Amtrack vs VIA Rail
Sep 11 '00 (Updated Sep 12 '00)
Amtrack vs VIA Rail
by DADB
Wejust recently traveled Amtrack. From Grand Forks, ND to Pennsylvania and Winnipeg to Los Angeles.
From Grand Forks, ND to Fargo, ND the roadbed is like riding on a gravel road in the spring time. ROUGH. These are freight routes not passenger routes.
From Grand Forks to Chicago we had a deluxe sleeper (the only way to go) We were
pampered and well fed. There was a 5 hour layover in Chicago. It was an interesting time. We arrived during the commute time, glad we don't have to commute.
They know how to move people in and out at the Chicago depot. Once the commute traffic died down it was pretty quiet.
From Chicago to Lewistown, PA the trip was enjoyable except, there was only a snack bar for food service. Over priced and not the type of cuisine one prefers while traveling. We left Chicago at 10 PM and arrived in Lewistown at 11:30 AM, hungry and tired. Sleeping accommodations were not available. For younger folks the coach is adequate for sleeping but this 60 year old bod couldn't quite get comfortable to sleep well. It would have been acceptable when I was younger.
If you want to experience the old rail travel VIA Rail in Canada is the way to go.
VIA RAIL:
A travelers dream. From Winnipeg to Vancouver with a double sleeper, meals included. The car attendants were better than mom.(didn't have to make our own beds). They do whatever it takes to help passengers enjoy the trip. The food was excellent, with cheerful servers.
From Edmonton to Vancouver the scenery is breathtaking, however it would be better to go in late May as it stays light longer. We went in November, when the days are short so missed a lot of beauty. While Amtrack has improved, Canada crews still have a greater pride.
We didn't experience any derailments on Amtrack there were plenty of delays and late arrival.
While the depots on Canada still have amenities such as souvenir shops, snack bars, etc.
We were very disappointed while on the Empire Builder. Not one station had anything other than ticket sales.
For a real rail travel experience travel VIA rail across Canada. you will be pleasantly surprised.
Ernie B.
http://arvillaswitch.com
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Epinions.com ID:
DADB
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