Mitch Port
Determining how to get to your next destination is no easy task. While driving and flying are often the first ideas that come to our mind, taking the train can be a great alternative to “common” modes of travel. Wondering why you should ride with Amtrak? Here are my top 6 reasons:
Quiet Cars
One thing that I am not a huge fan of on other forms of public transportation is the fear of not getting some peace and quiet. For that reason, quiet cars are quite literally a godsend. Most Amtrak short-distance trains provide a car in which the volume is at a low level which allows for a more relaxed environment for some than the regular car does. You’ll no longer need to fear having that loud passenger behind you for the next 4 hours.
Food Options
Most Amtrak trains offer some sort of food service for the duration of the trip. The food provided varies from simple carry-out style foods to full sit-down meals prepared for you. The cafe cars on the trains also tend to have snacks and drinks for purchase for the times between meals. There is a decent selection of food, so you’re likely to find something you like. If you’re over 21, alcoholic beverages are sold onboard, which can be a necessity on a long train ride.
Comfy Seats
If you are anything like me having a comfortable seat is somewhat essential on long-haul trips. I remember walking on to my first Amtrak and wondering I was going to be able to last a 7-hour trek. Much to my surprise, the seats on the trains are actually pretty comfortable. (I mean, they’re no La-Z-Boy, but they do the trick.) If you’re lucky enough you might end up on a train that has optional leg support and it is the best thing you never knew you wanted. As a bonus, all of the seats have a 120-volt outlet to keep your tech essentials fully charged.
Observation Decks
Amtrak has routes all across the United States and part of Canada. These routes take you across amazing landscapes and past beautiful landmarks. The best way to take these in is the observation car. On long-distance trains, there is often a train car with huge windows that allow a less obstructed view of the great sights along your journey that you might get from your regular train car.
Ability to Move
One of the best parts of taking that beats other forms of transportation is the ability to move around and still be well on your way to your destination. I start to get restless after sitting for a few hours and I just have to deal. On planes, you can’t really just walk around and on cars, you have to stop your travels. The opportunity with Amtrak is that you have the freedom to move around during your trip. You can go to the observation car, the cafe car, or just take a stroll between cars if necessary.
WiFi!
In today’s day and age almost everywhere you go has wireless internet, why should your train ride be any different? On 30+ Amtrak trains and several stations currently, offer free WiFi to Amtrak passengers. While you get from point A to point B there is no worry of not being able to post that latest update or using your data, like in a car. From my personal experience using the WiFi, it works a lot better than other public networks out there, like the one at your local coffee shop. So there is no need to be disconnected on your travels.
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Not interested in taking the train? Then follow this tips on your next road trip.
Why do you like to take the Amtrak? Let me know in the comments below!