My grandmother and I had a roomette about 20yrs ago and went from Seattle to San Diego. She had the senior discount and the attendant was wonderful and said he could deliver meals to our room if she was not able to go to the dining car. We had a wonderful time as they had wine tasting, snack/coffee station, early cereal/juice station before breakfast. They ran out of what she wanted for dinner but the chef made her a special pasta vegetable dish that smelled and tasted wonderful. The service was wonderful, she was all smiles. She passed later that year and I'm glad she had such a wonderful trip. My grandmother couldn't tell enough people how nice everyone was to her and how the chef made her a special meal.
What an amazing memory to have of your grandma, I have a similar one with my grandfather and it was his last big trip too, which I feel was such an honor to get to share with him.
I'm a Senior Citizen, now. I was stationed at Ft. Ord, CA in '78-'79, (Monterey Bay/Cannery Row) B4 getting Orders to go to Germany for 3 years. I didn't get to see a whole lot of CA, B4 heading back East to spend 45 days with my Family, B4 having to head to the Port to drop off my "Mustang" II B4 boarding a Military Flight to Europe. My daughter was conceived after I met, dated, and, married the kids "Dad" (she calls him, "the sperm donor" ... All 3 of us do, as far as I know, my son doesn't speak to his sister and me). My daughter will be 42 B4 the end of '24, and, she and I have been talking about taking a train trip (for the past decade). The European's have such an AMAZING TRAIN SYSTEM, that she wants to experience a Train Trip. She's a High Functioning Autistic, and I prefer to be available for her, when she gets to take a train trip. The kids Dad and I took a train trip from Aschaffenburg, Germany, to Kopenhaven (Copenhagen), Denmark to get married in February, 1981. Everybody who gets on that particular train, is heading to Copenhagen to get married. It's a VERY LONG TRAIN. The train starts out at the bottom of the boot shape of Italy, and, winds it's way all the way through the Europe, their Train System is such that, if the Schedule says that the train will stop for 30-45 SECONDS, you had best be prepared to grab all your suitcases, etc B4 the train stops, because, the train WILL BE STOPPED for 30-45 seconds !!! I can only IMAGINE how long the ride will be, if you catch the train much closer to the beginning of the route, because, we got on relatively late; in the Northern HALF of Germany. Heading N Germany is the last Country B4 getting to Denmark, and, there's still another few hours to go B4 reaching the only part of Germany with an actual Seaport, where they Break the train into sections, and, load up onto this ENORMOUS Ferry. There's 3 pieces of Track on the Ferry, and they load the train 1st, and, then, cars and trucks in the spaces in between. To give you an idea of how long the trip is, it took 12hrs, to get from Frankfurt to that Northern Seaboard. We had found it very difficult to find an un-occupied (at a loss for words for proper description;) a sleeping birth (sp ??). So, when we did find one that was un-occupied, we settled in, and, woke up AFTER the Ferry had left the shoreline area. We got up to the "Sundeck" of the Ferry, just in time to see land disappear behind us, so, we walked towards the Bow of the Ferry, and were waiting there for the appearance of land in front of the Ferry for 20-30 minutes (The time might be off; it WAS February 1981, what can I say). When we first woke up, I lifted the curtain at the window to see where we were, and, said, "I think we MUST have missed our stop; it looks like we're in a warehouse." My soon-to-be husband, popped up and, looked, and, said, "Nope, we're not; come on, I'll show you !! " So, we hopped up, and de-barked the train, and, saw what I already described about the about how the Ferry was loaded. We were pretty much dead center of the vehicle area; almost straight ahead of us was a single solid door. Up 1 flight of stairs was a Duty-free Cigarette Shop, a Duty-free Liquor Store, and, a huge, empty, Buffet area. One more flight of stairs and we were on the Sun Deck. When we were closer to the up-coming Landmass, we headed to down to the train, for another two or three hours B4 we reached the Capital City of Copenhagen. HERE starts the FOOT RACE ACROSS THE TOWN SQUARE was City Hall, where EVERY PASSENGER ON THE TRAIN PLUS A WEEKS WORTH OF LUGGAGE EACH HAD TO MAKE A "MAD DASH" to get to it 1st, to fill out the paperwork to get married. The only REQUIREMENT to get married in Denmark, was that you had to be a "Resident" of Denmark for 3 days. In those 3 days, after doing the paperwork, we were free to do whatever we wanted, all marriages were Free of Cost, and, were held everything Thursday , so, when you get finished filling out the paperwork, all one had to do was tell them if you wanted a morning wedding, or, an afternoon wedding. The college students all got Thursdays off, if they went to the Rathaus (GERMAN for "City Hall", also Danish for City Hall, it was just spelled differently from the Germans. We toured Copenhagen on foot, much like I had toured Paris; just over a year B4, with a girl I had been Stationed with in California B4 we both got Orders to go to Germany.
Back then, the wine tastings etc., were done in the Pacific Parlour Car of that train. They were great. Split into three sections -- lounge seats for viewing, dining tables and a bar. Sadly, those cars have been retired. I miss them.
My son and I took a roomette from MN to Seattle. While in our room, the door to the hallway jammed and they had to go to the roomette next door to get us out. We ended up with 2 roomettes for the rest of the 1000 mile trip and lived like kings. He was 11 and he is 30 now and still talks about our adventure. I LOVE Amtrak.
The vibes in a roomette, in the early hours of the morning, with a cup of coffee, are just so unparalleled on Amtrak with the sun coming up against the mountain backdrop. Damn I love riding the train man
@@gregorybrose5881 I just rode the Empire Builder last Spring, it was an incredible experience. Starts out a little slow while you're in the Great Plains but it REALLY picks up second day. Awesome train ride, enjoy it!
I took the train from Charlotte to Trenton for Christmas in 1991. I had my 3 month old and my 18 month old. I chose the sleeper car. When it was time to eat I was trying to carry both children between cars and they were icy. My porter said no more of that, if you need ANYTHING just hit my bell. From then on my oldest and I ate in the car, Plus he showed me how to get cartoons, WHAT A GREAT GUY!
My dream is to have this entire system and experience upgraded to five star white glove service! Crazy expensive and why people don’t travel Amtrak! The entire system needs new management, new runs and new state of the art bullet trains!
IMO the pro move here is: (1) Book the roomette and be cool with it, but also (2) Put in a low "Bid Up" for the bedroom. Worst case you're still in a roomette, best case you're in a discounted bedroom!
Did this on the Sunset Limited recently. They assigned us a roomette on the lower level and I thought I'd put in a bid for a bedroom. Had a winning bid and got upgraded. The added space was okay. The ensuite is overrated (very small, even compared to the shared restrooms). The bench is underrated. Perfect for taking naps on.
My wife and I when we were first married took an Am Trak trip across country in a full master bedroom opened to another room and I can say we got the best sleep of our lives. Clicity clack, Clicity clack rocking us from side to side was wonderful. When our daughter was 6 years old, we took another two-room connection across America and loved every moment, and our daughter was loved by all the grandmothers along the way.
Set it aside and sit there. Hand it to them if they return or flag down an employee to give it to for lost and found. "Sorry, bud, you didn't pay for this seat. "
I have a friend who was a quadrupeligic. He used to look at the map and imagine where he might go. He would have loved your channel. For all the shut ins out there, thank you!
The roomette is perfect for a single but I wouldn't want to be traveling with another. When my friend and I took the Zephyr we each got a roomette across from each other. That way we could talk and see scenery on both sides. I love Amtrak travel. NO complaints! 😊
Amtrak is an outdate dump of a product...in the same vain as US airlines. Overpriced for their value. Terrible food. Awful design. Mediocre customer service. How Americas travel experience has declined despite one of the most beautiful, scenic landscapes on earth from coast to coast. This is what happens when infrastructure needs are deprioritized for a corporate welfare system in DC.
Call 1 800 USA RAIL (Amtrak's #), speak to a human, and ask about the accessible bedroom. From what I understand, there is one accessible bedroom on all sleeper trains. (In at least one route's case, the Silver Star, there are two such bedrooms, but anyway...) Bedroom layouts vary and sometimes (not in all cases) the toilet (not just the sink) is in the space (not behind a closed door), but there is a curtain, as well as the option of using a general-access toilet on board). The accessible room is located near the entrance to the car (i.e., not down the hallway of whatever car), and from what I understand it affords more room than a regular bedroom. I think the price is the same as or perhaps even less than a regular bedroom. I don't think the accessible bedroom includes that separate armchair, presumably to provide open space for a wheelchair in case that's what the passenger uses. The always-kind staff will bring meals to the room if needed/wanted. (p.s. in general with sleepers, don't hesitate to tip the personnel who serve you, if you can afford to do so.) Hope this helps. It is IMO most certainly a great way for a mobility-impaired person to travel, funds permitting.
Great point and not mentioned enough, the views were incredible. Things you would not see driving. I did a 57 hour trip in coach with my 10 year old and loved that she could get up and move around or walk to the viewing car and she was safe. Fyi the stars at night in the badlands were incredible
Depends on the disability. I'm disabled and took the train. I actually was comfortable. Everyone was very kind and helpful. the only problem was getting up the big steps. But once I did, it was all good. Lol
Glad you enjoyed your ride!! Our trains are overhauled in Beech Grove Indiana. We care very much about your ride,29 years at Amtrak,thanks for showcasing our trains!!!
Oh gosh, not only do I not believe in reserving the table, but the last time I had a table, it meant I got to meet a lot of nice folks who asked if they could sit at my booth, from a retired oceanographer to a young family! Meeting strangers is part of the fun, especially as we get more and more glued to our phones, tablets, and laptops over time.
@Cyke101: don't mean to be a downer here, I had an extremely negative experience the last time, I had the honor and privilege of riding my Amtrak. It has been about 7 years now. My husband passed away February 2000. So I began to just book trips when I could, then once I retired I traveled quite a lot. My favorite routes were up and down the West Coast and from Oakland to Chicago. it's about a 10 minute ride from Jack London square to Emeryville station, where I would have to change trains, this particular trip, when I went inside Emeryville, to wait for the California Zephyr, as I walked into the station, I noticed that the station decor had changed from the last time I'd been there, one of those things was an area set up to make purchases, so I placed my luggage down and proceeded to that area, intent on maybe finding something for my grandchildren, but as I approached the area, there didn't seem to be an attendant there, so as I looked across the room to where the ticket booths were, I just happened to see a couple sitting on the end seats just across the aisle, and the twin unmistakable venomous looks I received from both of them, gave me such a feeling of unease, but also rose my ire. I decided to forego my intent of souvenir hunting and returned to my seat, and forgot about the nasty couple, that is until that evening after I was seated in the dining car, across from me was a very nice interesting young man, who to this day is now a very good friend not only to me but 2 of my 3 sons and my daughter as well. The young man and I had been having a few moments of enjoyable conversation, when Lo and Behold of all the people to be seated was the, I'm guessing wife, who promptly gave a sound of disgust as she glared at me, then as the man entered and saw who he was to be seated next to, the wife said to him, I will sit there and you can sit here as if to say she'd make the sacrifice of lowering herself to sit beside me. I was beyond humiliated. The young man and I had already introduced ourselves and was exploring our occupations, so he knew who I was. I had no intention of removing myself from what was promising to be a very unpleasant encounter, but that young man became my hero and my champion. He beckoned our waiter over, told him that, myself (calling me by my occupational title) and himself would rather go have a hotdog downstairs in the cafe lounge, and to send the bill to his room even though we'd not ordered anything as yet. The looks on their faces as we left has remained with me all these years. Now don't think for one moment that couple had any negativity toward my decision to forego any traveling, it's just that 3 of my 4 children seem to have developed a need for me to be granny daycare for my grandchildren. So until I get a chance to travel the rails again, I live my dreams through videos such as this one. It's almost as if I am actually traveling myself. I even watch the railcams daily, especially the Southwest Chief and California Zephyr
@@toib.7143 Do you have any idea why that couple was so turned off by you? Was it some kind of a racial thing? When I ride on Amtrak, I am prepared for any and all types of encounters with other passengers. There are all types of people on Amtrak, from the good to the bad. Most seem to be good.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 unfortunately I am almost certain it was racial, I'm black. At my age, not so difficult to pick up on the signals, although I admit, at the Emeryville station, I didn't realize that's what it was, and never thought about them again until the dining car encounter. Overall though, I can only recall 2 other negative encounters on the train, I think one may have been racially motivated, I don't recall exactly where thìs incident occurred, but returning to California I boarded my train alongside a young man who walked with what to me, was the most impressive staff I'd ever seen, he also carried a bible, but no luggage. I'd decided to ride coach, this time, I was seated in the very last seat of the first half of the last car on our train, I felt so fortunate, just about everyone in that section was very friendly, we laughed and joked, everyone began calling me moms, even paying for my meals, it was so fantastic, but later as it grew dark outside people grew quiet and began to doze off, this young man with the staff came into our car, I could hear him speaking in what some churces including mine call "speaking in other tongues" he stood just inside the door, and he was staring down at the couple seated in the first seat, they appeared to be asleep, so he then moved to the next couple, continuing to speak in toungues, the man began to stand so did his wife, this young man pushed the man down, and spewed some of the foulest language I'd not heard in ages, telling them to sit back down, as he walked the aisle he seemed to target only caucasians, with hatred filled profanity. He stopped at my seat and continued to speak in other toungues, I raised my hands, just as if I were at church, and smiled at him, he moved on to the second part of our car, one of the young men in the seat in front of me, came and assisted me downstairs, telling me to go lock myself in the restrooms that had the sofa in it, and not to come out until he came for me. Just as I started for that door I heard a loud shout, a loud, loud Crack, and a man scream and then begin to cry out, it was obvious a pained cry, I knew then that whomever the victim was he'd been hit with that staff, it was terrifying, I locked myself in, but I could clearly hear the shouting and battling above my head. I admit it, I was terrified, but my heart broke at hearing the poor victim sobbing in obvious pain. Finally the young man came and told me to come out, the police wanted to speak with me, I hadn't realized we'd stopped until then. I was asked what race the man was, what he wore, I described the young man, his beard, the hat the multicolored shirt, the sandals, the staff, and what I observed from first encounter to me ĺocking myself in. The young man was handcuffed and restrained by several officers, they asked me to identify if they had the correct person in custody, he r looked directly at me and began to speak in toungues again. I shouted at him to shut up, and stop playing with God. He grew quiet, and fell forward as if he passed out, but it looked orchestrated to me, he stopped straightend up, and made not another sound. His actions broke my heart, but even more heartbreaking was seeing that passenger, being led down the stairs still sobbing in obvious pain, his jaw broken, placed on a gurney. Later learning that my four young hero warriors were headed back to The University of California, Berkeley. I was never more proud. I do wish to apologize though to you and to Jeb Brooks, not my intent to detract from the I love every one of his videos, some I even watch again and again.
@@toib.7143Wonder what their problem was! Nice to know your family made a new friend, you never know who you’ll meet while traveling. Edit here, I’m so sorry about those people and your experience along with the victim whose jaw was broken. Take care.
@@ginasmitasin479 The couple were clearly not fond of black people, but at my age, I hadn't encountered overt bigotry for a very long time, so at Emeryville station, I actually thought they were staring at me so intently because they were sure I was about to shoplift something from that unattended area. But looking back, even that was offensive. But at dinner, I then understood. As for that poor man, I can still hear, that poor man's cries to this day, it was heartbreaking. I was told that the attacker was observed smoking something early on, I can't confirm if it was true, I only saw him when we boarded, then when he came into our car. I sure hope he was punished as harsh as legally possible. To be perfectly honest though, my favorite mode of travel has and probably will always be via the rail system.
