still a problem on some western trains?
Which is the best side to be on for the califronia zepher, chi-cali route?
there may be quiet hours but when the doors slam going to the restroom in the middle of the night because they can't be closed that has to be annoying and disturbing ...
nice
Or all passengers video on camera for security restrictions
I always tell people that if you need to be in a specific place at a specific time, don't take Amtrak.
My experience on Amtrak is that the other passengers are better behaved than on an airplane. Maybe it's because they haven't been treated like cattle beforehand, maybe it's because they have a little bit more room, maybe just everything is more relaxed on a train and less stressful. But that's my experience.
Thanks for sharing
Certainly people who take the train in the US are a self selected group. On the Southwest Chief there were a lot of Amish, often in the sightseeing car so I think they were in coach. There were always lots of seats in that car even though the train was sold out, unlike on the California Zephyr.
This video should be required viewing for all passengers. Really good insights.
I booked a round trip on the Zephyr for this November because of the content from this channel. I hope to share a table with anyone in the dining car that watched this video!
Happy trails!
Thanks and praise!
When in November?
Thanks! Have a great trip!
@@dhawthorne15 east bound on the 10th, west bound on the 15th.
@@skuhskuh6286 you are a couple of weeks before me, I go westbound on November 28th
I love the comment about luggage. They failed to mention that if you are getting on at a non-manned station and you have a lot of bags, you cannot check them.
As an autistic person, this video really helped to lower my anxiety. Thank you!
Disabled with autism here. I love the train, particularly going cross country. (orlando - seattle). The train is a portable, Self contained little world, like the Starship Enterprise. I like having two seats to myself in the very back 'cause it's like having my own little Crew quarters module.
But there's no way I'm going to eat with other people. not only don't I like other people Because they're not interesting, but I have a malfunctioning social interaction interface unit, and so they always find me weird, odd, strange, disturbing, and peculiar. Also my uncomfortableness makes them uncomfortable , and I notice it. From my experiences with them, when I'm with other people I am forced to talk to, I just want to escape.
So I refuse to eat In that car unless I can be alone. The hell with the normals. I don't like normal people.
I would absolutely love to try one of those Roometts, but I'm not paying $500 for $70 trip. Dat's that's boo shee-yit.
May be not appropriate for some folks but my avatar is my wife and I , it is good to see a mixed couple on RUclips. We had 43 years before her death in 2020.
Im sorry for your loss. 43 years is amazing.
These 2 are great. Really cute together.
Sorry for your loss. Very cute profile picture!
You will see her again on a paradise Earth . Rev 21-4
The porters & car attendants were incredibly helpful when I traveled with my husband, who had very poor mobility, getting him a ramp, switching his seating to the lower part of the car, with the restrooms in close proximity. On another occasion, when we had a roomette, the porter thoughtfully brought a meal down from the dining car for my husband. Shhhh! Not sure that was allowed, but the compassion shown was really appreciated.
Not only is it allowed, it is expected. So good for them for doing their jobs.
@@mikeymutual5489 And not JUST doing their jobs. Doing it with grace.
@@653j521 Be happy that they did their jobs in the first place.
People need to lock the bathroom doors when they are in use. I’ve walked in one somebody on the train who didn’t lock the door, so it said it was open. I just assumed it was common sense, unless it was a child, to lock the door. Although this was a grown woman. Please lock the door and don’t scream when someone walks in.
And on planes too. So many times I've seen the occupancy light be green and open the door and there was someone in the restroom.
I have done many train trips and once the lock didn't engage and the attendant walked in on me, I had thought I locked it and after wards we checked and it was faulty. Luckily I often wear dresses so nothing was at all showing he was far more embarrassed than I was.
Just found you; thank you so much. Fun and informative. I’m a fossil. My first train trip was in 1948 as I recall, Sioux City, Iowa, to Chicago, connecting service to Milwaukee. We were late arriving in Chicago (snowstorm) and had to run for the Milwaukee Road, which was creeping out of station and crammed with Great Lakes sailors on Christmas leave going home. The conductor found us a spot in the bar car. Mother squished between exuberant sailors and I slept on the table top cushioned and covered by damp pea coats. We arrived in Milwaukee sometime near dawn to several feet of new snow. The conductor kept track of mother and me, and helped us off the train and into the station past massive snowdrifts. I loved it all I cannot imagine another mode of public transportation that would have accommodated a diminutive woman with a small child and big bags, especially in that hectic crush. This began a love affair with the rails which has lasted. You’ve made me think that I might still be able to physically manage another rail journey. I will contact Amtrak and inquire. Possibly I can skip sleeping on a table in a lounge car this time. Thank you so much for your channel. I will certainly travel with you in spirit.
