The state of Amtrak is frustrating to me. My girlfriend and I are currently long distance and she relies on the San Joaquin train to come visit me. Every trip her train has to stop to let freight trains pass by and it is late probably 75% of the time. This is why I drive instead. I can't afford to have a 4 hour trip turn into a 7 hour trip. Plus, the latest train only goes half way and then I would have to transfer to a bus. The problem is, I don't really want to drive, I would much rather take the train even if it means having to pay more than the cost of driving. I have made the trip by train a few times and, despite the delays, it is largely an enjoyable experience. I have wifi and a power outlet that let me get work done or I can relax and not have to focus on the road and traffic. The cabins are spacious and comfortable enough. I would love to take a month and just explore the country by train. Unfortunately, I don't think Amtrak could really support that reality how I imagine it. That's just how it effects me, I think the article hits a good point on the importance of connectedness and investing in what we already have. I wish Amtrak wasn't seen as a joke and cursed to be one.
Hey reef, I have travelled by Amtrak some pretty far distances a number of times. A while back I made some suggestions on how best to prepare for such a trip: Montana to Michigan - How to Travel 36 Hours on a Train
Interesting! Around the holidays I often wish I could take a train to Chicago or Florida to visit family but coming from California, it is just too far, too long, and too expensive when compared to flying. Maybe I'll plan a trip to Portland to visit a friend, but that doesn't allow for getting sidetracked and having adventures along the way when driving which is fun when you aren't traveling alone. Plus it's an extra 8 hours by train and seems to be about the same price as a plane ticket. I suppose it would be an interesting experience though.
Plus it's an extra 8 hours by train and seems to be about the same price as a plane ticket. I suppose it would be an interesting experience though.
-It certainly can be an interesting experience. It's much less hurried and if you are lucky, you'll meet some great people. Even if you don't though, holding up in the observation care with a book, your journal and a pencil is pretty kick-ass.