I have taken Amtrak business class twice. I really liked it. It is slower than flying, but you’re not packed in like cattle. You can also wander around the cars as much as you want.
Doing stuff like this used to really make retirement fun. It’s been six years since I retired, and while inflation has made it harder to maintain the same lifestyle, I occasionally worry about outliving my savings due to sequence of returns risk as I’ve noticed my withdrawals are making it harder to recover, and its not something i can easily ignore
I’m nearing retirement myself, and I had similar concerns. I started investing later than most, and just relying on ETF compounding wasn’t cutting it for me either. After working with a financial advisor, I managed to restructure my investments and am now on track to retire with around $5 million. If I hadn’t sought advice, I doubt I’d be as confident in my plan right now
I usually steer clear of recommending specific people because financial needs are so personal. But I can say that working with Emily Ava Milligan has made a world of difference for me. I noticed her strategies are tailored to fit personal goals and make sense for different needs. It might be worth exploring to see if her approach resonates with you.
I've done all 3. The roomette was perfect for me when I was single. When I got married and brought him on his first trip, we got the bedroom and it was amazing! Bedroom is the way to go if there's two of you. We used the bunk for luggage and slept together on the bottom bed.
I'm a no-fly person too. I puckered up and took a flight from MD to FL. The flight was good, but I didnt like being off the ground. My next trip will be by train. Plus, my wife can't fly due to health reasons. The train looks like a wonderful way to see the country!
@@chevtrukman it's my favorite way to travel. I've been cross country multiple times on different routes/destinations, coach to sleeper, solo and with small children. THE BEST! It takes about as long as driving constantly (which is hard to actually do) but you get to walk around, chat, watch the scenery go by without the responsibility/stress of driving or needing to delay travel for rest breaks of any kind. When traveling with kids it's great because they don't have to be stuck in a seat for hours getting restless and cranky... you can go walking up and down and throughout the train looking at stuff and making friends. The ability to change position throughout travel is so underrated. The only time I fly is if I have a real hard time restraint, but I hate every minute and end up in pain because of the tight spacing and inability to move for hours. Last time I flew , I was having medical issues that caused me to pass out. In the middle seat, I passed out (drooling) onto one seatmate's shoulder (he was good natured about it) and it happened once while I was drinking juice and I ended up spilling it all over myself and the other seatmate and his laptop. He said NOTHING and didn't even try to clean himself up. I was MORTIFIED but he brushed off my apologies and offers to take financial responsibility for the damages I caused. There wasn't even room between us and the seats in front of us to clean the mess up decently. Not like that on trains! Even in coach you have space to breathe, and if things get awkward just go somewhere else for a bit, or change seats. Seriously, best way to travel until teleports get invented.
I flew for the airlines for 13 years. Forced to retire at 65. Lots of memories of the job but haven't set foot in an airplane since retiring in 2020 and have no desire to. My adventures now are trips on Amtrak. The scenery is much more interesting than at 37,000 ft.
Six years ago I had a two-day event in Oakland, California. Cost was an issue for this retiree, so I took the westbound #5 Zephyr from Chicago to Emeryville, attended the event, then got on the next eastbound #6 Zephyr and went back to Chicago -- ALL IN COACH! I loved every minute of it and consider it one of the very best adventures of this septuagenarian's life! I would not hesitate to do it in coach all over again. The 2nd day each way, between Denver and Glenwood Springs, is simply spectacular!
I just couldn't sleep in coach. Even worse if someone's sitting beside you. Spent a day in Glenwood Spings- Fantastic area!! Going thru Glenwood Canyon and Gore Canyon takes your breath. I stood in the door at the back of the last car looking out the window going through Gore Canyon and got the best view ever. The Conductor didn't mind me doing that and we had a good conversation. Amtrak tickets are cheaper on some days. I saved $80 by going on a Monday.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 My strategy in coach was to stay awake as long as possible. The longer I tried to stay awake the easier it was to just doze off. And then I would wake up several hours later in another state. From Chicago to Denver westbound, and from Salt Lake City to Denver eastbound, there were passengers in the adjacent seat. We had nice conversations and enjoyed the breathtaking scenery together. As for looking out the back window, I made a video for a few minutes while eastbound out of Glenwood Springs. It's on my channel. And I am still amazed that my Zephyr came to a stop in Emeryville just 8 minutes after its scheduled arrival time. I know that isn't everyone's experience, but it certainly solidified my positive opinion of Amtrak.
I used Amtrak last year. Albany to Tampa in one day. Changed at Penn Station NYC. First leg in coach for 4 hours. No bag restrictions or search. Beautiful sunny ride along the Hudson River looking at everything. Boarded a Roomette in NYC. Plenty of helpful employees. The countryside was more entertaining than videos. Very attentive staff, meals included. She fixed up the bed when I wanted, and it was comfy. No noisy children or other problems. It cost under $400. Much less than half airfare (2 weeks ahead) and no TSA involved. I arrived rested instead of stressed. Doubt I'll fly next trip.
@TeddScheckler agreed. I wasn't charged extra for having four bags. I was able to keep them with me during the trip. No checked bags to get lost. The employees were very helpful during boarding and exit. They were scanned for weapons and probably drugs, but not intrusively. There was a list of items that were to be declared and policy regarding, usually to be locked away during the trip. I had some jewelry I checked for safety. The point I was making was how nice and helpful the employees were, both at the stations and on the train. The check-in process was simple and unobtrusive. It happened while I was giving them my reservation number and information. I am sure if the scan detected something like a weapon, they would have escorted me to a private room to explain. It was a sense that as long as I behaved normally, I was not under suspicion. It's refreshing not to have some security thug giving me the stink eye.
@@TeddScheckler some of us aren't willing to waive our 4th amendment rights and aren't willing to let government agents grope us despite not ever breaking the law. You should look up the tsa audit results you'll be surprised at how little they actually find
I did the Tampa to DC and back and it took ages because it was during that bad winter storm a couple years ago in NC trees were all over the tracks and we ended up smashing one that messed up our brakes LOL I'll be moving north of Syracuse bc my kids mom took our daughter up there, I'll probably just take an amtrak bc I can sell all my stuff here and just take 3 or 4 bags for a couple hundred bucks (tickets are triple that on a plane )
@CubeInspector it's still better than flying. Instead of sitting on tarmac, no service or bathrooms. There actually was a 20 or 30 minute delay. The attendant offered coffee, sodas, and snacks to help pass the time. She assured us it was a minor delay and the schedule had flexibility. I believe we arrived 5 or 10 minutes early to Tampa. The attendants were very reasurring and friendly. That was the difference to me, the friendly service.
I love the train. The California Zephyr is the absolute best. I always took coach and spend 90% of the time in the scenic car and a few times I've even slept in the scenic car over night. Chatting with people about their adventures is always interesting while seeing the best views that our country has to offer. It's a great way a single lady could travel and feel safe.
@@damonblak9108 usually one side on way there and switch on way back. Usually there is someone on the speaker to give highlights to look out for. Make sure your on the river side when you go through moon valley! Lol
@@Aquamarie333 The conductor would ask for people to switch out if that's the case. I gave up my seat for someone and ten minutes later they announced that there was empty seats available. I ended up going right back. Usually people are coming and going. Have a great trip!!
I 100% agree with Suzanne. I find sleeping in a roomette more comfortable because I prefer sleeping along the direction of travel. Feels much more stable. Interestingly some of the railway youtubers disagree with me, but I'm glad someone agrees.
My fiance and I took our first Amtrak trip last November in a Roomette from Florida to NC and found the space available to be more than adequate. We never felt like we were on top of each other. We preferred the Viewliner II, but would gladly take the Viewliner I car. It was a great trip! At no point did we use our phones or electronics. The view and conversation was delightful and we have been trying to find a way to squeeze in another trip.
I remember my first train trip. I was a month away from being 6 years old. My brother turned 3 the day we boarded the train. We went from Texas to New York the year was 1949. The engine on our train was a steam engine. About half way to New York we had to switch trains. On both trains our seats were in coach and they could be swiveled around so mom and I were facing my brother and my dad. I don’t remember being uncomfortable because the seats were very roomy and they discussed lean back a bit for sleeping. The railroad furnished sheets blankets and pillows. The dining car was fun and the food was good. They had children’s menu’s that were squirrels. My brother and I got to keep our menus but as we got older my mom went on a cleaning spree and unfortunately our menus were tossed. I do still have my little Statue of Liberty that dad bought for me when we visited her. Yes, we had fun and I vividly remember seeing Grand Central Station for the first time. Thanks for allowing an old woman a trip down memory lane.
I loved my bedroom and slept most of the way on a really long trip. But the best part of it was having absolutely the best meals served to me in my bed.Then rolling over and going back to sleep! Getting up and being able to take a shower felt decadent, but it changed the sleepiness into alert mode for getting off the train and getting on with my plans. I started the trip exhausted, but arrived feeling ever so much better. 😊
That sounds like an amazing dream to me!! I haven't been served like that since being an infant. I wish i were childless temporarily to try that ASAP!!
@laurenrzempoluch2569 You want to know the next best thing about that trip? The night I was supposed to leave, there was an accident on the tracks between me and my destination, and that changed my scheduled plans for when I was to get there. I was waylaid for in a strange city in a strange state, and I had to make emergency accommodations. When the trains were running again, Amtrac booked my bedroom... for free! They refunded every penny I'd paid for my ticket! I think that added to my blissful sleep on board. 😴
When I was growing up my father worked on Amtrack as a Conductor for 33 yesrs. I so miss the train.... As a child I loved dining in the dining car. Thank you for a great reminder of my childhood
I have taken Amtrak in the past but have never taken a "Sleeper Train." I hope that I get the chance to travel to California. I bet your Dad had a lot of stories to tell working at Amtrak. All of the Amtrak Employees that I have dealt with are wonderful people!
@@clarewelter2207 Most definitely….oh yea…LOTs of stories!! My grandfather & uncle were both engineers also on Amtrack … their area was primarily just in Florida… to them it was work… As a child every January 1…. I would travel down to Miami with my dad to watch the Orange Bowl Parade… since he would be working he would have a sleeper cabin for me to stay in… I always thought it was the coolest thing… I would love to go back to those days❤️
Troops, I rode the California zephyr in 1987 from Chicago-Los Angeles, coach the entire route. The travel was FABULOUS! Had a "meal swapping" party with a farmer couple & 2 college girls. I was 27 at that time. The farmer couple "noticed that I-not once-went to the dining car for any meal-time. All I had was some fruit and a bottle of water. The couple broke out a proverbial pic-nic basket of farm fresh home cookin' out of their "snack bag"! My grampa worked on the trains all his adult life, so, I found it a wonderful experience+++! Doug👍🤭😋
I did coach from OR to San Fran to Chicago to Roch, NY No $ for food, just bottles of water and fasting alot plus a few things I had brought also The no shower for days was worse than no food. I changed clothes daily n washed my face n teeth 🤷🏼♀️
We did the zephyr a few years ago. To celebrate my citizenship - we thought it was a cool way to see the country - it was. Spent a few days in San Francisco. Hired a car and drove up the coast to Seattle - lovely car trip. Took the empire builder back to Chicago. Tip - if you book the roomette one-way, for us anyway, Amtrak upgraded us to a bedroom on the empire builder return journey for $50.
its not, sleeping perpendicular is way better then parallel. perpendicular is more like being rocked as a baby. parallel is more like jumping all night. it really just depends on preference. if you do it enough times you get use to it. 15 years of driving a semi truck sleeping perpendicular.
@@correctionguy7632 sleeping parallel to the direction you are traveling makes it feel like your trying to jump while sleeping. perpendicular feels like being rocked to sleep.
Suzanne somehow doesn't feel like an addition to your channel, but more so like she's always been a part of it. You're a unit and I now can't imagine the channel without her. I love watching both of you. Y'all are my favorite travel channel.
"Suzanne somehow doesn't feel like an addition to your channel, but more so like she's always been a part of it. You're a unit and I now can't imagine the channel without her. I love watching both of you" As said from behind the corner of a building with one eye peering around the edge.
My hubby and I tra veled to Little Rock from Chicago. We were poor so we went coach. My hubby was newly diagnosed with Parkinson's and boy did we get the royal treatment! We were met at the train by staff that were wonderful! Loved the trip . Loved AMTRAK!!
Took my son on Amtrak from Lynchburg, Va in coach to DC. Hopped trains after a monster delay of 3 hours and grabbed a roomette. He wanted to eat, dining car wasn't open yet so we went to snack car, got him a pizza and went to a lounge table. After an hour, the dining car was open, we enjoyed a nice dinner with a Dr and his wife going cross country. My son wasn't hungry but ate his ice cream. They brought his steak dinner to our car and I had another meal. The attendant was wonderful to my son, turndown service was great. Train arrived in Toledo where my wife was waiting. Amtrak definitely was an adventure.
A very annoying, inconsiderate, and selfish thing to do no matter what the venue. Guys at the gym would try that stunt with the showers by putting towels on the doors and running the water with no one in the shower to make it sound like someone was in there. I would turn off the showers, take the towels, and put them in the used pile.... thus opening up those showers for anyone to use. At gyms, locker room bench space is at a premium and some guys would leave their very large gym bags on the benches to _save_ that spot for themselves. I would take the bag and shove it in a random locker and leave it up to them to find out where their bag is. I can get pretty confrontational with people that pull that stunt while they're out enjoying some other part of the ship or gym and denying access to someone else that also paid to be on this same cruise a place sit and enjoy the pool. Like the original commenter said, I'll take their stuff and turn it in to the front desk and tell them someone left their stuff at the pool. Sometimes I'll go back to the pool and and sit where I can watch it all happen when they come back. I feel the same about inconsiderate A-Holes that intentionally take up two parking spots and you can tell when it's done intentionally and not due to poor parking abilities. Okay, I feel better now that I've _vented._
A couple tips for being in the roomette, is take a shower during one of the stops if you can, less moving and balance issues. Also bring ear-plugs when crossing KS/Nebraska during the night, Amtrak puts sleepers near the engine and when crossing those flatter states with section lines (gravel road crossings) every mile or so, there will be 4 blasts of the horn for every single one of them, and with the sleepers near the front, you'll hear every single one of them (at least for my roomette). Those re-upholstered seats look way nicer than those cloth ones.
I’ve been on the Zephyr many times in both coach and roomette. Even in coach I wondered why the people paying the most for their accommodations were closest to the horns. 2 long, 1 short, and another long for every grade crossing!
My husband retired from Amtrak after 32 years. We went cross country from Washington to Washington DC. (round trip) Wow that was an adventure it was extra nice because we had the bedroom. Probably the one and only time I'll see some of those places. But it was so nice as the train rolled through The evergreen state once again. It reminded me of why I love it so much.
When I was transferring from South Florida to Staten Island NY, I decided to take the Auto Train from Sanford FL to Lorton VA. Best decision ever. I booked a roomette, and had a great night's sleep. Woke up rested and refreshed, and ready to hit the road the next morning. For me, the roomette was perfect!
In addition to having your dining car meals included, roomette and bedroom passengers also have the option of having your meals delivered to your compartment. That could get a bit crowded on that tiny fold-out table for two people, but for a solo traveler, it works fine.
@@IntriguedLionessI agree! When I started watching, those wonderful views gave me a contact high, made me feel almost like I was on the train again! But watching that steak was too much. Now I need a steak and it's 5:49 am...
