CHOO-CHOO!

[kickaha]

Conference in Pittsburgh Nov 6-11. Decided to shake things up a bit and take Amtrak. :) Was $100 cheaper, and I *think* it'll be less stressful. Woot.

I wonder how early you have to arrive before boarding for the train? Hmm. First time on a train in the US. Could be interesting.

Comments

Trains

[gwywnnydd.livejournal.com]

I don't know how service is on the East coast, but over here assume the train will be running 10 minutes late for each stop it's made since it's initial start. Yes, that means that it's about 8 hours late by the time it reaches Seattle from San Diego.
Anyway, your train isn't likely to be at the station more than 30 minutes before it's scheduled to leave. Check in took very little time.

Or you could call the local station and ask :).

[actsofcreation.livejournal.com]

I am so sorry.

Things to expect on an Amtrak train:

1) The quality of the air will leave you longing for airplane air.
2) Expect to wait 3-4 hours in line to get a coke or a sandwich from
the food car.
3) Add 15 or more minutes per stop to the scheduled time so the Amtrak staff can
take their extended smoke break. From Raleigh to Pittsburg this should only
make your train about 3-5 hours late.
4) The seats are somewhat more comfortable than airline seats, but given the extra
time you have to sit in them, you may not find that to be a comfort.

I have rarely had a travel experience less pleasant than taking an Amtrak train. I'd gladly pay a $500 premium not to have to ride one again.