long Amtrak trips?

[laurenhat]

Has anyone ridden the Amtrak Coast Starlight (runs between L.A. and Seattle), or traveled overnight on an Amtrak train going elsewhere? It seems like it could be a more fun and comfortable way to travel to Seattle than flying, though not terribly efficient. Still, I could spend a day working in comfort with a really nice view. However, it seems

Comments

[mschilepepper]

I've only gone SEA to PDX on the train a couple of times, and that was fine, if boring. It's actually kind of nice to just relax and read and be able to wander around a bit. Any time you get a sleeper, though, it's a LOT more expensive, WAY more expensive than flying ever is and takes a helluva lot longer, 'cause they stop over and over and overandoverand ... Also, if there are equipment problems, there's never a quick fix. So, take those things into account.

[zdamiana]

I have traveled long distances via Amtrak, including the route you are considering several times. I've also taken Amtrak cross country (Philadelphia to Emeryville

[laurenhat]

Ooh, blanket. Good to know! Also the other stuff you mentioned -- but that hadn't occurred to me at all.

I'd love to see you on the OP, but will probably only be in Redmond a couple days due to work constraints. If I end up with more time, I'll let you know!

[laurenhat]

Will do. Sadly, I'm not likely to be around for more than a couple days this time, due to more work craziness. But if I'm wrong I'll let you know -- would love to see you.

[laurenhat]

I will be around for just a few days at Christmas. I just learned my grandmother is dying, and I'll probably only have time to do family stuff, unfortunately. I'll let you know, though, if I do turn out to have some free time.