You should do it. It is great. Took amtrack from tampa to new york city. But I would recommend getting a roomette if you could afford it. It includes all the meals and water. And the food is great. And I am a picky eater. 😊😊😊😊😊
Excellent vlog. Am a train driver here in the UK 32 years and 5 years away from retirement at 60. My wife said we need to do a retirement holiday like route 66 which I’d love to do but this has now caught my eye and it was her that said we need to take a bit of money out the retirement fund and do a holiday I’d never forget. Keep up the Great work 👍👍👍
Hwy 1 or Pacific Coast Hwy from So Calif to No Calif is 1 of our best vacations we ever had; the scenery along the edge of the Pacific Ocean is gorgeous. We drove in our car, not a train. Wishing you both a fantastic time on whatever trip you choose.
I'm doing 66 this Summer from Chicago to San Monica. My best friend and have been planning this trip to celebrate our retirement. IV been retired since July 21 he was retiring from his own business next month. We have been friends since we could even walk or talk. Both motor heads our whole life. April he dropped dead. Hit me kind of hard. Made him a promise that I would spread some of his ashes at different places along the road. A promise is a promise.
My Dad was an executive for AMTRAK. He had his office in DC. I had a railpass and certainly used it. Very good memories.....I recall Dad playing poker with the VP of the Co..... they opened two adjoining rooms and there were drinks and cigars. Being on a train is very relaxing.....I do recommend it. You can also meet very interesting people as well. On a more serious note, on one run, a woman unfortunately took her life in a private suite bathroom, no one went to get her as they were too frightened. My Dad went in and brought her body out.😢 He had been a Marine and handled it. Additionally, train travel has an olde world feel to it. All aboarrrrd!!!!!
Your dad sounds like a great man, and that is always a risk in any public place. I have never done train travel but to me it sounds great now that my adult kids live all over the country
@@charleneheiland8803jealous, envy perhaps, a lot of people haven't met anyone interesting in their personal life so they think things like this are impossible
Key tip: book a coach seat. Once you’re a board, ask to upgrade. I was told by Amtrak they almost always have extra rooms & it ended up being cheaper because meals were included. I’ve made the trip from Ca to WVa three times. Once w three children 10 and under, the other two times with my youngest daughter. Best trips ever.
Are the roomettes/rooms priced per person? or the same price regardless? As a solo traveller I find I often benefit less when accommodations are priced for two travellers.
I would only do that for a day trip. I wouldn't want to leave my sleeping accomadations up to chance, though coach seating is still more sleepable than an airline seat.
I spent 3 days in coach going to California, coach isn't too bad if you make friends on the train. I think half the joy of the train is seeing sights and making friends with people you meet along the way.
I had a hell of a time trying to sleep in coach. Just really couldn't get comfortable enough to sleep. Even worse if you have someone sitting beside you.
Amtrak is for people who want to see the land, mountains and oceans. If you want fast, new or timely better drive or fly. It’s for people who have the time to be leisurely period.❤❤
I Love to Fly! Always get window seat even at nite, love the veiw! Always suprised that most people close the Blinds, I want to Travel Amtrak to scenery Up Close! Bus travel is nice - Tourist, not Greyhound too. I took some trips on Alaska RR saw Moose close to the tracks!
@@josephjuno9555most flights require to lower the blinds at some point. The flight attendants will tell you too. When it’s time to “sleep”, all blinds go down.
My son and I took Amtrak from SF to Washington DC. Coast Starlight to Seattle, Empire Builder to Chicago, and Capitol Limited to DC. It was so fun!! The roomette on the Empire Builder was definitely worth it- meals, showers, comfy beds, privacy- it was great!
Ive taken Amtrak from Michigan to LA and back for trade shows. Im a big guy who stands 6'3" and over 250, I love the Roomette. Its quiet, and comfortable. If youre not needing luxury and are a practical sort like myself, the roomette is plenty and really comfortable. Food is really good, much better than expected, its really a great experience for those of us that hate flying 👍🏼😂🍻🇺🇸
I used to ride from Denver to California when I was little with my mom and sister...Sleeper is the way to go. Finally got to share the adventure with my wife who never has been!! I love trains!! Great adventure! Thank you for taking everyone!
You were so lucky! They have signs up (2019) where you have to be 15 to use the bathrooms. I thought WOW when I was 11 I was taking care of other people's children 😊
I just did this trip in the opposite direction! I was in a roomette on the bottom floor in an updated car. I absolutely loved it but I agree with setting your expectations. It’s not a luxury train it’s an adventure train! Thanks for giving me flashbacks to my trip.
My first cross-country trek included the Empire Builder and the Zephyr. I considered it not only an adventure train but also an educational train. Growing up in educated in Asia and Europe this was a great introduction to the topography of the USA when I came for university!
While Amtrak's rolling stock might no be "luxury" in the 5 star sense, the experience and service we had on our first trip last year absolutely was. So relaxing. The only more relaxing is going by private plane, provided I'm not the one flying it. Amtrak staff were great across the board. Boarding was fantastic and I liked that the station agent personally walked all of the sleeping car passengers to the right spot on the platform. I also appreciated him NOT calling it First Class. Both trains were overnight and I felt bad for those traveling overnight in coach. The meals in the dining car were great too.
i think the way to approach it is this: Its not cruise ship. its way better than the bus You don't have to drive you get to see stuff you can't see from a plane.
@@MrSGL21Yes! And you don't have to remove any clothing, belts, shoes and stand in lines or sit in uncomfortable plastic chairs or scurry from terminal to terminal when they change gates at the last minute. Flying is invasive.
So glad u were honest with sleeping qtrs. Hate when guests get freebies and say everything positive when they should have been honest. Love that u guys pay your way and can be honest!!!
My love of train travel developed as I grew up in EU and Asia, went to school in EU but came to the states for uni. This excursion is definitely the best way to see the various, sweeping landscapes of the USA. One of the first major trips I took cross country from NYC > Chicago > Seattle down to LA and then on back to Chicago. I have since traveled all three types of booking and if traveling alone definitely just save your money and take COACH. The seats are massive even compared to European standards and I have slept very well in these! You're on the upper level so you can take walks to the sightseeing and dining cars. The best bang for the buck are the ROOMETTES. During the day you have a private room, a view looking out the window at your little fold-out table even though you are limited to just the port or starboard views so make sure you do remember to take little walks to see what you might be missing on the other side. I have also booked a double occupancy ROOM and it's just not worth the upgrade IMO. For one, I don't really care to have the toilet in my room and don't need a sink as there's always towelettes and you still only get the one view. The bed and fold down bunk are the same type of bed as a ROOMETTE so you're really not getting that much more for the $$$.
The reason they are late so much because the passenger trains have to give the right of way to the freight trains, so, there's a lot of pulling off to the side for Amtrak.
I nearly missed an international flight out of Newark because the train arrived 9 hours late. I would travel by train if not for this. I love the train.
Took Amtrak from Portland Oregon to Denver back in 2007 and it was one of the most peaceful travel experiences of my life. Traveling through the Rockies in January was so beautiful the sunrise's nearly brought me to tears.
My train travel changed when i looked at it as not a way to get to a place but rathet a vacation in itself. To that end we've often done a segmented journey. There's always an interesting place to overnight if getting to the destination is not your priority but haveing a great time is.
I’ve always wanted to travel by train, but the station in my down shut down back in the 70’s. Train travel looks so chic and classy…Much better than planes today.
For my birthday last summer I flew to Chicago to celebrate my 65th with an Amtrak ride (my first) back to Sacramento. My roomette was a bit cramped with my backpack, duffle bag, and my folded up walker taking up space but the trip was fabulous. The views were beautiful and the Colorado River scenery was amazing once we passed through Denver. In early December I flew to Omaha for a Home Free concert and got a roomette on Amtrak going back to Sacramento. Same route, just this time with a beautiful snowy vista instead of summertime. The meals were delicious and I usually had them delivered to me because I was in too much pain to move much. I'm taking a much needed break from Home Free's tour dates but I'm looking forward to maybe picking it up again next year, maybe north or south along the coast this time. Or maybe for a Winter Solstice present to myself. I so enjoyed my time on Amtrak.
@@susanhudzinski9493 Three weeks ago was my fifth concert. Taking a break to save up for a decent mattress and a new walker. Maybe next summer I'll catch up with their concert schedule again. Waiting to see who takes Austin's place
Hi Jeb & Suzanne. I adore you 2. You are very informative, thorough and amusing. My husband & I took a Via Rail trip to Churchill, Manitoba in 2000, to go see the beluga whales. David ordered a roomette. Getting on, the conductor looked at us and said “ for 2 of you, a roomette?” As he took us to our roomette we soon understood why he was questioning us. It had a seat that we both sort of fit on, a sink and toilet in from of us. After supper our room was turned down. We had to take our shoes off and leave them outside the curtain. The bed covered the toilet, so you made darn sure you didn’t have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. We took turns sleeping on our sides. One slept on their back the other on their side, we both couldn’t lay on our back. I told my husband that we haven’t been this close since our honeymoon 😂 At a stop in Thompson, Manitoba, David booked another roomette for the trip home😂 It was a great experience, and to this day, 24 years later, we still laugh about it.😂 God’s blessings to you both. 🙏🏻💖from Canada 🇨🇦
My wife and I went from Connecticut to Florida last July for our daughter's wedding. I thought the roomette was pretty tight but your experience gives new meaning to that! Even with the tight space, it was a great trip.
I just did the Zephyr, end to end Emeryville to Chicago, a couple of days ago, on my own in A Roomette. It was just right for 1 person, and it was a great journey….and even more incredibly, we were not just on time, we arrived to Chicago slightly ahead of schedule!
I’ve taken trips on Amtrak on the east coast from Newark to Jacksonville. First one was pre-Covid and the others during and after. I loved it!!!! We have always had a roomette. The older trains have a sink and toilet in the roomette which I really liked. I did use the shower it felt very good, plenty of hot water! The newer trains do not have a toilet or sink on the room which is disappointing. The coffee station was not open on any of our journeys but getting coffee was easy. Our attendants have been very helpful and responsive. The dining car was fun on the pre-Covid trip bc we shared with other passengers and it was fun to hear their stories. The food was surprisingly good! The upper bunk is not the most comfy as it feels cold, I would definitely ask for extra blankets or bring one. As far as being on time, expect delays bc life is an adventure in a train! I like to think of the train as part of the vacation unlike flying where all I want to do is get in and off the plane asap!
I love getting to see all three options. I'm riding from Seattle to Chicago next week and have a roomette. For one person they look great. Thank you for adding measurements, that is very handy. Excellent content, as always!
I did that trip in my own in 2021. It was fantastic and I met some of the coolest people these. Make sure to get to the observation car. The views are amazing!
@@s70driver2005You think so? I thought it was more, "Come play with us!" vibes. I thought mentioning their terrible night's sleep in the largest room was not a way to sell the biggest ticket room!🤭
@@s70driver2005 It was pretty good. Honestly, this trip specifically feels as though the amtrak staff are doing the best they can with what they have. Recommend bringing your own snacks, waterproof shoes to use in the shower, sanitizer to wipe down surfaces in your room, and a jacket for extra warmth cause the blankets are thin. Because freight trains have the right of way the train was delayed but I expected that. Moderately clean, having a shower was great, food was ok (I'm plant based so limited options as I expected, I brought snacks), staff were really nice, having a roomette to lay down in was much better than sitting up in coach the whole time. I used points that I got for signing up for the amtrak credit card which was much better than paying in cash. :) I am stoked that some money is being put into train travel. My normal ride from Chicago to Michigan has refurbished train cars that are super nice so hopefully the longer haul trains will get an upgrade soon too.
I did Seattle to St. Paul several years back, all the way in coach. Never, NEVER again! Couldn't get comfortable at all, and of course, someone is always making noise during the night.
I took coach, from Chicago to L. A. I slept well the first night as I was exhausted from everything before the train. Second night, about four hours. I quickly became friends with the guy in the seat next to me. There was a young, quiet drunk who spent the trip wandering the train, peacefully and dropping, mini shooter bottles everywhere. The Porter kept sweeping them up without complaint, like a routine job.
More than 40 years ago my ex-wife, 18 month old daughter, and I went from Chicago to Denver in a roomette. It remains one of my fondest memories. We left Chicago right after dinner and arrived in Denver 1:00 PM so spent a large part of the trip in a relaxing sleep. A week later we went back to Chicago by train. One thing I did find out--on the trip west our car was in the middle of the train and the sleep was fantastic. Coming east, we were in the last car and spent the night feeling a bit like we were in a blender. The amount of sway in the last car compared to the more stable middle cars was significant. The roomette was spacious enough for two people plus an infant. The slower but more scenic trip was well worth it to me.
Great comparison video. Thanks. I have a couple of thoughts to share about the Roomette. I travel alone, most often, so that is a great option for me on overnight trips. I often go between SF/Emeryville, and Seattle, on the Coast Starlight. A couple of years ago, I was unable to get an upstairs accommodation. At first I was disappointed ... I found that I LOVED it, and I request it, now. --There are more bathroom facilities, downstairs. -- You can have your luggage close-at-hand, without having to drag it up the stairs. Just move it into your room as needed, then, "back to the rack!" -- The sway is gentler downstairs ... better for sleeping. Last summer, in the King Street station, in Seattle, a fellow passenger was talking of his irritation at being downstairs. I told him of my experience. We had a great group of folks downstairs. We wound up going to meals together. The gentleman was going to LA, but as we approached Emeryville, he told me that he was a "downstairs convert."
For me, I prefer the upstairs because I take in more of rhe view end of course there is the observation car. But on the SF to SEA run there is rarely a viewing car. The downstairs is also a great sell for any disabled passenger! ❤
I like the lower seats/roomettes also. More privacy, easier on/off fresh air stops and opportunity to reach to clean your dirty window from the outside.
@@wingnut4217 The Coast Starlight travels between Emeryville and Seattle with very nice hotels across from stations. Save money by taking coach and use lounge car for scenic views.
Jeb, so happy they brought back full dining to the long distance trains. Covid eliminated all dining cars on Amtrak 3 years ago. For me, bedroom is the only way to go, need to have my own bathroom. I will donate to the cause!
My partner and I took our first Amtrak trip to San Francisco years ago and unfortunately the train hit a semi truck that was stuck on a train crossing. That was the worst trip of my life. We were trapped on the train for 12 hours before busses came to evacuate all the passengers. Luckily no one was seriously hurt, just a few passengers had minor injuries. The terrible part was due to the accident we had no AC and in the dark for hours in the middle of nowhere. After watching this I'm ready to give a train trip a second chance... Thank you..
Would you ever consider doing a handicapped room train travel video on Amtrak? I have a 101 year old mom that loves trains, but basically uses a wheel chair, yet can walk into seats and climb up into my car, still. I would love to take her on a “last epic train journey” if it’s even worth it. Gotta do my own home work, for sure, but one doesn’t know until their there experiencing it…
The handicap room was a very good option for someone with limited mobility. It is downstairs and the room is crosswise, however the beds are lengthwise (as opposed to regular rooms), so you can see out both sides of the train. You CAN have your meals delivered if getting up to the dining car is a problem. Unfortunately, the viewing car is also upstairs, but at least you have views out both sides of the train. It IS kinda strange having the toilet out in plain sight in the room, but it does have a curtain to pull around it when in use. And if one is needing the accessible features, it isn’t anything you haven’t experienced before. We have learned to adapt get around places we want to go. And there is less swaying motion on the lower deck of the train as well. If she can get around and into your car, she should do just fine. The porters are also very accommodating. I hope you get the chance to do this! You will need a doctor’s note, though my husband’s handicap card for parking was enough for us at the time. Plan ahead. There are a limited number of handicap rooms. It is also wise to assume there WILL be delays and plan accordingly! Happy rails to you!