Do insist, though, on traveling again with exuberant sailors. :)
Haven't been on an overnight train since I was eight (1956) so the information you provide is priceless. Amtrak owes you!
Thanks!
let’s pray that they get adequate time off. we need our rails but they need their sanity
You come across as such nice people, and so knowledgeable, and so generous with your observations. As if sitting across from you, thank you. It was been very nice meeting you. And what great spokespeople you are for Amtrak. Wishing you many more safe and enjoyable adventures.
Suggestion for people who get cold easily. In the cafe car, you can buy a sleep pack. Which includes: blanket, earplugs, neck pillow, and a sleep mask that go over the eyes.
You can also buy most of those things from many Walmarts, and probably at a markedly lower cost than you'd pay on Amtrak... 😇
I've decided for future travel to book 2 roomettes vs. a larger suite. I think we're too old to climb up into the top bunk, so 2 lower bunks should be better, plus, we can check out the view from both sides of the train. The shared bathroom is larger than the bathroom in the bedroom. That bathroom was almost funny and if my rear end was 2" larger.. IDK if I would have fit. I have to give a big shout out to the crew on the sleeper, though, because I had an emergency and everyone was AWESOME in dealing with it. GO AMTRAK!
I recently rode the California Capitol Corridor from Sacramento to Davis. $9 and didn't charge me for my bicycle. Yes, a simple 15-minute ride, but so much fun. Was able to hang out with friends, then rode my bicycle the distance home. I LOVE TRAINS. Thanks for your videos. -- I also did a coach round trip from Sac to SLC last summer. Was a blast. Only cost $25 each way to bring my bike. Rode all around SLC.
I took two nieces from Florida to DC roundtrip and on the way home we got delayed in Savannah for over 5 hours because a freight train had a several cars derail up the line. The staff were super nice and kept us up to speed with news about the situation throughout the delay. A few days after the trip, Amtrak Customer Service called me and gave me a $500. voucher. I was thrilled of course but it never even occurred to me to ask for one because the delay was not something Amtrak could control. We had planned our trip to account for possible delays anyway. I mean, if I'm being honest, an excuse to sit and sleep/read for five hours was sort of okay by me! :) We were wiped out from our DC trip anyway. Also, I did see the "overflowing" trash bins in the bathrooms. Now I know to check to see if they are really overflowing or just deceiving me.
I recall our train having to give way to the freight trains, on one of my train trips. It made us very late, to Chicago, and we missed our connections heading east. We were offered alternative travel arrangements, which worked just fine. Thankfully.
My wife took Amtrak from Orem, Utah to Denver and it was in the dead of winter. The "station" was more like an old bus stop. There was no place to go inside to get warm. She stood there until 5 a.m. and the train finally showed up. It was over 5 hours late. It's something she'll never forget.
IME many of Amtraks stations - Especially those on lines owned/operated by freight lines (BNSF, UP et-al) - Are generally nothing more than a paved or packed dirt area, possibly with a bus shelter if you're really lucky. Most of the service Amtrak provides on these routes is statutory (We call it „Parliamentary service“ here in the UK) so there's little or no money for station facilities at all.
My tips: Expect nothing at the station, and go prepared. Indeed; If the train might arrive in darkness, take a *white* light to signal the driver as they approach - The more advance notice they get of the need to stop, the easier it is for them. (After all; Do *you* know the stopping distance for a 750 ton train in variable weather conditions? 😇)
@@dieseldragon6756 The City of New Orleans surely stops in some rural places in the dead of night.
Thanks for all your helpful advice. My husband and I are leaving next week on our bucket trip, and we never would have attempted it if I hadn't stumbled across your videos. What I most appreciated was your advise on the closest hotels to various Amtrak stops and tipping suggestions. No matter how delayed the trains may be, we're going to have the time of our lives!
Have fun! Sounds like a great trip!
How was the trip?
I appreciate your videos. On this one with the unwritten rules I think if you abide by what is called the Golden Rule, things will be just fine. Do unto others as you would like Others to do unto you.