@@gamb155 Amazingly good! Though when you get out into the really wide open spaces it can be patchy, but that is train wide , nothing to do with where you are sitting . The one problem with any of the accommodations is that someone has to be able to sleep on the top bunk. That means being able to get up into the top bunk in the first place! Or, more importantly, get DOWN from the top bunk! (Or up from the floor after you miss!). Another option I read about recently was getting 2 roomettes, right across from one another. Cost is about the same as a regular room and no one has to deal with the top bunk!
@@calgal5752 I think the channel grounded for life did the handicap room. It might have been labeled on controversial room since out of people without mobility issues some like it and some don't. To get it without mobility issues it is a very specific circumstance. (As it should be so it is oeft for those that need it). Anyways, all other rooms have to be booked with that room the only option available as well as very close to departure day. It is on the bottom of the 2 decker train and it has the toilet in the middle of the room with only curtains for privacy from your roommate. Which is why it is controversial (if I recall correctly). I will also say it appears (from watching the video) as if all connections from train car to train car are on the top deck/story so if stairs and mobility really is an issue, you may be limited to only that room. I hope you can find it!
Very well done and informative. Thank you. My wife and I did the Coast Starlight from LA to Seattle and then the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago a few years ago and have nothing but good things to say about it, in spite of one fairly long delay because of a broken rail, something neither Amtrak or the owner railroad had any control over. Both trips were in roomettes. My wife shared your opinion on the sleeping, but I had no problems with it. May be worth mentioning that Amtrak owns none of the rail it travels over and is at the mercy of the railroads which provide the rails. But even so, it was a wonderful experience. We even convinced some friends of ours to do a trip on the CZ and they loved it too. Thanks again for the great video.
My wife and I took our first train trip on Amtrak in a roomet! We booked it for the adventure and experience. We travel from Chicago to Arizona for a Grand Canyon vacation. I think it was round about 36 hrs. We loved the meals and the dinner! We were seated with a different couple for each meal and had wonderful conversations each time. It maybe longer than flying but being able to get up, walk around, and visit the observation car is the best! Our experience was very similar to yours except we slept like babies! I took the upper berth for the trip there and we traded for the trip back. While in the upper bunk, I kept my back to the wall for security. We took a tri- tap for the single outlet for the trip back so we could keep our cell phones charged. We really enjoyed our trip and would consider another trip, in a roomet of course.
When I was not quite five I took my first train ride from SC to Detroit up the east coast to DC then across the mountains to the midwest. We slept in the old fashioned Pullman bunkbeds and by day in the seats. The attendants were so kind. And I fell in love with trains.
I haven't been on Amtrak for 20 years. It was the only way my 4 kids and I could visit my parents every summer. Always couch. We would travel the Lake Shore Limited from Boston to Chicago. Then the California Zephyr from Chicago to Denver. My kids always enjoyed it and the people we'd meet. We did have routines for the train. Back then Amtrak had trouble keeping car stewards so each one of us had a container of Clorox wipes to keep the restroom clean. We knew who those who'd never ridden Amtrak before because they'd sort of giggle when they'd see us, until the realized our car's restrooms were the cleanest toward the end. And I made sure we had one hot meal in the dining car. Back then on either train there wasn't an observation car. My kids would have loved it. My brother is coming by Amtrak to visit us in Boston. I sent him this video so he can figure out how. I miss training a lot. Maybe someday I'll be able to again.
I’ve only been on the Amtrak once from Los Angeles to San Diego. We booked business class seats for extra legroom. From what I remember seats were clean, bathrooms were clean and staff was super friendly. Eventually I’d like to make the cross-country trip in a bedroom. Great video.
The roomette is the more bang for the buck. When first I came to the USA I criss-crossed from NYC to the West Coast down and back again. Roughly 72 hours to see the nation! You should make a plan to do so and buy the tickets early for the greatest value!!
In the military, I traveled from San Diego to Connecticut along the western seaboard up to Washington state and across the northern most route Amtrac takes. I was on leave, so in no way was I disappointed by any delays or such. I can't remember how long it took, but I found it thoroughly enjoyable. I opted for one of the suites for the whole trip and found it clean and comfortable. I made some new friends along the way, participated in some stimulating conversations with people from other countries that were traveling along as well. Overall, I was infatuated by the scenery along the way, as most travelers only see the country from the interstate, which is tragic. There is so much to see, and limiting one's self to a highway is avoiding your inner explorer. I'm going to do it again, on my bucket list for sure!!!
My Mom and I traveled in Coach, we had the best trip. (1980's) from SA, TX to NY Grand Central Station to visit my daughter. A memorable trip. Had my Mom to myself.
I've traveled several times on 2+ day trips, just me and my 2 small kids on Amtrak. It's definitely my preferred way to travel. We had a roomette and the preschooler slept top while toddler and I slept bottom. Love the viewliner for the roomette bathroom and the kiddo liked a window on the top bunk. We traveled with cargo netting that we used in conjunction with the webbing to keep him in the top bunk all night. Now that they're older, it's still our preferred method. With gas prices, costs about the same as driving once you factor in hotels & food.
Nine years ago my father and I rode the Amtrak Southwest Chief from Riverside California to Chicago (and back). We had a sleeper cabin. My father was 79 at that time. His health was deteriorating. We knew it would be his last train ride. (He's been gone now for five years.) I have many pictures and fond memories of spending hours with him while rolling down the tracks. The food was good (steaks). The service was good. One major disappointment was the ride. The tracks were in very bad shape. Sometimes it felt like we were going to derail. According to my GPS we hit speeds up to 90 MPH. We had to wear seatbelts when we slept to avoid being bounced out of bed.
I truly loved your video. I wanted to share with you my train journey. It was a 15 year plan in the making and unfortunately my husband passed away before we could make it on but with the arm twisting and a bribe of new headphones for my son I finally took my dream cross country amtrak trip. We went from LA to Seattle and then solo I traveled Seattle to Washington DC 96 hours due to delays but It was so worth it and I can’t wait to ride the rails again.
You can get a roomlet with a sink and toilet. That’s what my dad and I got once. We were expecting it to be a seperate room, but no, that step to get the top buck folds down into a sink and the first step, raise up to expose a toilet. Being OCD, I immediately declared we will not be using that toilet. We will going down the hall for bathroom.
Enjoyable video as always, but what I enjoy most is the high-quality video. It is so clear that I feel that I am there with you and seeing it with my own eyes! It's funny what people will complain about when riding on Amtrak, so I say to them "Take the plane, and let's compare the scenery afterward". If you're not in a hurry, then taking a train is much more memorable -or like you stated, it's an adventure 👍
I’ve been in both coach and a roomette. Only on the East coast trains. Been on auto train many times though. The roomette is perfect for a single, a little tight for 2. I like that the roomette includes meals😎
@@ronclark9724We took our first Amtrak trip last year on the Silver Star after seeing Jeb's videos. The Roomette was more than enough room for the two of us. Granted, we were in the Viewliner cars, the much have more height. But we never felt like we were on top of each others and always had plenty of room. We've felt more cramped in business class on the airlines.
I love taking the train ( & hate flying) & took it all the time in the 90s across states. Always very good experience in coach with Amtrak. Have to go across country soon for a big family event & plan on taking the train!
Love this video start to finish. especially your brilliantly informed advocacy. Born in 1952 I’ve ridden the Southwest line from Colorado to California (Grand Canyon, Chief, Super Chief, El Capitan) for 65 years. When Amtrak took over in 1971 I went solo in roomettes. Always upper bunk, rocked to sleep in a snug womb. In 2019 I took chair my first time on the Zephyr from Denver to Reno. Every minute was golden. The stories I could tell. Trains are the only way to go.
We did the Denver to Grand Junction in coach, spent the night at a hotel then caught the return train the next morning back to Denver. What a great trip!
Enjoyed your video. I've been fascinated by trains since I was a kid, hearing grandparents, great aunt & uncle sharing anecdotes about passenger trains before Amtrak. In 1992, my wife & I boarded Amtrak in Glendale, CA for our Honeymoon ski trip to Glenwood Springs, CO. We caught the Southbound train to our Easterly connection. We'd packed lightly for the onboard sleeper experience, and checked luggage with our winter wear & ski equipment for our destination. Upon arrival in Glenwood Springs, CO. our checked luggage was nowhere to be found - November snow & ice with no heavy jackets. We taxi'd to the hotel (same one that you showed in your video) and then back to the station the next day when the checked luggage still had not been delivered to the hotel, but the luggage had not yet been located. We rented an unplanned rental car and drove to Aspen to buy some warmer clothes. It took most of a week before, the luggage joined us in Glenwood. Unfortunately, back in Glendale, CA for our departure, our Southbound train had been late, but the station agent had brought our checked luggage out to the platform on time. Another Northbound train, normally after the Southbound, arrived and departed on time. Our luggage had been loaded onto that Northbound train and toured the West coast, going all the way to Seattle. We laugh about it now, but we got our Amtrak adventure, and only 1 day of skiing. Thanks for showing us the Amtrak updates.
I have MS. I love the full handicap accessible room. The employee assigned to me was great. I travel from NC to NJ & am always pleased w my trip & the Amtrak staff. 3 meals & snack were included in ticket price.
My favorite part of Amtrak travel--I've traveled coast to coast in a roomette several times--is the people I've met. Meals in the diner car always have been shared with people I hadn't met before, and they've always been interesting. More than half of them have been from Europe or Asia, and mealtime conversation has been a highlight.
Twelce years ago, I took the Amtrak from West Palm Beach, Florida to North Carolina, and enjoyed every minute of the journey. Riding the train is so much fun!!
Haha West Palm used to be my home now we live in NC. Spent half my life In Florida and the other half in NC! I love Amtrak as a kid from Massachusetts to Florida. It was in the 60s. We had seats and sleeper bunks at night! The Autotrain along a similar route was a blast at 12 years old.
I've been watching a while, and you guys, by far, have the best informed and most entertaining travel channel on UA-cam! THANK YOU for all the effort !!
My grandmother and I had a roomette about 20yrs ago and went from Seattle to San Diego. She had the senior discount and the attendant was wonderful and said he could deliver meals to our room if she was not able to go to the dining car. We had a wonderful time as they had wine tasting, snack/coffee station, early cereal/juice station before breakfast. They ran out of what she wanted for dinner but the chef made her a special pasta vegetable dish that smelled and tasted wonderful. The service was wonderful, she was all smiles. She passed later that year and I'm glad she had such a wonderful trip. My grandmother couldn't tell enough people how nice everyone was to her and how the chef made her a special meal.
What a wonderful time for you and your grandmother
What an amazing memory to have of your grandma, I have a similar one with my grandfather and it was his last big trip too, which I feel was such an honor to get to share with him.
I'm a Senior Citizen, now. I was stationed at Ft. Ord, CA in '78-'79, (Monterey Bay/Cannery Row) B4 getting Orders to go to Germany for 3 years. I didn't get to see a whole lot of CA, B4
heading back East to spend 45 days with my Family, B4 having to head to the Port to drop off my "Mustang" II B4 boarding a Military Flight to Europe.
My daughter was conceived after I met, dated, and, married the kids "Dad" (she calls him, "the sperm donor" ... All 3 of us do, as far as I know, my son doesn't speak to his sister and me).
My daughter will be 42 B4 the end of '24, and, she and I have been talking about taking a train trip (for the past decade). The European's have such an AMAZING TRAIN SYSTEM, that she wants to experience a Train Trip. She's a High Functioning Autistic, and I prefer to be available for her, when she gets to take a train trip. The kids Dad and I took a train trip from Aschaffenburg, Germany, to Kopenhaven (Copenhagen), Denmark to get married in February, 1981. Everybody who gets on that particular train, is heading to Copenhagen to get married. It's a VERY LONG TRAIN.
The train starts out at the bottom of the boot shape of Italy, and, winds it's way all the way through the Europe, their Train System is such that, if the Schedule says that the train will stop for 30-45 SECONDS, you had best be prepared to grab all your suitcases, etc B4 the train stops, because, the train WILL BE STOPPED for 30-45 seconds !!!
I can only IMAGINE how long the ride will be, if you catch the train much closer to the beginning of the route, because, we got on relatively late; in the Northern HALF of Germany. Heading N Germany is the last Country B4 getting to Denmark, and, there's still another few hours to go B4 reaching the only part of Germany with an actual Seaport, where they Break the train into sections, and, load up onto this ENORMOUS Ferry. There's 3 pieces of Track on the Ferry, and they load the train 1st, and, then, cars and trucks in the spaces in between.
To give you an idea of how long the trip is, it took 12hrs, to get from Frankfurt to that Northern Seaboard.
We had found it very difficult to find an un-occupied (at a loss for words for proper description;) a sleeping birth (sp ??). So, when we did find one that was un-occupied, we settled in, and, woke up AFTER the Ferry had left the shoreline area. We got up to the "Sundeck" of the Ferry, just in time to see land disappear behind us, so, we walked towards the Bow of the Ferry, and were waiting there for the appearance of land in front of the Ferry for 20-30 minutes
(The time might be off; it WAS February 1981, what can I say).
When we first woke up, I lifted the curtain at the window to see where we were, and, said, "I think we MUST have missed our stop; it looks like we're in a warehouse." My soon-to-be husband, popped up and, looked, and, said, "Nope, we're not; come on, I'll show you !! "
So, we hopped up, and de-barked the train, and, saw what I already described about the about how the Ferry was loaded. We were pretty much dead center of the vehicle area; almost straight ahead of us was a single solid door. Up 1 flight of stairs was a Duty-free Cigarette Shop, a Duty-free Liquor Store, and, a huge, empty, Buffet area. One more flight of stairs and we were on the Sun Deck. When we were closer to the up-coming Landmass, we headed to down to the train, for another two or three hours B4 we reached the Capital City of Copenhagen. HERE starts the FOOT RACE ACROSS THE TOWN SQUARE was City Hall, where EVERY PASSENGER ON THE TRAIN PLUS A WEEKS WORTH OF LUGGAGE EACH HAD TO MAKE A "MAD DASH" to get to it 1st, to fill out the paperwork to get married.
The only REQUIREMENT to get married in Denmark, was that you had to be a "Resident" of Denmark for 3 days. In those 3 days, after doing the paperwork, we were free to do whatever we wanted, all marriages were Free of Cost, and, were held everything Thursday , so, when you get finished filling out the paperwork, all one had to do was tell them if you wanted a morning wedding, or, an afternoon wedding. The college students all got Thursdays off, if they went to the Rathaus (GERMAN for "City Hall", also Danish for City Hall, it was just spelled differently from the Germans.
We toured Copenhagen on foot, much like I had toured Paris; just over a year B4, with a girl I had been Stationed with in California B4 we both got Orders to go to Germany.
What a wonderful memory. I'm sure your grandma couldn't have been happier. Thanks for sharing your story.
Back then, the wine tastings etc., were done in the Pacific Parlour Car of that train. They were great. Split into three sections -- lounge seats for viewing, dining tables and a bar. Sadly, those cars have been retired. I miss them.
My son and I took a roomette from MN to Seattle. While in our room, the door to the hallway jammed and they had to go to the roomette next door to get us out. We ended up with 2 roomettes for the rest of the 1000 mile trip and lived like kings. He was 11 and he is 30 now and still talks about our adventure. I LOVE Amtrak.
Hey you made some great memories with your Son ,that's a beautiful thing, even with the mishap that turned out in your benefit.
I love this travel video and you guys were so hilarious 😅😅😅😅
Great story. Life’s best moments are the little ones with family. Hope to hear more in heaven with you amen 🦅🇺🇸✝️
@@LprogressivesANDliberals Oh yes!!
*What's @**13:59**?*
I wanted to do this with my dad but he suddenly passed away late last year. This is a sign that i should still complete this journey in his memory.
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your Dear Father. That would be a wonderful thing if you take the trip in his memory. ❤❤❤❤❤❤
@@tyrarenae3486 thank you for your kind words and I definitely will
@@healingv1sion Youre very welcome! I hope you give an update about your journey!!
Please still go on the trip. Your dad would want you to do it. He'll be with you, just in a different way. Enjoy!😊
Yes😊
The vibes in a roomette, in the early hours of the morning, with a cup of coffee, are just so unparalleled on Amtrak with the sun coming up against the mountain backdrop. Damn I love riding the train man
Two weeks and I'm Seattle bound on the Empire.
@@gregorybrose5881 I just rode the Empire Builder last Spring, it was an incredible experience. Starts out a little slow while you're in the Great Plains but it REALLY picks up second day. Awesome train ride, enjoy it!
I took the train from Charlotte to Trenton for Christmas in 1991. I had my 3 month old and my 18 month old. I chose the sleeper car. When it was time to eat I was trying to carry both children between cars and they were icy. My porter said no more of that, if you need ANYTHING just hit my bell. From then on my oldest and I ate in the car, Plus he showed me how to get cartoons, WHAT A GREAT GUY!
My dream is to have this entire system and experience upgraded to five star white glove service! Crazy expensive and why people don’t travel Amtrak! The entire system needs new management, new runs and new state of the art bullet trains!
Love your story!
Thanks so much for sharing! It was very helpful!!!❤
Sweet!
How sweet, great story!
IMO the pro move here is: (1) Book the roomette and be cool with it, but also (2) Put in a low "Bid Up" for the bedroom. Worst case you're still in a roomette, best case you're in a discounted bedroom!
Did this on the Sunset Limited recently. They assigned us a roomette on the lower level and I thought I'd put in a bid for a bedroom. Had a winning bid and got upgraded. The added space was okay. The ensuite is overrated (very small, even compared to the shared restrooms). The bench is underrated. Perfect for taking naps on.
POOR BID
How low are we talking?
Would have just purchased bedroom outright.
i did that for auto train once
My wife and I when we were first married took an Am Trak trip across country in a full master bedroom opened to another room and I can say we got the best sleep of our lives. Clicity clack, Clicity clack rocking us from side to side was wonderful. When our daughter was 6 years old, we took another two-room connection across America and loved every moment, and our daughter was loved by all the grandmothers along the way.
04/30/24: Who wants to tell this dear man that it was all a dream, and that he fell asleep on the basement couch next to his enormous HO train set?
Sounds like a wholesome, good time.
@@donreed I'm good either way. It's a lovely anecdote.
On my short bucket-list
How can anyone get any sleep when the train horn blows at EVERY RR crossing? Tried Amtrak once and besides being very late, the noise was horrendous.
Absolutely agree that “saving seats, tables or lounge chairs by leaving towels or coats”. Should not be allowed ANYWHERE.
just play stupid and pretend dont know. lol
Oh, I thought someone left it and I put it in the Lost and Found. 8^D
Here's an idea...pick the item up and turn it into lost and found :D
Set it aside and sit there. Hand it to them if they return or flag down an employee to give it to for lost and found.
"Sorry, bud, you didn't pay for this seat. "
Or take it a step further. Just print out a couple hundred pictures of coats and reserve the whole train.
I have a friend who was a quadrupeligic. He used to look at the map and imagine where he might go. He would have loved your channel. For all the shut ins out there, thank you!
My dear wife is a quad. and she does enjoy travel videos.
😅
@@christianleconte5466 ?
You said "was" and "used to" and "would have". Has he passed?
Hope she came back to you😊❤
The roomette is perfect for a single but I wouldn't want to be traveling with another. When my friend and I took the Zephyr we each got a roomette across from each other. That way we could talk and see scenery on both sides. I love Amtrak travel. NO complaints! 😊
That's a good idea
That's a great idea! My husband and I wouldn't have to fight over who gets the lower bed! (Plus he snores!😂)
Did you get get the option of upper or lower bed in the roomette? Would there be a price difference between the two?
@@thecannonball1000I believe each roomette has both a lower and an upper bed.
Amtrak is an outdate dump of a product...in the same vain as US airlines. Overpriced for their value. Terrible food. Awful design. Mediocre customer service.
How Americas travel experience has declined despite one of the most beautiful, scenic landscapes on earth from coast to coast.
This is what happens when infrastructure needs are deprioritized for a corporate welfare system in DC.
My mother is disabled and cannot fly. Train travel with beautiful views and cooked meals could be the way to go!
Call 1 800 USA RAIL (Amtrak's #), speak to a human, and ask about the accessible bedroom. From what I understand, there is one accessible bedroom on all sleeper trains. (In at least one route's case, the Silver Star, there are two such bedrooms, but anyway...) Bedroom layouts vary and sometimes (not in all cases) the toilet (not just the sink) is in the space (not behind a closed door), but there is a curtain, as well as the option of using a general-access toilet on board). The accessible room is located near the entrance to the car (i.e., not down the hallway of whatever car), and from what I understand it affords more room than a regular bedroom. I think the price is the same as or perhaps even less than a regular bedroom. I don't think the accessible bedroom includes that separate armchair, presumably to provide open space for a wheelchair in case that's what the passenger uses. The always-kind staff will bring meals to the room if needed/wanted. (p.s. in general with sleepers, don't hesitate to tip the personnel who serve you, if you can afford to do so.) Hope this helps. It is IMO most certainly a great way for a mobility-impaired person to travel, funds permitting.
Great point and not mentioned enough, the views were incredible. Things you would not see driving. I did a 57 hour trip in coach with my 10 year old and loved that she could get up and move around or walk to the viewing car and she was safe. Fyi the stars at night in the badlands were incredible
Depends on the disability. I'm disabled and took the train. I actually was comfortable. Everyone was very kind and helpful. the only problem was getting up the big steps. But once I did, it was all good. Lol
Do they have ADA restrooms?
My hubby with Parkinson's was treated like royalty. Do it!
Glad you enjoyed your ride!! Our trains are overhauled in Beech Grove Indiana. We care very much about your ride,29 years at Amtrak,thanks for showcasing our trains!!!
Oh gosh, not only do I not believe in reserving the table, but the last time I had a table, it meant I got to meet a lot of nice folks who asked if they could sit at my booth, from a retired oceanographer to a young family! Meeting strangers is part of the fun, especially as we get more and more glued to our phones, tablets, and laptops over time.
@Cyke101: don't mean to be a downer here, I had an extremely negative experience the last time, I had the honor and privilege of riding my Amtrak. It has been about 7 years now. My husband passed away February 2000. So I began to just book trips when I could, then once I retired I traveled quite a lot. My favorite routes were up and down the West Coast and from Oakland to Chicago. it's about a 10 minute ride from Jack London square to Emeryville station, where I would have to change trains, this particular trip, when I went inside Emeryville, to wait for the California Zephyr, as I walked into the station, I noticed that the station decor had changed from the last time I'd been there, one of those things was an area set up to make purchases, so I placed my luggage down and proceeded to that area, intent on maybe finding something for my grandchildren, but as I approached the area, there didn't seem to be an attendant there, so as I looked across the room to where the ticket booths were, I just happened to see a couple sitting on the end seats just across the aisle, and the twin unmistakable venomous looks I received from both of them, gave me such a feeling of unease, but also rose my ire. I decided to forego my intent of souvenir hunting and returned to my seat, and forgot about the nasty couple, that is until that evening after I was seated in the dining car, across from me was a very nice interesting young man, who to this day is now a very good friend not only to me but 2 of my 3 sons and my daughter as well. The young man and I had been having a few moments of enjoyable conversation, when Lo and Behold of all the people to be seated was the, I'm guessing wife, who promptly gave a sound of disgust as she glared at me, then as the man entered and saw who he was to be seated next to, the wife said to him, I will sit there and you can sit here as if to say she'd make the sacrifice of lowering herself to sit beside me. I was beyond humiliated. The young man and I had already introduced ourselves and was exploring our occupations, so he knew who I was. I had no intention of removing myself from what was promising to be a very unpleasant encounter, but that young man became my hero and my champion. He beckoned our waiter over, told him that, myself (calling me by my occupational title) and himself would rather go have a hotdog downstairs in the cafe lounge, and to send the bill to his room even though we'd not ordered anything as yet. The looks on their faces as we left has remained with me all these years. Now don't think for one moment that couple had any negativity toward my decision to forego any traveling, it's just that 3 of my 4 children seem to have developed a need for me to be granny daycare for my grandchildren. So until I get a chance to travel the rails again, I live my dreams through videos such as this one. It's almost as if I am actually traveling myself. I even watch the railcams daily, especially the Southwest Chief and California Zephyr
@@toib.7143 Do you have any idea why that couple was so turned off by you? Was it some kind of a racial thing? When I ride on Amtrak, I am prepared for any and all types of encounters with other passengers. There are all types of people on Amtrak, from the good to the bad. Most seem to be good.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 unfortunately I am almost certain it was racial, I'm black. At my age, not so difficult to pick up on the signals, although I admit, at the Emeryville station, I didn't realize that's what it was, and never thought about them again until the dining car encounter.
Overall though, I can only recall 2 other negative encounters on the train, I think one may have been racially motivated, I don't recall exactly where thìs incident occurred, but returning to California I boarded my train alongside a young man who walked with what to me, was the most impressive staff I'd ever seen, he also carried a bible, but no luggage. I'd decided to ride coach, this time, I was seated in the very last seat of the first half of the last car on our train, I felt so fortunate, just about everyone in that section was very friendly, we laughed and joked, everyone began calling me moms, even paying for my meals, it was so fantastic, but later as it grew dark outside people grew quiet and began to doze off, this young man with the staff came into our car, I could hear him speaking in what some churces including mine call "speaking in other tongues" he stood just inside the door, and he was staring down at the couple seated in the first seat, they appeared to be asleep, so he then moved to the next couple, continuing to speak in toungues, the man began to stand so did his wife, this young man pushed the man down, and spewed some of the foulest language I'd not heard in ages, telling them to sit back down, as he walked the aisle he seemed to target only caucasians, with hatred filled profanity. He stopped at my seat and continued to speak in other toungues, I raised my hands, just as if I were at church, and smiled at him, he moved on to the second part of our car, one of the young men in the seat in front of me, came and assisted me downstairs, telling me to go lock myself in the restrooms that had the sofa in it, and not to come out until he came for me. Just as I started for that door I heard a loud shout, a loud, loud Crack, and a man scream and then begin to cry out, it was obvious a pained cry, I knew then that whomever the victim was he'd been hit with that staff, it was terrifying, I locked myself in, but I could clearly hear the shouting and battling above my head. I admit it, I was terrified, but my heart broke at hearing the poor victim sobbing in obvious pain. Finally the young man came and told me to come out, the police wanted to speak with me, I hadn't realized we'd stopped until then. I was asked what race the man was, what he wore, I described the young man, his beard, the hat the multicolored shirt, the sandals, the staff, and what I observed from first encounter to me ĺocking myself in. The young man was handcuffed and restrained by several officers, they asked me to identify if they had the correct person in custody, he r looked directly at me and began to speak in toungues again. I shouted at him to shut up, and stop playing with God. He grew quiet, and fell forward as if he passed out, but it looked orchestrated to me, he stopped straightend up, and made not another sound. His actions broke my heart, but even more heartbreaking was seeing that passenger, being led down the stairs still sobbing in obvious pain, his jaw broken, placed on a gurney. Later learning that my four young hero warriors were headed back to The University of California, Berkeley. I was never more proud.
I do wish to apologize though to you and to Jeb Brooks, not my intent to detract from the I love every one of his videos, some I even watch again and again.
@@toib.7143Wonder what their problem was! Nice to know your family made a new friend, you never know who you’ll meet while traveling. Edit here, I’m so sorry about those people and your experience along with the victim whose jaw was broken. Take care.
@@ginasmitasin479 The couple were clearly not fond of black people, but at my age, I hadn't encountered overt bigotry for a very long time, so at Emeryville station, I actually thought they were staring at me so intently because they were sure I was about to shoplift something from that unattended area. But looking back, even that was offensive. But at dinner, I then understood. As for that poor man, I can still hear, that poor man's cries to this day, it was heartbreaking. I was told that the attacker was observed smoking something early on, I can't confirm if it was true, I only saw him when we boarded, then when he came into our car. I sure hope he was punished as harsh as legally possible.
To be perfectly honest though, my favorite mode of travel has and probably will always be via the rail system.
Taking a train across the country is definitely on my bucket list.
Same🧡
You guys gotta get it done!! I promise you won't regret it.
@@chinwenduchinwe586You guys gotta get it done. You won't regret it!
@everettclunie3525 If it is like my experience, you'll have great memories.
What a train ride across the USA via the Rocky Mountains is at the top of my bucket list. Does the train have senior discounts? 🎉
I have taken Amtrak business class twice. I really liked it. It is slower than flying, but you’re not packed in like cattle. You can also wander around the cars as much as you want.
And no tsa lines!!
Doing stuff like this used to really make retirement fun. It’s been six years since I retired, and while inflation has made it harder to maintain the same lifestyle, I occasionally worry about outliving my savings due to sequence of returns risk as I’ve noticed my withdrawals are making it harder to recover, and its not something i can easily ignore
I’m nearing retirement myself, and I had similar concerns. I started investing later than most, and just relying on ETF compounding wasn’t cutting it for me either. After working with a financial advisor, I managed to restructure my investments and am now on track to retire with around $5 million. If I hadn’t sought advice, I doubt I’d be as confident in my plan right now
I’m trying to figure out the best approach for my portfolio. How did you find your advisor? I feel like I need that kind of guidance
I usually steer clear of recommending specific people because financial needs are so personal. But I can say that working with Emily Ava Milligan has made a world of difference for me. I noticed her strategies are tailored to fit personal goals and make sense for different needs. It might be worth exploring to see if her approach resonates with you.
Thanks for that. I did a quick search and found her page. I was able to email so I sent over a few questions to get more info. Appreciate you sharing
They need a makeover. Amtrak does not care about, aesthetics… Wish I could create a competitor 🧐
I've done all 3. The roomette was perfect for me when I was single. When I got married and brought him on his first trip, we got the bedroom and it was amazing! Bedroom is the way to go if there's two of you. We used the bunk for luggage and slept together on the bottom bed.
Which side would you recommend sitting on?
@@damonblak9108 If in California, the ocean side. Other than that, I'm good with either side.
What about traveling with a parent?
Our daughter hates flying so she takes the 15-hour trip on Amtrak. She loves it. For security and peace of mind we book her a roomette
I'm a no-fly person too. I puckered up and took a flight from MD to FL. The flight was good, but I didnt like being off the ground. My next trip will be by train. Plus, my wife can't fly due to health reasons. The train looks like a wonderful way to see the country!