Thanks for the helpful tips❤👍 Glad that an agreement was made and we didn’t have a rail strike in the US 🎉 Our economy couldn’t afford it. Most Amtrak passages do not know the rails are owned and maintained by commercial freight lines.
Most people have no idea how Amtrak works at all. One of the most confusing things is the fact that the Texas Eagle and the Sunset Limited are the same train from LA to San Antonio, but have different train numbers. Say what? There are two trains? (NOT.)
@@shanson786 Sure, they're "virtual machines" sharing hardware. I understand the confusion, though, as I'm from the era where "one train, one number" was the norm. It's probably less confusing than issuing a segmented ticket where it would appear that the rider would have to de-train and re-board even though though the consist changed only with the addition of cars.
I really enjoy this couple's videos. Informative practical advice.
Thank you!
I can't afford to travel right now, but the info about the temperature control is really helpful. Eek, I'd rather freeze than be sweltering! (That's why I wish trains could have windows that open at least a crack!) Thank you for being considerate about that! Most people wouldn't care that temps were changed for everyone, as long as they were comfortable.
Those open windows, even open just a crack, would be a lot less desirable at 80 miles an hour. One of those undesirable things is the pulsing effect created as air pressure inside the vehicle changes and then airflow at the window repeatedly breaks and gets reestablished. Plus, in the days right up to Amtrak, when there were still daily-use railroad coaches, especially on some commuter lines, which had opening windows, the influx of dust raised by the train was an issue.
@@alonespirit9923 In Belgium until around 1980 all coaches had opening windows, and trains were riding close to 90 miles per hour (in Belgium this is called 140 km/h).
@@thierrypauwels Hmm, interesting.
Always travel with a fan
I hope we are not riding same train b/c I am the opposite on tempreatures.cold = pain for me,
one thing i can suggest (especially if you are going to be bringing alot of snacks and things with you on those longer trips) is bring a couple of kitchen size garbage bags... when i travel my trash is in that bag and during a fresh air stop i seek out an attendant to either dump and save the bag or just dispose of the whole thing if it is necessary :). they are so correct about those tiny trash bins they can be annoying and i have caught myself gloving up and cleaning out a restroom that was just so incredibly gorked and it usually was containable in that kitchen sized bag... as others have said the attendants really do go above and beyond in most cases so its kind of a feel good thing (for me) to help them out :)
You two are so personable and fun !!! I wish I could take my California Zephyr trip down to a family reunion with YOU !!! I have always loved taking the train … as my Grandpa was an engineer for the Union Pacific since the 1910’s … he had an immaculate record too … my Mama used to take us down to the LA Union Pacific Station (it was so FUN !!!) … we would wave goodbye to Grandpa as he took his trains out on a run …
There’s nothing like a well run train line … I do, however, miss the beautiful mahogany paneling and more spacious restrooms of the 50’s 60’s & 70’s 🚂Union Pacific RR Line🚞… but I still prefer to take the 🚂train when I can …🛤🚉
Love your well presented & informative videos !!!
Bon Voyage
Been on Amtrak a number of years back. Took the sleeper and knew the food came with the sleeper. Noticed people tipping several different employees. The cook was friendly and social. At one point he just assumed he would get a tip from me and I just wasn't prepared for that. He showed a brief disappointment but went about his normal routine without any dismay. That experience alone enticed me to watch this video. If I knew about the tipping I would've given a grateful amount.
Wish I thought about calling for compensation for late arrivals ... I'd be riding for free "a lot" as those long haul routes are usually many hours behind schedule. I did learn my lesson (the hard way) about planning connections for the day of arrival, usually not gonna happen. I book a room and get a nights rest before moving on the next day. Otherwise, all your info was spot on 👊🏻
If you ride was then less a year old, you can still try and maybe get a vocher for a future trip. If longer that a year ago, I would just wait untill your next trip, and trip was not great make sure you call the next day after getting of the train.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 Southwest Chief .. 6 hours late, Empire Builder ... 4 hours late ... Zephyr 3 hours late 😳
@@roberts.1400
Cali Zephyr, 16 hours late. Medical emergency in Salt Lake.
@@roberts.1400one of many reasons I don't like train travel.
@@creinicke1000 Late arrivals are now expected and planned for in advance. I don't leave myself at their mercy 👊