@@chevtrukman it's my favorite way to travel. I've been cross country multiple times on different routes/destinations, coach to sleeper, solo and with small children. THE BEST! It takes about as long as driving constantly (which is hard to actually do) but you get to walk around, chat, watch the scenery go by without the responsibility/stress of driving or needing to delay travel for rest breaks of any kind. When traveling with kids it's great because they don't have to be stuck in a seat for hours getting restless and cranky... you can go walking up and down and throughout the train looking at stuff and making friends. The ability to change position throughout travel is so underrated. The only time I fly is if I have a real hard time restraint, but I hate every minute and end up in pain because of the tight spacing and inability to move for hours. Last time I flew , I was having medical issues that caused me to pass out. In the middle seat, I passed out (drooling) onto one seatmate's shoulder (he was good natured about it) and it happened once while I was drinking juice and I ended up spilling it all over myself and the other seatmate and his laptop. He said NOTHING and didn't even try to clean himself up. I was MORTIFIED but he brushed off my apologies and offers to take financial responsibility for the damages I caused. There wasn't even room between us and the seats in front of us to clean the mess up decently. Not like that on trains! Even in coach you have space to breathe, and if things get awkward just go somewhere else for a bit, or change seats. Seriously, best way to travel until teleports get invented.
I flew for the airlines for 13 years. Forced to retire at 65. Lots of memories of the job but haven't set foot in an airplane since retiring in 2020 and have no desire to. My adventures now are trips on Amtrak. The scenery is much more interesting than at 37,000 ft.
thanks. helpful.
With the new.
All inclusive diversity airlines.
I'll be taking the train from now on.😅
Six years ago I had a two-day event in Oakland, California. Cost was an issue for this retiree, so I took the westbound #5 Zephyr from Chicago to Emeryville, attended the event, then got on the next eastbound #6 Zephyr and went back to Chicago -- ALL IN COACH! I loved every minute of it and consider it one of the very best adventures of this septuagenarian's life! I would not hesitate to do it in coach all over again. The 2nd day each way, between Denver and Glenwood Springs, is simply spectacular!
honestly the coach rate isn't much more than greyhound and greyhound is hell on earth from what i've seen.
I just couldn't sleep in coach. Even worse if someone's sitting beside you. Spent a day in Glenwood Spings- Fantastic area!! Going thru Glenwood Canyon and Gore Canyon takes your breath. I stood in the door at the back of the last car looking out the window going through Gore Canyon and got the best view ever. The Conductor didn't mind me doing that and we had a good conversation. Amtrak tickets are cheaper on some days. I saved $80 by going on a Monday.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 My strategy in coach was to stay awake as long as possible. The longer I tried to stay awake the easier it was to just doze off. And then I would wake up several hours later in another state. From Chicago to Denver westbound, and from Salt Lake City to Denver eastbound, there were passengers in the adjacent seat. We had nice conversations and enjoyed the breathtaking scenery together.
As for looking out the back window, I made a video for a few minutes while eastbound out of Glenwood Springs. It's on my channel.
And I am still amazed that my Zephyr came to a stop in Emeryville just 8 minutes after its scheduled arrival time. I know that isn't everyone's experience, but it certainly solidified my positive opinion of Amtrak.
@@MrSGL21Greyhound isn't comfortable.
I always travel with a power strip. It allows me to use a plug, share with others and make friends. 🎉
Nice 🥰
I used Amtrak last year. Albany to Tampa in one day. Changed at Penn Station NYC. First leg in coach for 4 hours. No bag restrictions or search.
Beautiful sunny ride along the Hudson River looking at everything.
Boarded a Roomette in NYC. Plenty of helpful employees. The countryside was more entertaining than videos. Very attentive staff, meals included. She fixed up the bed when I wanted, and it was comfy. No noisy children or other problems.
It cost under $400. Much less than half airfare (2 weeks ahead) and no TSA involved. I arrived rested instead of stressed. Doubt I'll fly next trip.
I’m glad you don’t fly, with your concern about TSA and bag searches. 😬 🔪
@TeddScheckler agreed. I wasn't charged extra for having four bags. I was able to keep them with me during the trip. No checked bags to get lost. The employees were very helpful during boarding and exit.
They were scanned for weapons and probably drugs, but not intrusively. There was a list of items that were to be declared and policy regarding, usually to be locked away during the trip. I had some jewelry I checked for safety.
The point I was making was how nice and helpful the employees were, both at the stations and on the train. The check-in process was simple and unobtrusive. It happened while I was giving them my reservation number and information. I am sure if the scan detected something like a weapon, they would have escorted me to a private room to explain. It was a sense that as long as I behaved normally, I was not under suspicion.
It's refreshing not to have some security thug giving me the stink eye.
@@TeddScheckler some of us aren't willing to waive our 4th amendment rights and aren't willing to let government agents grope us despite not ever breaking the law. You should look up the tsa audit results you'll be surprised at how little they actually find
I did the Tampa to DC and back and it took ages because it was during that bad winter storm a couple years ago in NC trees were all over the tracks and we ended up smashing one that messed up our brakes LOL
I'll be moving north of Syracuse bc my kids mom took our daughter up there, I'll probably just take an amtrak bc I can sell all my stuff here and just take 3 or 4 bags for a couple hundred bucks (tickets are triple that on a plane )
@CubeInspector it's still better than flying. Instead of sitting on tarmac, no service or bathrooms. There actually was a 20 or 30 minute delay. The attendant offered coffee, sodas, and snacks to help pass the time. She assured us it was a minor delay and the schedule had flexibility. I believe we arrived 5 or 10 minutes early to Tampa. The attendants were very reasurring and friendly. That was the difference to me, the friendly service.
I love the train. The California Zephyr is the absolute best. I always took coach and spend 90% of the time in the scenic car and a few times I've even slept in the scenic car over night. Chatting with people about their adventures is always interesting while seeing the best views that our country has to offer. It's a great way a single lady could travel and feel safe.
Which side of the train would you recommend sitting on about to take it?
@@damonblak9108 usually one side on way there and switch on way back. Usually there is someone on the speaker to give highlights to look out for.
Make sure your on the river side when you go through moon valley! Lol
@@Judy-904M thanks I'm only going one way California bound in that case which side would you recommend
Hmmm what if everyone wanted to stay in the scenic car 90% of the time?
@@Aquamarie333
The conductor would ask for people to switch out if that's the case. I gave up my seat for someone and ten minutes later they announced that there was empty seats available. I ended up going right back. Usually people are coming and going.
Have a great trip!!
I 100% agree with Suzanne. I find sleeping in a roomette more comfortable because I prefer sleeping along the direction of travel. Feels much more stable.
Interestingly some of the railway youtubers disagree with me, but I'm glad someone agrees.
My fiance and I took our first Amtrak trip last November in a Roomette from Florida to NC and found the space available to be more than adequate. We never felt like we were on top of each other. We preferred the Viewliner II, but would gladly take the Viewliner I car. It was a great trip! At no point did we use our phones or electronics. The view and conversation was delightful and we have been trying to find a way to squeeze in another trip.
@@grayrabbit2211 ia
I remember my first train trip. I was a month away from being 6 years old. My brother turned 3 the day we boarded the train. We went from Texas to New York the year was 1949. The engine on our train was a steam engine. About half way to New York we had to switch trains.
On both trains our seats were in coach and they could be swiveled around so mom and I were facing my brother and my dad. I don’t remember being uncomfortable because the seats were very roomy and they discussed lean back a bit for sleeping. The railroad furnished sheets blankets and pillows.
The dining car was fun and the food was good. They had children’s menu’s that were squirrels. My brother and I got to keep our menus but as we got older my mom went on a cleaning spree and unfortunately our menus were tossed. I do still have my little Statue of Liberty that dad bought for me when we visited her.
Yes, we had fun and I vividly remember seeing Grand Central Station for the first time.
Thanks for allowing an old woman a trip down memory lane.
I loved my bedroom and slept most of the way on a really long trip. But the best part of it was having absolutely the best meals served to me in my bed.Then rolling over and going back to sleep! Getting up and being able to take a shower felt decadent, but it changed the sleepiness into alert mode for getting off the train and getting on with my plans. I started the trip exhausted, but arrived feeling ever so much better. 😊
"The best meals"? Try "VIA Rail" in Canada. The service is better all the way around! ✌️
That sounds like an amazing dream to me!! I haven't been served like that since being an infant. I wish i were childless temporarily to try that ASAP!!
@laurenrzempoluch2569
You want to know the next best thing about that trip? The night I was supposed to leave, there was an accident on the tracks between me and my destination, and that changed my scheduled plans for when I was to get there.
I was waylaid for in a strange city in a strange state, and I had to make emergency accommodations. When the trains were running again, Amtrac booked my bedroom... for free! They refunded every penny I'd paid for my ticket! I think that added to my blissful sleep on board. 😴
Sounds amazing!!😻
@@auntieem2978
It was amazing! 🥰
lol when he peaked into the roomette and said they’ll look around the whole thing tomorrow, I thought to myself, we just saw the whole thing lol
Wait! What?!? Who’s peaking in a roomette on yootoob??? 💦🤣
That must be on the OF channel. 😜
Peek*
Need low bed due to age
Yes, but still way larger than a seat on a plane
I personally, loved my Amtrax trip in a roomette. Yes, it took longer than a plane, but I prefer the train to the plane!
When I was growing up my father worked on Amtrack as a Conductor for 33 yesrs. I so miss the train.... As a child I loved dining in the dining car. Thank you for a great reminder of my childhood
I have taken Amtrak in the past but have never taken a "Sleeper Train." I hope that I get the chance to travel to California. I bet your Dad had a lot of stories to tell working at Amtrak. All of the Amtrak Employees that I have dealt with are wonderful people!
@@clarewelter2207 Most definitely….oh yea…LOTs of stories!! My grandfather & uncle were both engineers also on Amtrack … their area was primarily just in Florida… to them it was work… As a child every January 1…. I would travel down to Miami with my dad to watch the Orange Bowl Parade… since he would be working he would have a sleeper cabin for me to stay in… I always thought it was the coolest thing… I would love to go back to those days❤️
8:39 @@clarewelter2207
Troops, I rode the California zephyr in 1987 from Chicago-Los Angeles, coach the entire route. The travel was FABULOUS! Had a "meal swapping" party with a farmer couple & 2 college girls. I was 27 at that time. The farmer couple "noticed that I-not once-went to the dining car for any meal-time. All I had was some fruit and a bottle of water. The couple broke out a proverbial pic-nic basket of farm fresh home cookin' out of their "snack bag"! My grampa worked on the trains all his adult life, so, I found it a wonderful experience+++! Doug👍🤭😋
I did coach from OR to San Fran to Chicago to Roch, NY
No $ for food, just bottles of water and fasting alot plus a few things I had brought also
The no shower for days was worse than no food. I changed clothes daily n washed my face n teeth 🤷🏼♀️
We did the zephyr a few years ago. To celebrate my citizenship - we thought it was a cool way to see the country - it was. Spent a few days in San Francisco. Hired a car and drove up the coast to Seattle - lovely car trip. Took the empire builder back to Chicago. Tip - if you book the roomette one-way, for us anyway, Amtrak upgraded us to a bedroom on the empire builder return journey for $50.
Sounds like a good trip. Congratulations that is a major accomplishment.
The perpendicular vs. parallel sleeping observation makes perfect, logical sense!
its not, sleeping perpendicular is way better then parallel. perpendicular is more like being rocked as a baby. parallel is more like jumping all night. it really just depends on preference. if you do it enough times you get use to it. 15 years of driving a semi truck sleeping perpendicular.
Sleeping while driving a semi is not advised.
@@danieltx7066 teams
@@aarongraddy4862 but she said in the video sleeping parallel was better than perpendicular
@@correctionguy7632 sleeping parallel to the direction you are traveling makes it feel like your trying to jump while sleeping. perpendicular feels like being rocked to sleep.
Shout out to my son, who is an attendant on amtrek. And he loves his job❤❤❤❤❤
being all by yourself in the observation car in the middle of the night/ early morning is such a cozy feeling.
Suzanne somehow doesn't feel like an addition to your channel, but more so like she's always been a part of it. You're a unit and I now can't imagine the channel without her. I love watching both of you. Y'all are my favorite travel channel.
Thanks for watching and the kind words🙂
I agree, she’s ok, I guess…. 😂
I think she's cute !
Great video. I have always want to take the train to travel. I normally drive my car and stop at nice hotels.
"Suzanne somehow doesn't feel like an addition to your channel, but more so like she's always been a part of it. You're a unit and I now can't imagine the channel without her. I love watching both of you"
As said from behind the corner of a building with one eye peering around the edge.
My hubby and I tra veled to Little Rock from Chicago. We were poor so we went coach. My hubby was newly diagnosed with Parkinson's and boy did we get the royal treatment! We were met at the train by staff that were wonderful! Loved the trip . Loved AMTRAK!!
Took my son on Amtrak from Lynchburg, Va in coach to DC. Hopped trains after a monster delay of 3 hours and grabbed a roomette. He wanted to eat, dining car wasn't open yet so we went to snack car, got him a pizza and went to a lounge table. After an hour, the dining car was open, we enjoyed a nice dinner with a Dr and his wife going cross country. My son wasn't hungry but ate his ice cream. They brought his steak dinner to our car and I had another meal. The attendant was wonderful to my son, turndown service was great. Train arrived in Toledo where my wife was waiting. Amtrak definitely was an adventure.
"I reserved this table"... "Oh, I found a lost jacket and gave them to the train staff for Lost & Found... sorry."
🤣🤣🤣
That scam only works on cruise ships LOL
whatz the scam?
@@DommoPA Getting up early and putting a towel on a chair to reserve it for later.
A very annoying, inconsiderate, and selfish thing to do no matter what the venue.
Guys at the gym would try that stunt with the showers by putting towels on the doors and running the water with no one in the shower to make it sound like someone was in there.
I would turn off the showers, take the towels, and put them in the used pile.... thus opening up those showers for anyone to use.
At gyms, locker room bench space is at a premium and some guys would leave their very large gym bags on the benches to _save_ that spot for themselves.
I would take the bag and shove it in a random locker and leave it up to them to find out where their bag is.
I can get pretty confrontational with people that pull that stunt while they're out enjoying some other part of the ship or gym and denying access to someone else that also paid to be on this same cruise a place sit and enjoy the pool.
Like the original commenter said, I'll take their stuff and turn it in to the front desk and tell them someone left their stuff at the pool.
Sometimes I'll go back to the pool and and sit where I can watch it all happen when they come back.
I feel the same about inconsiderate A-Holes that intentionally take up two parking spots and you can tell when it's done intentionally and not due to poor parking abilities.
Okay, I feel better now that I've _vented._
A couple tips for being in the roomette, is take a shower during one of the stops if you can, less moving and balance issues. Also bring ear-plugs when crossing KS/Nebraska during the night, Amtrak puts sleepers near the engine and when crossing those flatter states with section lines (gravel road crossings) every mile or so, there will be 4 blasts of the horn for every single one of them, and with the sleepers near the front, you'll hear every single one of them (at least for my roomette). Those re-upholstered seats look way nicer than those cloth ones.
This is great advice, definitely noticed a lot of horn action our night in the bedroom.
I’ve been on the Zephyr many times in both coach and roomette. Even in coach I wondered why the people paying the most for their accommodations were closest to the horns. 2 long, 1 short, and another long for every grade crossing!
@@johnmcqueen4883That is odd.. On the Silver service the sleepers get put at the end of the train and you can hardly hear their horn.
@@grayrabbit2211what is Silver service? Where in the country?
@@RonWrightwrites Florida up the East Coast to NYC.
My husband retired from Amtrak after 32 years. We went cross country from Washington to Washington DC. (round trip) Wow that was an adventure it was extra nice because we had the bedroom. Probably the one and only time I'll see some of those places. But it was so nice as the train rolled through The evergreen state once again. It reminded me of why I love it so much.
When I was transferring from South Florida to Staten Island NY, I decided to take the Auto Train from Sanford FL to Lorton VA. Best decision ever. I booked a roomette, and had a great night's sleep. Woke up rested and refreshed, and ready to hit the road the next morning. For me, the roomette was perfect!
In addition to having your dining car meals included, roomette and bedroom passengers also have the option of having your meals delivered to your compartment. That could get a bit crowded on that tiny fold-out table for two people, but for a solo traveler, it works fine.
Thank you for posting this! I was going to ask this question but I'm glad I read the comments...
I agree .the meals make it very affordable for 2.
I’d get a roomette
The larger rooms look nice, but as a single guy, i find the Roomette just fine. Great video. Cheers.
As a single, elderly woman, I feel the same way.
Do you keep your luggage in the roommette? I'm talking one suitcase, not a huge one.
As a railway fan, I love your Amtrak reviews more than airlines, but I enjoy watching anything you cover! Thank you, both!!
I love train travel and I subscribed to this channel after their SA train excursion so I am definitely happy for another train review.
Ditto!
@@IntriguedLionessI agree! When I started watching, those wonderful views gave me a contact high, made me feel almost like I was on the train again! But watching that steak was too much. Now I need a steak and it's 5:49 am...
After watching this, I really want to travel by train across the country
💖✨ Me too...
Never done it. But after watching THIS video it's an absolute MUST!! Looks like so much FUN!!!
You should do it. It is great. Took amtrack from tampa to new york city. But I would recommend getting a roomette if you could afford it. It includes all the meals and water. And the food is great. And I am a picky eater. 😊😊😊😊😊
Excellent vlog.
Am a train driver here in the UK 32 years and 5 years away from retirement at 60. My wife said we need to do a retirement holiday like route 66 which I’d love to do but this has now caught my eye and it was her that said we need to take a bit of money out the retirement fund and do a holiday I’d never forget. Keep up the Great work 👍👍👍
Take her on a fantastic memory of a train trip!
Hwy 1 or Pacific Coast Hwy from So Calif to No Calif is 1 of our best vacations we ever had; the scenery along the edge of the Pacific Ocean is gorgeous. We drove in our car, not a train. Wishing you both a fantastic time on whatever trip you choose.
I'm doing 66 this Summer from Chicago to San Monica. My best friend and have been planning this trip to celebrate our retirement. IV been retired since July 21 he was retiring from his own business next month. We have been friends since we could even walk or talk. Both motor heads our whole life. April he dropped dead. Hit me kind of hard. Made him a promise that I would spread some of his ashes at different places along the road. A promise is a promise.
@@HeavyHaul51 Good for you. It will be very different, but you will have really good times, and you’ll bring him with you along your way.
Chicago to LA train ride can be one idea for what you're looking for. I don't know how the whole route is, I usually take it to Kansas city
My Dad was an executive for AMTRAK. He had his office in DC. I had a railpass and certainly used it. Very good memories.....I recall Dad playing poker with the VP of the Co..... they opened two adjoining rooms and there were drinks and cigars. Being on a train is very relaxing.....I do recommend it. You can also meet very interesting people as well. On a more serious note, on one run, a woman unfortunately took her life in a private suite bathroom, no one went to get her as they were too frightened. My Dad went in and brought her body out.😢 He had been a Marine and handled it. Additionally, train travel has an olde world feel to it. All aboarrrrd!!!!!
Your dad sounds like a great man, and that is always a risk in any public place. I have never done train travel but to me it sounds great now that my adult kids live all over the country
🤥 liar
@@walterwhite1reason for this comment ?
@@charleneheiland8803 he is all cap 🧢
@@charleneheiland8803jealous, envy perhaps, a lot of people haven't met anyone interesting in their personal life so they think things like this are impossible
Key tip: book a coach seat. Once you’re a board, ask to upgrade. I was told by Amtrak they almost always have extra rooms & it ended up being cheaper because meals were included. I’ve made the trip from Ca to WVa three times. Once w three children 10 and under, the other two times with my youngest daughter. Best trips ever.
How do they bill you for the upgrade? The conductor will bill your credit card on the train?
Are the roomettes/rooms priced per person? or the same price regardless? As a solo traveller I find I often benefit less when accommodations are priced for two travellers.
I would only do that for a day trip. I wouldn't want to leave my sleeping accomadations up to chance, though coach seating is still more sleepable than an airline seat.
@@elementneon See 29:14 in the video.
Bit unfair to not share the turn on the bottom bunk!
Many years ago, my ex and I took Amtrac from Philadelphia to Chicago. We agreed that it was the best travel we ever experienced
I spent 3 days in coach going to California, coach isn't too bad if you make friends on the train. I think half the joy of the train is seeing sights and making friends with people you meet along the way.
I had a hell of a time trying to sleep in coach. Just really couldn't get comfortable enough to sleep. Even worse if you have someone sitting beside you.
I have only gone coach from PDX to Chicago. I slept fine and did well. I could afford that.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 I could not imagine sleeping next to a stranger in coach
I also think the coach seats seem very comfortable- what with great seat recline & quite supportive legrest, it's nearly a bed or sofa
@@fiddlyphuk6414That's the reason I will get a roomette. A bedroom would be even better but they're too expensive.
Amtrak is for people who want to see the land, mountains and oceans. If you want fast, new or timely better drive or fly. It’s for people who have the time to be leisurely period.❤❤
Plenty of options on Amtrak on the Northeast Corridor where the train is/can be faster than flying, without the hassles of the airport.
I Love to Fly! Always get window seat even at nite, love the veiw! Always suprised that most people close the Blinds, I want to Travel Amtrak to scenery Up Close! Bus travel is nice - Tourist, not Greyhound too. I took some trips on Alaska RR saw Moose close to the tracks!
@@josephjuno9555most flights require to lower the blinds at some point. The flight attendants will tell you too. When it’s time to “sleep”, all blinds go down.
My son and I took Amtrak from SF to Washington DC. Coast Starlight to Seattle, Empire Builder to Chicago, and Capitol Limited to DC. It was so fun!! The roomette on the Empire Builder was definitely worth it- meals, showers, comfy beds, privacy- it was great!
Capitol Limited is a great train when I lived in IL I took it to DC a few times.
Ive taken Amtrak from Michigan to LA and back for trade shows. Im a big guy who stands 6'3" and over 250, I love the Roomette. Its quiet, and comfortable. If youre not needing luxury and are a practical sort like myself, the roomette is plenty and really comfortable. Food is really good, much better than expected, its really a great experience for those of us that hate flying 👍🏼😂🍻🇺🇸
I used to ride from Denver to California when I was little with my mom and sister...Sleeper is the way to go. Finally got to share the adventure with my wife who never has been!! I love trains!! Great adventure! Thank you for taking everyone!
I’m 72 and was on the California Zephyr from Chicago to Cali at 12 years old!! OMG the scenery was unbelievable!!!!
It wasn't part of Amtrak pre 1970.
@@gabrieljohnson4213 It doesn’t matter. It was still fantastic.
You were so lucky! They have signs up (2019) where you have to be 15 to use the bathrooms. I thought WOW when I was 11 I was taking care of other people's children 😊
I just did this trip in the opposite direction! I was in a roomette on the bottom floor in an updated car. I absolutely loved it but I agree with setting your expectations. It’s not a luxury train it’s an adventure train! Thanks for giving me flashbacks to my trip.
My first cross-country trek included the Empire Builder and the Zephyr. I considered it not only an adventure train but also an educational train.
Growing up in educated in Asia and Europe this was a great introduction to the topography of the USA when I came for university!
While Amtrak's rolling stock might no be "luxury" in the 5 star sense, the experience and service we had on our first trip last year absolutely was. So relaxing. The only more relaxing is going by private plane, provided I'm not the one flying it. Amtrak staff were great across the board. Boarding was fantastic and I liked that the station agent personally walked all of the sleeping car passengers to the right spot on the platform. I also appreciated him NOT calling it First Class. Both trains were overnight and I felt bad for those traveling overnight in coach. The meals in the dining car were great too.
i think the way to approach it is this:
Its not cruise ship.
its way better than the bus
You don't have to drive
you get to see stuff you can't see from a plane.
@@MrSGL21Yes! And you don't have to remove any clothing, belts, shoes and stand in lines or sit in uncomfortable plastic chairs or scurry from terminal to terminal when they change gates at the last minute.
Flying is invasive.
So glad u were honest with sleeping qtrs. Hate when guests get freebies and say everything positive when they should have been honest. Love that u guys pay your way and can be honest!!!
My love of train travel developed as I grew up in EU and Asia, went to school in EU but came to the states for uni. This excursion is definitely the best way to see the various, sweeping landscapes of the USA.
One of the first major trips I took cross country from NYC > Chicago > Seattle down to LA and then on back to Chicago.
I have since traveled all three types of booking and if traveling alone definitely just save your money and take COACH. The seats are massive even compared to European standards and I have slept very well in these! You're on the upper level so you can take walks to the sightseeing and dining cars.
The best bang for the buck are the ROOMETTES. During the day you have a private room, a view looking out the window at your little fold-out table even though you are limited to just the port or starboard views so make sure you do remember to take little walks to see what you might be missing on the other side.
I have also booked a double occupancy ROOM and it's just not worth the upgrade IMO. For one, I don't really care to have the toilet in my room and don't need a sink as there's always towelettes and you still only get the one view. The bed and fold down bunk are the same type of bed as a ROOMETTE so you're really not getting that much more for the $$$.
The reason they are late so much because the passenger trains have to give the right of way to the freight trains, so, there's a lot of pulling off to the side for Amtrak.
I didn't care for that....
I nearly missed an international flight out of Newark because the train arrived 9 hours late.
I would travel by train if not for this. I love the train.
Sadly, the train cost just as much as a flight
The freight trains are supposed to yield, only they mostly don't.
Took Amtrak from Portland Oregon to Denver back in 2007 and it was one of the most peaceful travel experiences of my life. Traveling through the Rockies in January was so beautiful the sunrise's nearly brought me to tears.
Thanks!
That's $2 less for your hobo trip.
My train travel changed when i looked at it as not a way to get to a place but rathet a vacation in itself. To that end we've often done a segmented journey. There's always an interesting place to overnight if getting to the destination is not your priority but haveing a great time is.
I’ve always wanted to travel by train, but the station in my down shut down back in the 70’s. Train travel looks so chic and classy…Much better than planes today.
For my birthday last summer I flew to Chicago to celebrate my 65th with an Amtrak ride (my first) back to Sacramento. My roomette was a bit cramped with my backpack, duffle bag, and my folded up walker taking up space but the trip was fabulous. The views were beautiful and the Colorado River scenery was amazing once we passed through Denver. In early December I flew to Omaha for a Home Free concert and got a roomette on Amtrak going back to Sacramento. Same route, just this time with a beautiful snowy vista instead of summertime. The meals were delicious and I usually had them delivered to me because I was in too much pain to move much. I'm taking a much needed break from Home Free's tour dates but I'm looking forward to maybe picking it up again next year, maybe north or south along the coast this time. Or maybe for a Winter Solstice present to myself. I so enjoyed my time on Amtrak.
We love Homefree!! They are awesome. Seen them 3 times.
@@susanhudzinski9493 Three weeks ago was my fifth concert. Taking a break to save up for a decent mattress and a new walker. Maybe next summer I'll catch up with their concert schedule again. Waiting to see who takes Austin's place
Well now Home Free has a new member (gonna miss Austin a bunch), so it’s time to go see the 3 Adams!
Hi Jeb & Suzanne. I adore you 2. You are very informative, thorough and amusing. My husband & I took a Via Rail trip to Churchill, Manitoba in 2000, to go see the beluga whales. David ordered a roomette. Getting on, the conductor looked at us and said “ for 2 of you, a roomette?” As he took us to our roomette we soon understood why he was questioning us. It had a seat that we both sort of fit on, a sink and toilet in from of us. After supper our room was turned down. We had to take our shoes off and leave them outside the curtain. The bed covered the toilet, so you made darn sure you didn’t have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. We took turns sleeping on our sides. One slept on their back the other on their side, we both couldn’t lay on our back. I told my husband that we haven’t been this close since our honeymoon 😂 At a stop in Thompson, Manitoba, David booked another roomette for the trip home😂 It was a great experience, and to this day, 24 years later, we still laugh about it.😂 God’s blessings to you both. 🙏🏻💖from Canada 🇨🇦
My wife and I went from Connecticut to Florida last July for our daughter's wedding. I thought the roomette was pretty tight but your experience gives new meaning to that! Even with the tight space, it was a great trip.
I just did the Zephyr, end to end Emeryville to Chicago, a couple of days ago, on my own in A Roomette. It was just right for 1 person, and it was a great journey….and even more incredibly, we were not just on time, we arrived to Chicago slightly ahead of schedule!
Totally agree that the scenery is the best thing about Amtrack . Such a variety 😊
This route is epic!
I’ve taken trips on Amtrak on the east coast from Newark to Jacksonville. First one was pre-Covid and the others during and after. I loved it!!!! We have always had a roomette. The older trains have a sink and toilet in the roomette which I really liked. I did use the shower it felt very good, plenty of hot water! The newer trains do not have a toilet or sink on the room which is disappointing. The coffee station was not open on any of our journeys but getting coffee was easy. Our attendants have been very helpful and responsive. The dining car was fun on the pre-Covid trip bc we shared with other passengers and it was fun to hear their stories. The food was surprisingly good! The upper bunk is not the most comfy as it feels cold, I would definitely ask for extra blankets or bring one. As far as being on time, expect delays bc life is an adventure in a train! I like to think of the train as part of the vacation unlike flying where all I want to do is get in and off the plane asap!
I love getting to see all three options. I'm riding from Seattle to Chicago next week and have a roomette. For one person they look great. Thank you for adding measurements, that is very handy. Excellent content, as always!
I did that trip in my own in 2021. It was fantastic and I met some of the coolest people these. Make sure to get to the observation car. The views are amazing!
So how was it? They definitely give this video sponsored by Amtrak vibes.
@@s70driver2005You think so? I thought it was more, "Come play with us!" vibes. I thought mentioning their terrible night's sleep in the largest room was not a way to sell the biggest ticket room!🤭
@@s70driver2005 It was pretty good. Honestly, this trip specifically feels as though the amtrak staff are doing the best they can with what they have. Recommend bringing your own snacks, waterproof shoes to use in the shower, sanitizer to wipe down surfaces in your room, and a jacket for extra warmth cause the blankets are thin. Because freight trains have the right of way the train was delayed but I expected that. Moderately clean, having a shower was great, food was ok (I'm plant based so limited options as I expected, I brought snacks), staff were really nice, having a roomette to lay down in was much better than sitting up in coach the whole time. I used points that I got for signing up for the amtrak credit card which was much better than paying in cash. :) I am stoked that some money is being put into train travel. My normal ride from Chicago to Michigan has refurbished train cars that are super nice so hopefully the longer haul trains will get an upgrade soon too.
Former Tape Editor / Engineer, here.
Great camera work and FANTASTIC editing 🙌.
Wow, thanks!
every time I do long distance in coach I dread sleeping a bit but then I remember how surprisingly comfortable I can get in those seats, they're nice
I did Seattle to St. Paul several years back, all the way in coach. Never, NEVER again! Couldn't get comfortable at all, and of course, someone is always making noise during the night.
@eagandereagander6471 damn I'm sorry to hear that. I usually bring a pillow or something because I can never fall asleep without one
I took coach, from Chicago to L. A. I slept well the first night as I was exhausted from everything before the train. Second night, about four hours. I quickly became friends with the guy in the seat next to me. There was a young, quiet drunk who spent the trip wandering the train, peacefully and dropping, mini shooter bottles everywhere. The Porter kept sweeping them up without complaint, like a routine job.
More than 40 years ago my ex-wife, 18 month old daughter, and I went from Chicago to Denver in a roomette. It remains one of my fondest memories. We left Chicago right after dinner and arrived in Denver 1:00 PM so spent a large part of the trip in a relaxing sleep. A week later we went back to Chicago by train. One thing I did find out--on the trip west our car was in the middle of the train and the sleep was fantastic. Coming east, we were in the last car and spent the night feeling a bit like we were in a blender. The amount of sway in the last car compared to the more stable middle cars was significant. The roomette was spacious enough for two people plus an infant. The slower but more scenic trip was well worth it to me.
Great comparison video. Thanks.
I have a couple of thoughts to share about the Roomette. I travel alone, most often, so that is a great option for me on overnight trips. I often go between SF/Emeryville, and Seattle, on the Coast Starlight. A couple of years ago, I was unable to get an upstairs accommodation. At first I was disappointed ... I found that I LOVED it, and I request it, now.
--There are more bathroom facilities, downstairs.
-- You can have your luggage close-at-hand, without having to drag it up the stairs. Just move it into your room as needed, then, "back to the rack!"
-- The sway is gentler downstairs ... better for sleeping.
Last summer, in the King Street station, in Seattle, a fellow passenger was talking of his irritation at being downstairs. I told him of my experience. We had a great group of folks downstairs. We wound up going to meals together. The gentleman was going to LA, but as we approached Emeryville, he told me that he was a "downstairs convert."
For me, I prefer the upstairs because I take in more of rhe view end of course there is the observation car. But on the SF to SEA run there is rarely a viewing car. The downstairs is also a great sell for any disabled passenger! ❤
I like the lower seats/roomettes also. More privacy, easier on/off fresh air stops and opportunity to reach to clean your dirty window from the outside.
My wife and I are thinking of making a scenic SF/SEA run a mini vacation, any quick tips? Thanks.
@@wingnut4217 The Coast Starlight travels between Emeryville and Seattle with very nice hotels across from stations. Save money by taking coach and use lounge car for scenic views.
@@Homer500 We were planing on using the sleeper coach to include the whole train travel experience, thanks.
Jeb, so happy they brought back full dining to the long distance trains. Covid eliminated all dining cars on Amtrak 3 years ago. For me, bedroom is the only way to go, need to have my own bathroom. I will donate to the cause!
My partner and I took our first Amtrak trip to San Francisco years ago and unfortunately the train hit a semi truck that was stuck on a train crossing. That was the worst trip of my life. We were trapped on the train for 12 hours before busses came to evacuate all the passengers. Luckily no one was seriously hurt, just a few passengers had minor injuries. The terrible part was due to the accident we had no AC and in the dark for hours in the middle of nowhere. After watching this I'm ready to give a train trip a second chance... Thank you..
Would you ever consider doing a handicapped room train travel video on Amtrak? I have a 101 year old mom that loves trains, but basically uses a wheel chair, yet can walk into seats and climb up into my car, still. I would love to take her on a “last epic train journey” if it’s even worth it. Gotta do my own home work, for sure, but one doesn’t know until their there experiencing it…
The handicap room was a very good option for someone with limited mobility. It is downstairs and the room is crosswise, however the beds are lengthwise (as opposed to regular rooms), so you can see out both sides of the train. You CAN have your meals delivered if getting up to the dining car is a problem. Unfortunately, the viewing car is also upstairs, but at least you have views out both sides of the train. It IS kinda strange having the toilet out in plain sight in the room, but it does have a curtain to pull around it when in use. And if one is needing the accessible features, it isn’t anything you haven’t experienced before. We have learned to adapt get around places we want to go. And there is less swaying motion on the lower deck of the train as well. If she can get around and into your car, she should do just fine. The porters are also very accommodating. I hope you get the chance to do this! You will need a doctor’s note, though my husband’s handicap card for parking was enough for us at the time. Plan ahead. There are a limited number of handicap rooms. It is also wise to assume there WILL be delays and plan accordingly! Happy rails to you!
We would enjoy seeing that also….hubby has some mobility issues.
How's the wifi?
@@gamb155 Amazingly good! Though when you get out into the really wide open spaces it can be patchy, but that is train wide , nothing to do with where you are sitting . The one problem with any of the accommodations is that someone has to be able to sleep on the top bunk. That means being able to get up into the top bunk in the first place! Or, more importantly, get DOWN from the top bunk! (Or up from the floor after you miss!). Another option I read about recently was getting 2 roomettes, right across from one another. Cost is about the same as a regular room and no one has to deal with the top bunk!
@@calgal5752 I think the channel grounded for life did the handicap room. It might have been labeled on controversial room since out of people without mobility issues some like it and some don't. To get it without mobility issues it is a very specific circumstance. (As it should be so it is oeft for those that need it). Anyways, all other rooms have to be booked with that room the only option available as well as very close to departure day. It is on the bottom of the 2 decker train and it has the toilet in the middle of the room with only curtains for privacy from your roommate. Which is why it is controversial (if I recall correctly). I will also say it appears (from watching the video) as if all connections from train car to train car are on the top deck/story so if stairs and mobility really is an issue, you may be limited to only that room. I hope you can find it!
Very well done and informative. Thank you. My wife and I did the Coast Starlight from LA to Seattle and then the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago a few years ago and have nothing but good things to say about it, in spite of one fairly long delay because of a broken rail, something neither Amtrak or the owner railroad had any control over. Both trips were in roomettes. My wife shared your opinion on the sleeping, but I had no problems with it. May be worth mentioning that Amtrak owns none of the rail it travels over and is at the mercy of the railroads which provide the rails. But even so, it was a wonderful experience. We even convinced some friends of ours to do a trip on the CZ and they loved it too. Thanks again for the great video.
My wife and I took our first train trip on Amtrak in a roomet! We booked it for the adventure and experience. We travel from Chicago to Arizona for a Grand Canyon vacation. I think it was round about 36 hrs. We loved the meals and the dinner! We were seated with a different couple for each meal and had wonderful conversations each time. It maybe longer than flying but being able to get up, walk around, and visit the observation car is the best! Our experience was very similar to yours except we slept like babies! I took the upper berth for the trip there and we traded for the trip back. While in the upper bunk, I kept my back to the wall for security. We took a tri- tap for the single outlet for the trip back so we could keep our cell phones charged.
We really enjoyed our trip and would consider another trip, in a roomet of course.
When I was not quite five I took my first train ride from SC to Detroit up the east coast to DC then across the mountains to the midwest. We slept in the old fashioned Pullman bunkbeds and by day in the seats. The attendants were so kind. And I fell in love with trains.
I haven't been on Amtrak for 20 years. It was the only way my 4 kids and I could visit my parents every summer. Always couch. We would travel the Lake Shore Limited from Boston to Chicago. Then the California Zephyr from Chicago to Denver. My kids always enjoyed it and the people we'd meet. We did have routines for the train.
Back then Amtrak had trouble keeping car stewards so each one of us had a container of Clorox wipes to keep the restroom clean. We knew who those who'd never ridden Amtrak before because they'd sort of giggle when they'd see us, until the realized our car's restrooms were the cleanest toward the end. And I made sure we had one hot meal in the dining car. Back then on either train there wasn't an observation car. My kids would have loved it.
My brother is coming by Amtrak to visit us in Boston. I sent him this video so he can figure out how. I miss training a lot. Maybe someday I'll be able to again.
I’ve only been on the Amtrak once from Los Angeles to San Diego. We booked business class seats for extra legroom. From what I remember seats were clean, bathrooms were clean and staff was super friendly. Eventually I’d like to make the cross-country trip in a bedroom. Great video.
The roomette is the more bang for the buck. When first I came to the USA I criss-crossed from NYC to the West Coast down and back again. Roughly 72 hours to see the nation! You should make a plan to do so and buy the tickets early for the greatest value!!
In the military, I traveled from San Diego to Connecticut along the western seaboard up to Washington state and across the northern most route Amtrac takes. I was on leave, so in no way was I disappointed by any delays or such. I can't remember how long it took, but I found it thoroughly enjoyable. I opted for one of the suites for the whole trip and found it clean and comfortable. I made some new friends along the way, participated in some stimulating conversations with people from other countries that were traveling along as well. Overall, I was infatuated by the scenery along the way, as most travelers only see the country from the interstate, which is tragic. There is so much to see, and limiting one's self to a highway is avoiding your inner explorer. I'm going to do it again, on my bucket list for sure!!!
My Mom and I traveled in Coach, we had the best trip. (1980's) from SA, TX to NY Grand Central Station to visit my daughter. A memorable trip. Had my Mom to myself.
I've traveled several times on 2+ day trips, just me and my 2 small kids on Amtrak. It's definitely my preferred way to travel. We had a roomette and the preschooler slept top while toddler and I slept bottom. Love the viewliner for the roomette bathroom and the kiddo liked a window on the top bunk. We traveled with cargo netting that we used in conjunction with the webbing to keep him in the top bunk all night. Now that they're older, it's still our preferred method. With gas prices, costs about the same as driving once you factor in hotels & food.
Nine years ago my father and I rode the Amtrak Southwest Chief from Riverside California to Chicago (and back). We had a sleeper cabin. My father was 79 at that time. His health was deteriorating. We knew it would be his last train ride. (He's been gone now for five years.) I have many pictures and fond memories of spending hours with him while rolling down the tracks. The food was good (steaks). The service was good. One major disappointment was the ride. The tracks were in very bad shape. Sometimes it felt like we were going to derail. According to my GPS we hit speeds up to 90 MPH. We had to wear seatbelts when we slept to avoid being bounced out of bed.
I truly loved your video. I wanted to share with you my train journey. It was a 15 year plan in the making and unfortunately my husband passed away before we could make it on but with the arm twisting and a bribe of new headphones for my son I finally took my dream cross country amtrak trip. We went from LA to Seattle and then solo I traveled Seattle to Washington DC 96 hours due to delays but It was so worth it and I can’t wait to ride the rails again.
You can get a roomlet with a sink and toilet. That’s what my dad and I got once. We were expecting it to be a seperate room, but no, that step to get the top buck folds down into a sink and the first step, raise up to expose a toilet. Being OCD, I immediately declared we will not be using that toilet. We will going down the hall for bathroom.
Gotta tell you two, that shot of Suzanne shoving her feet into your tummy to act as a foot warmer is PRICELESS!
A man of culture I see 🧐🧐
OH HELLL YEAHHHH
Agree 😋
@@29035ft are you a woman of culture as well?
OH HELL YEAHHH
Enjoyable video as always, but what I enjoy most is the high-quality video. It is so clear that I feel that I am there with you and seeing it with my own eyes!
It's funny what people will complain about when riding on Amtrak, so I say to them "Take the plane, and let's compare the scenery afterward". If you're not in a hurry, then taking a train is much more memorable -or like you stated, it's an adventure 👍
I’ve been in both coach and a roomette. Only on the East coast trains. Been on auto train many times though. The roomette is perfect for a single, a little tight for 2. I like that the roomette includes meals😎
I believe every fare on the auto train includes meals. I’ve taken it about 10 times but the price has gone so high I haven’t been in about 6 years.
As Jeb noted a roomette is sufficient for two well acquainted people, although a bedroom has more room but costs twice as much...
@@ronclark9724We took our first Amtrak trip last year on the Silver Star after seeing Jeb's videos. The Roomette was more than enough room for the two of us. Granted, we were in the Viewliner cars, the much have more height. But we never felt like we were on top of each others and always had plenty of room. We've felt more cramped in business class on the airlines.
I love taking the train ( & hate flying) & took it all the time in the 90s across states. Always very good experience in coach with Amtrak. Have to go across country soon for a big family event & plan on taking the train!
Love this video start to finish. especially your brilliantly informed advocacy. Born in 1952 I’ve ridden the Southwest line from Colorado to California (Grand Canyon, Chief, Super Chief, El Capitan) for 65 years. When Amtrak took over in 1971 I went solo in roomettes. Always upper bunk, rocked to sleep in a snug womb. In 2019 I took chair my first time on the Zephyr from Denver to Reno. Every minute was golden. The stories I could tell. Trains are the only way to go.
I took the train last Thanksgiving from St Louis to Bloomington IL best trip no stress beats the airport or driving yourself ❤
We did the Denver to Grand Junction in coach, spent the night at a hotel then caught the return train the next morning back to Denver. What a great trip!
Enjoyed your video.
I've been fascinated by trains since I was a kid, hearing grandparents, great aunt & uncle sharing anecdotes about passenger trains before Amtrak.
In 1992, my wife & I boarded Amtrak in Glendale, CA for our Honeymoon ski trip to Glenwood Springs, CO. We caught the Southbound train to our Easterly connection. We'd packed lightly for the onboard sleeper experience, and checked luggage with our winter wear & ski equipment for our destination. Upon arrival in Glenwood Springs, CO. our checked luggage was nowhere to be found - November snow & ice with no heavy jackets.
We taxi'd to the hotel (same one that you showed in your video) and then back to the station the next day when the checked luggage still had not been delivered to the hotel, but the luggage had not yet been located.
We rented an unplanned rental car and drove to Aspen to buy some warmer clothes. It took most of a week before, the luggage joined us in Glenwood.
Unfortunately, back in Glendale, CA for our departure, our Southbound train had been late, but the station agent had brought our checked luggage out to the platform on time. Another Northbound train, normally after the Southbound, arrived and departed on time. Our luggage had been loaded onto that Northbound train and toured the West coast, going all the way to Seattle.
We laugh about it now, but we got our Amtrak adventure, and only 1 day of skiing.
Thanks for showing us the Amtrak updates.
I have MS. I love the full handicap accessible room. The employee assigned to me was great. I travel from NC to NJ & am always pleased w my trip & the Amtrak staff.
3 meals & snack were included in ticket price.
Was the room large enough for a power wheelchair?
My favorite part of Amtrak travel--I've traveled coast to coast in a roomette several times--is the people I've met. Meals in the diner car always have been shared with people I hadn't met before, and they've always been interesting. More than half of them have been from Europe or Asia, and mealtime conversation has been a highlight.
Twelce years ago, I took the Amtrak from West Palm Beach, Florida to North Carolina, and enjoyed every minute of the journey. Riding the train is so much fun!!
Haha West Palm used to be my home now we live in NC. Spent half my life In Florida and the other half in NC! I love Amtrak as a kid from Massachusetts to Florida. It was in the 60s. We had seats and sleeper bunks at night! The Autotrain along a similar route was a blast at 12 years old.
For this kind of trip most important thing is the companion you have, I think you are the lucky guy, she is easy going gal.
I've been watching a while, and you guys, by far, have the best informed and most entertaining travel channel on UA-cam! THANK YOU for all the effort !!